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Foiled Elopement: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Elizabeth Bennet is left stranded after saving Georgiana Darcy from a disastrous elopement. Rescue is near, but Elizabeth will have to pay an additional price, not only for Georgiana’s mistake but for the circumstance in which Elizabeth becomes embroiled. Some, like Miss Bingley, may look down on a precarious situation of Elizabeth’s own making, but what else could someone of her bold, intelligent and compassionate nature do? Foiled Elopment is a Pride and Prejudice variation novel of approximately 60,000 words.
167 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 16, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
June 20, 2017
4.5 stars rounded up. This is not an overly long book but it is chock full of plot. Surprising plot, stunning plot. I have read other books where the action centers around Georgiana's elopement with Wickham but this is a really unique version.
To start Lizzy is traveling with the Muirs; at first I was wondering if she was a companion or something but it is explained that the Muirs are friends of the Gardiners and their trip to Scotland would take them near Mr. Bennet's sister Beth - whom Lizzy is named for and her family so Lizzy could make the trip economically and safely.
On their return trip they stay at an Inn just outside the border. And they discover Miss Georgiana Darcy and her 'fiance' Mr. Wickham. Wickham has already ceased being charming and berates and threatens Miss Georgiana in front of Lizzy. When he leaves to go gamble Lizzy springs to action and works with the reluctant Muirs to rescue Miss G from herself. Somehow a skinny 16 year old can't squeeze into the carriage with the other 4 so Lizzy volunteers to stay behind and earn her keep by playing the pianoforte at the inn. [Note: I found this a little hard to swallow, couldn't one of them ridden on the box with the driver? Lizzy writes her father & Uncle Gardiner who are 4 days away; why wouldn't she return to her Aunt Beth who is less than a day away? ]
After they leave she stays at the Inn avoiding Wickham who is searching for Georgiana and furious. Eventually Darcy arrives to rescue her; luckily Georgiana had sketched her so he knows what she looks like. To save her reputation he convinces her to marry him, and she agrees so they hie off to Scotland where they marry in a church in front of witnesses. There is a lot of business involved in this that was really unnecessary and tedious. Upon their return to the original Inn they encounter Mr. Bennet & Jane. Then the four travel to Pemberley where in addition to Col. Fitzwilliam Mr. Bingley and crew are waiting for them.
This is where the Pride & Prejudice kick in. Miss Bingley is scheming, Mr. Darcy is silent and secretive, Lizzy is angry and irritated. And Jane is leading two men around by their noses. Mr. Bennet is happy settled in the library away from his noisy family. And of course Wickham won't go away completely so he threatens Darcy's state of mind.
Then the action returns to Meryton and a Mr. Williams of the militia. and then there is a far off epilogue.
To start Lizzy is traveling with the Muirs; at first I was wondering if she was a companion or something but it is explained that the Muirs are friends of the Gardiners and their trip to Scotland would take them near Mr. Bennet's sister Beth - whom Lizzy is named for and her family so Lizzy could make the trip economically and safely.
On their return trip they stay at an Inn just outside the border. And they discover Miss Georgiana Darcy and her 'fiance' Mr. Wickham. Wickham has already ceased being charming and berates and threatens Miss Georgiana in front of Lizzy. When he leaves to go gamble Lizzy springs to action and works with the reluctant Muirs to rescue Miss G from herself. Somehow a skinny 16 year old can't squeeze into the carriage with the other 4 so Lizzy volunteers to stay behind and earn her keep by playing the pianoforte at the inn. [Note: I found this a little hard to swallow, couldn't one of them ridden on the box with the driver? Lizzy writes her father & Uncle Gardiner who are 4 days away; why wouldn't she return to her Aunt Beth who is less than a day away? ]
After they leave she stays at the Inn avoiding Wickham who is searching for Georgiana and furious. Eventually Darcy arrives to rescue her; luckily Georgiana had sketched her so he knows what she looks like. To save her reputation he convinces her to marry him, and she agrees so they hie off to Scotland where they marry in a church in front of witnesses. There is a lot of business involved in this that was really unnecessary and tedious. Upon their return to the original Inn they encounter Mr. Bennet & Jane. Then the four travel to Pemberley where in addition to Col. Fitzwilliam Mr. Bingley and crew are waiting for them.
This is where the Pride & Prejudice kick in. Miss Bingley is scheming, Mr. Darcy is silent and secretive, Lizzy is angry and irritated. And Jane is leading two men around by their noses. Mr. Bennet is happy settled in the library away from his noisy family. And of course Wickham won't go away completely so he threatens Darcy's state of mind.
Then the action returns to Meryton and a Mr. Williams of the militia. and then there is a far off epilogue.
June 18, 2017
Having read other books by these authors it was a very easy choice to pick this one up immediately this day of publication and once I began to read I could not put it down. It didn't take long to finish it as I had to keep turning the pages. The angst is almost unrelenting. It is without MA scenes for those who want to know.
As the story description tells us Elizabeth has foiled the elopement of Georgiana Darcy and George Wickham. That statement seems rather clear and straight forward BUT the facts behind it are so very interesting. It takes courage and a bit of planning and even persuasion by Elizabeth to get all the ducks in a row. The whole affair takes place as Elizabeth is returning from Scotland where she was visiting her father's sister, her Aunt Beth, and traveling in the company of M/M Muir and their daughter. So her intervention with the elopement takes place far from home, without Darcy or any Bennets there to aid her. The Gardiners have placed their niece in the care of the Muirs so these kind people have to be informed of and agreeable to actions on Elizabeth's part. Additionally, there are the innkeeper, his family, the inn's regulars and visitor passing through. Events are not going to be done in secret and rumors, true or not, must be considered as they will definitely come to pass.
