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To Save and Protect: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
A refreshing blend of romance, mystery and adventure, To Save and Protect is a Pride and Prejudice variation, which begins on the morning after Mr. Darcy's first proposal. In this novel, the original characters of Pride and Prejudice, along with some new characters, are taken on an entirely different adventure, wherein Miss Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy find themselves amidst mystery, crime and murder. Their feelings, convictions, and opinions are challenged and changed as they come to know themselves and each other better.
611 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2018
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220 people want to read
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July 18, 2018
This could be a spectacularly excellent romantic, adventurous Pride and Prejudice variation. The plot is completely original, taking unpredictable turns. The characters are realistically drawn, including many new ones. The writing flows nicely with mostly realistic-sounding dialogue, especially conversations that display both the wit and intelligence of Elizabeth and Darcy. They're together constantly here, with Darcy acting heroically time after time to protect his lady. There's angst and yearning, electric touches and passionate embraces. What more could you ask for?
EDITING!!
This needs more than just the editing that fixes all the little typos (there are a few), corrects homonym misspellings (discrete instead of discreet, among others), gets rid of non-words (alright is NOT A WORD!), inserts missing words ("...she knew she could not him."), and eliminates obvious non-Regency language ("How come?").
No, the kind of editing this really, really needs is to cut pages upon pages of unnecessary chaff. It's a thrilling story that keeps getting bogged down when it should be straining forward. This author has tremendous talent but needs a competent editor to eliminate excess introspection, dialogue and repetition.
And the story IS thrilling. It starts with Darcy the day after the Hunsford proposal, having written and delivered his letter to Elizabeth. (She does not read it.) After returning to Rosings, Darcy learns that dangerous fugitives are somewhere in the area between Rosings and Sandry Hall, a neighboring estate. Terrified for Elizabeth's safety, he goes in search of her. He finds her on Sandry Hall property, where she has wandered and gotten lost.
Various circumstances make it necessary for them to seek shelter at that estate for the night, and things turn even more gothic. We meet Admiral Sandry and his sister, Miss Isabel Sandry. Darcy quickly realizes things at the estate aren't what they first seem. An overheard conversation reveals that an unwelcome visitor intends to seduce Elizabeth in her bedchamber. Darcy effectively protects her, but then they are warned that their lives are in imminent danger.
Over the course of the story, we are introduced to Mr. Trevor Farley, the owner of Durham Place, which adjoins Sandry Hall. Lord Julian Paisley, a guest there, also happens to be one of Darcy's best friends despite his dandy-ish tendencies. Colonel Fitzwilliam teams up with them to help Darcy and Elizabeth. Most of the usual P&P characters except those in Hertfordshire get to play significant roles. (Mr. Wickham does not appear at all.) There's an absolutely fantastic twist involving Lady Catherine.
Other settings include the Hunsford parsonage, Cheapside (with the Gardiners), Darcy's London town home, Mr. Bingley's London town home, Longbourn, and Pemberley. The story includes multiple murders, a stolen identity, life-threatening wounds, blackmail, suicide, an estate fire, madness, incest... whew! It's a heck of a good yarn--or it WOULD be, if edited properly.
According to the author's note at the end, this is the first book in a trilogy. I pray the next two will get the editing this one deserved.
Content gets steamy at times and it's rated MA in the final chapter and epilogue.
EDITING!!
This needs more than just the editing that fixes all the little typos (there are a few), corrects homonym misspellings (discrete instead of discreet, among others), gets rid of non-words (alright is NOT A WORD!), inserts missing words ("...she knew she could not him."), and eliminates obvious non-Regency language ("How come?").
No, the kind of editing this really, really needs is to cut pages upon pages of unnecessary chaff. It's a thrilling story that keeps getting bogged down when it should be straining forward. This author has tremendous talent but needs a competent editor to eliminate excess introspection, dialogue and repetition.
And the story IS thrilling. It starts with Darcy the day after the Hunsford proposal, having written and delivered his letter to Elizabeth. (She does not read it.) After returning to Rosings, Darcy learns that dangerous fugitives are somewhere in the area between Rosings and Sandry Hall, a neighboring estate. Terrified for Elizabeth's safety, he goes in search of her. He finds her on Sandry Hall property, where she has wandered and gotten lost.
Various circumstances make it necessary for them to seek shelter at that estate for the night, and things turn even more gothic. We meet Admiral Sandry and his sister, Miss Isabel Sandry. Darcy quickly realizes things at the estate aren't what they first seem. An overheard conversation reveals that an unwelcome visitor intends to seduce Elizabeth in her bedchamber. Darcy effectively protects her, but then they are warned that their lives are in imminent danger.
