Pledged: A Pride and Prejudice Variation

by Rose Fairbanks

Alternate cover edition of ASIN B07F5ZRTBL


She was everything he ever wanted… if only she was not his best friend’s sister.As any honourable gentleman knows, a friend’s sister is untouchable. It is a code that Fitzwilliam Darcy has never had an issue with until now. However, Elizabeth Bennet might be enticing enough to risk not only disinheritance from his father and the displeasure of his entire family but also the loss of his best friend’s trust.

To Elizabeth, her brother’s friend, Will, is as pompous as the day is long. However, he is also enigmatic, and soon, she finds herself drawn to his complexities. Unexpectedly, she falls hard and fast for this young heir of a vast estate, but at sixteen, she has never been in London society before and is new to all its deceptions and games. Will she be able to decipher who to trust or will her heart pay the ultimate price?

Pledged is the first volume in Rose Fairbanks’ newest novella series, Loving Elizabeth. If you are a busy reader who likes stories of young lovers sprinkled with family drama and intrigue, this JAFF series is for you. Buy or download your copy today!

Genres: Novella

97 pages, ebook

Published July 5, 2018

About the author

Rose Fairbanks believes in grace, redemption, and the enduring power of love rooted in faith. Drawn to the elegance and charm of the Regency era, she writes stories where ballroom whispers and country walks are just the beginning. After a deep renewal of her walk with God, she felt called to infuse her historical romances with the truth of the Gospel. Each novel shares the timeless message of God’s love, set against the backdrop of a world filled with duty, honor, and second chances. Through every page, she invites readers to discover the greatest love story ever told.

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Reviews

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is WAY off-canon. It's always interesting when an author gives the Bennet sisters a brother to break the entail on Longbourn. Sam Bennet is among a group of friends along with Darcy, Bingley, Colonel Fitzwilliam, and Wickham, though none of them trust Wickham around their sisters.

All their fathers are still alive, and it's annoying as hell to see the elder Mr. Darcy's stubborn refusal to see through Wickham's lies. He attributes Darcy's warnings about his godson to jealousy over his outgoing, charming personality.

Although the young men have known each other for years, none of Sam's friends have met his sisters until now. Sam is making it clear that the men are to protect his sisters and that flirting or toying with them is strictly off-limits. Elizabeth accidentally overhears part of
the discussion among them. After Sam describes Elizabeth to the others, Darcy lets him know he's not impressed and is certain she must be a plain-looking bluestocking.

The Bennet family is a little different here beyond the existence of a son to keep the family in Longbourn. Sam, Jane and Elizabeth are the offspring from Mr. Bennet's first marriage, while Mary, Kitty and Lydia are daughters of the current Mrs. Bennet.

But Sam has a curious quote: "...now that the entail is broken, I hope Mama can feel some relief." Why would she have been concerned, when the heir was already part of the family before she married Mr. Bennet? Note: This is explained better in the sequel, Reunited. On Sam's 21st birthday, which he just celebrated, he legally could and did sign papers that keep Longbourn in the Bennet line rather than going to Mr. Collins.

Darcy and his father are openly at odds over Wickham. Once Darcy realizes his own attraction to Elizabeth, both physically and intellectually, he also gets ready to disregard the breeding-oriented qualities that his father demands that he consider in a wife.

Along with these plot points, another storyline emerges with the introduction of a slimy new character, Lord Harcourt. He's cut from the same mold as Wickham--a gambler and a rake--except he's a wealthy member of London's high society.

This is a wonderful beginning to a series of books, so the end does not resolve all the storylines. Characters are well drawn, and the writing flows nicely. I look forward to reading the continuation.

I received this as an ARC from the author with no promise of a review, favorable or otherwise.

[Sheila Majczan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This very short story is the first of three. And I have to add that if the next two are as interesting and tantalizing as the first I am sure the series will rate 5 stars from me.

I read this as a WIP Rose posted on her blog and then was one of those fortunate enough to get one of the free copies in a "first come, first serve" offering from Rose.

As the story description relates this story involves four young men in their early 20s who are as we now read meeting the sisters of each other. Elizabeth is only 16 years old so that helps you date Fitzwilliam Darcy, Charles Bingley, Captain Richard Fitzwilliam and then know that Sam Bennet is a school mate to these so you know his age is comparable.

They are agreed about the "hands off" policy concerning sisters. However, as they all meet up as one group in Darcy's townhouse, Charles is immediately drawn to Jane. On the other hand Will just must have his insult about the description given of Elizabeth which is overheard by her as she had neared the library in which the men were talking. However in this variation he does apologize much earlier as he finds the magnetic attraction is so great between himself and Elizabeth that he cannot turn away. In fact we read of touches, kisses and, frankly, crossing the line with proprieties very early in their relationship. (No, they don't anticipate any vows.)

