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Bitterness of Spirit: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Author’s Note : This is the second edition of the book! For those who had already read it, this edition brings no significant changes.
"Bitterness of Spirit" tells the same beloved story—with new twists, new characters, and new situations—of Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet, two powerful characters struggling against pride and prejudice to reach their happily ever after.
On the path towards happiness, they overcome well-known obstacles, as well as new ones, face opponents in classic battles, and defeat others in unique ways.
Even more, an original character—seemingly lost to the world for nearly a lifetime—emerges from an obscure past to connect their lives and families in a way no one could imagine.Will Elizabeth and Darcy’s relationship disintegrate or evolve under such challenging circumstances?
"Bitterness of Spirit" is recommended for a general audience except for the last chapter, which is intended for mature readers. It may be omitted based on the reader’s preference.
"Bitterness of Spirit" tells the same beloved story—with new twists, new characters, and new situations—of Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet, two powerful characters struggling against pride and prejudice to reach their happily ever after.
On the path towards happiness, they overcome well-known obstacles, as well as new ones, face opponents in classic battles, and defeat others in unique ways.
Even more, an original character—seemingly lost to the world for nearly a lifetime—emerges from an obscure past to connect their lives and families in a way no one could imagine.Will Elizabeth and Darcy’s relationship disintegrate or evolve under such challenging circumstances?
"Bitterness of Spirit" is recommended for a general audience except for the last chapter, which is intended for mature readers. It may be omitted based on the reader’s preference.
- GenresRomanceHistorical
353 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 6, 2018
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100 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
May 29, 2024
Revenge is a dish best served cold. ~ Author Unknown
This is a story of a great wrong committed and a vengeance that was twenty-five years in the accomplishment.
We open with a scene between Mr. Darcy (the father of Fitzwilliam) and his friend from a lower sphere, Gilbert Wilson. The two young men developed a close bond as a result of Wilson having once saved Darcy’s life. Now Gilbert Wilson has been rejected by a young woman and must leave his home.
Years later, Gilbert Drake Wilson returns to England and re-enters the lives of his family. Time away from home has made Wilson rich (we do not learn the source of the wealth) and Wilson enters London society at its highest level. His sister is connected to the Bennets and the oldest Bennet sisters are invited to attend the season in town.
I hated him with a passion so deep, sometimes it felt like love. ~ Terri Guillemets
The story of Wilson’s return begins after Elizabeth’s rejection of Darcy’s proposal. It is inevitable our dear couple will meet in London, especially with Wilson’s connection with Darcy’s father.
I loved a scene with Wilson, Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam discussing Wickham. Wilson is not the sort of man to warn an enemy more than once.
Likewise, Wilson has a revenge planned for his former lover. Who is involved? What is the offense? What is the revenge?
I would have liked a little more background on Wilson – how did he become rich? What sort of life did he have? How did his spirit become so very bitter?
The story is well-written and edited. It is clean until the final chapter which could be skipped without missing any of the storyline.
Vengeance is mine, sayeth the Lord. ~ Romans 12:19
This is a story of a great wrong committed and a vengeance that was twenty-five years in the accomplishment.
We open with a scene between Mr. Darcy (the father of Fitzwilliam) and his friend from a lower sphere, Gilbert Wilson. The two young men developed a close bond as a result of Wilson having once saved Darcy’s life. Now Gilbert Wilson has been rejected by a young woman and must leave his home.
Years later, Gilbert Drake Wilson returns to England and re-enters the lives of his family. Time away from home has made Wilson rich (we do not learn the source of the wealth) and Wilson enters London society at its highest level. His sister is connected to the Bennets and the oldest Bennet sisters are invited to attend the season in town.
I hated him with a passion so deep, sometimes it felt like love. ~ Terri Guillemets
The story of Wilson’s return begins after Elizabeth’s rejection of Darcy’s proposal. It is inevitable our dear couple will meet in London, especially with Wilson’s connection with Darcy’s father.
I loved a scene with Wilson, Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam discussing Wickham. Wilson is not the sort of man to warn an enemy more than once.
Likewise, Wilson has a revenge planned for his former lover. Who is involved? What is the offense? What is the revenge?
I would have liked a little more background on Wilson – how did he become rich? What sort of life did he have? How did his spirit become so very bitter?
The story is well-written and edited. It is clean until the final chapter which could be skipped without missing any of the storyline.
Vengeance is mine, sayeth the Lord. ~ Romans 12:19
October 15, 2022
TBH, I skimmed most the first half. It was soo much like Canon.
When things started changing up at the halfway mark, that's when it got interesting.
