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President Darcy: A Modern Pride and Prejudice Variation
A contemporary adaptation of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice Billionaire President William Darcy has it wealth, intelligence, and the most powerful job in the country. Despite what his friends say, he is not lonely in the White House. He’s not. And he has vowed not to date while he’s in office. Nor is he interested in Elizabeth Bennet. She might be pretty and funny and smart, but her family is nouveau riche and unbearable. Unfortunately, he encounters her everywhere in Washington, D.C.—making her harder and harder to ignore. Why can’t he get her out of his mind? Elizabeth Bennet enjoys her job with the Red Cross and loves her family, despite their tendency to embarrass her. At a White House state dinner, they cause her to make an unfavorable impression on the president, who labels her unattractive and uninteresting. Those words are immediately broadcast on Twitter, so the whole world now knows the president insulted her. Elizabeth just wants to avoid the man—who, let’s admit it, is proud and difficult. For some reason he acts all friendly when they keep running into each other, but she knows he’s judging her. Eventually, circumstances force Darcy and Elizabeth to confront their true feelings for each other, with explosive results. But even if they can find common ground, Mr. Darcy is still the president—with limited privacy and unlimited responsibilities—and his enemies won’t hesitate to use his feelings for Elizabeth against him. Can President Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet find their way to happily ever after? Contemporary Romance Billionaire Romance Political Romance 99,311 words
278 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 10, 2017
63 people are currently reading
768 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Kincaid
20 books205 followersVictoria has a Ph.D. in English literature and has taught composition to unwilling college students. Today she teaches business writing to willing office professionals and tries to give voice to the demanding cast of characters in her head.
She lives in Virginia with an overly affectionate cat, two children who are learning how much fun Austen’s characters can be, and a husband who fortunately is not jealous of Mr. Darcy. A lifelong Austen fan, Victoria has read more Jane Austen variations and sequels than she can count – and confesses to an extreme partiality for the Colin Firth miniseries version of Pride and Prejudice.
Visit her at www. victoriakincaid. com
She lives in Virginia with an overly affectionate cat, two children who are learning how much fun Austen’s characters can be, and a husband who fortunately is not jealous of Mr. Darcy. A lifelong Austen fan, Victoria has read more Jane Austen variations and sequels than she can count – and confesses to an extreme partiality for the Colin Firth miniseries version of Pride and Prejudice.
Visit her at www. victoriakincaid. com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
October 21, 2017
4.5 stars!
Review, Guest Post, Excerpt & Giveaway at Of Pens and Pages
I’ve always wanted to read a modern-day Pride and Prejudice with Mr. Darcy as the POTUS, and now we finally have it. I’m a happy, happy girl. Some scenes were hilariously absurd, others cute and awkward, and the rest so swoon-worthy. This Mr. Darcy is so adorable! I want to keep him for myself! One word to describe this book= kilig*.
Social status is still an important aspect that shows the disparity between Elizabeth and Darcy, and this time, not only is Darcy from old money and Elizabeth part of the nouveau riche, he’s also the president of one of the most powerful countries in the world.
President William Darcy can’t just go out with anyone without facing consequences and so he’s vowed not to date while he’s in the office, especially not someone from new money like the Bennets. After a disastrous first meeting at the White House, Mr. Darcy didn’t have the best impression on Elizabeth despite finding her captivating. He thought she was vapid and shallow, like most nouveau riche people he’s met. In his ire when people told him to dance with someone for the sake of the press, he savagely insults her looks and intelligence. He soon finds out Elizabeth is not at all what he thought—she’s actually quite intelligent and works for Red Cross in their refugee crisis unit—and obviously it was a lie that he thinks she’s ugly. Unfortunately for him, Elizabeth and Lydia heard his insult and the damage is done. Lydia, ever the teenager posting everything on social media, tweets it for the world to see.
What follow are disastrous encounters between the two where Elizabeth misinterprets his stares and attention to judgment and condescension, and Mr. Darcy constantly puts a foot in his mouth. It’s not an easy road to happily ever after for this pair, just like E and D in the Regency era.
So, let me talk about my least favorite characters first—Lydia and Wickham. Lydia’s not an evil person, but that child needs to sit down in a corner and have no access to technology. She makes me dislike this book’s Mr. and Mrs. Bennet in this story even more because they did nothing to curb her attitude. She’s so out of control I want to spritz her with water whenever she’s misbehaving. Wickham is still a sleazy SOB (no surprise there), but this time he’s a sleazy congressman. How apt. Still a thorn in Darcy’s side. I want to push him off a cliff.
But back to my favorite man. Happy and in-love Darcy is the best Darcy! This man, bless him, can’t pick up social cues when it involves a romantic interest even if it hits him in the face, so whenever Elizabeth is throwing shade or fighting with him, Will thinks she’s flirting with him. So then obviously (and inevitably), he gets rejected and goes through an emo-ish phase. But then the second chance happens and AHHHH. My fuzzy, adorable, sweet, sweet man. I love you to bits! Oh what I’d do to have someone love me the way Will loves Elizabeth.
I like that we can see part of the story in Mr. Darcy’s perspective. We can see what he’s feeling, what’s on his mind while a certain scene is happening, and see him pining over Elizabeth. The last one is my favorite hehe. So much kilig.
There’s some angst in the story that I think is just right to make this book more interesting. He wants her but can’t have her. They want to be together but they can’t. I think it balanced the humorous scenes here just right.
E and D had some pretty hilarious and witty banter especially after this book’s Hunsford proposal moment (and even some before). And I really like Bingley here despite his momentary lapse of judgment about Jane; although I can understand why he did it, surprise surprise. And Fitz (Colonel Fitzwilliam in P&P) was such a hoot as always!
I love books that make me laugh and smile and feel fuzzy all over, and leave me feeling that way even after reading the book. I was lucky enough to feel everything mentioned when I read President Darcy.
Like Debbie said in her review, there are some parts of the book that’s not to be taken seriously—like the Bennets’ fortune maker, On-A-Stick, Inc., and Bill Collins as a person (lol). Some of them are pretty entertaining and it brought in a few laughs and some secondhand embarrassment. If you enjoyed Ms. Kincaid’s previous novels and/or a fan of contemporary romantic comedies, I would wager you’d enjoy this as much as I did.
Tropes: Hate to Love, Forbidden Romance, Age Gap, Pride and Prejudice
POV: Third Person, Dual POV
Standalone:Yes
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
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Review, Guest Post, Excerpt & Giveaway at Of Pens and Pages
I’ve always wanted to read a modern-day Pride and Prejudice with Mr. Darcy as the POTUS, and now we finally have it. I’m a happy, happy girl. Some scenes were hilariously absurd, others cute and awkward, and the rest so swoon-worthy. This Mr. Darcy is so adorable! I want to keep him for myself! One word to describe this book= kilig*.
Social status is still an important aspect that shows the disparity between Elizabeth and Darcy, and this time, not only is Darcy from old money and Elizabeth part of the nouveau riche, he’s also the president of one of the most powerful countries in the world.