This story is very well written, developed with many aspects to consider and interweave. I loved it. Eventually Darcy shows up and then Mr. Bennet and Jane and what awaits them there is not at all what they might have speculated. And to keep the main characters on their toes...Wickham has disappeared but has anonymously let it be known that he WILL be revenging himself upon the person who foiled the elopement initially.
Without informing Elizabeth of the threat how does one go about keeping this independent, stubborn woman safe? Considerations at hand are the reputations of both Elizabeth and Georgiana, as well as the threat. Not to speak of are family and friends, their reactions and who to include in the real facts and just what tale is to be shared. Can the latter ones be trusted to 1.) keep the secrets and 2.) to remember what is to be said.
"But disguise of every sort is my abhorrence..." What did you say, Darcy?
As the story description tells us Elizabeth has foiled the elopement of Georgiana Darcy and George Wickham. That statement seems rather clear and straight forward BUT the facts behind it are so very interesting. It takes courage and a bit of planning and even persuasion by Elizabeth to get all the ducks in a row. The whole affair takes place as Elizabeth is returning from Scotland where she was visiting her father's sister, her Aunt Beth, and traveling in the company of M/M Muir and their daughter. So her intervention with the elopement takes place far from home, without Darcy or any Bennets there to aid her. The Gardiners have placed their niece in the care of the Muirs so these kind people have to be informed of and agreeable to actions on Elizabeth's part. Additionally, there are the innkeeper, his family, the inn's regulars and visitor passing through. Events are not going to be done in secret and rumors, true or not, must be considered as they will definitely come to pass.
This story is very well written, developed with many aspects to consider and interweave. I loved it. Eventually Darcy shows up and then Mr. Bennet and Jane and what awaits them there is not at all what they might have speculated. And to keep the main characters on their toes...Wickham has disappeared but has anonymously let it be known that he WILL be revenging himself upon the person who foiled the elopement initially.
Without informing Elizabeth of the threat how does one go about keeping this independent, stubborn woman safe? Considerations at hand are the reputations of both Elizabeth and Georgiana, as well as the threat. Not to speak of are family and friends, their reactions and who to include in the real facts and just what tale is to be shared. Can the latter ones be trusted to 1.) keep the secrets and 2.) to remember what is to be said.
"But disguise of every sort is my abhorrence..." What did you say, Darcy?
August 14, 2017
“My dear girl, you don’t consent to an abduction! You consent to an elopement, and I knew you wouldn’t do that.” Georgette Heyer, Black Sheep
This is an off-canon P&P story that will thrill, chill, and surprise the reader. The OOC [out of character] behavior of our main characters is only part of the problem. The other reviews have listed things that Darcy and Elizabeth simply would not do because of propriety. However, when someone is in a drastic situation, they are forced to act in a manner that they would not normally behave.
“I never wanted a big wedding. I never wanted to wear a white dress or throw a bouquet.” Taylor Jenkins Reid
What I liked: The page time between D&E. I love when Darcy and Elizabeth get to talk or interact. His first vision of Elizabeth is not the one we think. Georgiana had given him a description of Lizzy so when he walked into the Inn he recognized her. The only problem… Wickham was there and, due to his actions, holy crap broke out at the inn. No spoiler as to what Wickham was doing… just that it was bad. Darcy is my hero.
“Now that I could not go back I was not sure, after all, that I wished to go forward. It was a miserable sensation.” Anna Freeman, The Fair Fight
What I didn’t like: Too much explaining about Georgiana’s situation. Too many people given too much information and too many sworn to secrecy. It was like her story took on a life of its own. It just got bigger and bigger. It soon became the elephant in the room. I am surprised that Miss Bingley didn’t try to sniff out more information. I suppose what Darcy said to her in his office was enough to put the ‘fear of Darcy’ in her head. I certainly wouldn’t want to cross him. Her attitude changed rather quickly after that.
The ‘failure to inform’ trope was also present. That’s where Darcy fails to inform the world that Wickham is a disgusting, low-life, rat-bastard. Which leaves him loose on the landscape so he can inflict his proclivities on the unsuspecting female and mercantile populace at large. He tries to marry/seduce any female with money, runs up debts with the merchants and leaves without paying. Yea, that’s Wickham’s MO.
This is an off-canon P&P story that will thrill, chill, and surprise the reader. The OOC [out of character] behavior of our main characters is only part of the problem. The other reviews have listed things that Darcy and Elizabeth simply would not do because of propriety. However, when someone is in a drastic situation, they are forced to act in a manner that they would not normally behave.
“I never wanted a big wedding. I never wanted to wear a white dress or throw a bouquet.” Taylor Jenkins Reid
What I liked: The page time between D&E. I love when Darcy and Elizabeth get to talk or interact. His first vision of Elizabeth is not the one we think. Georgiana had given him a description of Lizzy so when he walked into the Inn he recognized her. The only problem… Wickham was there and, due to his actions, holy crap broke out at the inn. No spoiler as to what Wickham was doing… just that it was bad. Darcy is my hero.
“Now that I could not go back I was not sure, after all, that I wished to go forward. It was a miserable sensation.” Anna Freeman, The Fair Fight
What I didn’t like: Too much explaining about Georgiana’s situation. Too many people given too much information and too many sworn to secrecy. It was like her story took on a life of its own. It just got bigger and bigger. It soon became the elephant in the room. I am surprised that Miss Bingley didn’t try to sniff out more information. I suppose what Darcy said to her in his office was enough to put the ‘fear of Darcy’ in her head. I certainly wouldn’t want to cross him. Her attitude changed rather quickly after that.