I loved that the Bennets had a tough guy in their corner for a change. And boy he was a scrappy guy!
Every time his eyes narrowed I was like Ruh-roh!!!!
When things started changing up at the halfway mark, that's when it got interesting.
I loved that the Bennets had a tough guy in their corner for a change. And boy he was a scrappy guy!
Every time his eyes narrowed I was like Ruh-roh!!!!
October 14, 2018
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars
I liked this, but there are too many questions left unanswered about a major character for it to be completely satisfying. Not to worry, though--the Darcy and Elizabeth romance is nicely done and Ms. Lilian retains her crown as Queen of Mush. Angsty misunderstandings between Our Dear Couple eventually resolve and lead to lovely declarations of love, passionate embraces and the all-important Happily Ever After.
However, their story is strongly influenced by the sudden appearance of Mr. Wilson in their lives. The book's title clearly refers to him despite referencing Mr. Darcy's familiar words.
The son of a poor Pemberley tenant and closest friend of the late Mr. Darcy, Gilbert Wilson disappeared from Derbyshire 25 years ago. We learn that the bond between the two men was formed in their youth, but the details are fuzzy.
Their unlikely friendship started because Wilson saved Mr. Darcy's life when they were boys, but there's no specific explanation provided for the scar he shows Fitzwilliam Darcy to prove his identity.
Details of his life during the past 25 years remain a bit of a mystery. He spent "several years on the sea" -- in the navy? On merchant ships? He made enough money to buy a commission and served in the army under the Duke of York. He spent time in jail in India,"unfairly accused of betrayal." How/where/when did he acquire his gobs and gobs of money? It's hinted that at least some of Wilson's business has been less than legal. Considering how significant his character is, his life story remains frustratingly vague.
The author seems to lose track herself. Darcy says to Wilson, "You were in the army. I know that." Yet, just a few pages later in the same conversation, he reacts with apparent surprise: "Battles? You were in the army?"
I don't think giving people "a piece of my mind" was a thing in the Regency era!! The modern expression shows up twice here, which jarred me a bit both times I read it. Also, some readers dislike when a lot of passages are lifted directly from the original Pride and Prejudice in a variation. That is definitely the case here.
Despite the above, there's a lot going on to keep the reader's interest. Much of the action happens in London in a swirl of social activities from walking in Hyde Park to fancy balls. Elizabeth and Jane stay with the Gardiners, who receive a major surprise. Anne de Bough gets a nice complementing storyline. Mr. Bennet comes to Town with his other three daughters. (Though I'm not sure why Mrs. Bennet stays behind in Hertfordshire.) Interestingly, without Mrs. B's permissive influence, Mr. B. takes a firmer stance with Kitty and Lydia.
As I said at the onset, the central plot, as always, is the relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth, which proceeds with a few bumps along the way and lots of heat.
Good story. Could have been better.
I liked this, but there are too many questions left unanswered about a major character for it to be completely satisfying. Not to worry, though--the Darcy and Elizabeth romance is nicely done and Ms. Lilian retains her crown as Queen of Mush. Angsty misunderstandings between Our Dear Couple eventually resolve and lead to lovely declarations of love, passionate embraces and the all-important Happily Ever After.
However, their story is strongly influenced by the sudden appearance of Mr. Wilson in their lives. The book's title clearly refers to him despite referencing Mr. Darcy's familiar words.
The son of a poor Pemberley tenant and closest friend of the late Mr. Darcy, Gilbert Wilson disappeared from Derbyshire 25 years ago. We learn that the bond between the two men was formed in their youth, but the details are fuzzy.
Their unlikely friendship started because Wilson saved Mr. Darcy's life when they were boys, but there's no specific explanation provided for the scar he shows Fitzwilliam Darcy to prove his identity.
Details of his life during the past 25 years remain a bit of a mystery. He spent "several years on the sea" -- in the navy? On merchant ships? He made enough money to buy a commission and served in the army under the Duke of York. He spent time in jail in India,"unfairly accused of betrayal." How/where/when did he acquire his gobs and gobs of money? It's hinted that at least some of Wilson's business has been less than legal. Considering how significant his character is, his life story remains frustratingly vague.
The author seems to lose track herself. Darcy says to Wilson, "You were in the army. I know that." Yet, just a few pages later in the same conversation, he reacts with apparent surprise: "Battles? You were in the army?"
I don't think giving people "a piece of my mind" was a thing in the Regency era!! The modern expression shows up twice here, which jarred me a bit both times I read it. Also, some readers dislike when a lot of passages are lifted directly from the original Pride and Prejudice in a variation. That is definitely the case here.