President William Darcy can’t just go out with anyone without facing consequences and so he’s vowed not to date while he’s in the office, especially not someone from new money like the Bennets. After a disastrous first meeting at the White House, Mr. Darcy didn’t have the best impression on Elizabeth despite finding her captivating. He thought she was vapid and shallow, like most nouveau riche people he’s met. In his ire when people told him to dance with someone for the sake of the press, he savagely insults her looks and intelligence. He soon finds out Elizabeth is not at all what he thought—she’s actually quite intelligent and works for Red Cross in their refugee crisis unit—and obviously it was a lie that he thinks she’s ugly. Unfortunately for him, Elizabeth and Lydia heard his insult and the damage is done. Lydia, ever the teenager posting everything on social media, tweets it for the world to see.
What follow are disastrous encounters between the two where Elizabeth misinterprets his stares and attention to judgment and condescension, and Mr. Darcy constantly puts a foot in his mouth. It’s not an easy road to happily ever after for this pair, just like E and D in the Regency era.
So, let me talk about my least favorite characters first—Lydia and Wickham. Lydia’s not an evil person, but that child needs to sit down in a corner and have no access to technology. She makes me dislike this book’s Mr. and Mrs. Bennet in this story even more because they did nothing to curb her attitude. She’s so out of control I want to spritz her with water whenever she’s misbehaving. Wickham is still a sleazy SOB (no surprise there), but this time he’s a sleazy congressman. How apt. Still a thorn in Darcy’s side. I want to push him off a cliff.
But back to my favorite man. Happy and in-love Darcy is the best Darcy! This man, bless him, can’t pick up social cues when it involves a romantic interest even if it hits him in the face, so whenever Elizabeth is throwing shade or fighting with him, Will thinks she’s flirting with him. So then obviously (and inevitably), he gets rejected and goes through an emo-ish phase. But then the second chance happens and AHHHH. My fuzzy, adorable, sweet, sweet man. I love you to bits! Oh what I’d do to have someone love me the way Will loves Elizabeth.
I like that we can see part of the story in Mr. Darcy’s perspective. We can see what he’s feeling, what’s on his mind while a certain scene is happening, and see him pining over Elizabeth. The last one is my favorite hehe. So much kilig.
There’s some angst in the story that I think is just right to make this book more interesting. He wants her but can’t have her. They want to be together but they can’t. I think it balanced the humorous scenes here just right.
E and D had some pretty hilarious and witty banter especially after this book’s Hunsford proposal moment (and even some before). And I really like Bingley here despite his momentary lapse of judgment about Jane; although I can understand why he did it, surprise surprise. And Fitz (Colonel Fitzwilliam in P&P) was such a hoot as always!
I love books that make me laugh and smile and feel fuzzy all over, and leave me feeling that way even after reading the book. I was lucky enough to feel everything mentioned when I read President Darcy.
Like Debbie said in her review, there are some parts of the book that’s not to be taken seriously—like the Bennets’ fortune maker, On-A-Stick, Inc., and Bill Collins as a person (lol). Some of them are pretty entertaining and it brought in a few laughs and some secondhand embarrassment. If you enjoyed Ms. Kincaid’s previous novels and/or a fan of contemporary romantic comedies, I would wager you’d enjoy this as much as I did.
Tropes: Hate to Love, Forbidden Romance, Age Gap, Pride and Prejudice
POV: Third Person, Dual POV
Standalone:Yes
*Kilig
origin=Philippines
adj.
(of a person) exhilarated or elated by an exciting or romantic experience.
‘I get kilig every time I think about Mr. Darcy’
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
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October 23, 2017
4.5 rounded up to 5 stars.
As I was reading this story I kept thinking about gossip concerning presidents and other politicians...even today's men and women, and how their lives are on display but then also how gossip can be used to paint those as immoral, corrupt, etc. individuals even if untrue and so many believe what they hear and/or read.
We do have this modern variation beginning as did canon. Elizabeth, attending a social event, with her nouveau riche family, gets caught where she should not be and when she can't seem to get her foot out of her mouth is thought to be a stupid and not so pretty and thus an ignorable young lady by the president of the USA. But when he expresses his opinion within her hearing and God-awful Lydia uses social media to relate his words to all who subscribe to that channel of communication the stage is set to make any apologies or second chances to change his opinion almost impossible.
What I did like about this is how Elizabeth is involved with bettering the world by her work with the Red Cross and how the president is forced to learn just how wrong he is about not only her intelligence and her motivations but also her beauty as sexual chemistry is thrown into their relationship.
But several things work against them. He has sworn not to date while in the presidency and with all the rumors is now forced to step back. Any overtures at this point would seem politically motivated. Plus Lydia has gone on to paint an even wider gap between her sister and the president. (Guess who is helping her?) Elizabeth decides to bow out of the picture.
I loved the solution the author came up with. I had an inkling that this was the only possibility but it was so well staged - much better than I had painted in my brain.
Well done - and don't you love the cover -drool!
As I was reading this story I kept thinking about gossip concerning presidents and other politicians...even today's men and women, and how their lives are on display but then also how gossip can be used to paint those as immoral, corrupt, etc. individuals even if untrue and so many believe what they hear and/or read.
We do have this modern variation beginning as did canon. Elizabeth, attending a social event, with her nouveau riche family, gets caught where she should not be and when she can't seem to get her foot out of her mouth is thought to be a stupid and not so pretty and thus an ignorable young lady by the president of the USA. But when he expresses his opinion within her hearing and God-awful Lydia uses social media to relate his words to all who subscribe to that channel of communication the stage is set to make any apologies or second chances to change his opinion almost impossible.
What I did like about this is how Elizabeth is involved with bettering the world by her work with the Red Cross and how the president is forced to learn just how wrong he is about not only her intelligence and her motivations but also her beauty as sexual chemistry is thrown into their relationship.
But several things work against them. He has sworn not to date while in the presidency and with all the rumors is now forced to step back. Any overtures at this point would seem politically motivated. Plus Lydia has gone on to paint an even wider gap between her sister and the president. (Guess who is helping her?) Elizabeth decides to bow out of the picture.
I loved the solution the author came up with. I had an inkling that this was the only possibility but it was so well staged - much better than I had painted in my brain.
Well done - and don't you love the cover -drool!
April 7, 2018
Mr. Darcy is POTUS!!!
TYPE OF AUSTENESQUE NOVEL: Modern-day Pride and Prejudice Adaptation
SETTING: Modern-day, Washington DC
MAIN CHARACTERS:
- President Will Darcy: America’s youngest elected President to date, single and also a billionaire.
- Elizabeth Bennet: A Red Cross staff worker who travels the world with a refugee crisis team.
- The Bennet Family: Founders and Owners of On-a-Stick, Inc., a company that specializes in serving food “on a stick.”
- Charles Bingley: The President’s Chief of Staff and close friend.