The ‘failure to inform’ trope was also present. That’s where Darcy fails to inform the world that Wickham is a disgusting, low-life, rat-bastard. Which leaves him loose on the landscape so he can inflict his proclivities on the unsuspecting female and mercantile populace at large. He tries to marry/seduce any female with money, runs up debts with the merchants and leaves without paying. Yea, that’s Wickham’s MO.
June 15, 2023
Cute, i liked the variation on the story. Another one that could have been expanded on and I would have enjoyed it just as much.
August 22, 2017
I liked this take on the D&E love match. While it wasn't necessarily that in the beginning it was all the same. As long as the end result are the same why quibble over details. I found it a creative approach. Georgianna has ran off with Wickham and the two are overheard talking by Elizabeth. A very intimate conversation ensues between the two and by the end of it Lizzy is determined to help her in any way she can. She knows that she can't be much older than Lydia and is so compassionate toward her situation that she gives her seat up on the coach to allow Georgianna her only shot at finding her way back home to her brother. This does not go unnoticed by Wickham.
Darcy makes his way to the inn prepared to do whatever necessary to save his sister. What he finds instead sets his blood boiling. This is the Darcy I love to see. He is confident and fearless not to mention offended to see such ill treatment of a lady. I loved it. This D&E is a unique relationship between them. Gone is the quiet Darcy who stares and welcome one who is stunned and grateful for a stranger to show such kindness to his sister. Gone is the Lizzy prejudiced analyzing every gesture, and word Darcy makes, defensive woman. Welcome in an Elizabeth who sees a loving brother and realizes the benefits of being his wife. I did however think it odd of what we know of Lizzy. She has always put such a price on having that all encompassing affection in her future marriage. In this read what is more prominent a reason is protect Georgianna.
**************************BEGINNING OF SPOILER***********************************
Georgianna allowed Wickham to steal her virtue. Well, I don't think he stole it necessarily if she gave it. The fear is that she will become pregnant and what about the child. This is the conversation had by D&E and the solution is if Darcy was married his wife could act as though she is the one that is the mother. This is the sacrifice Lizzy accepts. It wasn't the passionate Lizzy we know. That Lizzy would be compassionate toward Georgianna, yes, but she was so strong in her beliefs I think the author should have convinced her readers better of Lizzy having the best of both worlds.
**************************END OF SPOILER***************************
The misunderstanding in Darcy's character is not an issue in this story it did allow Lizzy to immediately like this Fitzwilliam. Her seeing what a loving caring brother he was, without his arrogant pride, also made Lizzy admire him more. Than there is Wickham. He is not casting bad lighting on this Darcy. No, Elizabeth sees him the evil man he is straight from the start. I liked that but I think Lizzy would have needed more reason to marry him. There was the issue of her reputation but truly Lizzy wasn't too concerned by that. Apples and oranges I say as I wanted them to marry anyway so I left off any further argument into would they or wouldn't they? The pair decide it would be smart to avoid the marriage bed until after a certain fact is revealed. So the couple are learning to to know the other and it is all very sweet as they dash off to wed. Mr. Bennet while alarmed by the news his daughter has wed seemed to accept Darcy very quickly. You see by this time he sees the smitten glances Darcy bestows his daughter he knows she's made the right choice for herself. Jane is supportive and nonjudgmental (imagine that).
In this read it is the Darcy's, Mr. Bennet and Jane who come to that famous moment in which they see Pemberley in the best prospect from the 1995 BBC version (at least that's what I envisioned). When arriving they discover the Bingley's and Mr. and Mrs. Hurst. Ahh, now things from the old are beginning to collide with that of the new. Yes, Richard is there to greet and announce Darcy of his visitors. And it is Darcy that shocks him introducing a wife. I felt bad for this Richard. I wanted better for him because as they all get to know each other at Pemberley a rivalry between him and Bingley for Jane's affection begins. During this Darcy begins to grow frustrated of his ever growing feelings for his wife. Carolyn, lets not forget her. You'll love Darcy's approach to her antics. The misunderstanding in this book is Elizabeth not understanding why Darcy is suddenly so cold toward her. She believes he regrets his choice but like all the other obstacles that arise in this book it is resolved quickly. So he begins to share the woes of a man that passionately desires his wife. This is a clean read so there are only kisses and caresses mentioned.
I do agree with another reviewer who mentioned that Georgianna's secret was revealed to too many people to remain a secret. Darcy telling Miss Bingley would not have happened. And in those days it wouldn't matter if she did or didn't give her virtue the fact that she ran off with Wickham would have been enough to ruin her reputation. It also surprised me that Wickham did not use that as leverage against Darcy. All of this leads us back to Hertforshire because in this story Bingley moves into Netherfield after he meets the Bennet sisters. It is an entertaining read but only has minimal excitement. I wanted more from Wickham or even a confrontation between Lizzy and Carolyn would have been welcome. Lady C. was only mentioned. I did enjoy this D&E but would have wished a happier ending for the colonel. He deserved better IMO. He was just given a different outlook in this read that made him seem only concerned by money. His only exception was when he fell for Jane. Is anyone else tired of hearing how everyone adores Jane? This girl is. Enjoy!
Darcy makes his way to the inn prepared to do whatever necessary to save his sister. What he finds instead sets his blood boiling. This is the Darcy I love to see. He is confident and fearless not to mention offended to see such ill treatment of a lady. I loved it. This D&E is a unique relationship between them. Gone is the quiet Darcy who stares and welcome one who is stunned and grateful for a stranger to show such kindness to his sister. Gone is the Lizzy prejudiced analyzing every gesture, and word Darcy makes, defensive woman. Welcome in an Elizabeth who sees a loving brother and realizes the benefits of being his wife. I did however think it odd of what we know of Lizzy. She has always put such a price on having that all encompassing affection in her future marriage. In this read what is more prominent a reason is protect Georgianna.
