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Mr. Darcy's Brides
A Pride and Prejudice Vagary
I much prefer the sharpest criticism of a single intelligent man to the thoughtless approval of the masses.
ELIZABETH BENNET is determined that she will put a stop to her mother’s plans to marry off the eldest Bennet daughter to Mr. Collins, the Longbourn heir, but a man that Mr. Bennet considers an annoying dimwit. Hence, Elizabeth disguises herself as Jane and repeats her vows to the supercilious rector as if she is her sister, thereby voiding the nuptials and saving Jane from a life of drudgery. Yet, even the “best laid plans” can often go awry.
FITZWILLIAM DARCY is desperate to find a woman who will assist him in leading his sister back to Society after Georgiana’s failed elopement with Darcy’s old enemy George Wickham. He is so desperate that he agrees to Lady Catherine De Bourgh’s suggestion that Darcy marry her ladyship’s “sickly” daughter Anne. Unfortunately, as he waits for his bride to join him at the altar, he realizes he has made a terrible error in judgement, but there is no means to right the wrong without ruining his cousin’s reputation. Yet, even as he weighs his options, the touch of “Anne’s” hand upon his sends an unusual “zing” of awareness shooting up Darcy’s arm. It is only when he realizes the “zing” has arrived at the hand of a stranger, who has disrupted his nuptials, that he breathes both a sigh of relief and a groan of frustration, for the question remains: Is Darcy’s marriage to the woman legal?
What if Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet met under different circumstances than those we know from Jane Austen’s classic tale: Circumstances that did not include the voices of vanity and pride and prejudice and doubt that we find in the original story? Their road to happily ever after may not, even then, be an easy one, but with the expectations of others removed from their relationship, can they learn to trust each other long enough to carve out a path to true happiness?
I much prefer the sharpest criticism of a single intelligent man to the thoughtless approval of the masses.
ELIZABETH BENNET is determined that she will put a stop to her mother’s plans to marry off the eldest Bennet daughter to Mr. Collins, the Longbourn heir, but a man that Mr. Bennet considers an annoying dimwit. Hence, Elizabeth disguises herself as Jane and repeats her vows to the supercilious rector as if she is her sister, thereby voiding the nuptials and saving Jane from a life of drudgery. Yet, even the “best laid plans” can often go awry.
FITZWILLIAM DARCY is desperate to find a woman who will assist him in leading his sister back to Society after Georgiana’s failed elopement with Darcy’s old enemy George Wickham. He is so desperate that he agrees to Lady Catherine De Bourgh’s suggestion that Darcy marry her ladyship’s “sickly” daughter Anne. Unfortunately, as he waits for his bride to join him at the altar, he realizes he has made a terrible error in judgement, but there is no means to right the wrong without ruining his cousin’s reputation. Yet, even as he weighs his options, the touch of “Anne’s” hand upon his sends an unusual “zing” of awareness shooting up Darcy’s arm. It is only when he realizes the “zing” has arrived at the hand of a stranger, who has disrupted his nuptials, that he breathes both a sigh of relief and a groan of frustration, for the question remains: Is Darcy’s marriage to the woman legal?
What if Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet met under different circumstances than those we know from Jane Austen’s classic tale: Circumstances that did not include the voices of vanity and pride and prejudice and doubt that we find in the original story? Their road to happily ever after may not, even then, be an easy one, but with the expectations of others removed from their relationship, can they learn to trust each other long enough to carve out a path to true happiness?
309 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 13, 2017
88 people are currently reading
135 people want to read
About the author
Regina Jeffers
134 books705 followersRegina Jeffers, an award-winning author of historical cozy mysteries, Austenesque sequels and retellings, as well as Regency era romances, has worn many hats over her lifetime: daughter, student, military brat, wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, tax preparer, journalist, choreographer, Broadway dancer, theatre director, history buff, grant writer, media literacy consultant, and author. Living outside of Charlotte, NC, Jeffers writes novels that take the ordinary and adds a bit of mayhem, while mastering tension in her own life with a bit of gardening and the exuberance of her “grand joys.”
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
September 13, 2017
This was a different approach in that Elizabeth attempts to sacrifice her future in marriage to save Jane from a marriage to the odious Mr. Collins. She and Jane have it all worked out when Mrs. Bennet demands such while Mr. Bennet is suffering from a heart attack and can't interfere.
But in her impulse to save the day for Jane she doesn't secure the address of the church and when the driver asks where she wants to go she can only give him part of the name of the church. He takes her to the one he thinks is correct and only when her heavy veil is lifted at the end of the ceremony does she realize her mistake...and Darcy is gripped by thankfulness that the marriage to his cousin, Anne, has not moved forward.
Elizabeth runs from the church, he tracks her down, she is knocked unconscious and he carries her off to his house to have a doctor tend to her.
This story deals with Darcy attempting to determine if the marriage is legal, hide Elizabeth from his aunt's wrath and then to secure Elizabeth's affections as he finds she is perfect for him and he wants to make it all legal one way or another.
I truly found Darcy's falling in love with Elizabeth so sweetly written. He is all for joining in marriage immediately but Elizabeth wants a marriage of love.
There, of course, are Mr. Collins, Anne and Lady Catherine and how they react and try to change things to their desires.
I enjoyed this story and recommend it to others.
But in her impulse to save the day for Jane she doesn't secure the address of the church and when the driver asks where she wants to go she can only give him part of the name of the church. He takes her to the one he thinks is correct and only when her heavy veil is lifted at the end of the ceremony does she realize her mistake...and Darcy is gripped by thankfulness that the marriage to his cousin, Anne, has not moved forward.
Elizabeth runs from the church, he tracks her down, she is knocked unconscious and he carries her off to his house to have a doctor tend to her.
This story deals with Darcy attempting to determine if the marriage is legal, hide Elizabeth from his aunt's wrath and then to secure Elizabeth's affections as he finds she is perfect for him and he wants to make it all legal one way or another.
I truly found Darcy's falling in love with Elizabeth so sweetly written. He is all for joining in marriage immediately but Elizabeth wants a marriage of love.
There, of course, are Mr. Collins, Anne and Lady Catherine and how they react and try to change things to their desires.
I enjoyed this story and recommend it to others.
