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Pemberley Departures #2
Miss Darcy's Companion: A Pride & Prejudice Variation
After her father's tragic demise, Elizabeth Bennet must find a position to support herself and her family. Miss Georgiana Darcy, it so happens, requires a companion and the normally quiescent girl stubbornly decides that none but Miss Bennet will do despite her brother's strong objections. As Miss Darcy begins to blossom under Elizabeth’s guidance, Mr. Darcy finds that he, too, is drawn to this fascinating and impertinent young woman. As their own relationship deepens Darcy wonders what charming abuse the forthright Miss Bennet will heap on his head next and confused about why, far from insulting him, he finds her uniformly delightful.
But Darcy feels honor-bound to his cousin Anne, and he is not the only one captivated by Elizabeth's charms. Soon, an acquaintance from the past reappears in Georgiana's life, and a foolish mistake might cost her everything. As Darcy and Elizabeth work together to rescue Georgiana, both struggle with the oppressive demands of their class and family duty as they risk losing each other forever.
"Miss Darcy's Companion" is the second stand-alone novel in the Pemberley Departures series. The novel is inspired by the author’s love for the works of Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer. With an authentic Regency style, sparkling, laugh-out-loud dialogue, and an original storyline that still adheres closely to canon, this "Pride and Prejudice" fan fiction variation is certain to delight those who enjoy British Classics and Regency Historical Romance.
"Miss Darcy's Companion" is approximately 115,000 words.
But Darcy feels honor-bound to his cousin Anne, and he is not the only one captivated by Elizabeth's charms. Soon, an acquaintance from the past reappears in Georgiana's life, and a foolish mistake might cost her everything. As Darcy and Elizabeth work together to rescue Georgiana, both struggle with the oppressive demands of their class and family duty as they risk losing each other forever.
"Miss Darcy's Companion" is the second stand-alone novel in the Pemberley Departures series. The novel is inspired by the author’s love for the works of Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer. With an authentic Regency style, sparkling, laugh-out-loud dialogue, and an original storyline that still adheres closely to canon, this "Pride and Prejudice" fan fiction variation is certain to delight those who enjoy British Classics and Regency Historical Romance.
"Miss Darcy's Companion" is approximately 115,000 words.
370 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 4, 2016
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October 4, 2016
In the book description the author tells of influences from both Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer in her writing. As this story is a variation of P&P, it is easy to realize that much of this story is from that book’s canon with a twist of the story line and some added intrigue and angst. If you have not read any of latter author’s works it may be more difficult to pick out her influence here. I have read only 7 of her 24 Regency novels but even with that limited reading experience I was able to recognize the use of idioms, clichés and other types of language, i.e., “Nor shall I cry rope on him.’ ‘…make me your cat’s paw.’ ‘I firmly believe you did not comb my hair all the months to entrap me.” So it is with that in mind that it is with great pleasure that I relate how beautiful I found the language in this book.
This story begins with Lady Catherine’s well known practice of handing out advice to everyone and anyone, whether that advice is warranted or even, wanted. And so it is that she advises her nephew, Darcy, that she has a recommendation for the role of companion to his sister, Georgiana, as she has learned from her parson, Mr. Collins, of his inheriting, through an entail, the Longbourn estate. This event has left destitute the previous owner’s five daughters. Lady Catherine is putting forth one as the best candidate for that position.
Elizabeth Bennet is not one to sit and wait upon fate to decide her next step. She is also not one to wait for the unknown Mr. Collins to move into Longbourn and dispose of or direct the Bennet family in their future. She applies to Aunt and Uncle Gardiner to allow Jane and herself to come to London and seek positions from that metropolis. The Gardiners are only too happy to support that plan but add their own attempts to settle both Jane’s and Elizabeth’s welfare by inviting all the unattached young men from trade with whom Mr. Gardiner deals or has acquaintance. One of these young men just happens to be Charles Bingley. Now I don’t have to tell you what happens when he is introduced to Miss Bennet…but he also learns of Miss Elizabeth’s seeking a position. So knowing of his friend’s need, recommends her to Darcy.
Now we come to the problem of Darcy’s stance in this story. He is all about propriety, pride, obligation, and duty. (In the end he finds that there is one attribute he has failed to recognize.) Any hint of behavior unbecoming to a gentleman or a lady is a reason for his disdain. So he and Georgiana go to interview this new possibility for the position and all is fine and dandy until…until the Gardiner children come down to the drawing room and Darcy remembers where he has seen her before and it was not an event in which her best and most lady-like behaviors were on display.
This first matter to be settled in our story as to whether or not he will hire Miss Elizabeth is not a question as we know from the title and from canon that Darcy and Elizabeth are going to be in each other’s company. But it does set the stage in reading of a Darcy who is much more of a stuffed shirt and who clings to his aloof mien in meeting others not of his family or near acquaintance. Georgiana is a treasure in that she knows what she wants and, in the end, knows what is best for her, and she holds out for such. Colonel Fitzwilliam becomes a tie-breaker (the dear man).
As we read of Elizabeth filling her new role with careful attention to propriety, with tender attentions and with wisdom gained in part from having four sisters, we also read of how she works to put Georgiana not only at ease but also to expand her experiences in preparing for any future roles as she comes out and as she perhaps will become the mistress of an estate. Elizabeth gains respect from her new employer as she also works to soften Darcy’s attitudes. The slow but inevitable attraction between these two is guarded against and resisted with planning and physical separation practiced by both as they keep in mind their relationship as viewed by the world at large. She has come down from what was barely an accepted position as the daughter of a gentleman. He has been promised from the cradle to his cousin and only that cousin’s health has kept that plan from moving forward.