Over the course of the story, we are introduced to Mr. Trevor Farley, the owner of Durham Place, which adjoins Sandry Hall. Lord Julian Paisley, a guest there, also happens to be one of Darcy's best friends despite his dandy-ish tendencies. Colonel Fitzwilliam teams up with them to help Darcy and Elizabeth. Most of the usual P&P characters except those in Hertfordshire get to play significant roles. (Mr. Wickham does not appear at all.) There's an absolutely fantastic twist involving Lady Catherine.
Other settings include the Hunsford parsonage, Cheapside (with the Gardiners), Darcy's London town home, Mr. Bingley's London town home, Longbourn, and Pemberley. The story includes multiple murders, a stolen identity, life-threatening wounds, blackmail, suicide, an estate fire, madness, incest... whew! It's a heck of a good yarn--or it WOULD be, if edited properly.
According to the author's note at the end, this is the first book in a trilogy. I pray the next two will get the editing this one deserved.
Content gets steamy at times and it's rated MA in the final chapter and epilogue.
May 18, 2018
This is one of those stories that not only draws you in immediately but also has more than one climax. It is a long story. One of the best parts is reading about Darcy's and Elizabeth's thoughts about each other and then their teasing banter. (Yes, Darcy learns to tease.) Darcy is so overwhelmed by his love and admiration for Elizabeth that at times he struggles to hold back from showing his physical reactions...remembering that although her passion is ignited, she is still an innocent. This author's ability to take us to the edge with ODC and not go into all the graphic details was first rate.
There are new characters and I know we will be reading about Lord Paisley in a future book. He is a perfect counterbalance to Darcy's staid and stiff behaviors, tongue-in-cheek remarks and sarcasm are his trademark. But then a young lady makes Paisley pause in his outlook at the world around him.
The story does begin with the aftermath of the Hunsford proposal. Darcy has given his letter to Elizabeth but upon returning to Rosings learns that his aunt has received a letter from a neighbor warning of fugitives rampaging in the vicinity...even imposing ruin upon ladies...so…Stay indoors and guard yourselves. Darcy soon learns that Elizabeth has not come to Rosings with the other Hunsford residents. Upon going there he finds the house completely emptied of servants and residents.
He searches for and finds Elizabeth. She has not read his letter. And his efforts to protect her from these villains are thwarted by her fear of horses and refusal to get upon his and be taken back to Rosings. The atmosphere quickly changes as they hear cries of pain and then seek shelter in the woods to hide from a group of horsemen who pass by. They meet and are sent to his estate by a Captain Robert Sandry of Sandry Hall, which is within closer walking distance. (Elizabeth has wandered unknowingly far from Rosings.)
There are so many twists in this story: the near death of one of our beloved characters, murder, rape (not described), blackmail, persons assuming others’ identities and madness but as events evolve Elizabeth learns so much about Darcy’s true character that she gives him back the unopened letter. Even that small act has a dire consequence in the later parts of this tale. Darcy and Elizabeth clash as he tries to take charge and protect her and as she refuses to sit on the sidelines while he puts his life in danger more than once.
The first quarter of the book seemed to be complete in itself but just when you think that now a wedding can be planned, that Darcy has met with Mr. Bennet and even the Gardiners and things are going smoothly, the other shoe drops…with explosive effects.
I highly recommend this book to other JAFF lovers. The author first wrote this story on fanfiction so I am sure you can find more by her there. This was my first time reading anything by her and I do look forward to more. However, know that the story is not a short one nor is it without angst. I do love angst.
There are new characters and I know we will be reading about Lord Paisley in a future book. He is a perfect counterbalance to Darcy's staid and stiff behaviors, tongue-in-cheek remarks and sarcasm are his trademark. But then a young lady makes Paisley pause in his outlook at the world around him.
The story does begin with the aftermath of the Hunsford proposal. Darcy has given his letter to Elizabeth but upon returning to Rosings learns that his aunt has received a letter from a neighbor warning of fugitives rampaging in the vicinity...even imposing ruin upon ladies...so…Stay indoors and guard yourselves. Darcy soon learns that Elizabeth has not come to Rosings with the other Hunsford residents. Upon going there he finds the house completely emptied of servants and residents.
He searches for and finds Elizabeth. She has not read his letter. And his efforts to protect her from these villains are thwarted by her fear of horses and refusal to get upon his and be taken back to Rosings. The atmosphere quickly changes as they hear cries of pain and then seek shelter in the woods to hide from a group of horsemen who pass by. They meet and are sent to his estate by a Captain Robert Sandry of Sandry Hall, which is within closer walking distance. (Elizabeth has wandered unknowingly far from Rosings.)
There are so many twists in this story: the near death of one of our beloved characters, murder, rape (not described), blackmail, persons assuming others’ identities and madness but as events evolve Elizabeth learns so much about Darcy’s true character that she gives him back the unopened letter. Even that small act has a dire consequence in the later parts of this tale. Darcy and Elizabeth clash as he tries to take charge and protect her and as she refuses to sit on the sidelines while he puts his life in danger more than once.