September 2, 2017
4.5 Stars.
3 Weddings and 0 Funerals? Or How I learned to stop worrying and love Mr. Darcy.
There is not a single thing wrong with this book. I just didn't like it as much as the two most recent JAFF books I read. This is more of a dramedy (drama/comedy) because it has elements of both.
WARNING- AHEAD THERE BE SPOILERS (h/t Debbie)
Let us begin in the beginning which will actually be rather confusing. There are two sets of cousins doomed to marriage. Mr.Bennet had fallen from his horse and developed a chest problem identified by the author as consumption [a wasting disease, especially pulmonary tuberculosis.] This has inspired Mrs. Bennet to write to the heir, Collins, and offer her eldest daughter in marriage. And Collins agrees without even meeting her. Lizzy is outraged and does everything in her power to make both Jane and her mother see reason; when that fails she writes to Aunt Gardiner begging for help. Then a plot is hatched that is so convoluted that it seems doomed to failure. Jane & Mrs. Bennet will travel to London, Lizzy will follow and disguise herself as Jane. The morning of the wedding Jane will board a coach for Lambton while Lizzy marries Collins as Jane, thus invalidating the marriage.
(I want you to take a minute and ponder this - I love Lucy-esque plot. Jane is of age and could have refused to marry Collins, the Gardiners could have simply stopped the wedding, as there were no marriage settlement papers signed, Mrs. Bennet could have been sent to Bedlam.) The morning of the wedding Lizzy boards a hackney coach and tells the driver to take her to a church but she isn't sure of the name or the exact location [Looooocie you got a lot of 'plaing' to do] She arrives at a church that is holding a wedding and is rushed inside and placed next to the tall, dark and handsome groom and the ceremony begins. The groom is one of the second set of cousins marrying for the wrong reasons that morning. You see after his sister was ill used by her former companion and his former friend he decided she needed a friend, confidant and sister and the easiest way to get one is to marry his sickly, useless cousin Anne deBourgh. The ceremony is a hurried, messy thing. The bride is hidden behind a heavy veil and silly bonnet. After the vows are complete he lifts the veil to find an utter stranger looking at him. That Stranger Elizabeth Bennet, the groom Fitzwilliam Darcy. The Outraged - Lady Catherine. Realizing that she has ruined a wedding but not the right one, Lucy errr Lizzy flees the church and finds herself in Mayfair with Darcy giving chase. Oh Anne eventually shows up having taken a sleeping draught and fallen asleep
Now onto the middle. Lizzy gets injured before Darcy's eyes and he takes her to Darcy House after Identifying her as Mrs. Darcy. Eventually Mr. Gardiner finds her and agrees that she cannot be protected from Lady Catherine anywhere else. Lady Catherine is threatening her with every crime she can possibly shoehorn into the case. The next thing Lizzy knows she is on a yacht sailing to Scotland because Darcy needed to hide her from his aunt and complete a business meeting; and since he said he was bringing his wife it is convenient. When they arrive at the Allurd's home Lizzy is immediately off on the wrong foot when one of the maids identifies her. [Lizzy's father has a cousin who lives in Scotland who is the employer of Mr. & Mrs. Hill's brother and wife and their children have gone into service with the Allards. Mr. Allard is indolent, passive and dull. (A Mr. Bennet/ Bingley personality mash up); Mrs. is a cooze. Neither their home nor their estate is happy. Scooby & Shaggy (Lizzy & Darcy) uncover a violent overseer, apparent fraud and abuse. They cut their visit short and head for Pemberley. They end up at an Inn posing as cousins. There an inconceivable event is taking place. The daughter of a Lord is marrying her fiance, a Greek diplomat. [Fill in your own questions Why? How? What, what what?] The 'cousins' end up getting pulled into the celebration and after many Ouzos crawl off to their respective rooms to pray for death. The next day Darcy is stunned to find a completed marriage certificate under his door. he doesn't remember much of the night before and he certainly doesn't remember getting married. Conversation with Lizzy reveals she doesn't either. They arrive back at Pemberley to find Bingley visiting. Luckily it is only Bingley, Caroline never makes a real appearance in the story. Lizzy has to befriend Georgiana, then Jane arrives and Bingley is hit with the thunderbolt. Lizzy & Jane are returned to Meryton and thanks to Mr. Gardiner and Mr. Bennet doing damage control they are spared the reality of their missteps.
Back at Pemberley Lady Catherine returns to press her case for Darcy to marry Anne armed with a pile of threats and bravado. Darcy sends her on her way and dreams of heading to Meryton. Lizzy and Jane slip back into their previous lives, Wickham shows up but this time Lizzy doesn't fall for his BS. Mr. Collins arrives and plans to wed one of his cousins and won't take no for an answer. Eventually Darcy & Bingley & Georgiana and Mrs. Annesley. Lizzy tells him they must leave - Wickham is in the area, He tells her okay WIFE. their Scottish marriage is valid. But he wants to court her and have a real British wedding. She agrees, Mr. Bennet agrees, then life interferes and they realize that days have become hours and they must marry soon before Lady Catherine interferes AGAIN. But before they can say I do for the 3rd time Lydia elopes with Wickham and Lizzy, Mr. Bennet and Darcy end up in a early morning chase all over the county before they can have their own wedding.
3 Weddings and 0 Funerals? Or How I learned to stop worrying and love Mr. Darcy.
There is not a single thing wrong with this book. I just didn't like it as much as the two most recent JAFF books I read. This is more of a dramedy (drama/comedy) because it has elements of both.
WARNING- AHEAD THERE BE SPOILERS (h/t Debbie)
Let us begin in the beginning which will actually be rather confusing. There are two sets of cousins doomed to marriage. Mr.Bennet had fallen from his horse and developed a chest problem identified by the author as consumption [a wasting disease, especially pulmonary tuberculosis.] This has inspired Mrs. Bennet to write to the heir, Collins, and offer her eldest daughter in marriage. And Collins agrees without even meeting her. Lizzy is outraged and does everything in her power to make both Jane and her mother see reason; when that fails she writes to Aunt Gardiner begging for help. Then a plot is hatched that is so convoluted that it seems doomed to failure. Jane & Mrs. Bennet will travel to London, Lizzy will follow and disguise herself as Jane. The morning of the wedding Jane will board a coach for Lambton while Lizzy marries Collins as Jane, thus invalidating the marriage.