I loved reading of one, then the other, making mental notes as each observes how situations are handled, from the put-downs or clinging behaviors of Caroline, to the needs to plan for handling Aunt Catherine or the reactions of family to shock as surprises overtake them, etc.
The manner in which this author develops slowly and surely the falling in love of ODC is delightful: Darcy finally meeting the rest of the family, the "tickling" of a fish, trips to Rosings and then Brighton which develops in a manner not exactly told of before (!*#+), a suitor for Elizabeth’s hand, another for Mary’s hand and Beau Brummel putting his stamp of approval on one forecast to be rejected by society all makes for a page-turner of a book which I read in short order. There is an epilogue which I always like in my JAFF tales. I look forward to the next book by this author for which we were given an excerpt at the end.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review review.
This story begins with Lady Catherine’s well known practice of handing out advice to everyone and anyone, whether that advice is warranted or even, wanted. And so it is that she advises her nephew, Darcy, that she has a recommendation for the role of companion to his sister, Georgiana, as she has learned from her parson, Mr. Collins, of his inheriting, through an entail, the Longbourn estate. This event has left destitute the previous owner’s five daughters. Lady Catherine is putting forth one as the best candidate for that position.
Elizabeth Bennet is not one to sit and wait upon fate to decide her next step. She is also not one to wait for the unknown Mr. Collins to move into Longbourn and dispose of or direct the Bennet family in their future. She applies to Aunt and Uncle Gardiner to allow Jane and herself to come to London and seek positions from that metropolis. The Gardiners are only too happy to support that plan but add their own attempts to settle both Jane’s and Elizabeth’s welfare by inviting all the unattached young men from trade with whom Mr. Gardiner deals or has acquaintance. One of these young men just happens to be Charles Bingley. Now I don’t have to tell you what happens when he is introduced to Miss Bennet…but he also learns of Miss Elizabeth’s seeking a position. So knowing of his friend’s need, recommends her to Darcy.
Now we come to the problem of Darcy’s stance in this story. He is all about propriety, pride, obligation, and duty. (In the end he finds that there is one attribute he has failed to recognize.) Any hint of behavior unbecoming to a gentleman or a lady is a reason for his disdain. So he and Georgiana go to interview this new possibility for the position and all is fine and dandy until…until the Gardiner children come down to the drawing room and Darcy remembers where he has seen her before and it was not an event in which her best and most lady-like behaviors were on display.
This first matter to be settled in our story as to whether or not he will hire Miss Elizabeth is not a question as we know from the title and from canon that Darcy and Elizabeth are going to be in each other’s company. But it does set the stage in reading of a Darcy who is much more of a stuffed shirt and who clings to his aloof mien in meeting others not of his family or near acquaintance. Georgiana is a treasure in that she knows what she wants and, in the end, knows what is best for her, and she holds out for such. Colonel Fitzwilliam becomes a tie-breaker (the dear man).
As we read of Elizabeth filling her new role with careful attention to propriety, with tender attentions and with wisdom gained in part from having four sisters, we also read of how she works to put Georgiana not only at ease but also to expand her experiences in preparing for any future roles as she comes out and as she perhaps will become the mistress of an estate. Elizabeth gains respect from her new employer as she also works to soften Darcy’s attitudes. The slow but inevitable attraction between these two is guarded against and resisted with planning and physical separation practiced by both as they keep in mind their relationship as viewed by the world at large. She has come down from what was barely an accepted position as the daughter of a gentleman. He has been promised from the cradle to his cousin and only that cousin’s health has kept that plan from moving forward.
I loved reading of one, then the other, making mental notes as each observes how situations are handled, from the put-downs or clinging behaviors of Caroline, to the needs to plan for handling Aunt Catherine or the reactions of family to shock as surprises overtake them, etc.
The manner in which this author develops slowly and surely the falling in love of ODC is delightful: Darcy finally meeting the rest of the family, the "tickling" of a fish, trips to Rosings and then Brighton which develops in a manner not exactly told of before (!*#+), a suitor for Elizabeth’s hand, another for Mary’s hand and Beau Brummel putting his stamp of approval on one forecast to be rejected by society all makes for a page-turner of a book which I read in short order. There is an epilogue which I always like in my JAFF tales. I look forward to the next book by this author for which we were given an excerpt at the end.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review review.
October 13, 2016
“England is the most class-ridden country under the sun. It is a land of snobbery and privilege, ruled largely by the old and silly” George Orwell
The first part of this story was wickedly hilarious, and unconscionably so, as we learned of the demise of Mr. Bennet. The way the author discussed the mode of his passing was hilarious and so appropriate. Due to the irony and humor of it, even Mr. Bennet would approve. Collins inherited of course.
Our modern sensibilities do not fully understand or comprehend what exactly happened to the Bennet family when the head of the house died. The following drastically changed in their circumstance: their place in society was lowered dramatically, their protection was gone, their financial support limited to what the mother had, their very respectability was diminished as they were no longer considered part of the landed gentry, and Mrs. Bennet lost her place among the exalted ladies of the community. The Bennet ladies were now dependent upon the small competence of their mother’s and the support of their relatives.