Despite the above, there's a lot going on to keep the reader's interest. Much of the action happens in London in a swirl of social activities from walking in Hyde Park to fancy balls. Elizabeth and Jane stay with the Gardiners, who receive a major surprise. Anne de Bough gets a nice complementing storyline. Mr. Bennet comes to Town with his other three daughters. (Though I'm not sure why Mrs. Bennet stays behind in Hertfordshire.) Interestingly, without Mrs. B's permissive influence, Mr. B. takes a firmer stance with Kitty and Lydia.
As I said at the onset, the central plot, as always, is the relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth, which proceeds with a few bumps along the way and lots of heat.
Good story. Could have been better.
October 10, 2018
A gripping book. Although it was not what I would describe as an angsty read, it was tugging severely on my heart strings. Had me on the edge of my seat from start to finish.
Lilian manages to write a story with significant parts of the timeline and events of canon intact but it feels completely new and unique. New characters and added events made it a completely different read.
Enters with a prologue almost 20 years before canon with a conversation between Mr Darcy senior and his friend Wilson.
I believe that if an author adds to the original cast of PnP, they should make them count and Mr Wilson definitely met that criteria. His story was intriguing and interwoven with several of the original characters. He contributed with an element of mystery that I liked very much.
Other side characters from the original cast was also given more page-time. The Colonel and Anne had intriguing stories, along with their parents. Loved the twist to the Lydia/Wickham debacle as well.
What to say of ODC... Lilian is still the queen of mush but as it was concentrated in the last chapter, it is easily avoided for those who prefer a chaste read. It was exquisitely written though...
I liked that ODC seemed to read each other well after the disastrous Hunsford proposal but... It dragged on a little too long for my personal taste.
Recommend
Lilian manages to write a story with significant parts of the timeline and events of canon intact but it feels completely new and unique. New characters and added events made it a completely different read.
Enters with a prologue almost 20 years before canon with a conversation between Mr Darcy senior and his friend Wilson.
I believe that if an author adds to the original cast of PnP, they should make them count and Mr Wilson definitely met that criteria. His story was intriguing and interwoven with several of the original characters. He contributed with an element of mystery that I liked very much.
Other side characters from the original cast was also given more page-time. The Colonel and Anne had intriguing stories, along with their parents. Loved the twist to the Lydia/Wickham debacle as well.
What to say of ODC... Lilian is still the queen of mush but as it was concentrated in the last chapter, it is easily avoided for those who prefer a chaste read. It was exquisitely written though...
I liked that ODC seemed to read each other well after the disastrous Hunsford proposal but... It dragged on a little too long for my personal taste.
Recommend
October 13, 2018
The title, of course, refers to Darcy's angst after being "shot down" by Elizabeth so forcibly at Hunsford. We read his thoughts and how he sees a lonely life for the future.
Enter a stranger, a man who has been out-of-country for some twenty-five or so years and who has amassed a fortune. He is introduced with a flashback at the very beginning and I had my suspicions all along as to the source of his own heartbreak but that little excerpt is nothing when you read on and find out the entire history. Wow, intrigue galore here...soap opera material.
This man has a relation who is near and dear and related also to the Bennets and thus he has no problem becoming intimately involved in that family's life and fortunes. It is when he brings some of the Bennets to stay in his rented London mansion that Jane and Elizabeth meet Georgiana, Darcy and Bingley again. Darcy now has a "second chance" but he is also not without some words from this man who was his father's best friend. Darcy knows of this man and knows that he was held in highest regard by his father. Thus when this man reprimands Darcy, etc. it is taken to heart along with the words Elizabeth had already thrown at his head in Hunsford.
This man is not without his own connections and thus when he decides to throw his own ball and invites the Fitzwilliam side of Darcy's family also their initial refusal to attend a "tradesman's" ball is soon reversed as a duke and two countesses will be in attendance! S*** hits the fan...so to speak.
Yes, Elizabeth and Darcy have their moments of warming and seeming to be making progress but then also times when events and opinions seem to be in the way. But Mr. Wilson is quite a characters; one with very rigid opinions and a high temper which comes to bear on more than one occasion.
This author's "voice" is very evident in her telling of her story. It is not with a Regency cant. That took me a bit to find a way not to allow it to ruffle me. But this new character has a big part in this story and I enjoyed his handling of certain people from his past.
What did you say about Anne's eyes?
Enter a stranger, a man who has been out-of-country for some twenty-five or so years and who has amassed a fortune. He is introduced with a flashback at the very beginning and I had my suspicions all along as to the source of his own heartbreak but that little excerpt is nothing when you read on and find out the entire history. Wow, intrigue galore here...soap opera material.