(I want you to take a minute and ponder this - I love Lucy-esque plot. Jane is of age and could have refused to marry Collins, the Gardiners could have simply stopped the wedding, as there were no marriage settlement papers signed, Mrs. Bennet could have been sent to Bedlam.) The morning of the wedding Lizzy boards a hackney coach and tells the driver to take her to a church but she isn't sure of the name or the exact location [Looooocie you got a lot of 'plaing' to do] She arrives at a church that is holding a wedding and is rushed inside and placed next to the tall, dark and handsome groom and the ceremony begins. The groom is one of the second set of cousins marrying for the wrong reasons that morning. You see after his sister was ill used by her former companion and his former friend he decided she needed a friend, confidant and sister and the easiest way to get one is to marry his sickly, useless cousin Anne deBourgh. The ceremony is a hurried, messy thing. The bride is hidden behind a heavy veil and silly bonnet. After the vows are complete he lifts the veil to find an utter stranger looking at him. That Stranger Elizabeth Bennet, the groom Fitzwilliam Darcy. The Outraged - Lady Catherine. Realizing that she has ruined a wedding but not the right one, Lucy errr Lizzy flees the church and finds herself in Mayfair with Darcy giving chase. Oh Anne eventually shows up having taken a sleeping draught and fallen asleep
Now onto the middle. Lizzy gets injured before Darcy's eyes and he takes her to Darcy House after Identifying her as Mrs. Darcy. Eventually Mr. Gardiner finds her and agrees that she cannot be protected from Lady Catherine anywhere else. Lady Catherine is threatening her with every crime she can possibly shoehorn into the case. The next thing Lizzy knows she is on a yacht sailing to Scotland because Darcy needed to hide her from his aunt and complete a business meeting; and since he said he was bringing his wife it is convenient. When they arrive at the Allurd's home Lizzy is immediately off on the wrong foot when one of the maids identifies her. [Lizzy's father has a cousin who lives in Scotland who is the employer of Mr. & Mrs. Hill's brother and wife and their children have gone into service with the Allards. Mr. Allard is indolent, passive and dull. (A Mr. Bennet/ Bingley personality mash up); Mrs. is a cooze. Neither their home nor their estate is happy. Scooby & Shaggy (Lizzy & Darcy) uncover a violent overseer, apparent fraud and abuse. They cut their visit short and head for Pemberley. They end up at an Inn posing as cousins. There an inconceivable event is taking place. The daughter of a Lord is marrying her fiance, a Greek diplomat. [Fill in your own questions Why? How? What, what what?] The 'cousins' end up getting pulled into the celebration and after many Ouzos crawl off to their respective rooms to pray for death. The next day Darcy is stunned to find a completed marriage certificate under his door. he doesn't remember much of the night before and he certainly doesn't remember getting married. Conversation with Lizzy reveals she doesn't either. They arrive back at Pemberley to find Bingley visiting. Luckily it is only Bingley, Caroline never makes a real appearance in the story. Lizzy has to befriend Georgiana, then Jane arrives and Bingley is hit with the thunderbolt. Lizzy & Jane are returned to Meryton and thanks to Mr. Gardiner and Mr. Bennet doing damage control they are spared the reality of their missteps.
Back at Pemberley Lady Catherine returns to press her case for Darcy to marry Anne armed with a pile of threats and bravado. Darcy sends her on her way and dreams of heading to Meryton. Lizzy and Jane slip back into their previous lives, Wickham shows up but this time Lizzy doesn't fall for his BS. Mr. Collins arrives and plans to wed one of his cousins and won't take no for an answer. Eventually Darcy & Bingley & Georgiana and Mrs. Annesley. Lizzy tells him they must leave - Wickham is in the area, He tells her okay WIFE. their Scottish marriage is valid. But he wants to court her and have a real British wedding. She agrees, Mr. Bennet agrees, then life interferes and they realize that days have become hours and they must marry soon before Lady Catherine interferes AGAIN. But before they can say I do for the 3rd time Lydia elopes with Wickham and Lizzy, Mr. Bennet and Darcy end up in a early morning chase all over the county before they can have their own wedding.
July 23, 2024
Two mothers-in-law. ~Lord John Russell, on being asked what he would consider a proper punishment for bigamy
Ouch! And Darcy’s two possible mothers-in-law are Catherine de Bourgh and Mrs. Bennet! Now there’s an appropriate punishment for bigamy!
That’s right: Darcy has multiple marriages. And multiple marriages bring up questions:
1st Marriage – is it valid?
2nd Marriage – did it happen?
3rd Marriage – will it happen?
Marriage ceremony: an incredible metaphysical sham of watching God and the law being dragged into the affairs of your family. ~O.C. Ogilvie
This story occurs before the Bennets meet the Bingleys or Darcys. When Mr. Bennet is ill Mrs. Bennet contacts Mr. Collins to arrange a forced marriage for Jane. Elizabeth concocts a scheme to save Jane by pretending to be the bride, thus invalidating the marriage vows. (
Elizabeth has a faulty memory; hires the wrong hansom cab driver who delivers her to the wrong church where the wrong wedding takes place.
There is so little difference between husbands you might as well keep the first. ~Adela Rogers St. Johns
Is her marriage valid? Is either man her true husband? How will Lady Catherine punish her?
This is an entertaining clean story that I would recommend to anyone who likes JAFF.
Mother-in-law: a woman who destroys her son-in-law's peace of mind by giving him a piece of hers. ~Author Unknown
Ouch! And Darcy’s two possible mothers-in-law are Catherine de Bourgh and Mrs. Bennet! Now there’s an appropriate punishment for bigamy!
That’s right: Darcy has multiple marriages. And multiple marriages bring up questions:
1st Marriage – is it valid?
2nd Marriage – did it happen?
3rd Marriage – will it happen?
Marriage ceremony: an incredible metaphysical sham of watching God and the law being dragged into the affairs of your family. ~O.C. Ogilvie
This story occurs before the Bennets meet the Bingleys or Darcys. When Mr. Bennet is ill Mrs. Bennet contacts Mr. Collins to arrange a forced marriage for Jane. Elizabeth concocts a scheme to save Jane by pretending to be the bride, thus invalidating the marriage vows. (
Elizabeth has a faulty memory; hires the wrong hansom cab driver who delivers her to the wrong church where the wrong wedding takes place.