This was off canon and several characters are vastly different. The timeline gave our story an earlier time period than when we usually enter a P&P variation. The OOC [out of character] traits were not offensive, it just gave the reader a different slant and perspective of characters. Darcy was more… yeah... just more. OK, he demonstrated more prejudice, taciturn, staid, starch and upper class persona than even in canon… and he was proud of it.
Elizabeth was also more… more intelligent and resourceful, more prideful, more prejudice, more starch and wit. Her sharp wit could cut to the bone and not leave a drop of blood. She possessed the uncanny knack of deflecting the hurtful barbs of others, that pierced the skin, with humor that usually turned the tide back on the one making the insult.
Georgiana learned a lot from Elizabeth, was more resilient and stood her ground when she needed to. In the game Clue, it would be: Georgiana, in the parlor, with a candlestick. She would play the game most deftly. I loved her relationship with Elizabeth. In her independence and wanting to choose her own companion, it was noted that she did not initially like Mrs. Younge and rejected her. She thought the lady was too sly and didn’t trust her.
What I didn’t like: I must be the only person on the planet that has not read a Georgette Heyer book. Therefore, I didn’t understand that strange language the author was attempting to emulate. It simply went over my head. Some of it, I was able to decipher, if I concentrated really hard and thought about it. I suppose it was the Regency Era equivalent to Urban slang. There were also editing problems, and one in particular… Bangles… who or what was that? Was it supposedly a Bingley typo? Never did get it.
This was a long and drawn out love story. There are ups and downs, disappointed dreams, downs and further down, blasted hopes, woeful misunderstandings, deep angst and a hard fought HEA. At 68%, or chapter 12, Darcy did an in-depth study of just what the objections were in a relationship with Elizabeth. In other words, he identified the walls around his heart: 1) pride, 2) obligation, 3) duty, 4) self-doubt. I have never seen them presented all at once like that, and then have him address each of them so thoroughly. I was heartbroken by the intense logic of where he was in the order of society and how far Elizabeth’s status had fallen. It was a devastating blow to his heart as he warred against all four and attempted to assuage the hurt to his soul. I nearly cried.
What would a P&P story be without… Villains: Lady Catherine sticking her aristocratic nose where it didn’t belong? Caroline Bingley and Louisa Hurst with their poison letters and caustic remarks. The table was turned on them big time … hilarious, and in public by Brummell himself. Wickham was a smooth talking sleaze and dirt bag of the first order and his fini was original… the bastard.
Good Guys: Love them: We have the cousin/brother Colonel Fitzwilliam, his older brother, the Viscount, their parents Lord and Lady Matlock, Uncle and Aunt Gardiner [OOC but still beloved relations that love E&J], Jane and Bingley… as always… so sweet.
Mrs. Bennet… there is an epilogue for her that you will not believe. I was bowled over… I mean shock of all shocks. I did like that we didn’t have a lot of page time with the silly sisters, Kitty and Lydia. They spent most of their time away at school. They embarrassed Lizzy several times while on break but we didn’t have to endure them for very long. However, their epilogue was awesome. Mary and her choice of partner was interesting.
Epilogue: I love a good epilogue and this one was most excellent. It went forward several years and was most satisfying. There were several excellent reveals that were a complete surprise and yet had been hinted at several times. I was surprised that the author pulled it off. That was sneaky and most creative. I don’t think I have seen it done that way before. Loved it.
The first part of this story was wickedly hilarious, and unconscionably so, as we learned of the demise of Mr. Bennet. The way the author discussed the mode of his passing was hilarious and so appropriate. Due to the irony and humor of it, even Mr. Bennet would approve. Collins inherited of course.
Our modern sensibilities do not fully understand or comprehend what exactly happened to the Bennet family when the head of the house died. The following drastically changed in their circumstance: their place in society was lowered dramatically, their protection was gone, their financial support limited to what the mother had, their very respectability was diminished as they were no longer considered part of the landed gentry, and Mrs. Bennet lost her place among the exalted ladies of the community. The Bennet ladies were now dependent upon the small competence of their mother’s and the support of their relatives.
This was off canon and several characters are vastly different. The timeline gave our story an earlier time period than when we usually enter a P&P variation. The OOC [out of character] traits were not offensive, it just gave the reader a different slant and perspective of characters. Darcy was more… yeah... just more. OK, he demonstrated more prejudice, taciturn, staid, starch and upper class persona than even in canon… and he was proud of it.
Elizabeth was also more… more intelligent and resourceful, more prideful, more prejudice, more starch and wit. Her sharp wit could cut to the bone and not leave a drop of blood. She possessed the uncanny knack of deflecting the hurtful barbs of others, that pierced the skin, with humor that usually turned the tide back on the one making the insult.
Georgiana learned a lot from Elizabeth, was more resilient and stood her ground when she needed to. In the game Clue, it would be: Georgiana, in the parlor, with a candlestick. She would play the game most deftly. I loved her relationship with Elizabeth. In her independence and wanting to choose her own companion, it was noted that she did not initially like Mrs. Younge and rejected her. She thought the lady was too sly and didn’t trust her.
What I didn’t like: I must be the only person on the planet that has not read a Georgette Heyer book. Therefore, I didn’t understand that strange language the author was attempting to emulate. It simply went over my head. Some of it, I was able to decipher, if I concentrated really hard and thought about it. I suppose it was the Regency Era equivalent to Urban slang. There were also editing problems, and one in particular… Bangles… who or what was that? Was it supposedly a Bingley typo? Never did get it.