Elizabeth is not sure what to think as another man, a Lord Harcourt, has cast his lecherous eyes upon her and even touched her in a creepy manner. Will has stepped in to protect her but the danger is not over.

Several fathers are still in the picture and Will's father has made it known what his expectations are as far as a marriage partner for his son.

I am looking forward to the rest of the story. I found this to be delightful. But it is one you want to finish reading a.s.a.p.

[wosedwew · Rating 4 out of 5]

We gave each other a pledge. ~ Motel and Tzeitel from “Fiddler on the Roof”

If you read many of my reviews, you already know I love quotes.

I am very sorry to say – almost ashamed of the human species to say – that most of the quotes I found about promises made were about promises broken. A sad commentary, indeed!

So, who better for my opening quote than the pledge from that other story about five daughters who need to marry well? Motel and Tzeitel made their pledge, convinced her Father, and saw their marriage through to its happy ending even though the story ends in despair and then hope.

Losers make promises they often break. Winners make commitments they always keep. ~ Denis Waitley

This is a sweet little story about the first meeting of a very young Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet. They annoy each other initially but then plunge headlong into love. Their story is complicated by Elizabeth’s brother (yes, there is a Bennet son) who seems protective but seems to have complications of his own.

Can Darcy and Elizabeth follow Motel and Tzeitel? Can they hold fast to their pledge?

My only problem with the story? It is the first of three parts ending not with a cliffhanger but with loose threads unraveling from every piece of available cloth. We must wait for two more short books to find the rest of the story. Rose Fairbanks is a prolific writer. I hope the next two novellas follow quickly. I also hope the author eventually issues a composite book containing all three parts.

But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep...
~ Robert Frost

[Joan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Avid Reader

I really loved this book! If course I am wondering what happened during the five years that Darcy and Elizabeth were separated. Whatever happened must have been bad. Hopefully, the two couples can reconcile!

[Anna]

Pledged is the first book in Rose Fairbanks’ Loving Elizabeth trilogy of novellas, and it is a delightful reimagining of Pride and Prejudice that greatly deviates from canon. Here, the Longbourn entail has been broken, as the Bennet sisters have an older brother, Samuel. He is in London with his father and sisters Jane and Elizabeth prior to his departure for a summer in Ireland with his school friends, Fitzwilliam Darcy and Charles Bingley. Elizabeth is just 16, but despite her youth, the 22-year-old future master of Pemberley is entranced. She can hold intelligent conversations, is not silly like Bingley’s sisters — but she is his friend’s sister, and one does not look toward a friend’s sister in a romantic fashion.

There’s a lot going on here for such a short book, and Fairbanks does a great job setting the stage for the next installments. Not only is there a growing attraction between Will and Elizabeth, there also is increasing tension between Will and his father over George Wickham. Meanwhile, Will is worried that Sam is involved with the wrong sorts of people, namely Lord Harcourt, whose attention to Elizabeth seems less than honorable.

Pledged ends with an important declaration, but most of the storylines will be resolved in the later installments. It’s a solid start to the trilogy, with a unique take on Austen’s beloved hero and heroine, intriguing original characters, and plenty of suspense regarding Wickham’s next move and Sam’s shady dealings. I only hope the next installments come out soon because I’m dying to know what happens next!

Review also posted on Diary of an Eccentric

[Les · Rating 3 out of 5]

Disclaimer: Had I written my review immediately upon finishing this book my rating might be higher but instead I started the second book and having ruminated on the story over night I am less inclined to be exuberant about it. Also I am not a fan of time shifting P&P stories to make the characters some what younger.

This book just jumps into it with a younger Darcy, Bingley and a new character Sam Bennet gabbing at Darcy's town house. All three man have living fathers who are also in attendance. Additional guests include Jane & Lizzy Bennet, Louisa & Caroline Bingley and Georgiana Darcy & her governess.

Darcy still manages to insult 16 year old Lizzy and many secrets are revealed. Honestly I found a lot of characters behavior simply bizarre. I doubt that Lizzy at 16 and in a town house in London would be the same as 20 year Lizzy in Meryton. I really doubt that Caroline Bingley at 17 would and still living with her tradesman father would be as dismissive of Lizzy the Gentleman's daughter nor that Mr. Bingley Sr. would allow her to get away with it in company at Mr. Darcy's home. Nor do I believe that the Bingleys would have spent sufficient time with the Darcys to fawn over Georgiana. Nor do I believe her father would have allowed her to throw herself at Darcy. Lastly Darcy Sr, isn't just blind to Wickham's faults he is willfully dismissive of anyone who questions his relationship and support. Had he been this blind to people's flaws Pemberley would have crumbled around him. There appears to be a secret organization at Pemberley lead my Mrs. Reynolds to deal with Wickham's mess. So How is Darcy SR not aware of this?? And lastly, probably, I just can't stand self effacing Lizzy. In canon while Lizzy might make comments to Charlotte about not wanting to perform in public and does try to put off Lady Catherine when she requests that Lizzy play she doesn't go around endlessly putting herself down. So why in variations is she constantly disparaging her looks, her height, her figure, her hobbies, her behavior like Caroline Bingley writes her inner dialogues?