There is so little difference between husbands you might as well keep the first. ~Adela Rogers St. Johns
Is her marriage valid? Is either man her true husband? How will Lady Catherine punish her?
This is an entertaining clean story that I would recommend to anyone who likes JAFF.
Mother-in-law: a woman who destroys her son-in-law's peace of mind by giving him a piece of hers. ~Author Unknown
October 28, 2017
Three times a charm!
Be prepared to suspend belief on this delightful vagary and you will be well rewarded. From the opening chapter until the last, I was captivated. Mr. Darcy receives a shock at this own wedding but his first reaction to Elizabeth Bennet is instantaneous. However, he soon has a runaway bride that he must capture in more ways than one!
The path true to love has many bumps and hurdles along the way. Lady Catherine being a major hurdle to overcome. Elizabeth does not like having a lack control over her life and any decisions related to her, being made by others. She is also fierce when it comes to those she loves, namely, her sisters. This Elizabeth is selfless, and one I truly came to admire as did Darcy.
"I trust no one, she said as she stood to leave. For all who have asked it of me have betrayed it." (quote from the book)
Darcy was completely baffled by his reaction to Elizabeth. But he was willing to do anything to keep her.
August 16, 2017
Wowza! This book starts out with a bang and just keeps on running. Mr. Bennet is too ill to put a stop to his wife's machinations to marry Jane off to Mr. Collins, sight unseen. Jane doesn't have the backbone to confront her mother, so Elizabeth comes up with a plan (aided and abetted by Mrs. Gardiner) to take her sister's place at the London church wearing a wig, bonnet and thick veil, knowing that the marriage will be void once the ceremony is finished and her ruse is discovered. On the same morning, at a different church in London, Mr. Darcy is at the altar awaiting Anne de Bourgh, who he reluctantly has agreed to marry in the aftermath of Georgiana's Ramsgate adventure, thinking to give Georgiana a sister to help her recover her spirits. Now he's having serious doubts about the wisdom of his choice. Anne doesn't have siblings and has never had a London season, so he wonders what he was thinking when he caved in to Lady Catherine's demand to marry her daughter.
Anne doesn't show up on time and then Elizabeth ends up in the wrong church. She recites the wedding vows with Mr. Darcy instead of Mr. Collins. When her veil comes off at the end of the ceremony, they're both shocked. She's appalled to realize she's "married" the wrong man, though Darcy's actually delighted to have escaped marrying Anne despite having no idea who Elizabeth is.
That just brings you to the beginning of the second chapter.
As outlandish as the above sounds, Ms. Jeffers actually manages to set it up in a way that seems credible. The story continues at a very fast pace. Darcy and Elizabeth start out in lust (the "zing" when they first join hands during the ceremony before they even lay eyes on each other), but they spend a great deal of time together as Darcy protects her from his aunt's ire by keeping her close to him while his solicitor is investigating whether or not their marriage is legal. Elizabeth is slower to warm up to Darcy because he does have that take-charge thing going on; it infuriates her when she feels she hasn't been given a choice about her own fate. Darcy, on the other hand, finds the more he learns about her, the more enchanted he is with her.
The quick pace of the book really grabbed me and kept my interest. The story moves from Darcy's London townhouse to his yacht to a woolen mill operation in Scotland owned by Lord and Lady Allard, then to Pemberley (where Elizabeth is reunited with one of her sisters), and eventually to Longbourn where we get to spend time with the Bennets. The writing itself is superb, and the romance between Darcy and Elizabeth builds nicely with a reasonable amount of angst and yearning. Overall, it's yet another gem from the talented Ms. Jeffers.
Anne doesn't show up on time and then Elizabeth ends up in the wrong church. She recites the wedding vows with Mr. Darcy instead of Mr. Collins. When her veil comes off at the end of the ceremony, they're both shocked. She's appalled to realize she's "married" the wrong man, though Darcy's actually delighted to have escaped marrying Anne despite having no idea who Elizabeth is.
That just brings you to the beginning of the second chapter.
As outlandish as the above sounds, Ms. Jeffers actually manages to set it up in a way that seems credible. The story continues at a very fast pace. Darcy and Elizabeth start out in lust (the "zing" when they first join hands during the ceremony before they even lay eyes on each other), but they spend a great deal of time together as Darcy protects her from his aunt's ire by keeping her close to him while his solicitor is investigating whether or not their marriage is legal. Elizabeth is slower to warm up to Darcy because he does have that take-charge thing going on; it infuriates her when she feels she hasn't been given a choice about her own fate. Darcy, on the other hand, finds the more he learns about her, the more enchanted he is with her.
The quick pace of the book really grabbed me and kept my interest. The story moves from Darcy's London townhouse to his yacht to a woolen mill operation in Scotland owned by Lord and Lady Allard, then to Pemberley (where Elizabeth is reunited with one of her sisters), and eventually to Longbourn where we get to spend time with the Bennets. The writing itself is superb, and the romance between Darcy and Elizabeth builds nicely with a reasonable amount of angst and yearning. Overall, it's yet another gem from the talented Ms. Jeffers.
February 8, 2021
This one is a keeper. Right up there with the best of all time for me. I loved this story so much. Such a joy to read. Thank you Ms Jeffers for continuing to give us happy, silly, fun JAFF to read. What a pleasure.
Reread: Wow, this one is out-of-the-park good.
Reread: Still love it.
Reread: Wow, this one is out-of-the-park good.
Reread: Still love it.
September 7, 2021
Highly Excellent
Reviewed in Canada on January 14, 2019
I loved this portrayal of my favorite couple. Super storyline. Hated to reach the end. This Darcy was wonderfully written in my opinion
Reviewed in Canada on January 14, 2019
I loved this portrayal of my favorite couple. Super storyline. Hated to reach the end. This Darcy was wonderfully written in my opinion
April 16, 2021
This P&P variation definitely has an original plot. The first time D&E set eyes on each other is in the chapel exchanging wedding vows with each believing the other to be someone different. I admit that I expected, with this outrageous of a plot, that this would be a farce or a comedy of some sort, but it did not end up being a comedy at all. Without the intent of humor, this plot was a bit over the top. It was interesting and different for sure, but as the book progressed, each situation seemed to push the plausibility factor until it became a bit ridiculous.