This was a long and drawn out love story. There are ups and downs, disappointed dreams, downs and further down, blasted hopes, woeful misunderstandings, deep angst and a hard fought HEA. At 68%, or chapter 12, Darcy did an in-depth study of just what the objections were in a relationship with Elizabeth. In other words, he identified the walls around his heart: 1) pride, 2) obligation, 3) duty, 4) self-doubt. I have never seen them presented all at once like that, and then have him address each of them so thoroughly. I was heartbroken by the intense logic of where he was in the order of society and how far Elizabeth’s status had fallen. It was a devastating blow to his heart as he warred against all four and attempted to assuage the hurt to his soul. I nearly cried.
What would a P&P story be without… Villains: Lady Catherine sticking her aristocratic nose where it didn’t belong? Caroline Bingley and Louisa Hurst with their poison letters and caustic remarks. The table was turned on them big time … hilarious, and in public by Brummell himself. Wickham was a smooth talking sleaze and dirt bag of the first order and his fini was original… the bastard.
Good Guys: Love them: We have the cousin/brother Colonel Fitzwilliam, his older brother, the Viscount, their parents Lord and Lady Matlock, Uncle and Aunt Gardiner [OOC but still beloved relations that love E&J], Jane and Bingley… as always… so sweet.
Mrs. Bennet… there is an epilogue for her that you will not believe. I was bowled over… I mean shock of all shocks. I did like that we didn’t have a lot of page time with the silly sisters, Kitty and Lydia. They spent most of their time away at school. They embarrassed Lizzy several times while on break but we didn’t have to endure them for very long. However, their epilogue was awesome. Mary and her choice of partner was interesting.
Epilogue: I love a good epilogue and this one was most excellent. It went forward several years and was most satisfying. There were several excellent reveals that were a complete surprise and yet had been hinted at several times. I was surprised that the author pulled it off. That was sneaky and most creative. I don’t think I have seen it done that way before. Loved it.
February 18, 2017
Another delightful variation from the pen of Ms. Meredith! The opening chapter sets the tone of this story with a tongue-in-cheek sense of humour with a twist. Mr. Bennet has accidentally been killed by his bookcase! Mr. Collins has recently been awarded the post of rector to Lady Catherine's Hunsford parish when he receives word that Mr. Bennet has died. He has also agreed to allow Mrs. Bennet and her daughters to reside at Longbourn. Before he arrives, Elizabeth is determined to find a position, so she can help support her mother and sisters. With her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner's help, they convince Jane to go to London as well and stay with them. So it is in London that the Bennet sisters are introduced to Mr. Bingley and then eventually Mr. Darcy, Georgiana and the Colonel.
There was much to enjoy of the little twists and turns to this story that made it unique and entertaining. I found Bingley and Jane, much as they ever are. Darcy was taciturn and reserved as ever with a definite plan in mind for his life. Meeting Elizabeth certainly threw him in a tailspin. Georgiana was lovely and developed quite nicely through this story. Her dealings with Wickham were decidedly different and very liberating for her. The language/style of Georgette Heyer is referenced with the 'slang' of the period (It's been decades since I have read any of her novels). At times, for me, it made Elizabeth more than just impertinent. I found the banter between Darcy and Elizabeth fun and endearing but every now and then I was thrown by some of the 'slang'. Miss Bingley was as catty as ever and Mrs. Hurst kept her primed. Lady Catherine, well she had no idea what would come of her recommendation!
The side plot of life at Longbourn with Mr. Collins was a definite surprise. That twist was definitely amusing to say the least! Kitty and Lydia are dealt with rather easily but still manage to embarrass Elizabeth. One of my favourite scenes is 'tickling the fish' which, unbeknownst to all, will make Elizabeth's entry into the 'ton' a hit!
There is a wonderful epilogue to this story providing just the right amount details to give everyone satisfaction!
There was much to enjoy of the little twists and turns to this story that made it unique and entertaining. I found Bingley and Jane, much as they ever are. Darcy was taciturn and reserved as ever with a definite plan in mind for his life. Meeting Elizabeth certainly threw him in a tailspin. Georgiana was lovely and developed quite nicely through this story. Her dealings with Wickham were decidedly different and very liberating for her. The language/style of Georgette Heyer is referenced with the 'slang' of the period (It's been decades since I have read any of her novels). At times, for me, it made Elizabeth more than just impertinent. I found the banter between Darcy and Elizabeth fun and endearing but every now and then I was thrown by some of the 'slang'. Miss Bingley was as catty as ever and Mrs. Hurst kept her primed. Lady Catherine, well she had no idea what would come of her recommendation!
The side plot of life at Longbourn with Mr. Collins was a definite surprise. That twist was definitely amusing to say the least! Kitty and Lydia are dealt with rather easily but still manage to embarrass Elizabeth. One of my favourite scenes is 'tickling the fish' which, unbeknownst to all, will make Elizabeth's entry into the 'ton' a hit!
There is a wonderful epilogue to this story providing just the right amount details to give everyone satisfaction!
October 8, 2016
The family estate is entailed away from the female line. There are five daughters. The father dies and a distant cousin inherits. What is to become of them now?