**************************BEGINNING OF SPOILER***********************************
Georgianna allowed Wickham to steal her virtue. Well, I don't think he stole it necessarily if she gave it. The fear is that she will become pregnant and what about the child. This is the conversation had by D&E and the solution is if Darcy was married his wife could act as though she is the one that is the mother. This is the sacrifice Lizzy accepts. It wasn't the passionate Lizzy we know. That Lizzy would be compassionate toward Georgianna, yes, but she was so strong in her beliefs I think the author should have convinced her readers better of Lizzy having the best of both worlds.
**************************END OF SPOILER***************************
The misunderstanding in Darcy's character is not an issue in this story it did allow Lizzy to immediately like this Fitzwilliam. Her seeing what a loving caring brother he was, without his arrogant pride, also made Lizzy admire him more. Than there is Wickham. He is not casting bad lighting on this Darcy. No, Elizabeth sees him the evil man he is straight from the start. I liked that but I think Lizzy would have needed more reason to marry him. There was the issue of her reputation but truly Lizzy wasn't too concerned by that. Apples and oranges I say as I wanted them to marry anyway so I left off any further argument into would they or wouldn't they? The pair decide it would be smart to avoid the marriage bed until after a certain fact is revealed. So the couple are learning to to know the other and it is all very sweet as they dash off to wed. Mr. Bennet while alarmed by the news his daughter has wed seemed to accept Darcy very quickly. You see by this time he sees the smitten glances Darcy bestows his daughter he knows she's made the right choice for herself. Jane is supportive and nonjudgmental (imagine that).
In this read it is the Darcy's, Mr. Bennet and Jane who come to that famous moment in which they see Pemberley in the best prospect from the 1995 BBC version (at least that's what I envisioned). When arriving they discover the Bingley's and Mr. and Mrs. Hurst. Ahh, now things from the old are beginning to collide with that of the new. Yes, Richard is there to greet and announce Darcy of his visitors. And it is Darcy that shocks him introducing a wife. I felt bad for this Richard. I wanted better for him because as they all get to know each other at Pemberley a rivalry between him and Bingley for Jane's affection begins. During this Darcy begins to grow frustrated of his ever growing feelings for his wife. Carolyn, lets not forget her. You'll love Darcy's approach to her antics. The misunderstanding in this book is Elizabeth not understanding why Darcy is suddenly so cold toward her. She believes he regrets his choice but like all the other obstacles that arise in this book it is resolved quickly. So he begins to share the woes of a man that passionately desires his wife. This is a clean read so there are only kisses and caresses mentioned.
I do agree with another reviewer who mentioned that Georgianna's secret was revealed to too many people to remain a secret. Darcy telling Miss Bingley would not have happened. And in those days it wouldn't matter if she did or didn't give her virtue the fact that she ran off with Wickham would have been enough to ruin her reputation. It also surprised me that Wickham did not use that as leverage against Darcy. All of this leads us back to Hertforshire because in this story Bingley moves into Netherfield after he meets the Bennet sisters. It is an entertaining read but only has minimal excitement. I wanted more from Wickham or even a confrontation between Lizzy and Carolyn would have been welcome. Lady C. was only mentioned. I did enjoy this D&E but would have wished a happier ending for the colonel. He deserved better IMO. He was just given a different outlook in this read that made him seem only concerned by money. His only exception was when he fell for Jane. Is anyone else tired of hearing how everyone adores Jane? This girl is. Enjoy!
March 23, 2019
3.5⭐️
June 27, 2017
I enjoyed the first part of the book very much, Elizabeth meeting Georgiana and helping her. Elizabeth's stay in the inn was very enjoyable as well. Darcy's appearance and their further interactions were interesting as well. After that the plot started to be a bit less convincing, though I still enjoyed a few turns and twists. And there were some unusual HEA.
June 25, 2017
Different plot but still interesting
Georgiana runs away with Wickham and comes across Elizabeth just south of Scotland after Elizabeth's visit with an aunt from her fathers side. Elizabeth is traveling with friends, Yes new characters are introduced, which helps the plot but does not take away from the story. Elizabeth saves Georgiana by giving up her spot in the coach and ends up staying at the inn. Somehow if you overlook the fact Elizabeth has little or no money and her friends do not help her, the story is good.
Elizabeth continues to stay at the inn while Wickham causes more strife and hurts Elizabeth in front of Darcy. Propriety dictates Darcy save Elizabeth's reputation.
I enjoyed the story even with some details not making much sense, like Elizabeth being left without money and having to play the pianoforte each night. I wish the story was longer and more developed making it a book. So many authors write shorter stories that are good enough to be more than a novella. I have read most of this authors work and have enjoyed them even if they are novellas.
Georgiana runs away with Wickham and comes across Elizabeth just south of Scotland after Elizabeth's visit with an aunt from her fathers side. Elizabeth is traveling with friends, Yes new characters are introduced, which helps the plot but does not take away from the story. Elizabeth saves Georgiana by giving up her spot in the coach and ends up staying at the inn. Somehow if you overlook the fact Elizabeth has little or no money and her friends do not help her, the story is good.
Elizabeth continues to stay at the inn while Wickham causes more strife and hurts Elizabeth in front of Darcy. Propriety dictates Darcy save Elizabeth's reputation.
I enjoyed the story even with some details not making much sense, like Elizabeth being left without money and having to play the pianoforte each night. I wish the story was longer and more developed making it a book. So many authors write shorter stories that are good enough to be more than a novella. I have read most of this authors work and have enjoyed them even if they are novellas.