The first quarter of the book seemed to be complete in itself but just when you think that now a wedding can be planned, that Darcy has met with Mr. Bennet and even the Gardiners and things are going smoothly, the other shoe drops…with explosive effects.
I highly recommend this book to other JAFF lovers. The author first wrote this story on fanfiction so I am sure you can find more by her there. This was my first time reading anything by her and I do look forward to more. However, know that the story is not a short one nor is it without angst. I do love angst.
gave-up
May 18, 2018Maybe it's me but this book made me long for a Nerf Kindle so I could repeatedly throw it at a wall.
I quit at 31% the endless dialogue wore me out
I quit at 31% the endless dialogue wore me out
January 2, 2020
To Save and Protect is the first of three books in a three-part series of outstanding variations of Austen's Pride and Prejudice. After receiving the letter from Mr. Darcy on the morning after her rejection of his unfortunate proposal, Elizabeth wanders the grounds of Rosings, thinking over all that Darcy's letter has revealed about her sister, about Wickham, and mostly, about Elizabeth herself.
When news comes to Darcy at Rosings that there is a dangerous fugitive on the loose in the neighborhood, he searches for Elizabeth and at last finds her. They aren't terribly polite to each other, but Darcy is compelled by his "inner gentleman" to ensure her safety.
Together, Darcy and Elizabeth uncover a heinous plot involving murder, attempted murder, near-death, a near-attack, and blackmail...while Darcy's only wish is To Save and Protect the woman he loves...as she begins to return his feelings.
This novel is full of surprises; the plot is wonderfully twisty-turny, and the development of Elizabeth's feelings for Darcy is quite believable as his actions, more than his awkward words, demonstrate the quality of gentleman she rejected so rudely. The plot unfolds beautifully and with perfect timing, and the whole thing sucked me in completely.
This book is marvelously written, perfectly paced, and extremely compelling. I've read it at least four times--it's incredible, as are the next two books in the series.
Brava, Paisley James!!
Warmly,
Susanne (aka CassandraLowery on FF.net)
When news comes to Darcy at Rosings that there is a dangerous fugitive on the loose in the neighborhood, he searches for Elizabeth and at last finds her. They aren't terribly polite to each other, but Darcy is compelled by his "inner gentleman" to ensure her safety.
Together, Darcy and Elizabeth uncover a heinous plot involving murder, attempted murder, near-death, a near-attack, and blackmail...while Darcy's only wish is To Save and Protect the woman he loves...as she begins to return his feelings.
This novel is full of surprises; the plot is wonderfully twisty-turny, and the development of Elizabeth's feelings for Darcy is quite believable as his actions, more than his awkward words, demonstrate the quality of gentleman she rejected so rudely. The plot unfolds beautifully and with perfect timing, and the whole thing sucked me in completely.
This book is marvelously written, perfectly paced, and extremely compelling. I've read it at least four times--it's incredible, as are the next two books in the series.
Brava, Paisley James!!
Warmly,
Susanne (aka CassandraLowery on FF.net)
May 5, 2019
This was a surprisingly, a very fun read.
However, I do agree with one reviewers opinion that this needed some serious editing. Not from the perspective of grammatical errors, but from length. This is a case where "less is more". The book should have been about 150 pages less. There was a point where I almost gave up because it was just rehashing thoughts and sentiments over and over again. However, I'm glad I stuck with it because the story was engaging and entertaining. The characters were well drawn out. This author truly captured the essence of Mr. Darcy (swoon).
In spite of the length, I'm moving to the next story in the series.
However, I do agree with one reviewers opinion that this needed some serious editing. Not from the perspective of grammatical errors, but from length. This is a case where "less is more". The book should have been about 150 pages less. There was a point where I almost gave up because it was just rehashing thoughts and sentiments over and over again. However, I'm glad I stuck with it because the story was engaging and entertaining. The characters were well drawn out. This author truly captured the essence of Mr. Darcy (swoon).
In spite of the length, I'm moving to the next story in the series.
May 9, 2018
A sprawling story
What fun this book is. It puts me in mind of books by Brenda J Webb. Off canon, characters the same, additional fun and interesting new character, with a melodramatic main storyline with lots of small plot lines branching off.
I recommend it 100 %
What fun this book is. It puts me in mind of books by Brenda J Webb. Off canon, characters the same, additional fun and interesting new character, with a melodramatic main storyline with lots of small plot lines branching off.
I recommend it 100 %
October 2, 2024
Oh my goodness the drama!! This is a Darcy who undergoes his transformation in the line of fire. No drunken self pity or months long self-reflection. This Darcy sees his love in danger and steps up.
Elizabeth learns to appreciate all his fine qualities and even begins to understand his deficiencies while going through the same trials by fire.
You get to take a breath, and then the reader is dumped right back in to the frying pan.
Is it a lot of drama in a short span of time? Yes. Does ODC fall madly in love i that same span of time? Yes! But it works!!