Miss Darcy's Companion is the second book in the series, but these are standalone stories that can be read in any order only being connected by the retelling element.
I loved diving into this tender story of Elizabeth who sets aside her grief and works to provide for her family in the only way by stepping down from her station as a gentleman's daughter to hire out as a companion. Her employer is an austere and proud man, but his young sister and ward is a sweet, shy girl who wants a friend.
Through an early, rocky start, William and Georgiana and now Elizabeth begin together. William watches carefully as Elizabeth takes up her duties. He has his doubts about the spirited young lady Georgie insisted was the right fit to be her companion. But then Elizabeth works her magic not on Georgie, but him bringing both of them to life and making their home warm and full of laughter. If only she were not his employee and if only he was not expected to marry for duty.
Elizabeth realizes that things may not be what they seem after her first impression of William, but she is still reminded time and again that she is now a paid employee, a servant, even if she lives as if a long-term guest. Elizabeth isn't sure why more and more this realization makes her sad until she suddenly understands her feelings. Meanwhile, outside factors and other people intrude into their lives and two star-crossed lovers discover pain as well as dashed hopes.
This was a splendid story and along the same lines of the governess and Lordly employer trope that I enjoy so much. It was true to it's historical setting and had a lighter touch that kept things from getting dreary or overly dramatic. I loved that friendship, gentle courtship, family, and society were all integral elements and that there were multiple plot threads and a broad, rich cast of characters.
Elizabeth and William are the main players, but there are still their respective friendships and families, and broader society acquaintances that have their own developing stories. Humor and heartwarming daily life scenes help develop the story so that it's gentle pace never drags. Though, that said, there are some intense and exciting moments that had me flipping pages quickly. I think I cackled with delight when young Georgie was no damsel in distress and took care of her villain on her own. And that fun scene on the pond when Elizabeth 'tickles' a fish had me highly amused.
All in all, this was a sweet historical romance tucked into a splendid circle of family and friends that felt cozy, warm, and triumphant. I can easily recommend it to those who want a gentle, historically authentic, yet sparkling with wit historical romance.
My thanks to the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Miss Darcy's Companion is the second book in the series, but these are standalone stories that can be read in any order only being connected by the retelling element.
I loved diving into this tender story of Elizabeth who sets aside her grief and works to provide for her family in the only way by stepping down from her station as a gentleman's daughter to hire out as a companion. Her employer is an austere and proud man, but his young sister and ward is a sweet, shy girl who wants a friend.
Through an early, rocky start, William and Georgiana and now Elizabeth begin together. William watches carefully as Elizabeth takes up her duties. He has his doubts about the spirited young lady Georgie insisted was the right fit to be her companion. But then Elizabeth works her magic not on Georgie, but him bringing both of them to life and making their home warm and full of laughter. If only she were not his employee and if only he was not expected to marry for duty.
Elizabeth realizes that things may not be what they seem after her first impression of William, but she is still reminded time and again that she is now a paid employee, a servant, even if she lives as if a long-term guest. Elizabeth isn't sure why more and more this realization makes her sad until she suddenly understands her feelings. Meanwhile, outside factors and other people intrude into their lives and two star-crossed lovers discover pain as well as dashed hopes.
This was a splendid story and along the same lines of the governess and Lordly employer trope that I enjoy so much. It was true to it's historical setting and had a lighter touch that kept things from getting dreary or overly dramatic. I loved that friendship, gentle courtship, family, and society were all integral elements and that there were multiple plot threads and a broad, rich cast of characters.
Elizabeth and William are the main players, but there are still their respective friendships and families, and broader society acquaintances that have their own developing stories. Humor and heartwarming daily life scenes help develop the story so that it's gentle pace never drags. Though, that said, there are some intense and exciting moments that had me flipping pages quickly. I think I cackled with delight when young Georgie was no damsel in distress and took care of her villain on her own. And that fun scene on the pond when Elizabeth 'tickles' a fish had me highly amused.
All in all, this was a sweet historical romance tucked into a splendid circle of family and friends that felt cozy, warm, and triumphant. I can easily recommend it to those who want a gentle, historically authentic, yet sparkling with wit historical romance.
My thanks to the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 3, 2016
Will Georgiana’s relationship with Elizabeth lead Darcy to recognize with his own feelings for her newest companion? (4.5 stars)
I received an eARC of this story from the author for a fair and honest review.
Miss Darcy’s Companion is the second standalone book in Sophia Meredith’s Pemberley Departures Series, therefore this review doesn’t contain any spoilers for readers who haven’t read her first book in this series, On Oakham Mount.
This story opens up earlier than canon and takes the familiar governess and master storyline and aims to create it’s own unique story by combining Jane Austen’s characters and Georgette Heyer’s Regency-era style language. The result is a delightful Pride and Prejudice variation that’s filled with humor, plenty of verbal swordplay between Darcy and Elizabeth, and a storyline that manages to be unique and endearing in its execution.
Following the unfortunate passing of Mr. Bennet, the Bennet ladies find themselves in reduced circumstances and this event propels Elizabeth into service, thus driving the main storyline far from canon. Yet, in keeping with certain aspects of Austen’s story, Ms. Meredith keeps her characterizations close to canon and creates amusing new situations for them. From the beginning of the story, Lady Catherine attempts to introduce Elizabeth to Darcy, when she recommends Ms. Bennet as a lady’s companion for Georgiana. As the fiercely independent man that we love, Darcy does not immediately act upon his aunt’s suggestion and eventually he meets Elizabeth through another connection to the Bennet family.