SYNOPSIS: President Darcy is not the best when it comes to women and dating, and so he has vowed to not date while serving as President. After all, how can he truly devote himself to policy work and legistlation if he added the complicated challenge of a romantic relationship to his life? But at a White House state dinner he has unexpectedly encounters a woman who sparks his interested like no other. Now he must decide whether to maintain his “no dating” credo or allow his attraction to this woman free reign…
WHAT I LOVED:
- Mr. President: First of all, I absolutely love the idea of seeing Mr. Darcy as POTUS! With Mr. Darcy’s sense of duty and stalwart integrity, it makes perfect sense for him to be President. (He has my vote!) And I loved how Ms. Kincaid translated his estimable and conscientious traits to this new arena. He makes a most admirable President; I loved how he had a personal vow to never lie to the American people. But what I truly loved about President Darcy was his adorable sincerity. His desire for a relationship with Elizabeth is so earnest, so artless. It is completely endearing. And when he goes after what he wants, it isn’t just sexy, it’s Leader-of-the-Free-World-sexy!
- Plausible: While there were some zany aspects of this story that I’m sure were added more for the comic appeal (i.e. The Bennet family and their business), I felt there was a good amount of plausibility behind the limitations and consequences of being president and having such a delicate public image. Not only do the elements of a President’s life become highly analyzed and discussed in the media, but the media attention can also delay, influence, and prohibit what they try to achieve in Congress.
- Conflict and Challenges: While there is pride and prejudice between Darcy and Elizabeth, they have many other obstacles to overcome in this tale. I appreciated how some obstacles were cleverly updated from Jane Austen’s tale, such as President Darcy making a disparaging remark that is later shared on Twitter and President Darcy prejudging Elizabeth because of her family. And how some were unique to this premise, such as the effects of negative media attention and the inability to have privacy. With these new challenges, Ms. Kincaid kept me on my toes, I couldn’t predict how it all would end.
- Emotionally Invested: From their very first embarrassing encounter together I fell in love with President Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet. Their electric chemistry, their mutual desire to not have a relationship, and their overwhelming feelings for each other had me swooning. I absolutely loved how emotionally invested I felt with these characters and how the twists and turns in their paths consumed my thoughts all day long. These reincarnations of Darcy and Lizzy are captivating, sympathetic, and ones I greatly admire.
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
I really don’t have much to say here…my mind was more agreeably engaged!
NOTE: Due to the use of profanity, I’d recommend this story for Mature Audiences.
CONCLUSION:
Vote for Darcy!!! Brava to Victoria Kincaid for delivering a brilliant modern-day adaptation of Pride and Politics!! Okay, all jokes aside, I am extremely delighted with Ms. Kincaid’s President Darcy! Whether you are a fan of Victoria Kincaid, modern-day Pride and Prejudice adaptations, or just want to see Mr. Darcy as President, I entreat you to give this perceptive and inventive tale a try!
Austenesque Reviews
TYPE OF AUSTENESQUE NOVEL: Modern-day Pride and Prejudice Adaptation
SETTING: Modern-day, Washington DC
MAIN CHARACTERS:
- President Will Darcy: America’s youngest elected President to date, single and also a billionaire.
- Elizabeth Bennet: A Red Cross staff worker who travels the world with a refugee crisis team.
- The Bennet Family: Founders and Owners of On-a-Stick, Inc., a company that specializes in serving food “on a stick.”
- Charles Bingley: The President’s Chief of Staff and close friend.
SYNOPSIS: President Darcy is not the best when it comes to women and dating, and so he has vowed to not date while serving as President. After all, how can he truly devote himself to policy work and legistlation if he added the complicated challenge of a romantic relationship to his life? But at a White House state dinner he has unexpectedly encounters a woman who sparks his interested like no other. Now he must decide whether to maintain his “no dating” credo or allow his attraction to this woman free reign…
WHAT I LOVED:
- Mr. President: First of all, I absolutely love the idea of seeing Mr. Darcy as POTUS! With Mr. Darcy’s sense of duty and stalwart integrity, it makes perfect sense for him to be President. (He has my vote!) And I loved how Ms. Kincaid translated his estimable and conscientious traits to this new arena. He makes a most admirable President; I loved how he had a personal vow to never lie to the American people. But what I truly loved about President Darcy was his adorable sincerity. His desire for a relationship with Elizabeth is so earnest, so artless. It is completely endearing. And when he goes after what he wants, it isn’t just sexy, it’s Leader-of-the-Free-World-sexy!
- Plausible: While there were some zany aspects of this story that I’m sure were added more for the comic appeal (i.e. The Bennet family and their business), I felt there was a good amount of plausibility behind the limitations and consequences of being president and having such a delicate public image. Not only do the elements of a President’s life become highly analyzed and discussed in the media, but the media attention can also delay, influence, and prohibit what they try to achieve in Congress.
- Conflict and Challenges: While there is pride and prejudice between Darcy and Elizabeth, they have many other obstacles to overcome in this tale. I appreciated how some obstacles were cleverly updated from Jane Austen’s tale, such as President Darcy making a disparaging remark that is later shared on Twitter and President Darcy prejudging Elizabeth because of her family. And how some were unique to this premise, such as the effects of negative media attention and the inability to have privacy. With these new challenges, Ms. Kincaid kept me on my toes, I couldn’t predict how it all would end.
- Emotionally Invested: From their very first embarrassing encounter together I fell in love with President Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet. Their electric chemistry, their mutual desire to not have a relationship, and their overwhelming feelings for each other had me swooning. I absolutely loved how emotionally invested I felt with these characters and how the twists and turns in their paths consumed my thoughts all day long. These reincarnations of Darcy and Lizzy are captivating, sympathetic, and ones I greatly admire.
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
I really don’t have much to say here…my mind was more agreeably engaged!
NOTE: Due to the use of profanity, I’d recommend this story for Mature Audiences.
CONCLUSION:
Vote for Darcy!!! Brava to Victoria Kincaid for delivering a brilliant modern-day adaptation of Pride and Politics!! Okay, all jokes aside, I am extremely delighted with Ms. Kincaid’s President Darcy! Whether you are a fan of Victoria Kincaid, modern-day Pride and Prejudice adaptations, or just want to see Mr. Darcy as President, I entreat you to give this perceptive and inventive tale a try!
Austenesque Reviews
November 23, 2017
'Darcy for President!' we all shout.
Oh wait, it happened.
Victoria Kincaid, an author whom I've enjoyed to read for her employment of fun and clever plot variations for Jane Austen's Pride & Prejudice has done it again. In this her first modern variation, she makes the White House her playground for Darcy and Lizzy's sweet, but at times acrimonious romance and the antics of all the other usual suspects in the original Austen tale.
The story begins with a fiasco of a meet cute for President Darcy and Red Cross worker, Elizabeth Bennet. If a family can try one's soul, it is Elizabeth's. It was like someone let the Marx Brothers loose on the grounds. I thought I might just have to strangle Lydia before it was all through and I was nearly there with the parents (Soup on a stick, anyone?). It got crazier with that family as the story progressed. I mean cra-zy. LOL
What I'm trying to say is this is one to laugh with and not take seriously for the most part.
It was fun to see how the author brought the classic story and characters into the modern age (Lydia with a Twitter account and Caroline in charge of Darcy's PR, for reals). It really brought out how difficult it would be for a President to 'date', particularly a woman from a family like the Bennets going up against the status quo expected of him in the Oval Office and with his family and acquaintances - looking at you Lady C. There are several little things that are highly unlikely when it comes to the real life world of the president, but others are probably right on the nose. Again, this is light and fun though yeesh, Lydia and Wickham wrecked some damage.