This is a very short story, 78 pages, and covers a very short period of time. The men and boys are planning to leave for a summer trip to Scotland, so why were the girls there at all? Honestly; except that maybe no one would read it, they add nothing to the plot except to create faux tension and angst. Book 2 proves this

This is probably skippable.

[Elin Eriksen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved it!

My favourite premises with ODC meeting five years younger than canon, through Elizabeth's brother. The senior Mr Darcy was alive and present, George Wickham showed his true colours and so did Caroline Bingley.

This is the first part of a three book serie. Love series as there are comfort in knowing there is more to be had and I definitely want more...

My favourite part though, was the sizzling kisses. Oh my goodness, there was some exquisitely written kisses!

Summary
The Bennet's are staying at Darcy house as the young gentlemen are planning a night at the theatre before going on an extended holiday.
Elizabeth has an older brother who are friends with Darcy, Bingley and the "colonel". His two oldest sisters are accompanying him to meet his friends for the first time and sparks fly in more than one direction...
Add the Bingley sisters, the fathers, Wickham, Georgiana and the notorious rake in Lord Harcourt, I was thoroughly entertained.

Heartily recommend this book !

[Michelle David · Rating 4 out of 5]

poignant

A very poignant yet enjoyable emotional variation inspired by author Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Rose Fairbanks.

[Gail Frisby · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nice

I enjoyed Darcy and Lizzy in this story, miss Bingley and the other Bingleys are the same. Liked the idea of alk three families being friendly!

[Teresita · Rating 5 out of 5]

Young love!

I loved these impulsive and very young Darcy and Elizabeth. An interesting start to the series even if it seems everything is almost resolved.
Sweet and romantic.

[Sammie · Rating 2 out of 5]

I might have rated this higher if I had not read the second and third book before this. The beginning was interesting. It was refreshing to read about so many new characters despite knowing of their eventual demise. Reading on towards the end though brought so many more questions that I knew would never be answered. Questions like why were they all at Darcy House anyway? Why were Mr. Bennet, Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley friends and if so why would Mr. Darcy think of and treat Elizabeth, his friend's daughter, so poorly? Why would Lady Fitzwilliam prefer Caroline over Elizabeth and why would Caroline have the gumption to be so rude about the Bennett's tradesman relations with her own father present? There were too many holes patched over with the drama of their 'forbidden romance' and struggles with Wickham and Harcourt. It would be much more enjoyable to simply skip this book and start with the second if you read this series.

[Lisa · Rating 1 out of 5]

Kind of ridiculous

I thought there would be more to the plot. It continues in the next book. I'm not sure I care enough to read it, if I've already nought it. If,I may wait to see if it becomes free.
I'd liked the idea of Elizabeth having a brother. I thought the idea of s stepmother was interesting as well.
But, its so bland.
I can't remember if I've read any other books by this author. If not,I hope other of her books are better.
I can't honestly say I would recommend this.

[Susan · Rating 3 out of 5]

A P&Pvariation where the Bennets have a son, Sam, who is friends with Darcy, Bingley, Fitzwilliam and Wickham, and all their fathers are still alive. They are all staying at the Darcy House in London, with their sisters (at this stage Elizabeth is only 16). All are honoured bound to not get involved with the others sisters. But Darcy and Elizabeth feel an attraction.
An enjoyable variation, the story continues in Book 2

[Mere · Rating 4 out of 5]

With ‘Pledged’ being just over a 100 pages, and the first in the series. I found myself highly enjoying the read.

To see a younger Elizabeth and Darcy having their verbal battles and misunderstandings with each other. To understanding and falling in love with each other.

I can’t wait for book two.

[M · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

1/3 of a series. I liked the early meeting, the story could stand alone to an extent, but lots of questions raised; about other characters, about everyone’s backstory and friendships, and, of course, how Darcy and Lizzy’s story would be resolved. Drawn in and wanted to read the rest immediately (luckily book 2 also on KU).

[Michelle Hassett · Rating 4 out of 5]

(Novella) Lizzy is the sister of Darcy's best friend, Sam. Mary, Kitty, and Lydia are half sisters (Mrs. Bennet is her step-mom) Lizzy and Darcy have an understanding before he leaves for a trip aborad with the men