Once Elizabeth becomes Georgiana’s governess, thanks to some artful persuasion from Georgiana, Darcy and Elizabeth find themselves frequently in one another’s company. Both of them are fully aware from the very beginning that a relationship between them is impossible due to Elizabeth’s reduced station, lack of fortune, and her lack of connections. Yet, as they spend a substantial amount of time together, their mutual attraction and respect for one another grow into something they both are slow to recognize. Can it be that they feel something more than mere friendship?
I loved the way Ms. Meredith found a new way to connect Darcy and Elizabeth through their love of books from the beginning of this story and then had their shared passion serve as a connection for them even further into the story. Their relationship and their feelings are built in a gradual and realistic manner, as they spend more and more time together, mainly in Georgiana company, recognizing one another’s finer qualities. When they do come to spend some considerable time apart from each other, they come to recognize the nature of the complex relationship that is growing between them.
The banter between them carries a wonderful amount of humor and a good deal of rapier wit, which makes the dialogues between Elizabeth and Darcy resemble the archness delivered in parts of Austen’s own story, but also with a strong influence of Georgette Heyer’s own writing style. The overall construction of the language in this story is simply splendid! I found myself rereading several passages just to savor the beauty of the language again and again.
The relationship developed between Elizabeth and Georgiana is also well done, as Georgiana matures and develops more grace, confidence, and skills as a gentlewoman under Elizabeth’s constant tutelage. I loved that Georgiana had a bit of cheek in her character from the start of the story, since it added additional interest to her character and helped to propel the story forward. As a close observer of their relationship, Darcy starts to see Elizabeth as the woman who could turn Pemberly into the warm and inviting home that he desires for his future, yet his conflicting thoughts about duty and privilege cause his emotions to play havoc with his heart’s desires.
The characters we love to hate are also present in this story, with Caroline Bingley displaying the sharpest claws towards Elizabeth. George Wickham also plays a role in the story, but his storyline thankfully doesn’t take over the story. I also found great amusement in the storyline with Mary, Charlotte, and Mr. Collins, as it offered a new twist on their “situation.” There’s even a male guest appearance that inserts some additional playful humor into the story. Overall, this story is a delightful balance of Jane Austen, Georgette Heyer, and Sophia Meredith, artfully blended into one lovely Pride and Prejudice variation! My only quibble about this story is that the pacing felt a bit uneven, as the last few chapters moved at a slower pace for me than the rest of the story.
Please note there’s an excerpt from Ms. Meredith’s next book at the end of this book, which is titled Plate & Party, a Modern Pride and Prejudice, as well as an excerpt from Victoria Kincaid’s Chaos Comes to Longbourn.
I received an eARC of this story from the author for a fair and honest review.
Miss Darcy’s Companion is the second standalone book in Sophia Meredith’s Pemberley Departures Series, therefore this review doesn’t contain any spoilers for readers who haven’t read her first book in this series, On Oakham Mount.
This story opens up earlier than canon and takes the familiar governess and master storyline and aims to create it’s own unique story by combining Jane Austen’s characters and Georgette Heyer’s Regency-era style language. The result is a delightful Pride and Prejudice variation that’s filled with humor, plenty of verbal swordplay between Darcy and Elizabeth, and a storyline that manages to be unique and endearing in its execution.
Following the unfortunate passing of Mr. Bennet, the Bennet ladies find themselves in reduced circumstances and this event propels Elizabeth into service, thus driving the main storyline far from canon. Yet, in keeping with certain aspects of Austen’s story, Ms. Meredith keeps her characterizations close to canon and creates amusing new situations for them. From the beginning of the story, Lady Catherine attempts to introduce Elizabeth to Darcy, when she recommends Ms. Bennet as a lady’s companion for Georgiana. As the fiercely independent man that we love, Darcy does not immediately act upon his aunt’s suggestion and eventually he meets Elizabeth through another connection to the Bennet family.
Once Elizabeth becomes Georgiana’s governess, thanks to some artful persuasion from Georgiana, Darcy and Elizabeth find themselves frequently in one another’s company. Both of them are fully aware from the very beginning that a relationship between them is impossible due to Elizabeth’s reduced station, lack of fortune, and her lack of connections. Yet, as they spend a substantial amount of time together, their mutual attraction and respect for one another grow into something they both are slow to recognize. Can it be that they feel something more than mere friendship?
I loved the way Ms. Meredith found a new way to connect Darcy and Elizabeth through their love of books from the beginning of this story and then had their shared passion serve as a connection for them even further into the story. Their relationship and their feelings are built in a gradual and realistic manner, as they spend more and more time together, mainly in Georgiana company, recognizing one another’s finer qualities. When they do come to spend some considerable time apart from each other, they come to recognize the nature of the complex relationship that is growing between them.
The banter between them carries a wonderful amount of humor and a good deal of rapier wit, which makes the dialogues between Elizabeth and Darcy resemble the archness delivered in parts of Austen’s own story, but also with a strong influence of Georgette Heyer’s own writing style. The overall construction of the language in this story is simply splendid! I found myself rereading several passages just to savor the beauty of the language again and again.