This man has a relation who is near and dear and related also to the Bennets and thus he has no problem becoming intimately involved in that family's life and fortunes. It is when he brings some of the Bennets to stay in his rented London mansion that Jane and Elizabeth meet Georgiana, Darcy and Bingley again. Darcy now has a "second chance" but he is also not without some words from this man who was his father's best friend. Darcy knows of this man and knows that he was held in highest regard by his father. Thus when this man reprimands Darcy, etc. it is taken to heart along with the words Elizabeth had already thrown at his head in Hunsford.
This man is not without his own connections and thus when he decides to throw his own ball and invites the Fitzwilliam side of Darcy's family also their initial refusal to attend a "tradesman's" ball is soon reversed as a duke and two countesses will be in attendance! S*** hits the fan...so to speak.
Yes, Elizabeth and Darcy have their moments of warming and seeming to be making progress but then also times when events and opinions seem to be in the way. But Mr. Wilson is quite a characters; one with very rigid opinions and a high temper which comes to bear on more than one occasion.
This author's "voice" is very evident in her telling of her story. It is not with a Regency cant. That took me a bit to find a way not to allow it to ruffle me. But this new character has a big part in this story and I enjoyed his handling of certain people from his past.
What did you say about Anne's eyes?
September 16, 2024
I have now finished this. It felt a little long, and a little melodramatic, and left some unanswered questions about Mr. Wilson's past (why was he in jail? how did he make his money? why was he missing and out of contact with his family for so long? how did he become the duke's hero? The villains are reported to have been involved in some criminal business, the details of which are unclear.) In the end everything gets swept under the rug.
Steam level: some marital intimacy in the last chapter.
A TBR note written earlier:
I have enjoyed some Lory Lilian books but how are all of her blurbs so bland, generic and uninformative?
"tells the same beloved story—with new twists, new characters, and new situations—of Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet, two powerful characters struggling against pride and prejudice to reach their happily ever after. On the path towards happiness, they overcome well-known obstacles, as well as new ones, face opponents in classic battles, and defeat others in unique ways..."
This could be ANY Pride and prejudice variation. I have no idea what this book is about or if I have read it or not. Um... it's probably about Darcy and Lizzy, and they're going to argue before falling in love... then they will have to deal with some annoying people who may or may not be named George, Caroline, or Catherine. And there may be original characters but it's anyone's guess what function they serve.
This blurb sounds exactly like a book report by somebody who didn't read the book and couldn't be bothered to page through in order to get any specifics. "This is a great, moving story about all the interesting things that happened to the people that we read about."
Steam level: some marital intimacy in the last chapter.
A TBR note written earlier:
I have enjoyed some Lory Lilian books but how are all of her blurbs so bland, generic and uninformative?
"tells the same beloved story—with new twists, new characters, and new situations—of Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet, two powerful characters struggling against pride and prejudice to reach their happily ever after. On the path towards happiness, they overcome well-known obstacles, as well as new ones, face opponents in classic battles, and defeat others in unique ways..."
This could be ANY Pride and prejudice variation. I have no idea what this book is about or if I have read it or not. Um... it's probably about Darcy and Lizzy, and they're going to argue before falling in love... then they will have to deal with some annoying people who may or may not be named George, Caroline, or Catherine. And there may be original characters but it's anyone's guess what function they serve.
This blurb sounds exactly like a book report by somebody who didn't read the book and couldn't be bothered to page through in order to get any specifics. "This is a great, moving story about all the interesting things that happened to the people that we read about."
December 21, 2021
A more formal sounding story.
Excellent story. A VERY original plot. Just another excellent book from the author.
The speech cadence and the sound of propriety that most characters spoke with didn’t read like the author’s other books. It was as if she was trying to have the story sound more ‘Regency’ like. I like her old style better.
And the sex scene in the last chapter just seems silly. I would suggest going with no sex scenes or have them inter spaced in the story as in her first books. Perhaps show when they start and stop with an emoji showing a winking face, a line of dashes as the beginning and end or whatever.
The book is really very good. Lots of unexpected twists and turns. The scene where Darcy and the Colonel get read the riot act by someone because they hadn’t taken care of the ‘Wickham problem’ years before was priceless. I felt he spoke for me and many other readers.
I recommend the book highly.
After reading the book again I downgraded it to 4 stars because Darcy must jump through hoops to earn Lizzy’s love and she does nothing to earn his. To much hypocrisy from her.
Excellent story. A VERY original plot. Just another excellent book from the author.