There was a formality in the dialogue and feel of the book that was strange to me and created a bit of a disconnect. This is probably very nit picky, but people were always referred to as Mr. and Mrs. so and so. Even Elizabeth and Jane would refer to their parents as Mr. and Mrs. Bennet, even when it was just the two of them talking. You would expect siblings to refer to their parents as Mama and Papa when speaking to each other. Strange indeed!
For the most part, the uniqueness of the story did keep my interest, although the book seemed longer than it was. Darcy seemed a bit out of character and I wasn’t a big fan of the Elizabeth Bennet of this story as she seemed very contradictory. She seemed to recognize Darcy’s protection and kindness, yet her treatment of him was very hot and cold. While she had her moments of kindness to him, more often than not she seemed to treat him poorly. One example is this- in her last interaction with Darcy when she is at Pemberley, she is hateful to him and berates him, yet in the carriage as she is going away, we read this- “Despite her best efforts to conceal her emotions, Elizabeth frowned. She despised parting from the gentleman without a moment to speak her gratitude for all he had done for her.” I couldn’t help but be a bit annoyed at these types of contradictions that were prevalent in this book. Elizabeth also fought against a marriage with Darcy and told him she would never accept marriage to him during their last conversation at Pemberley, yet the next time they see each other when he shows up in Meryton, she is perfectly willing and happy to accept it. What changed? There was no communication between the two of them between these encounters. Again, very inconsistent and hot and cold. I also felt that Elizabeth had a somewhat feminist view that was very modern and not realistic for the time period. One example is her very first conversation with Georgiana. “Elizabeth sighed heavily. It was an excellent idea that her mother had not sent her off to school, for she had little patience with the poor innocents the English school system produced. “Do the men in your family think you too fragile to know what goes on in their worlds?” Miss Darcy’s eyes grew wider. “They mean to protect me,” she insisted. Elizabeth removed her gloves and unbuttoned her spencer. “Do you require protection?” “Does not every woman?” the girl countered. “I suppose we do, but only because men write the rules.” As a modern woman, of course I would agree with this sentiment, but these views would have been very out of place and unacceptable in this period.
Overall, this book was okay. There was definitely some entertainment value. It was original, but I would not read it again.
There was a formality in the dialogue and feel of the book that was strange to me and created a bit of a disconnect. This is probably very nit picky, but people were always referred to as Mr. and Mrs. so and so. Even Elizabeth and Jane would refer to their parents as Mr. and Mrs. Bennet, even when it was just the two of them talking. You would expect siblings to refer to their parents as Mama and Papa when speaking to each other. Strange indeed!
For the most part, the uniqueness of the story did keep my interest, although the book seemed longer than it was. Darcy seemed a bit out of character and I wasn’t a big fan of the Elizabeth Bennet of this story as she seemed very contradictory. She seemed to recognize Darcy’s protection and kindness, yet her treatment of him was very hot and cold. While she had her moments of kindness to him, more often than not she seemed to treat him poorly. One example is this- in her last interaction with Darcy when she is at Pemberley, she is hateful to him and berates him, yet in the carriage as she is going away, we read this- “Despite her best efforts to conceal her emotions, Elizabeth frowned. She despised parting from the gentleman without a moment to speak her gratitude for all he had done for her.” I couldn’t help but be a bit annoyed at these types of contradictions that were prevalent in this book. Elizabeth also fought against a marriage with Darcy and told him she would never accept marriage to him during their last conversation at Pemberley, yet the next time they see each other when he shows up in Meryton, she is perfectly willing and happy to accept it. What changed? There was no communication between the two of them between these encounters. Again, very inconsistent and hot and cold. I also felt that Elizabeth had a somewhat feminist view that was very modern and not realistic for the time period. One example is her very first conversation with Georgiana. “Elizabeth sighed heavily. It was an excellent idea that her mother had not sent her off to school, for she had little patience with the poor innocents the English school system produced. “Do the men in your family think you too fragile to know what goes on in their worlds?” Miss Darcy’s eyes grew wider. “They mean to protect me,” she insisted. Elizabeth removed her gloves and unbuttoned her spencer. “Do you require protection?” “Does not every woman?” the girl countered. “I suppose we do, but only because men write the rules.” As a modern woman, of course I would agree with this sentiment, but these views would have been very out of place and unacceptable in this period.
Overall, this book was okay. There was definitely some entertainment value. It was original, but I would not read it again.
March 28, 2022
Unusual variation
Well told story with an u usual twist. I’ve read 100s of these variations and this is the first time I’ve ever seen this twist. The authors blurb gives you the set up and the entire book is a the chase toward and HEA for ODC. Very enjoyable, highly recommended
Well told story with an u usual twist. I’ve read 100s of these variations and this is the first time I’ve ever seen this twist. The authors blurb gives you the set up and the entire book is a the chase toward and HEA for ODC. Very enjoyable, highly recommended
May 8, 2018
A great mixup
By changing the order of events a great plot was achieved that was fun to read and really enjoyable.
Highly recommended!
By changing the order of events a great plot was achieved that was fun to read and really enjoyable.
Highly recommended!
August 30, 2017
Awesommme. Pulled me right in!
Lately I've been awful about writing reviews but I can't contain how much I love this vagary. I'm a huge JAFF fan and read anything I can that has to do with P&P. I usually get burnt out and than read other genres for a bit. I was at that point when I picked up this book, and BAMB! I was realed in. I literally read this book in less than 24 hrs. Just loved everything about this story. If I could give it a 10 star I would.
The premise of this vagary is that while Mr Bennet is deathly ill, Mrs B writes to Mr Collins to offer her oldest daughter Jane in marriage to save the family. Lizzy trying to save her sister disguises herself to look like Jane so that the marriage would be a sham. Unfortunately Lizzy arrives at the wrong church and crashes Mr Darcy's wedding to Anne DeBourge. Thus saving Mr Darcy who was having second thoughts of being coerced into marrying Anne. And saving Jane because no one showed up to that wedding. What a mess. Darcy try's to confront his savior but Lizzy had taken off. Lady C is spitting venom and Darcy goes on to hunt down Lizzy. WOW! The story takes off from there and the bulk of it is the interaction between Darcy and Lizzy and trying to keep Lady C at bay. Wonderful journey and I highly recommend. A Definite must read!