The relationship developed between Elizabeth and Georgiana is also well done, as Georgiana matures and develops more grace, confidence, and skills as a gentlewoman under Elizabeth’s constant tutelage. I loved that Georgiana had a bit of cheek in her character from the start of the story, since it added additional interest to her character and helped to propel the story forward. As a close observer of their relationship, Darcy starts to see Elizabeth as the woman who could turn Pemberly into the warm and inviting home that he desires for his future, yet his conflicting thoughts about duty and privilege cause his emotions to play havoc with his heart’s desires.
The characters we love to hate are also present in this story, with Caroline Bingley displaying the sharpest claws towards Elizabeth. George Wickham also plays a role in the story, but his storyline thankfully doesn’t take over the story. I also found great amusement in the storyline with Mary, Charlotte, and Mr. Collins, as it offered a new twist on their “situation.” There’s even a male guest appearance that inserts some additional playful humor into the story. Overall, this story is a delightful balance of Jane Austen, Georgette Heyer, and Sophia Meredith, artfully blended into one lovely Pride and Prejudice variation! My only quibble about this story is that the pacing felt a bit uneven, as the last few chapters moved at a slower pace for me than the rest of the story.
Please note there’s an excerpt from Ms. Meredith’s next book at the end of this book, which is titled Plate & Party, a Modern Pride and Prejudice, as well as an excerpt from Victoria Kincaid’s Chaos Comes to Longbourn.
October 12, 2016
Witty, Entertaining Pride and Prejudice Alternative
I greatly enjoyed this alternative Pride and Prejudice story in which Lizzy becomes a paid companion to Georgiana who insisted on her despite Darcy's reservations. Fortunately Col. Fitzwilliam agreed. Lizzy's father died when a book case fell on him. She and Jane left Longbourn before Mr. Collins moved in, as Lizzy was determined to earn her way and sell most of her father's books.
This is a witty, entertaining alternative. Wickham does come into the story but this version of Georgiana, though naive, is capable of taking care of herself. Although Darcy tries to resist he is drawn to his sister's companion, and they gradually fall in love with one another, though both believe it is a forbidden love. Lizzy is spared much interaction with Mr. Collins, and he does not seem quite as obnoxious as in most versions of Pride and Prejudice, though he is still dim witted and grove long to a point. After all he becomes the master of Longbourn before he has been with Lady Catherine very long. Lady Catherine's help unwittingly lays the groundwork for the ending of her dreams of a suitor for sickly Anne.
This version of Lizzy is witty, talented, and generally delightful with some talents ladies are not supposed to do. Georgiana dearly loves her. Her brother resists but ends up drawn to her as well. Although Caroline Bingley never really had a chance, she is quite a nasty mouthed villain.
This book shows a beautiful use of language and a real feel for the times. There's minor editing errors, but they did not distract. There's a lot of witty situations that make the reader laugh. I read the first 5-6 chapters of this while crushed on an two airplanes and waiting around in two airports on the return from an emergency trip to my uncle's funeral. It was a wonderful diversion and got even better and better when I returned and was recuperating from the all-day into evening flight from Conn. to Calif. via Atlanta. How grateful I am for that Kindle for IPad program. Anyway, this is a must read of Lizzy, whose status is diminished by her father's death. Ah, if only Darcy did not resist the attraction so much. Naturally, Lizzy felt unsuitable for him, as well, but she had a wonderful ability to make the best of situations and a biting wit when needed. She was ever so resourceful and Georgiana learned from her. Loved this book.
I greatly enjoyed this alternative Pride and Prejudice story in which Lizzy becomes a paid companion to Georgiana who insisted on her despite Darcy's reservations. Fortunately Col. Fitzwilliam agreed. Lizzy's father died when a book case fell on him. She and Jane left Longbourn before Mr. Collins moved in, as Lizzy was determined to earn her way and sell most of her father's books.
This is a witty, entertaining alternative. Wickham does come into the story but this version of Georgiana, though naive, is capable of taking care of herself. Although Darcy tries to resist he is drawn to his sister's companion, and they gradually fall in love with one another, though both believe it is a forbidden love. Lizzy is spared much interaction with Mr. Collins, and he does not seem quite as obnoxious as in most versions of Pride and Prejudice, though he is still dim witted and grove long to a point. After all he becomes the master of Longbourn before he has been with Lady Catherine very long. Lady Catherine's help unwittingly lays the groundwork for the ending of her dreams of a suitor for sickly Anne.
This version of Lizzy is witty, talented, and generally delightful with some talents ladies are not supposed to do. Georgiana dearly loves her. Her brother resists but ends up drawn to her as well. Although Caroline Bingley never really had a chance, she is quite a nasty mouthed villain.
This book shows a beautiful use of language and a real feel for the times. There's minor editing errors, but they did not distract. There's a lot of witty situations that make the reader laugh. I read the first 5-6 chapters of this while crushed on an two airplanes and waiting around in two airports on the return from an emergency trip to my uncle's funeral. It was a wonderful diversion and got even better and better when I returned and was recuperating from the all-day into evening flight from Conn. to Calif. via Atlanta. How grateful I am for that Kindle for IPad program. Anyway, this is a must read of Lizzy, whose status is diminished by her father's death. Ah, if only Darcy did not resist the attraction so much. Naturally, Lizzy felt unsuitable for him, as well, but she had a wonderful ability to make the best of situations and a biting wit when needed. She was ever so resourceful and Georgiana learned from her. Loved this book.