While the story parallels scenes from Pride & Prejudice, I enjoyed the author infusing it with her own interpretation of characters and plot so it wasn't merely a cliched re-hash. I enjoyed the romance and thought the obstacles were in keeping with the choice of modern situation and flavored by what we all enjoy from P&P- Lizzy's prejudice, Wickham and Lady C's interferences, Darcy's pride, etc.
It read quickly and paced well. Attraction was there and sizzling, but took its time before a romance happened. In the end, it was a satisfying read that gave me some laughs and little sighs. I definitely vote for President Darcy and recommend it to Austen fans along with those who enjoy light, romantic comedy.
My thanks to the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Oh wait, it happened.
Victoria Kincaid, an author whom I've enjoyed to read for her employment of fun and clever plot variations for Jane Austen's Pride & Prejudice has done it again. In this her first modern variation, she makes the White House her playground for Darcy and Lizzy's sweet, but at times acrimonious romance and the antics of all the other usual suspects in the original Austen tale.
The story begins with a fiasco of a meet cute for President Darcy and Red Cross worker, Elizabeth Bennet. If a family can try one's soul, it is Elizabeth's. It was like someone let the Marx Brothers loose on the grounds. I thought I might just have to strangle Lydia before it was all through and I was nearly there with the parents (Soup on a stick, anyone?). It got crazier with that family as the story progressed. I mean cra-zy. LOL
What I'm trying to say is this is one to laugh with and not take seriously for the most part.
It was fun to see how the author brought the classic story and characters into the modern age (Lydia with a Twitter account and Caroline in charge of Darcy's PR, for reals). It really brought out how difficult it would be for a President to 'date', particularly a woman from a family like the Bennets going up against the status quo expected of him in the Oval Office and with his family and acquaintances - looking at you Lady C. There are several little things that are highly unlikely when it comes to the real life world of the president, but others are probably right on the nose. Again, this is light and fun though yeesh, Lydia and Wickham wrecked some damage.
While the story parallels scenes from Pride & Prejudice, I enjoyed the author infusing it with her own interpretation of characters and plot so it wasn't merely a cliched re-hash. I enjoyed the romance and thought the obstacles were in keeping with the choice of modern situation and flavored by what we all enjoy from P&P- Lizzy's prejudice, Wickham and Lady C's interferences, Darcy's pride, etc.
It read quickly and paced well. Attraction was there and sizzling, but took its time before a romance happened. In the end, it was a satisfying read that gave me some laughs and little sighs. I definitely vote for President Darcy and recommend it to Austen fans along with those who enjoy light, romantic comedy.
My thanks to the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 18, 2017
I liked this, but it's kind of an odd mix between NOT-To-Be-Taken-Seriously with a little bit of To-Be-Taken-Seriously.
In the first category, you can start with the Bennet family business, called On-A-Stick. Mr. Bennet seems as flaky as Mrs. Bennet, though in a different way; he's constantly in sales mode for his food empire. The name pretty much describes it, though we're not talking corn dogs here, people. Among others, Mr. Bennet's products are Ravioli-On-A-Stick, Egg-On-A-Stick ("hard-boiled, of course") and Cookie-On-A-Stick. He's frustrated because his R&D department hasn't been able to figure out a way to develop Spaghetti-On-A-Stick. Okay. THIS is beyond belief. All the Bennets except Lizzy are employees.
She works for the Red Cross, frequently traveling abroad wherever humanitarian aid is needed. Now THAT's something to take seriously, and Lizzy is very dedicated to the Red Cross's mission and the funding necessary to reach all the areas in crisis.
Continuing in NTBTS (Not-To-Be-Taken-Seriously) category, the Bennet family has been invited to a State Dinner at the White House, presumably because they have been campaign contributors in the past. Lydia wanders outside the East Room, where the dinner is being held, and Lizzy follows to hunt her sister down. Security doesn't corral Lydia immediately before she gets to a restricted area. If I believed for a moment this was a true representation of the level of security in the White House, I would be seriously concerned.
There are other NTBTS features as the book goes along. Most significantly, the POTUS can't arrange to meet quietly with a girl he'd like to date?? Um, doubtful. And that's one of the major obstacles for ODC here. This is the strangest Presidency ever.
Speaking of obstacles, there's Lydia, who's a pain-in-the-bum brat. She needs her cell phone/ipad and whatever other electronic devices she has taken away from her after her very first tweet that embarrasses her sister and the POTUS. Yes, the Bennets are inadequate parents, but I don't buy that they wouldn't take notice of their daughter's NATIONAL notoriety. (This ain't the rural farmland around Meryton.) Perhaps they think bad publicity is better than no publicity when Lydia shares the President's insults about Lizzy with the world, but that's never mentioned. Instead, Lydia gets worse as the book goes on, especially once she hooks up with George Wickham. Okay, that part is very Pride and Prejudice so I guess it's necessary, but it still bugs me.
Ms. Kincaid writing is quite good, as usual. The romance is sweet and angst-y. William Darcy may be the POTUS, but he's still a hot-blooded single guy. He develops a huge crush on Lizzy Bennet. Unfortunately, as good as he is at policy wonking, he's pitiful with non-policy social interaction. (Back to the NTBTS department, how on earth did this guy get through all the fundraisers and glad-handing that's necessary to be elected President, anyway?) He has no idea how to approach Lizzy, and his position as President makes things even more awkward. His Chief of Staff, Charles Bingley, is good at smoothing ruffled feathers when Mr. President's cold demeanor offends but can't do much for him in the romance department. Meanwhile, Lizzy has the hots for the President but knows he's WAY out of her league and (surprise!) misinterprets their interactions, assuming he dislikes her. I'm sure you recognize the P&P influence here.
The main theme throughout that DOES ring true is the obscenely high level of scrutiny and speculation regarding the President's personal life which can and does affect his ability to govern. Public perception is a big weapon, whether it's based on truth or lies. A bizarre scandal erupts around President Darcy regarding Elizabeth and her family that results in unexpectedly strong opposition to the President's bills in Congress. (Again, this is primarily Lydia's fault. I HATE that girl in this variation!!)
The bottom line is that if you just accept this as a light, fluffy read and don't try to look at the distracting illogic woven throughout the story, it's mostly a cute, silly romance.
In the first category, you can start with the Bennet family business, called On-A-Stick. Mr. Bennet seems as flaky as Mrs. Bennet, though in a different way; he's constantly in sales mode for his food empire. The name pretty much describes it, though we're not talking corn dogs here, people. Among others, Mr. Bennet's products are Ravioli-On-A-Stick, Egg-On-A-Stick ("hard-boiled, of course") and Cookie-On-A-Stick. He's frustrated because his R&D department hasn't been able to figure out a way to develop Spaghetti-On-A-Stick. Okay. THIS is beyond belief. All the Bennets except Lizzy are employees.
She works for the Red Cross, frequently traveling abroad wherever humanitarian aid is needed. Now THAT's something to take seriously, and Lizzy is very dedicated to the Red Cross's mission and the funding necessary to reach all the areas in crisis.