An entertaining read, that keeps the reader captivated.
Elizabeth learns to appreciate all his fine qualities and even begins to understand his deficiencies while going through the same trials by fire.
You get to take a breath, and then the reader is dumped right back in to the frying pan.
Is it a lot of drama in a short span of time? Yes. Does ODC fall madly in love i that same span of time? Yes! But it works!!
An entertaining read, that keeps the reader captivated.
September 12, 2018
I throughly enjoyed the first third of this book. But the last 2/3rds was really unnecessary and didn’t really add to the enjoyment of the story. It just makes the story way too long.
June 11, 2018
Paisley James has written a very long, but outstanding Pride and Prejudice variation that combines romance, suspense, and murder. It includes our beloved characters plus some interesting new ones. She breathes life into all of her characters. There are minor grammar flaws, but nothing major. The book is very long at 701 pages. There seems to be double plots for the romance and crime. Lizzy originally turns down Darcy's proposal but danger and a crisis on another Kent estate neighboring Lady Catherine's draw them together much sooner than in the book. Lizzy walks too far and stumbles upon those grounds while walking with the unread letter. Darcy finds her, and they end up in a very dangerous situation with the near death of one of our beloved characters as they are caught in the middle of intrigue and crimes.
There's the romance of Darcy and Lizzy and the mystery of the strange occupants and crimes at the neighboring plantation with a bunch of deceitful characters who cannot be trusted.
In one climax, things resolve between Darcy and Lizzy and seem ready to head toward marriage until another bombshell falls at Lady Catherine's neighbor's plantation, so our characters are again drawn to Kent with Col. Fitzwilliam, Lord Paisley, and others. Lord Paisley is very well developed and you get the feeling that he may figure prominently in sequels. On the surface he appears to be a dandy, but underneath all of that is a very intelligent gentleman who is a good friend of Darcy's. In a way some of his wit and teasing remind you a Lizzy.
I very much like this version of Lady Catherine though she is as proud and class conscious as ever, but things with her are resolved in a unique way that I like very much. She is not a villain here though she may seem to be. Jane is harder on Bingley, which I think she should be, but she is apparently eventually forgiving and always in love with him. He is only a passing person in this story, though. Wickham is quickly swept aside here and not part of this story.
I did love this book. It took quite a long time to read it, and sometimes I had to put it down between intense scenes. It is quite unique among the fan fiction. This is quite an outstanding author who mentions at the end two forthcoming books. This book does end, but there's also hints of plots for two future books that the author names after the epilogue. If you like mysteries, this is definitely a book for you and quite unique. I highly recommend this book and will be on the look out for later books by this talented author who has a very good way with words and plot development.
There's the romance of Darcy and Lizzy and the mystery of the strange occupants and crimes at the neighboring plantation with a bunch of deceitful characters who cannot be trusted.
In one climax, things resolve between Darcy and Lizzy and seem ready to head toward marriage until another bombshell falls at Lady Catherine's neighbor's plantation, so our characters are again drawn to Kent with Col. Fitzwilliam, Lord Paisley, and others. Lord Paisley is very well developed and you get the feeling that he may figure prominently in sequels. On the surface he appears to be a dandy, but underneath all of that is a very intelligent gentleman who is a good friend of Darcy's. In a way some of his wit and teasing remind you a Lizzy.
I very much like this version of Lady Catherine though she is as proud and class conscious as ever, but things with her are resolved in a unique way that I like very much. She is not a villain here though she may seem to be. Jane is harder on Bingley, which I think she should be, but she is apparently eventually forgiving and always in love with him. He is only a passing person in this story, though. Wickham is quickly swept aside here and not part of this story.
I did love this book. It took quite a long time to read it, and sometimes I had to put it down between intense scenes. It is quite unique among the fan fiction. This is quite an outstanding author who mentions at the end two forthcoming books. This book does end, but there's also hints of plots for two future books that the author names after the epilogue. If you like mysteries, this is definitely a book for you and quite unique. I highly recommend this book and will be on the look out for later books by this talented author who has a very good way with words and plot development.
May 29, 2018
Darcy would do anything to protect Elizabeth - even if she doesn't like him. This Pride and Prejudice variation begins with Darcy having just delivered his letter the morning after his disastrous proposal at Hunsford. A letter is received informing Rosings that dangerous men are on the loose in the surrounding area. With no thought to his own safety, Darcy rushes off to protect Elizabeth who he knows is wandering the woods. Upon finding her, they start down a path of intrigue, mystery, gun shots, danger, mental illness, clarity of misunderstandings, removal of prejudice, and love. Borne in fire, their relationship grows strong.
The title of the book is aptly assigned as Darcy is there to save and protect Elizabeth in many ways.
The title of the book is aptly assigned as Darcy is there to save and protect Elizabeth in many ways.