November 24, 2018
Not my cup of tea, but a good book
I find some books I read that I consider to be good books, are not as interesting as I think a “good book” should be. This is how I consider this book. It seemed to me that in most of the conversations the characters were talk in a way as to seem to be erudite and witty, but were only being obtuse and confusing.
I couldn’t tell if characters were teasing, or trying to be witty, or being vague or what. Consequently I couldn’t enjoy the story since I really didn’t know how they were perceiving events of the story or how they were feeling.
So when I read a book and can’t get into I will try reading it backward. I will read the last chapter, then the chapter before that, etc. This way I know where the author is trying to take me and I can better understand the route the story is taking. That’s how I finished the last half of this book.
I at least was able to read it all but I never did enjoy the conversations or inner thoughts of the characters.
I don’t recommend this book but think others might find more enjoyment reading it than I did.
I find some books I read that I consider to be good books, are not as interesting as I think a “good book” should be. This is how I consider this book. It seemed to me that in most of the conversations the characters were talk in a way as to seem to be erudite and witty, but were only being obtuse and confusing.
I couldn’t tell if characters were teasing, or trying to be witty, or being vague or what. Consequently I couldn’t enjoy the story since I really didn’t know how they were perceiving events of the story or how they were feeling.
So when I read a book and can’t get into I will try reading it backward. I will read the last chapter, then the chapter before that, etc. This way I know where the author is trying to take me and I can better understand the route the story is taking. That’s how I finished the last half of this book.
I at least was able to read it all but I never did enjoy the conversations or inner thoughts of the characters.
I don’t recommend this book but think others might find more enjoyment reading it than I did.
August 27, 2019
The book starts well, and I enjoyed how the scene was set between Lady C, Collins and the Bennets. The early interactions between Darcy and Bingley, an intransigent Georgianna, and Richard were both amusing and touching. I liked the Lizzy backstory and the changing opinions they had of each other.
However, the latter half of the book wasn’t very engaging. Though there was some “excitement” at Brighton and the conclusion of their relationship, it didn’t come across with any real feeling, and the season (necessary to plot) felt drawn out.
Editing required throughout for naming errors, including using women’s first names, the common “Sir Lucas”, Bangles(!) instead of Bingley, and even Mrs Matlock instead of Lady.
Most irritating was the persistence in using regency slang not used in the original, which felt very false. There were a number of conversations where it felt like Darcy and Lizzy were in a skit (and over-acting). I got particularly bored of people being described as a “dead bore”, an opinion which I don’t think the polite Austen characters would have been so forthright about giving in company. I appreciate an author trying to use the correct language and phrasing, but it just needs to be toned down slightly to feel authentic.
However, the latter half of the book wasn’t very engaging. Though there was some “excitement” at Brighton and the conclusion of their relationship, it didn’t come across with any real feeling, and the season (necessary to plot) felt drawn out.
Editing required throughout for naming errors, including using women’s first names, the common “Sir Lucas”, Bangles(!) instead of Bingley, and even Mrs Matlock instead of Lady.
Most irritating was the persistence in using regency slang not used in the original, which felt very false. There were a number of conversations where it felt like Darcy and Lizzy were in a skit (and over-acting). I got particularly bored of people being described as a “dead bore”, an opinion which I don’t think the polite Austen characters would have been so forthright about giving in company. I appreciate an author trying to use the correct language and phrasing, but it just needs to be toned down slightly to feel authentic.
July 12, 2020
The dramatis personae is the same as the original Pride and Prejudice (less a few unimportant minor characters), but the paths Jane and Elizabeth Bennet have to take to be united with their trueloves, Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy, are quite different. I enjoyed the labyrinthine twists and turns of the author's imagination.
What I did not enjoy were the multitudinous errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling that filled the text. I ceased making notes at about the 7% mark, when my notations were roughly the length of "War and Peace." If this is the product of "meticulous editing," as the author claims in her Acknowledgments, I shudder to think what the UNedited version looked like.
What I did not enjoy were the multitudinous errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling that filled the text. I ceased making notes at about the 7% mark, when my notations were roughly the length of "War and Peace." If this is the product of "meticulous editing," as the author claims in her Acknowledgments, I shudder to think what the UNedited version looked like.
June 17, 2021
Change the names, fix the spelling mistakes and this could pass as a long-lost Georgette Heyer novel, with a whip-smart, wilful heroine and her unattainable, grumpy beau. I laughed, I cried, I loved it!
The author was occasionally led astray by Heyer’s more colourful expressions. Charming as they made the dialogues, some utterances sounded a bit out of place coming from gently bred females without so much as an apologetic blush. Even less acceptable was the appalling number of typos and rogue apostrophes. It’s the Bingleys, not the Bingley’s and certainly not the Bangles. How on earth did that slip through?
The author was occasionally led astray by Heyer’s more colourful expressions. Charming as they made the dialogues, some utterances sounded a bit out of place coming from gently bred females without so much as an apologetic blush. Even less acceptable was the appalling number of typos and rogue apostrophes. It’s the Bingleys, not the Bingley’s and certainly not the Bangles. How on earth did that slip through?
December 4, 2020
Overall, a really great story/read!! I knocked off a star only because there was a lot of “telling” rather than “showing” in this book. A lot of describing events and scenarios and conversations instead of just letting it play out in the story but otherwise a great read
December 3, 2016
Really enjoyed this variation. It's the Author's best work to date.
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