Continuing in NTBTS (Not-To-Be-Taken-Seriously) category, the Bennet family has been invited to a State Dinner at the White House, presumably because they have been campaign contributors in the past. Lydia wanders outside the East Room, where the dinner is being held, and Lizzy follows to hunt her sister down. Security doesn't corral Lydia immediately before she gets to a restricted area. If I believed for a moment this was a true representation of the level of security in the White House, I would be seriously concerned.
There are other NTBTS features as the book goes along. Most significantly, the POTUS can't arrange to meet quietly with a girl he'd like to date?? Um, doubtful. And that's one of the major obstacles for ODC here. This is the strangest Presidency ever.
Speaking of obstacles, there's Lydia, who's a pain-in-the-bum brat. She needs her cell phone/ipad and whatever other electronic devices she has taken away from her after her very first tweet that embarrasses her sister and the POTUS. Yes, the Bennets are inadequate parents, but I don't buy that they wouldn't take notice of their daughter's NATIONAL notoriety. (This ain't the rural farmland around Meryton.) Perhaps they think bad publicity is better than no publicity when Lydia shares the President's insults about Lizzy with the world, but that's never mentioned. Instead, Lydia gets worse as the book goes on, especially once she hooks up with George Wickham. Okay, that part is very Pride and Prejudice so I guess it's necessary, but it still bugs me.
Ms. Kincaid writing is quite good, as usual. The romance is sweet and angst-y. William Darcy may be the POTUS, but he's still a hot-blooded single guy. He develops a huge crush on Lizzy Bennet. Unfortunately, as good as he is at policy wonking, he's pitiful with non-policy social interaction. (Back to the NTBTS department, how on earth did this guy get through all the fundraisers and glad-handing that's necessary to be elected President, anyway?) He has no idea how to approach Lizzy, and his position as President makes things even more awkward. His Chief of Staff, Charles Bingley, is good at smoothing ruffled feathers when Mr. President's cold demeanor offends but can't do much for him in the romance department. Meanwhile, Lizzy has the hots for the President but knows he's WAY out of her league and (surprise!) misinterprets their interactions, assuming he dislikes her. I'm sure you recognize the P&P influence here.
The main theme throughout that DOES ring true is the obscenely high level of scrutiny and speculation regarding the President's personal life which can and does affect his ability to govern. Public perception is a big weapon, whether it's based on truth or lies. A bizarre scandal erupts around President Darcy regarding Elizabeth and her family that results in unexpectedly strong opposition to the President's bills in Congress. (Again, this is primarily Lydia's fault. I HATE that girl in this variation!!)
The bottom line is that if you just accept this as a light, fluffy read and don't try to look at the distracting illogic woven throughout the story, it's mostly a cute, silly romance.
December 15, 2020
An utterly delightful read, kept smirking and snickering throughout but it still had a nerve that turned heart-wrenching towards the end.
Especially loved aunt Madeleine's resourcefulness when pushing Elizabeth through a crowd and Georgiana's way of waking up her brother, had me laughing so hard...
Mr Darcy makes a swoon-worthy President and Elizabeth was a delight too as an aid worker for the Red Cross.
The story kept fairly close to the timeline of canon but was modernised in an impressively plausible way.
The Bennet's are invited to the White House for dinner. Trying to keep Lydia in check, Elizabeth ventures into the forbidden part of the house and their first meeting his hilariously awkward. Tongue-tied and stammering, Elizabeth leaves the President with a somewhat bad impression and when he later disparages her to the secret service ( in her hearing) the game is on...
Caroline is as unpalatable as ever as head of PR, would have liked to see Darcy standing up to her a bit more...
Most of the characters from canon will appear.
Bingley and Jane will happen and the colonel has an important role. Wickham and Lydia are the main perpetrators that will create enough havoc to drive ODC apart. Lady Catherine is as overbearing as ever but Elizabeth's way of handling her was awesome.
Bill Collins enters as the blind date from hell, how Charlotte can tolerate him is beyond me ;)
I absolutely loved this story and heartily recommend it!!!
Read: 26.11.18
Reread: 15.12.20 JAFF2020-273
Holds up very well as a reread.
Especially loved aunt Madeleine's resourcefulness when pushing Elizabeth through a crowd and Georgiana's way of waking up her brother, had me laughing so hard...
Mr Darcy makes a swoon-worthy President and Elizabeth was a delight too as an aid worker for the Red Cross.
The story kept fairly close to the timeline of canon but was modernised in an impressively plausible way.
The Bennet's are invited to the White House for dinner. Trying to keep Lydia in check, Elizabeth ventures into the forbidden part of the house and their first meeting his hilariously awkward. Tongue-tied and stammering, Elizabeth leaves the President with a somewhat bad impression and when he later disparages her to the secret service ( in her hearing) the game is on...
Caroline is as unpalatable as ever as head of PR, would have liked to see Darcy standing up to her a bit more...
Most of the characters from canon will appear.
Bingley and Jane will happen and the colonel has an important role. Wickham and Lydia are the main perpetrators that will create enough havoc to drive ODC apart. Lady Catherine is as overbearing as ever but Elizabeth's way of handling her was awesome.
Bill Collins enters as the blind date from hell, how Charlotte can tolerate him is beyond me ;)
I absolutely loved this story and heartily recommend it!!!
Read: 26.11.18
Reread: 15.12.20 JAFF2020-273
Holds up very well as a reread.
April 8, 2018
I think that this is only the second or third modern P & P variation that I have absolutely loved. I just loved it. I avoided it when it came out because, well Trump. I needed a break from all things Presidential. (please, if you love the current president, I am very happy for you. Truly!) I love the author but couldn't go there. Enough time has passed though, that I bought the paperback. So glad I did. It was awesome.
November 13, 2020
Loved this Modern take. Yes, you have to suspend reality but don't we all do that for most romances? I truly enjoyed the writing and the plot. I was dissatisfied that Lydia did not have any consequences for her bad behavior. A truly fun modern read.
February 6, 2026
Good Read
Reviewed in Canada on November 9, 2019
I enjoyed this modern variation. I’m glad it didn’t get too political. I didn’t like this Elizabeth at first, but she grew on me. I would imagine dating during office would be extremely difficult for any president with today’s media. Good story, happy ending as always.
April 17, 2022 - Audiobook
Narration and performance by Lucy Emerson is very well done. I really enjoyed it.
Reviewed in Canada on November 9, 2019
I enjoyed this modern variation. I’m glad it didn’t get too political. I didn’t like this Elizabeth at first, but she grew on me. I would imagine dating during office would be extremely difficult for any president with today’s media. Good story, happy ending as always.
April 17, 2022 - Audiobook
Narration and performance by Lucy Emerson is very well done. I really enjoyed it.
October 14, 2017
aAgreat modern variation.
I really loved this book. It was a most enjoyable fun read. It sets the Pride and Prejudice story in current times, and in this variation, Mr. Darcy is the president and Elizabeth Bennet works for the Red Cross. It starts out with a very humourous situation, and the Darcy and Lizzy relationship flow from there. This book has humour, pathos and romance in all the right amounts. Don't miss out on reading this book, it is well worth reading.