July 26, 2021
Entertaining
I just re-read this book as a refresher before the next installment. It begins after the disastrous proposal at Hunsford parsonage, shortly after Darcy gives his letter to Elizabeth. While Elizabeth is still deciding whether or not to open the letter, she wanders quite far from Rosings, not knowing that word has reached Colonel Fitzwilliam and Darcy that dangerous men are in the neighborhood woods, so Darcy immediately goes to find Elizabeth, eventually leading her to Sandry Hall, a home close to Rosings. It's there that a lot of sinister and mysterious events take place which endanger their very lives.
This is a rather dark tale, with some truly awful villains, and lots of life and death circumstances. It isn't light and romantic, or humorous. The dire situations at Sandry Hall are the catalyst that bring about a greater understanding between Elizabeth and Darcy, showing Elizabeth that Darcy has positive character traits that she never knew, and illustrating his love for her. Thus, she starts to see him in a new and favorable light.
Speaking of Darcy, however, I was somewhat disturbed by the author's portrayal of him. From the moment that Elizabeth and Darcy come to an understanding, and finally decide to become engaged, Darcy takes on the persona of a tyrant, and demands Elizabeth's unquestioned obedience about her actions. He forbids her to allow anyone else to call her by her Christian name, he takes issue with any other man talking about her, even his close friends and family, he becomes obsessive about her activities and who should accompany her, and more. It's creepy and controlling Darcy, and I don't like it. And I don't like that Elizabeth puts up with it, either. Sure, she teases that she's got her own opinions, but she doesn't really push the issue, like our usual intrepid Elizabeth would. It's disappointing. I know women were treated like possessions in this era, but not our dear couple!
This book, while entertaining, is needlessly long. So much useless repetition could have been edited out. Early on, I began to skim over paragraphs, and that's never a good sign. There was a lot of repetition, and a lot of inane dialogue, the kind that does nothing to advance the plot.
Apart from the wordiness, the story is engaging. The editing that was done was good except for a few glaring mistakes, such as the wrong names used. I recommend it for an interesting story.
I just re-read this book as a refresher before the next installment. It begins after the disastrous proposal at Hunsford parsonage, shortly after Darcy gives his letter to Elizabeth. While Elizabeth is still deciding whether or not to open the letter, she wanders quite far from Rosings, not knowing that word has reached Colonel Fitzwilliam and Darcy that dangerous men are in the neighborhood woods, so Darcy immediately goes to find Elizabeth, eventually leading her to Sandry Hall, a home close to Rosings. It's there that a lot of sinister and mysterious events take place which endanger their very lives.
This is a rather dark tale, with some truly awful villains, and lots of life and death circumstances. It isn't light and romantic, or humorous. The dire situations at Sandry Hall are the catalyst that bring about a greater understanding between Elizabeth and Darcy, showing Elizabeth that Darcy has positive character traits that she never knew, and illustrating his love for her. Thus, she starts to see him in a new and favorable light.
Speaking of Darcy, however, I was somewhat disturbed by the author's portrayal of him. From the moment that Elizabeth and Darcy come to an understanding, and finally decide to become engaged, Darcy takes on the persona of a tyrant, and demands Elizabeth's unquestioned obedience about her actions. He forbids her to allow anyone else to call her by her Christian name, he takes issue with any other man talking about her, even his close friends and family, he becomes obsessive about her activities and who should accompany her, and more. It's creepy and controlling Darcy, and I don't like it. And I don't like that Elizabeth puts up with it, either. Sure, she teases that she's got her own opinions, but she doesn't really push the issue, like our usual intrepid Elizabeth would. It's disappointing. I know women were treated like possessions in this era, but not our dear couple!
This book, while entertaining, is needlessly long. So much useless repetition could have been edited out. Early on, I began to skim over paragraphs, and that's never a good sign. There was a lot of repetition, and a lot of inane dialogue, the kind that does nothing to advance the plot.
Apart from the wordiness, the story is engaging. The editing that was done was good except for a few glaring mistakes, such as the wrong names used. I recommend it for an interesting story.
April 11, 2025
favorite fanfic
September 28, 2018
Are you looking for a Pride & Prejudice variation with heroic adventure, intrigue and mystery? Are you looking for one that has a unique premise and with villain(s) that are not what they seem? Are you looking for new delightful characters that you can't get enough of? And are you looking for Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth learning more about each other after the disastrous Hunsford proposal? Well look no further. This book has all that and more!
I will be honest, it did take me several chapters before I warmed up to the story. It could be tightened up a bit. But once it grabbed my attention, I didn't want to put it down. I needed to know how the story unfolds. I needed to have more of Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet's delightful banter and thoughts. I needed more of Lord Paisley! I still do!