Lately I've been awful about writing reviews but I can't contain how much I love this vagary. I'm a huge JAFF fan and read anything I can that has to do with P&P. I usually get burnt out and than read other genres for a bit. I was at that point when I picked up this book, and BAMB! I was realed in. I literally read this book in less than 24 hrs. Just loved everything about this story. If I could give it a 10 star I would.
The premise of this vagary is that while Mr Bennet is deathly ill, Mrs B writes to Mr Collins to offer her oldest daughter Jane in marriage to save the family. Lizzy trying to save her sister disguises herself to look like Jane so that the marriage would be a sham. Unfortunately Lizzy arrives at the wrong church and crashes Mr Darcy's wedding to Anne DeBourge. Thus saving Mr Darcy who was having second thoughts of being coerced into marrying Anne. And saving Jane because no one showed up to that wedding. What a mess. Darcy try's to confront his savior but Lizzy had taken off. Lady C is spitting venom and Darcy goes on to hunt down Lizzy. WOW! The story takes off from there and the bulk of it is the interaction between Darcy and Lizzy and trying to keep Lady C at bay. Wonderful journey and I highly recommend. A Definite must read!
August 15, 2017
A wonderful variation.
This story starts with a new take on the meeting of Elizabeth and Darcy. It is a delightful tale of a mistake that leads to the romance of Elizabeth and Darcy. The true temperaments of all the characters ring true to form and the story moves along at a great pace. I could not put this story down until I had finished it, and look forward to reading it over and over again as this gets added to my favourites.
This story starts with a new take on the meeting of Elizabeth and Darcy. It is a delightful tale of a mistake that leads to the romance of Elizabeth and Darcy. The true temperaments of all the characters ring true to form and the story moves along at a great pace. I could not put this story down until I had finished it, and look forward to reading it over and over again as this gets added to my favourites.
October 19, 2018
4.5⭐️ interesting twists to P&P.
August 24, 2017
FUN VARIATION!!!
This wonderful author has done it again. A crazy beginning all the way to a fantastic ending. Enjoyed it immensely and I have read 100s of variations👍
This wonderful author has done it again. A crazy beginning all the way to a fantastic ending. Enjoyed it immensely and I have read 100s of variations👍
August 28, 2017
Beautiful Pride and Prejudice Variation
What a clever plot! And as always, I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Darcy's reactions to Elizabeth. This poor, lonely man comes alive when he meets his impertinent other half and it is just lovely to read this. This is one of the reasons I read JAzfF, to read variations of Darcy's path to love.
What a clever plot! And as always, I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Darcy's reactions to Elizabeth. This poor, lonely man comes alive when he meets his impertinent other half and it is just lovely to read this. This is one of the reasons I read JAzfF, to read variations of Darcy's path to love.
April 12, 2018
A must read
A must read for JAFF fans. The set up was hilarious with Elizabeth dressing herself in a wild hat to hide her face and stand in place of her sister wedding to Mr. Collins. Elizabeth is lost and shows up at Mr. Darcy’s wedding. They marry, lady Catherine has a fit. The story goes from there. I’m not kidding I laughed so hard I cried. Darcy and Elizabeth work together and fall in love. I promise there is more laughter to follow along with tender scenes. Overall one of my favorite books.
A must read for JAFF fans. The set up was hilarious with Elizabeth dressing herself in a wild hat to hide her face and stand in place of her sister wedding to Mr. Collins. Elizabeth is lost and shows up at Mr. Darcy’s wedding. They marry, lady Catherine has a fit. The story goes from there. I’m not kidding I laughed so hard I cried. Darcy and Elizabeth work together and fall in love. I promise there is more laughter to follow along with tender scenes. Overall one of my favorite books.
August 16, 2017
5.0 out of 5 stars
Three times Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy: A Pride and Prejudice........
Bymaryannon August 16, 2017
Verified Purchase
This is a wonderful novel about adventure, confusion, misconceptions and roads leading to love. Dacry is shown with his true colors of how he protects and cares for those he loves. Elizabeth shows her devotion and strength throughout the novel. Her wit. lust for life, and intelligence is shown abundance.
It is well written and thought out with great emphasis on the twists and turns with all the characters involved in the story. A few new people were added to the plot which made the novel quite interesting.
I loved the fact that Elizabeth became interested in her sister Mary and trusted her and in return Mary came to Elizabeth when a problem arose. Mary, the forgotten sister, deserves credit for her help when she went to Elizabeth.
I also liked the fact that the Colonel's brother was involved in the story rather than the Colonel who is always there to aid Darcy when trouble arises.
Naturally, no novel would be complete without Lady Catherine and Mr. Wickham, however, Caroline Bingley was not in the novel and that was another interesting part. We have had enough of Caroline in previous P & P variations.
We have read many novels with 2 proposals by Darcy to Elizabeth but this is a first with three weddings! I loved them all, especially the first which was a great plot that started the novel off with a bang.
Thank you for a great novel and interesting read.
Three times Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy: A Pride and Prejudice........
Bymaryannon August 16, 2017
Verified Purchase
This is a wonderful novel about adventure, confusion, misconceptions and roads leading to love. Dacry is shown with his true colors of how he protects and cares for those he loves. Elizabeth shows her devotion and strength throughout the novel. Her wit. lust for life, and intelligence is shown abundance.
It is well written and thought out with great emphasis on the twists and turns with all the characters involved in the story. A few new people were added to the plot which made the novel quite interesting.
I loved the fact that Elizabeth became interested in her sister Mary and trusted her and in return Mary came to Elizabeth when a problem arose. Mary, the forgotten sister, deserves credit for her help when she went to Elizabeth.
I also liked the fact that the Colonel's brother was involved in the story rather than the Colonel who is always there to aid Darcy when trouble arises.
Naturally, no novel would be complete without Lady Catherine and Mr. Wickham, however, Caroline Bingley was not in the novel and that was another interesting part. We have had enough of Caroline in previous P & P variations.