I really loved this book. It was a most enjoyable fun read. It sets the Pride and Prejudice story in current times, and in this variation, Mr. Darcy is the president and Elizabeth Bennet works for the Red Cross. It starts out with a very humourous situation, and the Darcy and Lizzy relationship flow from there. This book has humour, pathos and romance in all the right amounts. Don't miss out on reading this book, it is well worth reading.
October 16, 2017
Wonderful modern-day P&P
I love all of Victoria Kincaid’s books ~~ this is one of the best. President Darcy and professional exec Lizzy find a wonderful way to get around the troublesome Lydia and George Wickham again
I love all of Victoria Kincaid’s books ~~ this is one of the best. President Darcy and professional exec Lizzy find a wonderful way to get around the troublesome Lydia and George Wickham again
March 19, 2022
The last 50 pages bored me to tears.
July 13, 2018
This adaptation is very atractive and well delivered for the most part. Up to 70% it was a supern translation of P&P to modern times, to an American setting, and to the White House specifically. The trouble arises when the story deviates from the spirit of the original. When Darcy helps out Lydia in the Regency version, he does it for Lizzie, in order to save the Bennett's honor; in this modern version, he reacts to the Wickham situation to save his own public profile and screws up enormously in the process. The last 20% carried out a surprising level of angst for a book that should hold very little surprise for educated readers. So, you can deduct that he ending here has many new elements and plot twists that are unexpected and move away from the classic P&P story.
(In my perspective, the new additions made Darcy more of a real insensitive jerk than the original version, 'cause his actions consistently neglected to protect Elizabeth, which is one of his priorities in the classic story. Also, the passing of time in modern times just stressed the lack of communication that is not easy to explain in the era of internet, cell phones vs the time of carriage travel).
One of the best adaptations on this classic, enjoyable and fresh. I did no like that much the last part 'cause it made me anxious, and deviated too much from Jane Austen's perfection for my taste, but I get that it is a good book and other readers might adore it completely.
(In my perspective, the new additions made Darcy more of a real insensitive jerk than the original version, 'cause his actions consistently neglected to protect Elizabeth, which is one of his priorities in the classic story. Also, the passing of time in modern times just stressed the lack of communication that is not easy to explain in the era of internet, cell phones vs the time of carriage travel).
One of the best adaptations on this classic, enjoyable and fresh. I did no like that much the last part 'cause it made me anxious, and deviated too much from Jane Austen's perfection for my taste, but I get that it is a good book and other readers might adore it completely.
April 15, 2019
I loved this one so much!!! Real review coming soon.
I'm not sure if this review will actually be a review in any sense of the word. It will probably just be me gushing about how much I love this one!
This book was really funny, and there were multiple times I started laughing outloud, which is fine except they were usually during silent reading in the classes I teach, so then I was explaining the premise to my students, and I'm not sure what they though other than I'm weird. Can't be an English teacher if you're not eccentric, right?
The scene with Hilliard contemplating his life choices and career options and thinking of all the things he could be doing other than being the President's Press Secretary was probably my favorite scene by far. Also, I enjoyed this version of Mr. Collins; I can understand his love of office supplies. Who doesn't love fun pens, post-its, and staplers?
Overall, this was an amazing modern-day Pride and Prejudice adaptation, and I really liked it. I look forward to reading other works by this author.
I'm not sure if this review will actually be a review in any sense of the word. It will probably just be me gushing about how much I love this one!
This book was really funny, and there were multiple times I started laughing outloud, which is fine except they were usually during silent reading in the classes I teach, so then I was explaining the premise to my students, and I'm not sure what they though other than I'm weird. Can't be an English teacher if you're not eccentric, right?
The scene with Hilliard contemplating his life choices and career options and thinking of all the things he could be doing other than being the President's Press Secretary was probably my favorite scene by far. Also, I enjoyed this version of Mr. Collins; I can understand his love of office supplies. Who doesn't love fun pens, post-its, and staplers?
Overall, this was an amazing modern-day Pride and Prejudice adaptation, and I really liked it. I look forward to reading other works by this author.
December 13, 2017
I want to live in a world where there is a President Fitzwilliam Darcy.
November 5, 2017
Victoria Kincaid is in my top 3 JAFF authors, and she can’t write fast enough to satisfy my appetite for her stories. She has recently released her first modern Pride and Prejudice inspired novel: President Darcy. I love that it’s so much more than just a “simple” or “another” Pride and Prejudice variation; it has it's saying on humiliation, bullying, media, publicity, third world, charity work, politics etc.
Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s first encounter is funny, passionate, embarrassing and electrifying at the same time. Within a few minutes, all things happen to Elizabeth which you might call a “bad day” (in the word’s “everyday” meaning). Like we have seen in her previous books (Mr Darcy to the Rescue, Chaos Comes to Longbourn, Darcy's Honor, When Mary met the Colonel, A Very Darcy Christmas, Darcy vs Bennet, Pride and Proposal, The Secrets of Elizabeth and Darcy) Ms Kincaid mixes comedy with drama. Usually, she starts with the comedy part and when you are almost convinced that it’s going to be a comedy; she works her magic and with some twists and turns, she shakes you and wakes you up from your utopia. How could I be so silly to think (even for a moment) there is a story of Elizabeth and Darcy without drama, heartbreak, and crying…
I am almost sure the author had lots of fun furnishing the Bennet residence, not to mention writing Mr and Mrs Bennet. A match made in heaven. At the same time, I also hope she was in “pain” when she wrote Lydia’s part, especially her involvement in the climax of the story. I’m not sure I would have been as forgiving as she was, though.
Ms Kincaid has not fallen into the trap of forcing the original plot when she modernized the story. She kept the essential parts like the insult, parties [balls], Lydia and Wickham messing up everything, the letter, even Jane’s illness, but she transformed it into a credible, modern scene. She had great ideas how to throw Elizabeth and Darcy together.
Fantastic job with the scenes where Darcy and Elizabeth physically suffer: heavy breathing, tense muscles, crying, wallowing, etc.
Bill Collins, Aunt Madeline, and Lady Catherine are as funny as always. Loved Lady Catherine’s ramblings about her view on writing Bennet with one “t”, and then there is Her Ladyship using abbreviations. Capital!
It’s the sort of book where your heart skips a beat in some scenes, in other scenes, it beats faster, then you have tears in your eyes either because of laughing or crying. It stirred me up, especially at the scene where Elizabeth was publicly humiliated. The scene in the book reminded me of the Bill Clinton- Monika Lewinsky scandal. A couple of months ago I watched “Monika Lewinsky – The price of shame” Ted Talk (on Youtube) where she talks about public humiliation. Watch it! I would call the scene in the book, the most heart-breaking scene in a modern variation. I can’t imagine how Ms Kincaid managed to write it and stay sane.
BTW, I started in the afternoon and went to bed at 2.30am when I finished it. Make sure, you can read it in one sitting.
Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s first encounter is funny, passionate, embarrassing and electrifying at the same time. Within a few minutes, all things happen to Elizabeth which you might call a “bad day” (in the word’s “everyday” meaning). Like we have seen in her previous books (Mr Darcy to the Rescue, Chaos Comes to Longbourn, Darcy's Honor, When Mary met the Colonel, A Very Darcy Christmas, Darcy vs Bennet, Pride and Proposal, The Secrets of Elizabeth and Darcy) Ms Kincaid mixes comedy with drama. Usually, she starts with the comedy part and when you are almost convinced that it’s going to be a comedy; she works her magic and with some twists and turns, she shakes you and wakes you up from your utopia. How could I be so silly to think (even for a moment) there is a story of Elizabeth and Darcy without drama, heartbreak, and crying…
I am almost sure the author had lots of fun furnishing the Bennet residence, not to mention writing Mr and Mrs Bennet. A match made in heaven. At the same time, I also hope she was in “pain” when she wrote Lydia’s part, especially her involvement in the climax of the story. I’m not sure I would have been as forgiving as she was, though.
Ms Kincaid has not fallen into the trap of forcing the original plot when she modernized the story. She kept the essential parts like the insult, parties [balls], Lydia and Wickham messing up everything, the letter, even Jane’s illness, but she transformed it into a credible, modern scene. She had great ideas how to throw Elizabeth and Darcy together.
Fantastic job with the scenes where Darcy and Elizabeth physically suffer: heavy breathing, tense muscles, crying, wallowing, etc.
Bill Collins, Aunt Madeline, and Lady Catherine are as funny as always. Loved Lady Catherine’s ramblings about her view on writing Bennet with one “t”, and then there is Her Ladyship using abbreviations. Capital!
It’s the sort of book where your heart skips a beat in some scenes, in other scenes, it beats faster, then you have tears in your eyes either because of laughing or crying. It stirred me up, especially at the scene where Elizabeth was publicly humiliated. The scene in the book reminded me of the Bill Clinton- Monika Lewinsky scandal. A couple of months ago I watched “Monika Lewinsky – The price of shame” Ted Talk (on Youtube) where she talks about public humiliation. Watch it! I would call the scene in the book, the most heart-breaking scene in a modern variation. I can’t imagine how Ms Kincaid managed to write it and stay sane.
BTW, I started in the afternoon and went to bed at 2.30am when I finished it. Make sure, you can read it in one sitting.
October 14, 2017
Rating: 4 1/2 stars
August 30, 2018
4.5⭐️ Fun and enjoyable read.
February 19, 2025
I love it!
Though I must say, Caroline really acts as if she‘s the boss even though Darcy is the President. He doesn‘t even put her in place. He just let it happen.
I mean, he‘s the President! He complains several time about her, than just say something 🤦♀️ That was a bit annoying.
Overall still a favorite!!
It‘s also well narrated.
Though I must say, Caroline really acts as if she‘s the boss even though Darcy is the President. He doesn‘t even put her in place. He just let it happen.
I mean, he‘s the President! He complains several time about her, than just say something 🤦♀️ That was a bit annoying.
Overall still a favorite!!
It‘s also well narrated.
July 29, 2018
3.5 stars.
Y'all, I expected this to be completely over the top and ridiculous. Imagine my surprise when the story turned out to be decent and the author was too. I'm not saying this story is AMAZING but it definitely captured my attention. The format could have been a bit cleaner but that's being nitpicky.
The modern update of Pride and Prejudice to this was relatively well done. Sure, there are going to be implausible moments when you're dealing with a citizen and the president. Kincaid figured it out
for the most part though! Their meet-cute was original and made me laugh. I could have done with a more sophisticated phrase for when Elizabeth hears the president speak about her. 'Ugly and stupid' seems very juvenile for a leader of the free world to utter (current 'president' notwithstanding). Lizzie and Darcy had chemistry and they butted heads with the best of them. I really liked Fitz and was glad that he had a bigger role in this adaptation. I'm still not the biggest fan of Bing because he's too easily coerced into making dumb decisions. Caroline was a snob, just like she is in every adaptation. Lydia was probably my least favorite in this one. She's not a likeable character and makes some really idiotic moves in most books but this one brings her stupidity to the top. I wanted to slap some sense into her and she frustrated the hell out of me. George Wickham? Of course he's a republican. Gigi was adorable and not in the story nearly enough.
Once Lizzie and Darcy grew closer, the story tightened up and I enjoyed it. Lizzie and William had some really good build-up and tension but the author ultimately resorted to fade to black, which is always disappointing. There was a twist that I didn't expect in the slightest but had respect for. We still got our HEA. This whole story is a fun time as long as you don't think too deeply about it.
Y'all, I expected this to be completely over the top and ridiculous. Imagine my surprise when the story turned out to be decent and the author was too. I'm not saying this story is AMAZING but it definitely captured my attention. The format could have been a bit cleaner but that's being nitpicky.
The modern update of Pride and Prejudice to this was relatively well done. Sure, there are going to be implausible moments when you're dealing with a citizen and the president. Kincaid figured it out
for the most part though! Their meet-cute was original and made me laugh. I could have done with a more sophisticated phrase for when Elizabeth hears the president speak about her. 'Ugly and stupid' seems very juvenile for a leader of the free world to utter (current 'president' notwithstanding). Lizzie and Darcy had chemistry and they butted heads with the best of them. I really liked Fitz and was glad that he had a bigger role in this adaptation. I'm still not the biggest fan of Bing because he's too easily coerced into making dumb decisions. Caroline was a snob, just like she is in every adaptation. Lydia was probably my least favorite in this one. She's not a likeable character and makes some really idiotic moves in most books but this one brings her stupidity to the top. I wanted to slap some sense into her and she frustrated the hell out of me. George Wickham? Of course he's a republican. Gigi was adorable and not in the story nearly enough.
Once Lizzie and Darcy grew closer, the story tightened up and I enjoyed it. Lizzie and William had some really good build-up and tension but the author ultimately resorted to fade to black, which is always disappointing. There was a twist that I didn't expect in the slightest but had respect for. We still got our HEA. This whole story is a fun time as long as you don't think too deeply about it.
December 29, 2019
This is one of the better Pride and Prejudice adaptations. Darcy is a brilliant man, but he's socially insecure as his character in the original book. Elizabeth makes the same wrong assumptions about his behavior. This the template for the books. Jane is sweet, Mary is serious, while Kitty and Lydia are immature and annoying. Bingley follows Darcy's advice and ruins his relationship with Jane. The adaptations follow this storyline. However, some books are better than others.
November 10, 2017
I can't praise it enough. Read in 2 days (I had to work, otherwise I would have done it in one!), and I keep going back to re-read my favourite parts. It's beautiful - expressively written and enthralling, and the entire concept is genius - likening the class divides of Austen with those present between the President and the American people. It fits so perfectly, and Ms Kincaid creates some exquisitely torturous moments, it will leave you breathless. I've read almost every single one of Victoria Kincaid's P&P variations and loved, and this is undoubtedly one of my favourites.
November 15, 2017
THIS IS THE BEST PRIDE AND PREJUDICE VARIATION I’VE READ, THE CONTEMPORARY SETTING IN WASHINGTON D.C AND THE WHITE HOUSE WAS PERFECT! DARCY AND ELIZABETH ARE AMAZING IN THIS STORY, A FUNNY AND UTTERLY ROMANTIC NOVEL. Definitely, President Darcy it’s the best novel I’ve read this year. I NEED A MOVIE and a SEQUEL of this book!