"And just when he had thought she could not hurt him more, she had dealt him the final blow...The finality of her words had broken his heart." (quote from the book)
This is a long and involved story that keeps on giving. It all starts just after Darcy has given Elizabeth 'the letter'. Both are hurting from the words they spoke. What follows will have you on the edge of your seat. Danger lurks and you can just 'feel it'! There are so many wonderful moments in this book, but for me, Elizabeth's epiphany was one of the best. It was so strong and so profound! I loved it!
"So much had happened in such a short time; so much pain and insecurity. Everything had been unpredictable. Everything but him..." (quote from the book)
I highly recommend this debut novel from Ms. James, and I look forward to reading more!
I will be honest, it did take me several chapters before I warmed up to the story. It could be tightened up a bit. But once it grabbed my attention, I didn't want to put it down. I needed to know how the story unfolds. I needed to have more of Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet's delightful banter and thoughts. I needed more of Lord Paisley! I still do!
"And just when he had thought she could not hurt him more, she had dealt him the final blow...The finality of her words had broken his heart." (quote from the book)
This is a long and involved story that keeps on giving. It all starts just after Darcy has given Elizabeth 'the letter'. Both are hurting from the words they spoke. What follows will have you on the edge of your seat. Danger lurks and you can just 'feel it'! There are so many wonderful moments in this book, but for me, Elizabeth's epiphany was one of the best. It was so strong and so profound! I loved it!
"So much had happened in such a short time; so much pain and insecurity. Everything had been unpredictable. Everything but him..." (quote from the book)
I highly recommend this debut novel from Ms. James, and I look forward to reading more!
July 27, 2018
This was a wonderful 700 plus pages of a Pride and Predjudice variation. It begins the morning after she receives the letter explaining about Darcy' s sister , and his adversary Wickem. She has not read the letter yet, when Mr.Darcy comes upon her, during her walk, and explains two dangerous men ,are in the area. This is when the adventure begins, as they retreat to a neighboring estate, to seek shelter. This extra time away from his family, and hers gives them a chance to interact, and discuss matters. It also puts them in danger, since fraud, deceit, murder, and lies are all around them. The writing is very good. Mr . Darcy relaxes a bit at times, that brings out his charming side, and it also has a change in Elizabeth. Her sister Jane, and her Aunt, and Uncle are in the book. His military cousin, as well as several friends of Darcy we had not met as yet. The real villains in my opinion are Miss. Bingley , and a crazy schemer, who along with Bingley sister has her eyes set on Darcy. The book leads you on a merry Chase to find out the truth, and to save first Darcy, and then Lizzy. Aunt Catherine even gets involved. The length of the book was fine, since it revolved around Darcy, and Elizabeth as they banter, then snuggle. It is quite charming. I wish the author would go into the new clothing she, and Jane got in London. plus allowing someone else to choose her dress, did not seem like Lizzy. I did like the Epilogue. No graphic sex, or language. a long, and charming addition, to welcome to your Jane Austen. collection..4.75 stars.
May 15, 2018
Dark Mystery
At first, an interesting, if sometimes repetitive read. However, I found the Sandry history of greed, murder, abuse, mental illness and ultimate suicides, dark and disturbing. The evolution of D and E's romance was pleasant, but the very dark elements prompted my 3 star rating.
At first, an interesting, if sometimes repetitive read. However, I found the Sandry history of greed, murder, abuse, mental illness and ultimate suicides, dark and disturbing. The evolution of D and E's romance was pleasant, but the very dark elements prompted my 3 star rating.
May 17, 2018
A Delightful Story
This book is a wonderful story to read. I could not put it down. There is romance, mystery and mayhem. All of our usual characters are present, but there are also some delightful new ones as well as some reprehensible ones. I so look forward to reading the next books in this series, and I will be reading this one again and again.
This book is a wonderful story to read. I could not put it down. There is romance, mystery and mayhem. All of our usual characters are present, but there are also some delightful new ones as well as some reprehensible ones. I so look forward to reading the next books in this series, and I will be reading this one again and again.
May 20, 2018
A great story
By adding some very interesting characters, the plot takes a completely different turn putting our dear couple in the middle of a conspiracy. We meet new and entertaining friends of Darcy.
Entertaining and worthy tale.
By adding some very interesting characters, the plot takes a completely different turn putting our dear couple in the middle of a conspiracy. We meet new and entertaining friends of Darcy.
Entertaining and worthy tale.
June 4, 2023
Dark but good
A rather dark and seriously angst-filled variation inspired by author Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Paisley James. I liked it.
A rather dark and seriously angst-filled variation inspired by author Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Paisley James. I liked it.
May 12, 2018
One of the Best
I really enjoyed this book. All the characters, new and old were well drawn. The plot was interesting and a page Turner.
I really enjoyed this book. All the characters, new and old were well drawn. The plot was interesting and a page Turner.