We have read many novels with 2 proposals by Darcy to Elizabeth but this is a first with three weddings! I loved them all, especially the first which was a great plot that started the novel off with a bang.
Thank you for a great novel and interesting read.
August 25, 2017
Take a leap of faith and read on
At first I was reluctant to read this story where it seemed the end came before the beginning - Elizabeth and Darcy bound together before there was any time for misunderstandings, wooing, and love. But it stayed true to the characters, if not the storyline, and kept me rooting for their true love.
At first I was reluctant to read this story where it seemed the end came before the beginning - Elizabeth and Darcy bound together before there was any time for misunderstandings, wooing, and love. But it stayed true to the characters, if not the storyline, and kept me rooting for their true love.
August 17, 2017
From Madcap to Absolutely Marvelous
This is the Darcy we all hope to find, if not in real life, then at least in the pages of a romance novel. My knees went weak from his loving, clever, devoted pronouncements and I wasn't even standing. Yes, he puts his foot in his mouth occasionally as is necessary for confirmed recognition, but his explanations are quick and swoon-worthy. Elizabeth is equally wonderful and true to canon. Great characterizations. The story starts out a bit crazy then moves to a yacht, no kidding. Darcy with a yacht - take that you billionaire boys. From there the story proceeds with more sanity, but by then we're locked on for the long haul and a great ride it is. This is must read. Have fun.
This is the Darcy we all hope to find, if not in real life, then at least in the pages of a romance novel. My knees went weak from his loving, clever, devoted pronouncements and I wasn't even standing. Yes, he puts his foot in his mouth occasionally as is necessary for confirmed recognition, but his explanations are quick and swoon-worthy. Elizabeth is equally wonderful and true to canon. Great characterizations. The story starts out a bit crazy then moves to a yacht, no kidding. Darcy with a yacht - take that you billionaire boys. From there the story proceeds with more sanity, but by then we're locked on for the long haul and a great ride it is. This is must read. Have fun.
February 25, 2018
I loved how the author switched the story of P&P around and made it come out as perfect as the original.
In the beginning of the story, no one has yet met. Because Mrs. Bennett fears her husband is near death and she and her daughters will be cast out by Mr. Bennett's cousin, Mrs. Bennett writes to offer her eldest daughter, Jane, to Mr. Collins---sight unseen. He agrees. Elizabeth devises a plan to spare Jane with her aunt's help. Elizabeth will take Jane's place at the wedding. Jane by then will be far in the north, and safe. Elizabeth assumes the ceremony will be void. If not, she will at least have saved Jane.
Elizabeth arrives at the church with no time to spare.
Me. Darcy shows up for his wedding ceremony with his cousin. He isn't happy, but resigned to do this thing. He knows he has to wed, and has yet to meet the woman he could be happy with for the rest of his life. He wonders why his cousin's hat and veil are not quite what he'd expect her to wear, but that is ignored when he feels a frisson of something when they join hands.
Yes, they are wed. Then Lady Catherine shouts out that her daughter isn't there and screams for the magistrate.
I say no more, because it's just too delightful to read for yourself. I actually read it twice.
In the beginning of the story, no one has yet met. Because Mrs. Bennett fears her husband is near death and she and her daughters will be cast out by Mr. Bennett's cousin, Mrs. Bennett writes to offer her eldest daughter, Jane, to Mr. Collins---sight unseen. He agrees. Elizabeth devises a plan to spare Jane with her aunt's help. Elizabeth will take Jane's place at the wedding. Jane by then will be far in the north, and safe. Elizabeth assumes the ceremony will be void. If not, she will at least have saved Jane.
Elizabeth arrives at the church with no time to spare.
Me. Darcy shows up for his wedding ceremony with his cousin. He isn't happy, but resigned to do this thing. He knows he has to wed, and has yet to meet the woman he could be happy with for the rest of his life. He wonders why his cousin's hat and veil are not quite what he'd expect her to wear, but that is ignored when he feels a frisson of something when they join hands.
Yes, they are wed. Then Lady Catherine shouts out that her daughter isn't there and screams for the magistrate.
I say no more, because it's just too delightful to read for yourself. I actually read it twice.
August 26, 2017
Mr. Darcy 's Bride(s).
Another absolutely wonderful story from Regina Jeffers. It starts out with Mr. Bennet recuperating from an accident, the subsequent illness. Mrs. Bennet uncertain of the Future of Longbourn, writes Mr. Collins and brokers a marriage with him and Jane Bennet. (Bingley had not arrived at Netherfield at this juncture). So, Lizzie comes up with a way to disrupt the wedding by disguising herself as Jane, to marry Collins, so the wedding would be declared invalid. Sound convoluted? Just Wait! The chaos is just beginning! Such a clever story! Great Read! BTW, there is several Happy Ever Afters!!
Another absolutely wonderful story from Regina Jeffers. It starts out with Mr. Bennet recuperating from an accident, the subsequent illness. Mrs. Bennet uncertain of the Future of Longbourn, writes Mr. Collins and brokers a marriage with him and Jane Bennet. (Bingley had not arrived at Netherfield at this juncture). So, Lizzie comes up with a way to disrupt the wedding by disguising herself as Jane, to marry Collins, so the wedding would be declared invalid. Sound convoluted? Just Wait! The chaos is just beginning! Such a clever story! Great Read! BTW, there is several Happy Ever Afters!!
November 13, 2021
Great love story
I
Over Lizzy in this story. Anne and the colonel were great too. Mr Darcy was strong and madterful. Like how he took Cate of the villain. Good epilogue could have been a little longer to tell about the other Bennets.
I
Over Lizzy in this story. Anne and the colonel were great too. Mr Darcy was strong and madterful. Like how he took Cate of the villain. Good epilogue could have been a little longer to tell about the other Bennets.
October 3, 2024
reread prompted by a lost story search and stayed to read it again (it wasn't the one being looked for but of the same name).
OTT story that was fun nonetheless.
This Lizzy is wild, reckless, fierce and many more adjectives on top of that, some good, some not.
OTT story that was fun nonetheless.
This Lizzy is wild, reckless, fierce and many more adjectives on top of that, some good, some not.
September 21, 2019
Love, love this book. If you haven't read it yet, you will love it.