August 8, 2017
Foiled Elopement: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Excellent story of a brave Elizabeth that helps the fifteen year old Georgiana Darcy to escape a now undesirable elopement with the ever evil, wicked Wickham. Abandoned in Ramsgate by her governess under Wickham's plan, Georgiana is convinced that Wickham loves her. Once he's tricked her into a north bound coach to Scotland, his true personality emerges and she sees him for what he really is: a scoundrel wanting her thirty thousand pound dowry. Stopped at the same inn as Elizabeth Bennet, she overhears Wickham's treachery towards Georgiana and decides to help her escape her fate. She remains behind at the inn while Georgiana takes her seat in the carriage of her aunt and uncle's friends, the Muirs. The innkeeper keep her protected, but she still has risked her reputation by staying at the inn without a real companion. Wickham figures out what happened with Georgiana and returns to the inn to confront Elizabeth. Fortunately, Darcy has come to find Elizabeth and stops Wickham from hurting her further. A duel is fought over Elizabeth, causing Wickham to surrender in front of the many people who witness his shameful behavior. To save Elizabeth's reputation, Darcy marries her in Scotland. Returning to the inn, they meet her father and Jane. Traveling on to Pemberley, they meet the Bingleys and Colonel Fitzwilliam. Wickham threatens Darcy, misunderstandings over his changed demeanor towards Elizabeth causes trouble, Caroline Bingley's interference into Darcy's affairs create more problems, and Bingley and the colonel vying for Jane's attention raise tension between Elizabeth and Darcy also. Mr. Bennet befriends Georgiana and her feelings for Wickham become clearer as Mr. Bennet encourages her to get rid of all her paintings and drawings of the man that betrayed her. He keeps three of these paintings for he feels that one day, her portraits will be famous. Unbeknownst to him, when Wickham using another name tries an elopement with another young girl, these paintings will exposed his perfidy and send him on a one way voyage to Australia. Happy that Wickham can no longer intrude in his life, Darcy settles into a very loving marriage with the young lady with the very fine eyes and loving heart who saved his beloved sister.
Excellent story of a brave Elizabeth that helps the fifteen year old Georgiana Darcy to escape a now undesirable elopement with the ever evil, wicked Wickham. Abandoned in Ramsgate by her governess under Wickham's plan, Georgiana is convinced that Wickham loves her. Once he's tricked her into a north bound coach to Scotland, his true personality emerges and she sees him for what he really is: a scoundrel wanting her thirty thousand pound dowry. Stopped at the same inn as Elizabeth Bennet, she overhears Wickham's treachery towards Georgiana and decides to help her escape her fate. She remains behind at the inn while Georgiana takes her seat in the carriage of her aunt and uncle's friends, the Muirs. The innkeeper keep her protected, but she still has risked her reputation by staying at the inn without a real companion. Wickham figures out what happened with Georgiana and returns to the inn to confront Elizabeth. Fortunately, Darcy has come to find Elizabeth and stops Wickham from hurting her further. A duel is fought over Elizabeth, causing Wickham to surrender in front of the many people who witness his shameful behavior. To save Elizabeth's reputation, Darcy marries her in Scotland. Returning to the inn, they meet her father and Jane. Traveling on to Pemberley, they meet the Bingleys and Colonel Fitzwilliam. Wickham threatens Darcy, misunderstandings over his changed demeanor towards Elizabeth causes trouble, Caroline Bingley's interference into Darcy's affairs create more problems, and Bingley and the colonel vying for Jane's attention raise tension between Elizabeth and Darcy also. Mr. Bennet befriends Georgiana and her feelings for Wickham become clearer as Mr. Bennet encourages her to get rid of all her paintings and drawings of the man that betrayed her. He keeps three of these paintings for he feels that one day, her portraits will be famous. Unbeknownst to him, when Wickham using another name tries an elopement with another young girl, these paintings will exposed his perfidy and send him on a one way voyage to Australia. Happy that Wickham can no longer intrude in his life, Darcy settles into a very loving marriage with the young lady with the very fine eyes and loving heart who saved his beloved sister.
July 2, 2020
Excellent story
Lizzy meets Georgiana as she is eloping with Wickham. Lizzy saves her from W but a freight train of unintended consequences is coming down the tracks. Good story. Has a number of scenes we rarely read in P&P variations. Second time I’ve read it. Thumbs up.
Lizzy meets Georgiana as she is eloping with Wickham. Lizzy saves her from W but a freight train of unintended consequences is coming down the tracks. Good story. Has a number of scenes we rarely read in P&P variations. Second time I’ve read it. Thumbs up.
July 23, 2021
Good
Liked it no lady Catherine, Wickham and Lydia do not elope. Darcy and Lizzy love each other early in book,no problems.
Liked it no lady Catherine, Wickham and Lydia do not elope. Darcy and Lizzy love each other early in book,no problems.
July 23, 2017
In this Pride and Prejudice variation Elizabeth gives up her reputation to save Georgiana. A great full but overbearing Darcy comes to save the day with a proposal of marriage. Now the two must explain all to their family and friends while finding their path to their happily ever after.
I enjoyed the cast of characters at the inn and the overall story. It was hard to put down.
I enjoyed the cast of characters at the inn and the overall story. It was hard to put down.
August 3, 2017
Sucked in and Happy About It
Wow...that book reeled me in. Big time. What a fantastic story!! The plot was awesome, taking Pride and Prejudice's magical characters and putting them one diverting book. So good!!
Wow...that book reeled me in. Big time. What a fantastic story!! The plot was awesome, taking Pride and Prejudice's magical characters and putting them one diverting book. So good!!
August 20, 2022
Nice & sweet. It was very short (not even reaching 200 pages), to the point & low on angst, which I can appreciate. However, it wasn’t particularly memorable amidst all of the other copious amounts of JAFF I read.
October 28, 2019
A novel concept
Georgiana slopes but she is saved from a lifetime of misery by an opportune intervention that causes an interesting chain reaction. I really enjoyed the unexpected twists and turns.