September 3, 2018
The Pride and Prejudice variations range from awful to wow... this one is definitely on the wow side of the spectrum. The characters were fairly true to Austen although I did think Darcy was more my fantasy dream man than the rather repressed man in the original (not that I minded that at all!). It all begins with a proposal, a rejection, and a letter; but from there on, it changed including escaped fugitives, a murdered man in a forest, a night spent in a strange house near Rosings, a very odd brother and sister (new characters), and gunshots fired. Between mysteries and romance, there was a great deal of learning about who the real Darcy and Elizabeth were underneath their public facades. I'm looking forward to reading more from this author.
March 11, 2019
Far, far too long. The original plot idea is interesting but it’s dragged out so that it actually becomes boring. Should have ended following their escape & engagement, the additional Sandry plot was unnecessary. If the book ended earlier and was tightened up it would get a much higher rating.
Lizzy is a strange mix of shy/obedient and bold. Darcy is uncomfortably possessive at times. I didn’t enjoy Lord Paisley for the most part - he took up too big of a role, I feel like the author really wanted to make him the main character but was held back by P&P.
The book requires significant editing for spelling mistakes, missing words, modern terms, and strange phrasing choices.
Lizzy is a strange mix of shy/obedient and bold. Darcy is uncomfortably possessive at times. I didn’t enjoy Lord Paisley for the most part - he took up too big of a role, I feel like the author really wanted to make him the main character but was held back by P&P.
The book requires significant editing for spelling mistakes, missing words, modern terms, and strange phrasing choices.
October 23, 2018
Crazy but terrific! Love Lord Paisley!
January 4, 2022
Reread. 5/5 as always
April 21, 2020
Wow- This is a tough book to review. I'm not sure where to even begin. First of all, this book was so very long. Too long. I'm pretty certain is the longest P&P variation I have read. With a story this lengthy, there are lots of things to love and as many things not to love. The first third of the book was excellent. It was exciting, suspenseful and fast moving. Had the story wrapped up after these first series of events, it would have earned a 4 or even a 4.5 star review. As the story reached its climax and things appeared to be reaching a resolution, I couldn't help but wonder why I still had 60% of the book left to read. There were, of course, more facets to the story than we originally thought, but it took forever to get to those and to have them resolved.
I felt like the second third of the book was almost entirely unnecessary. While there were was some character development and witty dialogue, it was way too much and took entirely too long to get to any point. With that being said, one prominent original character, Lord Paisley (I'm presuming this is a nod to the author!) is absolutely delightful and I really enjoyed his character and love his relationship with Darcy. It's endearing to see these two men who appear so completely different to have so much in common underneath the surface. Lord Paisley even evoked audible laughter from me a time or two which is rare! I couldn't get enough of him and would love to get to know him better.
The last third of the book picked up again as the remainder of the "mystery" was unfolded and resolved. I still felt like it moved slower than I would have liked, but that could be due to the overall length of the story and the time I had invested in it. There were times I wondered if I would ever reach the end. I am glad I endured to the end because the story was really great, just needs to be significantly reduced in size.
I felt like the second third of the book was almost entirely unnecessary. While there were was some character development and witty dialogue, it was way too much and took entirely too long to get to any point. With that being said, one prominent original character, Lord Paisley (I'm presuming this is a nod to the author!) is absolutely delightful and I really enjoyed his character and love his relationship with Darcy. It's endearing to see these two men who appear so completely different to have so much in common underneath the surface. Lord Paisley even evoked audible laughter from me a time or two which is rare! I couldn't get enough of him and would love to get to know him better.
The last third of the book picked up again as the remainder of the "mystery" was unfolded and resolved. I still felt like it moved slower than I would have liked, but that could be due to the overall length of the story and the time I had invested in it. There were times I wondered if I would ever reach the end. I am glad I endured to the end because the story was really great, just needs to be significantly reduced in size.
July 11, 2018
Great story! I loved the characterization as well as the new characters introduced. I liked that the book was long and had lots of twists and turns, but like some other reviewers, I felt there could have been more pages dedicated the the Sandry family as that part was interesting and where the excitement was. Too many pages were spent on Darcy and Elizabeth pining for each other and saying "I love you." I love all that stuff and once of the reasons we love fan fic is so we can see the passion and action that Austen doesn't show us. This amount of talk about feelings was a bit much.
Still, I enjoyed the book and gobbled it up quickly. I may have to pull up the next one on fanfict so I don't have to wait for Amazon to release it.
One last point - there were alot of typos and incorrect words being used, such as "removing his rope" isntead of "robe," and also mistakes suck as Trevor Farley being called Mr. Trevor and Mr. Farley on the same page. I know e-books often have typos but a little more proof-reading woulds be beneficial.
Still, I enjoyed the book and gobbled it up quickly. I may have to pull up the next one on fanfict so I don't have to wait for Amazon to release it.
One last point - there were alot of typos and incorrect words being used, such as "removing his rope" isntead of "robe," and also mistakes suck as Trevor Farley being called Mr. Trevor and Mr. Farley on the same page. I know e-books often have typos but a little more proof-reading woulds be beneficial.