January 23, 2018
Odd plot that leads to a compelling story
A fairly odd and unlikely plot and yet the author works wonders with the intricacies. It reads like a madcap comedy movie. A quick paced romantic comedy. A serious dramady, part drama part comedy.
A gem of a P&P variation.
A fairly odd and unlikely plot and yet the author works wonders with the intricacies. It reads like a madcap comedy movie. A quick paced romantic comedy. A serious dramady, part drama part comedy.
A gem of a P&P variation.
August 24, 2017
I won this book in a blog giveaway. A different premise for P&P. Kind of had some of the same basic events as in P&P but either they didn't occur exactly the same or they started or ended differently. It had most of the same P&P characters but we didn't have to deal with Caroline and the Hursts. I didn't miss them at all. Georgianna was around more and didn't seem to be shy at all.
I was amused through much of the book even if it wasn't ha ha funny. The whole premise was funny. Toward the beginning I rather thought there couldn't be much more in the story. It kind of felt like it was going to be a novella or something but then there were twists that I hadn't expected in this version, such as Wickham showing up.
I was glad to see Mr. Bennett take Mrs. Bennett in hand (eventually). And glad to see both Anne de Bourgh and Darcy stand up to Lady Catherine deBourgh.
What I didn't like is that I can't quite put the book on the "clean" shelf even though nothing happened in the book. I could have done without Darcy's fantasizing about Elizabeth and the suggestion that he probably should have hooked up with a prostitute. It added nothing and was totally unnecessary to the story. Maybe I need to add an "almost clean" shelf.
I was amused through much of the book even if it wasn't ha ha funny. The whole premise was funny. Toward the beginning I rather thought there couldn't be much more in the story. It kind of felt like it was going to be a novella or something but then there were twists that I hadn't expected in this version, such as Wickham showing up.
I was glad to see Mr. Bennett take Mrs. Bennett in hand (eventually). And glad to see both Anne de Bourgh and Darcy stand up to Lady Catherine deBourgh.
What I didn't like is that I can't quite put the book on the "clean" shelf even though nothing happened in the book. I could have done without Darcy's fantasizing about Elizabeth and the suggestion that he probably should have hooked up with a prostitute. It added nothing and was totally unnecessary to the story. Maybe I need to add an "almost clean" shelf.
August 14, 2017
Wonderful, Wonderful!
It is with a smile that I take a moment to write one of the first reviews for this variation. Yes, there are a few typos, but they cannot detract from is delightful story. You have probably read the plotline info, but after the initial mishap, things only become more convoluted and intriguing. Lizzy runs from her mistake when Lady Catherine threatens to call the magistrate. As Darcy fears her ire will not be assuaged, he seeks to protect this remarkable young woman by hiding her... first at his townehome, then when his aunt gets close, elsewhere. Follow the truly excellent adventure Lizzy gets to take to grow to love her 'accidental husband'. Note all he does to protect her and how she realizes he truly is the best of men.
It is with a smile that I take a moment to write one of the first reviews for this variation. Yes, there are a few typos, but they cannot detract from is delightful story. You have probably read the plotline info, but after the initial mishap, things only become more convoluted and intriguing. Lizzy runs from her mistake when Lady Catherine threatens to call the magistrate. As Darcy fears her ire will not be assuaged, he seeks to protect this remarkable young woman by hiding her... first at his townehome, then when his aunt gets close, elsewhere. Follow the truly excellent adventure Lizzy gets to take to grow to love her 'accidental husband'. Note all he does to protect her and how she realizes he truly is the best of men.
February 11, 2020
At first I thought this would be bad - the premise seemed so silly! But it really worked. I enjoyed this so much and it ended up deeper than first appearances suggested.
Lizzy concocts a plan to save Jane from becoming Mrs Collins - by pretending to be her sister she will void the ceremony while her sister escapes to the Gardeners’ relatives in Derbyshire.
Unfortunately fate intervenes and Lizzy ends up at a different church, interfering with Lady Catherine’s plans for her daughter and nephew to unite.
Lots of drama that does get very close to ridiculous before pulling back again, some interesting characterisation and tension. I couldn’t stop reading and actually enjoyed it a lot so I forgave some of the improbabilities!
Lizzy concocts a plan to save Jane from becoming Mrs Collins - by pretending to be her sister she will void the ceremony while her sister escapes to the Gardeners’ relatives in Derbyshire.
Unfortunately fate intervenes and Lizzy ends up at a different church, interfering with Lady Catherine’s plans for her daughter and nephew to unite.
Lots of drama that does get very close to ridiculous before pulling back again, some interesting characterisation and tension. I couldn’t stop reading and actually enjoyed it a lot so I forgave some of the improbabilities!
May 19, 2020
This is one of my favorite variations. I have to admit, I always have to have characters images in my mind as I read books. for P/P, I usually picture Keira Knightly and Matthew Macfayden when I read these adventure type variations but for this one, Darcy was very confident so I pictured Richard Armitage (from his North / South time) and Daisy Ridley. I keep the 1995 actors in the roles they made famous.
I loved Darcy in this. He was confident, but not cocky. He was expressive, but not gushy. I got a little annoyed with Elizabeth; she was almost too self-sacrificing but pulled through in the end.
This is a definite re-read for me.
I loved Darcy in this. He was confident, but not cocky. He was expressive, but not gushy. I got a little annoyed with Elizabeth; she was almost too self-sacrificing but pulled through in the end.
This is a definite re-read for me.
September 7, 2017
A well crafted love story
So, Miss Jeffers does it again. I love the way Miss Jeffers paints a unique and beautiful love story especially when it comes to Darcy and Elizabeth . Is it plausible for someone to walk in as a bride and the groom not know the difference , no but in Miss Jeffers well crafted story it is! And only Lizzy can pull it off ! The ensuing "misadventures " of our favorite couple lands them in hot soup and in love . I just loved this book a beautifully well crafted love story
So, Miss Jeffers does it again. I love the way Miss Jeffers paints a unique and beautiful love story especially when it comes to Darcy and Elizabeth . Is it plausible for someone to walk in as a bride and the groom not know the difference , no but in Miss Jeffers well crafted story it is! And only Lizzy can pull it off ! The ensuing "misadventures " of our favorite couple lands them in hot soup and in love . I just loved this book a beautifully well crafted love story
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