Georgiana slopes but she is saved from a lifetime of misery by an opportune intervention that causes an interesting chain reaction. I really enjoyed the unexpected twists and turns.
September 30, 2023
A quick read and an original storyline. At an inn near the Scotland border, Elizabeth interrupts the elopement between Georgiana and Wickham when it is clear she no longer wants to go. That ends with big consequences and the threat of more scandal. When Darcy shows up there is a duel and another dash for Scotland. There is a creative resolution to it all.
dnf
March 22, 2022In this Pride and prejudice variation Jane and Bingley are the resulting pair but the Colonel loves Jane. Not a storyline I am interested in reading more of.
February 18, 2022
I really liked this book for about two-thirds through and didn't even mind the whole 'compromise' thing -- mostly due to the characters being written beautifully true to the canon. There was not much in a way of an ODC conflict, so of course the author had to go and make it all be on Darcy. Poor man was so consumed by lust, he couldn't even bring himself to be in a room with Lizzy without planning how better to ravage her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 14, 2022
Two authors and a professional editor and the book was still full of garbage. For shame. After all the effort that probably went into Regency detail, one would think a small amount of effort could have gone into making the language retain the reader's feeling "in the moment." Nope. I rarely give less than four stars, but this is one of those times.
As usual, my review will be technical in nature, however, it will be less detailed than recent reviews.
The plot bunny was a good one, but as it was carried out, there are quite a few places where suspension of disbelief are needed. The authors explain the issue, usually a Regency protocol, then proceed to go along and go against that "rule" as if it were nothing. Yet the protagonists had so many strikes against them for which they would normally be shunned in polite society, it was ridiculous. Add to that a questionable fake story that no one could keep straight, and I could barely keep a straight face. Now, if one goes with the flow, which I chose to do, the novel does provide an entertaining romp. But really, the truth is, it's full of pullleaaaseee moments.
The flow is excellent. The story moves along at a good pace all the way through, with never a boring moment. This is likely because the book was dialogue heavy, that is, the balance of narrative and dialogue went strongly to the dialogue side. This led to less introspection and scene development than would have been enjoyed. Since each scene that follows is reasonably predictable, I'd say the tension is middling at most. So no need to be afraid, angst weenies.
Language in a general sense is at a good level for a JAFF reader. Narrative tends to be well-done and less riddled with problems. It's the dialogue that's more likely to be full of problems that knock the reader out of the Regency world. There were over 300 contractions, a colossal amount. I just don't get it when, alongside them, the authors spelled out the contractions in sometimes the same sentence. In any case, leaving even one contraction in a Regency novel (unless it's left on purpose for a lower-level character) is akin to a typo. Some of these words weren't even coined until 20 years after the Regency. Speaking of such, the other non-Regency words in this book were on par for a JAFF Regency of this length: eleven (and they were mostly ones that have been seen in my reviews of late). There were two homophones, two misspellings, and three Americanisms that were used over and over.
I noted a missing plural, a possessive used for a plural, and extra commas.
As for Regency errors, the hall is a large entry. The houses of the period rarely had what we now called hallways, and certainly they were not called halls. Also, the cost of a letter was almost always paid by the receiver, not the sender, so it didn't matter that Elizabeth was running short of cash.
Characterizations weren't as consistent as I would like, particularly Georgiana and Elizabeth, who were each strong one minute and weak the next. Elizabeth waffled far too much.
There was a dearth of visualization, perhaps because the dialogue overpowered the narrative in the book.
The cover is pretty ho-hum. It's probably supposed to show the movement of characters on the road between the elopements, but it does nothing to attract the attention of the reader and inspire them to buy the book. Dark tones in the artwork, simplistic fonts applied with poor balance, and it looks rather home-made. I'm no expert, but that's how it appears to me. In any case, it definitely doesn't pass the "Buy me" test.
All in all, this would be an entertaining novel if one didn't stumble over a contraction several times a page. Those non-Regency words knock the reader right out of the story. If 90% of JAFF authors can spell their contractions out and provide readable novels, Renata McMann and Summer Hanford also can. It's pure laziness to shirk such a responsibility to readers. It's too bad, because underneath, this book had good bones. At least a four star.
Disclaimer: I'm a JAFF author, and some might consider this review to be a conflict of interest. However, I was a reader first, and my reviews are honest and impartial. I write them for the benefit of both readers and authors.
As usual, my review will be technical in nature, however, it will be less detailed than recent reviews.
The plot bunny was a good one, but as it was carried out, there are quite a few places where suspension of disbelief are needed. The authors explain the issue, usually a Regency protocol, then proceed to go along and go against that "rule" as if it were nothing. Yet the protagonists had so many strikes against them for which they would normally be shunned in polite society, it was ridiculous. Add to that a questionable fake story that no one could keep straight, and I could barely keep a straight face. Now, if one goes with the flow, which I chose to do, the novel does provide an entertaining romp. But really, the truth is, it's full of pullleaaaseee moments.
The flow is excellent. The story moves along at a good pace all the way through, with never a boring moment. This is likely because the book was dialogue heavy, that is, the balance of narrative and dialogue went strongly to the dialogue side. This led to less introspection and scene development than would have been enjoyed. Since each scene that follows is reasonably predictable, I'd say the tension is middling at most. So no need to be afraid, angst weenies.
Language in a general sense is at a good level for a JAFF reader. Narrative tends to be well-done and less riddled with problems. It's the dialogue that's more likely to be full of problems that knock the reader out of the Regency world. There were over 300 contractions, a colossal amount. I just don't get it when, alongside them, the authors spelled out the contractions in sometimes the same sentence. In any case, leaving even one contraction in a Regency novel (unless it's left on purpose for a lower-level character) is akin to a typo. Some of these words weren't even coined until 20 years after the Regency. Speaking of such, the other non-Regency words in this book were on par for a JAFF Regency of this length: eleven (and they were mostly ones that have been seen in my reviews of late). There were two homophones, two misspellings, and three Americanisms that were used over and over.