October 22, 2020
President Darcy has my vote
Another homerun! I really enjoyed this modern reimagined take on Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. Victoria Kincaid made this version of Darcy very beautifully socially awkward but very interesting and intelligent.
Another homerun! I really enjoyed this modern reimagined take on Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. Victoria Kincaid made this version of Darcy very beautifully socially awkward but very interesting and intelligent.
December 9, 2017
Soaring Up High
Victoria Kincaid really did make me addicted to the entire Pride and Prejudice trope. I can now see why it is so addicted. Now, I’m motivated to read the actual book by Jane Austen.
President Darcy is the modern retelling of Pride and Prejudice. It features President William Darcy and Elizabeth Bennett, a Red-cross worker, who is from a nouveau-riche family. Like the retelling goes there is a lot of aminosity and hate the goes on between the two characters. However, it is really awesome to see them really see each other and overcome their differences.
President Darcy and Elizabeth are really both strong willed and real characters. I love that Kincaid’s modern spin on this trope made both of them relevant. Darcy is the President and is highly arrogant. He is a good person, but his flaws do get the best of him. I initially did not like him in the beginning, but I love his character growth. He is quiet struck by Elizabeth in the beginning. It was adorable to see a powerful man fumbling and blushing like a 15 year old boy at times. Also, as the book goes on you get to see his fun side. Man, I swooned. Elizabeth is one of my favorite heroines. She is struggling to be independent and establish her own indentity separate from her family. The fact that she is a humanitarian aid worker is really cool. I like that she is selfless and puts up with Darcy’s antics in the beginning. My only issue with Elizabeth is her pride issues. I felt that she was way too blind and it was frustrating at times. Also, her liency on some of the antagonists in this book drove me nuts.
Elizabeth’s and Darcy’s romance had an overall good flavor towards it. I love that it is a slow burn. No kissing or any of that stuff didn’t happen until halfway through. My only issue is that when they realize they are in love with each other, it happens too fast. I felt that initial hate to love realization happened way too fast. And, the following drama that happened really just felt unnecessary. I wish it had wrapped up a bit earlier. But, still I love the slow burn feeling. In addition, it is a clean romance. I like that nothing was too detailed or over the top steamy.
The side characters in this book added a very nice flare to the book. I love Elizabeth’s family. I liked her sisters, but Lydia was like the ugh one. I wanted to slap her immaturity at times. But I could understand where she came from. Kincaid also did a great job researching into the corruption and rivalry of politics. The facts about the White House was correct. <
Overall, I really did enjoy reading this book. My only issue is that the ending was a bit flat coupled with unnecessary drama. Because of this I am giving it four stars.
June 19, 2025
Hmm
What I liked:
- The storyline had some interesting scenes. Darcy, as president, was original.
- The chemistry between Darcy and Elizabeth.
- The proposal was unexpected.
My least favorite:
- I didn't recognize this, Mr Bennet. You would think his last name was Collins or a long-lost brother of Fanny Gardiner.
- Mrs. Bennet was annoying.
Once the characters arrive at Pemberley, the forced scenes pile up.
- The scandal had too many plot holes and inconsistencies in Darcy's camp. Darcy also came across as somewhat of a coward.
- I don't understand why Mrs. Gardiner would make such a statement.
- I disliked Lydia. She was incredibly selfish, had no loyalty to her family, was rude, and gossipy, yet Elizabeth still shared information with her. However, she seems to get a free pass from everyone.
What I liked:
- The storyline had some interesting scenes. Darcy, as president, was original.
- The chemistry between Darcy and Elizabeth.
- The proposal was unexpected.
My least favorite:
- I didn't recognize this, Mr Bennet. You would think his last name was Collins or a long-lost brother of Fanny Gardiner.
- Mrs. Bennet was annoying.
Once the characters arrive at Pemberley, the forced scenes pile up.
- The scandal had too many plot holes and inconsistencies in Darcy's camp. Darcy also came across as somewhat of a coward.
- I don't understand why Mrs. Gardiner would make such a statement.
- I disliked Lydia. She was incredibly selfish, had no loyalty to her family, was rude, and gossipy, yet Elizabeth still shared information with her. However, she seems to get a free pass from everyone.
November 2, 2019
There are those moments that I just need something Jane Austen inspired in my life. And this time I did decided to go for Darcy who resides in Washington DC and finds Lizzy in a cupboard hiding...(sorry for the spoiler but it made me LOL for at least 5 seconds) and who tries to find a balance between running a nation and his heart. There were quite a few fresh approaches that made this read certainly stand out amongst all these Austeneque reads. This Lizzie and Darcy are surely refreshing and there are few twists that I did find very daring. An enjoyable read when you are after some escapicism and are after a bit of romance when outside autumn arrives and there is less and less sunlight to enjoy.
February 10, 2023
I'm a sucker for a good modern P&P variation set in DC
I really enjoyed this modern-day, feminist Darcy and Elizabeth. This tale brings to mind one of my favorite movies, The American President. I love all the details that are specific to Washington, DC, and to Capital Hill/national politics. I can't speak to the accuracy of the local gala/ball scene, but I did like that the author found a way to have her Elizabeth and Darcy interact at the kinds of balls that exist in our times.
All your favorite characters are here. Mr. Collins is just as smarmy and Wickham just as slimy as you would expect them to be. If you like modern adaptations and your politics lean at least slightly to the left, you're a good candidate for this book.
I really enjoyed this modern-day, feminist Darcy and Elizabeth. This tale brings to mind one of my favorite movies, The American President. I love all the details that are specific to Washington, DC, and to Capital Hill/national politics. I can't speak to the accuracy of the local gala/ball scene, but I did like that the author found a way to have her Elizabeth and Darcy interact at the kinds of balls that exist in our times.
All your favorite characters are here. Mr. Collins is just as smarmy and Wickham just as slimy as you would expect them to be. If you like modern adaptations and your politics lean at least slightly to the left, you're a good candidate for this book.
November 26, 2017
I loved it! Another amazing book by Victoria Kincaid. I have read all of her books and none disappoint.
I thought of the movie 'The American President' while reading this book. President Darcy reminded me of Michael Douglas's character. I enjoyed the entire story, especially the romance of Darcy and Elizabeth. Her proposal at the end was just lovely; I had tears. I admit I am not a fan of Lydia Bennet so her part in this story was just ugh. But I enjoyed everything else.
I did laugh quite a bit at Charlotte and Mr. Collins because they were just so quirky, it was hysterical.
A wonderful story by a wonderful author!
I thought of the movie 'The American President' while reading this book. President Darcy reminded me of Michael Douglas's character. I enjoyed the entire story, especially the romance of Darcy and Elizabeth. Her proposal at the end was just lovely; I had tears. I admit I am not a fan of Lydia Bennet so her part in this story was just ugh. But I enjoyed everything else.
I did laugh quite a bit at Charlotte and Mr. Collins because they were just so quirky, it was hysterical.
A wonderful story by a wonderful author!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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