June 7, 2019
I couldn't even make it to 50%. I'm not entiterly sure what this author is doing, there is a complete story arc that finishes by the first third of this book, and while I tried to push on, I'm not exactly sure why I should bother. I can't help but feel that everything after this point is going to be nothing more than the characters kicking the ball ten yards further down the field in the hope lengthening the page limit by making pointless and ridiculous choices.
Also, the author pretty much lost me the second a bunch of rich dudes sat around in a room and decided that covering up five murders was fine to protect precious little Elizabeth. Which...what the fuck? Not only is the Elizabeth in this story annoying as fuck, and so on a personal level I didn't care if she was forced to marry Darcy to protect her reputation (and let me point out at this point in the story both of them were already in love with each other, so not seeing the big deal), but also I can't see Darcy, who has a streak of honor a mile wide, doing this. It was just very very bad writing.
1.5 stars
Also, the author pretty much lost me the second a bunch of rich dudes sat around in a room and decided that covering up five murders was fine to protect precious little Elizabeth. Which...what the fuck? Not only is the Elizabeth in this story annoying as fuck, and so on a personal level I didn't care if she was forced to marry Darcy to protect her reputation (and let me point out at this point in the story both of them were already in love with each other, so not seeing the big deal), but also I can't see Darcy, who has a streak of honor a mile wide, doing this. It was just very very bad writing.
1.5 stars
July 16, 2018
Long But Enjoyable
This story is basically 2 adventures in one book. The story is fast paced and rarely slows down. It tells the story of how Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy survive two dangerous situations. He protects her so fiercely, Elizabeth soon realizes the negative stories told to her by Mr Wickham, must be lies. Overall the story is well written but there are a few grammatical errors which were obviously missed by the proof readers. In addition some of the story can be a little too sweet at times, this is frequently seen in the second half of the story. Lines such as, “she looked at him lovingly,” are common in the second part of the story. I find that kind of remark to be too sappy. Despite this, I recommend this book to those familiar and new to the Pride and Prejudice story.
This story is basically 2 adventures in one book. The story is fast paced and rarely slows down. It tells the story of how Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy survive two dangerous situations. He protects her so fiercely, Elizabeth soon realizes the negative stories told to her by Mr Wickham, must be lies. Overall the story is well written but there are a few grammatical errors which were obviously missed by the proof readers. In addition some of the story can be a little too sweet at times, this is frequently seen in the second half of the story. Lines such as, “she looked at him lovingly,” are common in the second part of the story. I find that kind of remark to be too sappy. Despite this, I recommend this book to those familiar and new to the Pride and Prejudice story.
May 16, 2018
Well well well
I must say
We this variation was very entertaining
I was expecting it to be fantastical, But the book is so long and the pacing so well done ( there was a part at the end that I felt was a little rushed) that is wasn’t to hard to figure out what was going. Her extra characters were so rich that she didn’t have to put Elizabeth and Darcy in it for it to be entertaining. My only wish was that I could’ve heard more of paisley and who he was going to marry. But that is not for me too spoil. 😘
I must say
We this variation was very entertaining
I was expecting it to be fantastical, But the book is so long and the pacing so well done ( there was a part at the end that I felt was a little rushed) that is wasn’t to hard to figure out what was going. Her extra characters were so rich that she didn’t have to put Elizabeth and Darcy in it for it to be entertaining. My only wish was that I could’ve heard more of paisley and who he was going to marry. But that is not for me too spoil. 😘
May 4, 2019
I can't believe I read an entire novel that is Jane Austen fan fiction 😂
Having said that, this is enjoyable fluff. It started out somewhat true to Austen (the online version that I read begins from the morning after Darcy's tactless first proposal) but became more and more Judith McNaught in the end.
This is P&P with a mystery / detective twist, rather like Death Comes to Pemberley I imagine, but obviously the romance between Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennett is the main focus. It is fan fiction after all. Do not expect Sherlock Holmes stuff and you won't be disappointed.
Having said that, this is enjoyable fluff. It started out somewhat true to Austen (the online version that I read begins from the morning after Darcy's tactless first proposal) but became more and more Judith McNaught in the end.
This is P&P with a mystery / detective twist, rather like Death Comes to Pemberley I imagine, but obviously the romance between Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennett is the main focus. It is fan fiction after all. Do not expect Sherlock Holmes stuff and you won't be disappointed.
March 25, 2022
This book was interesting in its premise and well planned and plotted for the whole of the story, though there is an evolution for Elizabeth and Darcy that is under duress and so more expected as it gives them a way to understand one another. I did not appreciate the overly self-importance of Elizabeth rather than employing common sense when she is lauded as sensical, and that is not in defiance of someone who will wrong their family but from Darcy. However, stress can make someone's faults and virtues more pronounced.
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