I noted a missing plural, a possessive used for a plural, and extra commas.
As for Regency errors, the hall is a large entry. The houses of the period rarely had what we now called hallways, and certainly they were not called halls. Also, the cost of a letter was almost always paid by the receiver, not the sender, so it didn't matter that Elizabeth was running short of cash.
Characterizations weren't as consistent as I would like, particularly Georgiana and Elizabeth, who were each strong one minute and weak the next. Elizabeth waffled far too much.
There was a dearth of visualization, perhaps because the dialogue overpowered the narrative in the book.
The cover is pretty ho-hum. It's probably supposed to show the movement of characters on the road between the elopements, but it does nothing to attract the attention of the reader and inspire them to buy the book. Dark tones in the artwork, simplistic fonts applied with poor balance, and it looks rather home-made. I'm no expert, but that's how it appears to me. In any case, it definitely doesn't pass the "Buy me" test.
All in all, this would be an entertaining novel if one didn't stumble over a contraction several times a page. Those non-Regency words knock the reader right out of the story. If 90% of JAFF authors can spell their contractions out and provide readable novels, Renata McMann and Summer Hanford also can. It's pure laziness to shirk such a responsibility to readers. It's too bad, because underneath, this book had good bones. At least a four star.
Disclaimer: I'm a JAFF author, and some might consider this review to be a conflict of interest. However, I was a reader first, and my reviews are honest and impartial. I write them for the benefit of both readers and authors.
March 9, 2018
It is rare that I do not like the books produced by Renata McMann and Summer Hanford. This JAFF tale has its merits, and I enjoyed reading it.
Darcy arrives at Ramsgate to discover Georgiana has eloped. Meanwhile, Elizabeth Bennet is returning from Scotland with friends of her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner. She overhears Georgiana Darcy begging Mr. Wickham to escort her home to Pemberley. Elizabeth sets her mind to doing something about the girl's situation. She offers to stay on at the inn if the Muirs will take Georgiana south with them. Propriety means Elizabeth cannot remain alone at the inn, so the innkeeper agrees to let Elizabeth stay in the room with his 13-year-old daughter. Elizabeth agrees to help in the kitchen and to play the piano for the inn's guests in the evening. She writes to her father, but knows it will be at least two weeks before he can come after her.
Darcy finally finds Georgiana, but knows his duty is also to protect the woman who protected his sister. He goes to the inn to find Wickham slapping Elizabeth for her interference. Darcy attacks Wickham, and a challenge of a duel is issued. Although Darcy's anger at Wickham has to do with Georgiana, everyone assumes he fights the duel to save Elizabeth's reputation. Therefore, he suggests that they travel to Scotland to marry. Thus, the real tale begins.
There are several misspellings: voce for voice, char for chair, etc.
Split infinitives occur: to finally set, to finally draw, to only like, etc.
"Different than" is never right. It is always "different from."
In the story, the authors have Elizabeth needing her father's consent to marry in Scotland. At the time, no consent in Scotland was required. She is over the age of 12, the legal age for a female to marry under Scotland's laws, and consummation was not required to make the marriage legal. The couple only needed to live together to warrant a marriage.
Darcy arrives at Ramsgate to discover Georgiana has eloped. Meanwhile, Elizabeth Bennet is returning from Scotland with friends of her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner. She overhears Georgiana Darcy begging Mr. Wickham to escort her home to Pemberley. Elizabeth sets her mind to doing something about the girl's situation. She offers to stay on at the inn if the Muirs will take Georgiana south with them. Propriety means Elizabeth cannot remain alone at the inn, so the innkeeper agrees to let Elizabeth stay in the room with his 13-year-old daughter. Elizabeth agrees to help in the kitchen and to play the piano for the inn's guests in the evening. She writes to her father, but knows it will be at least two weeks before he can come after her.
Darcy finally finds Georgiana, but knows his duty is also to protect the woman who protected his sister. He goes to the inn to find Wickham slapping Elizabeth for her interference. Darcy attacks Wickham, and a challenge of a duel is issued. Although Darcy's anger at Wickham has to do with Georgiana, everyone assumes he fights the duel to save Elizabeth's reputation. Therefore, he suggests that they travel to Scotland to marry. Thus, the real tale begins.
There are several misspellings: voce for voice, char for chair, etc.
Split infinitives occur: to finally set, to finally draw, to only like, etc.
"Different than" is never right. It is always "different from."
In the story, the authors have Elizabeth needing her father's consent to marry in Scotland. At the time, no consent in Scotland was required. She is over the age of 12, the legal age for a female to marry under Scotland's laws, and consummation was not required to make the marriage legal. The couple only needed to live together to warrant a marriage.
June 7, 2018
Unlikely But Interesting Variation of Pride And Prejudice.
I found two major problems with this book. The first is the foundation is very unrealistic. I can believe Elizabeth Bennet would assist Georgiana, but I can’t accept that her reputation would be ruined. Nor am I sure two men fighting a duel over a woman would ruin her reputation, especially since she was so far from London or her home town. Finally, I can’t believe Fitzwilliam Darcy would marry Elizabeth, a complete stranger, under these circumstances. In addition, Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam fell in love so quickly. The events of the story took place too rapidly. The story line nor the relationships really had time to develop. On the other hand the story moved along so quickly, the reader had little opportunity to become bored. In addition the tale was funny at times and character traits of Elizabeth, Fitzwilliam and her father were described well in this story and this added to the humor of the book. Despite the problems in the story, it was an entertaining read.
I found two major problems with this book. The first is the foundation is very unrealistic. I can believe Elizabeth Bennet would assist Georgiana, but I can’t accept that her reputation would be ruined. Nor am I sure two men fighting a duel over a woman would ruin her reputation, especially since she was so far from London or her home town. Finally, I can’t believe Fitzwilliam Darcy would marry Elizabeth, a complete stranger, under these circumstances. In addition, Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam fell in love so quickly. The events of the story took place too rapidly. The story line nor the relationships really had time to develop. On the other hand the story moved along so quickly, the reader had little opportunity to become bored. In addition the tale was funny at times and character traits of Elizabeth, Fitzwilliam and her father were described well in this story and this added to the humor of the book. Despite the problems in the story, it was an entertaining read.
August 10, 2025
I loved it!
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. This is a part of the A Pride and Prejudice Variation series.
Elizabeth Bennet is left stranded after saving Georgiana Darcy from a disastrous elopement. Rescue is near, but Elizabeth will have to pay an additional price, not only for Georgiana’s mistake but for the circumstance in which Elizabeth becomes embroiled. Some, like Miss Bingley, may look down on a precarious situation of Elizabeth’s own making, but what else could someone of her bold, intelligent and compassionate nature do? So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. This is a part of the A Pride and Prejudice Variation series.
Elizabeth Bennet is left stranded after saving Georgiana Darcy from a disastrous elopement. Rescue is near, but Elizabeth will have to pay an additional price, not only for Georgiana’s mistake but for the circumstance in which Elizabeth becomes embroiled. Some, like Miss Bingley, may look down on a precarious situation of Elizabeth’s own making, but what else could someone of her bold, intelligent and compassionate nature do? So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
June 21, 2017
Practically Perfect in Every Way
Not absolutely perfect, there are some grammatical or editing errors, but this variation is absolutely wonderful! It grabs your interest from the beginning straight through to the end. You worry with Elizabeth about poor, young Georgiana, then worry about Elizabeth herself, wonder and worry about Wickham's sinister plot against Darcy and/or Lizzy. Then you fall in love all over again with each character, including the rest of the Bennets! How did that happen? They used these misadventures to learn and become more mature? Hurrah! I truly loved it!
Not absolutely perfect, there are some grammatical or editing errors, but this variation is absolutely wonderful! It grabs your interest from the beginning straight through to the end. You worry with Elizabeth about poor, young Georgiana, then worry about Elizabeth herself, wonder and worry about Wickham's sinister plot against Darcy and/or Lizzy. Then you fall in love all over again with each character, including the rest of the Bennets! How did that happen? They used these misadventures to learn and become more mature? Hurrah! I truly loved it!
June 26, 2018
Enjoyable Detour
This was a pleasant way to pass some time. The characters remained faithful to their original representations in Pride and Prejudice, the storyline appeared well thought out, and it was a clean read with the exception of one curse word.
There are a few notable departures from the original story, but those elements are worked into a believable ending that I enjoyed and that didn't change the characters into unrecognizable versions of themselves.
This is my first variation by these authors, but I am open to others that sound interesting since this one is well done.
I read this as part of Kindle Unlimited. The opinions are my own.
This was a pleasant way to pass some time. The characters remained faithful to their original representations in Pride and Prejudice, the storyline appeared well thought out, and it was a clean read with the exception of one curse word.
There are a few notable departures from the original story, but those elements are worked into a believable ending that I enjoyed and that didn't change the characters into unrecognizable versions of themselves.
This is my first variation by these authors, but I am open to others that sound interesting since this one is well done.
I read this as part of Kindle Unlimited. The opinions are my own.
October 16, 2023
Elizabeth meets Georgiana Darcy in the middle of regretting her elopement. Wickham appears threatening so she wants Georgiana to get away from the inn. There is no extra room in the carriage so the family she was traveling with could take either Georgiana or Elizabeth but not both (this was a bit contrived but it was implied that the couple she travelled with was rather large). Elizabeth stays behind at the inn, and Darcy finds it necessary to marry her in order to rescue her reputation.
It was OK for a one-time read but probably not a story that will stay with me. Minor editing issues.
It was OK for a one-time read but probably not a story that will stay with me. Minor editing issues.
July 28, 2017
This was a lovely story. I'm not going to reiterate the plot, but suffice it to say that Georgiana was foolish, Wickham was his usual evil self, and there was not sign of Catherine deBourgh Elizabeth showed herself to be smart and quick on her feet. She stood toe-to-toe with Darcy on many occasions. Darcy was shown to be a bit more human than he sometimes appears, and when Elizabeth told him that she would find a room in Pemberley to occupy that he WASN'T in, I laughed. I was disappointed in Richard, but perhaps that was a sign of the times.
August 1, 2017
A very enjoyable P & P variation! I couldn't put this book down and was so sad it ended! I gave Foiled Elopement only 4 stars for grammatical/spelling errors and the few parts that were a little too unbelievable. While I've become accustomed to typos/errors that happens these days, I need to comment when they hit you in the face the first pages of a story!
March 5, 2019
A short read. Fast paced and keeps up the tension, with a HEA epilogue. As always with these two, Americanisms/anachronistic language, but it wasn’t that intrusive as I was fairly caught up with the story. I especially liked the first part at the inn, both the writing and the originality of the idea/scenario. It was surprisingly good compared to other works by the same authors.
July 5, 2019
This book departs from cannon pretty dramatically, but in a really good way. Authors found a really fun and interesting way to get Elizabeth to intervene in the Georgiana/Wickham situation and uses that to bring her and Darcy together. Fun way to look at a new story with the characters we know so well.
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