The speech cadence and the sound of propriety that most characters spoke with didn’t read like the author’s other books. It was as if she was trying to have the story sound more ‘Regency’ like. I like her old style better.
And the sex scene in the last chapter just seems silly. I would suggest going with no sex scenes or have them inter spaced in the story as in her first books. Perhaps show when they start and stop with an emoji showing a winking face, a line of dashes as the beginning and end or whatever.
The book is really very good. Lots of unexpected twists and turns. The scene where Darcy and the Colonel get read the riot act by someone because they hadn’t taken care of the ‘Wickham problem’ years before was priceless. I felt he spoke for me and many other readers.
I recommend the book highly.
After reading the book again I downgraded it to 4 stars because Darcy must jump through hoops to earn Lizzy’s love and she does nothing to earn his. To much hypocrisy from her.
November 6, 2018
This was one of the myriad of abandoned books on my kindle. We have basic P&P with an added character and new twists. The mysterious Mr. Wilson will cause Mr. Darcy to reevaluate his pride in his family; and since he is Mrs. Gardiner's older brother ensure Lizzy and Darcy are never far from one another's thoughts.
If you are a Lady Catherine fan (seriously is there such a thing?) You may be unhappy with the pure evil she incarnates in this P&P what if but for everyone else it is a trip to the dark side of human nature.
Mostly clean, some violence a little mature content in the last chapter.
If you are a Lady Catherine fan (seriously is there such a thing?) You may be unhappy with the pure evil she incarnates in this P&P what if but for everyone else it is a trip to the dark side of human nature.
Mostly clean, some violence a little mature content in the last chapter.
November 4, 2022
This story follows canon till the Christmas of 1811. Then, a new character enters the picture who not just elevates the Bennets but also forms a bridge between Darcy and Elizabeth. I actually liked this character. He was honest, outspoken and brave to confront his and his family's offenders. The author uses this one character to add so much interesting dimension to the story.
October 9, 2018
I loved this book.
The story line pulls you in from the very first line. Unfortunately there are a few spelling mistakes and grammatical errors that weren’t picked up in editing, therefore loosing that fifth star.
Well worth reading just like Ms Lillian’s other books.
The story line pulls you in from the very first line. Unfortunately there are a few spelling mistakes and grammatical errors that weren’t picked up in editing, therefore loosing that fifth star.
Well worth reading just like Ms Lillian’s other books.
October 11, 2018
I loved it but I knew I would. I only wish it went on and on!
October 14, 2018
As I reflect on the experience of reading this book, I can say I really enjoyed it. But it has taken me an unusually long time to get through... I think the reason for this is that much of the first half... or maybe third.... follows Pride and Prejudice quite closely with lots of quotes used in a very similar way. However we have the addition of Mr Drake Wilson to mix things up a bit.... he's a mysterious one and I was interested to see what he was about! As his tale unfolds he made a great addition to the story, although so much about him remained a mystery and I was a bit frustrated by this.
The story between Darcy and Elizabeth is brilliant. The Huntsford proposal is terrible and Elizabeth's response is fierce! As time was going by I was wondering how these two would ever sort out the muddle they made of things... it was really nice to see their relationship changing and growing and how over time they become completely comfortable with each other.
Anne de Bourgh and the colonel are great in this book... as is Bingley... just adorable! We don't see much of Mrs Bennet and I felt it was quite unlikely she'd have been happy to stay at home with the things going on... I also wasn't completely satisfied with the Lydia/Wickham situation. There is some sexual content in the final chapter but if not to taste you can miss this chapter out and lose nothing from the overall story.
I enjoyed this but it's not my favourite from this author... a few too many loose ends for me with regards to other characters, but the relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth is just brilliant.
The story between Darcy and Elizabeth is brilliant. The Huntsford proposal is terrible and Elizabeth's response is fierce! As time was going by I was wondering how these two would ever sort out the muddle they made of things... it was really nice to see their relationship changing and growing and how over time they become completely comfortable with each other.
Anne de Bourgh and the colonel are great in this book... as is Bingley... just adorable! We don't see much of Mrs Bennet and I felt it was quite unlikely she'd have been happy to stay at home with the things going on... I also wasn't completely satisfied with the Lydia/Wickham situation. There is some sexual content in the final chapter but if not to taste you can miss this chapter out and lose nothing from the overall story.
I enjoyed this but it's not my favourite from this author... a few too many loose ends for me with regards to other characters, but the relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth is just brilliant.
October 25, 2018
This Pride and Prejudice variation brings in a new character that creates an interesting foil to the usual players. Mrs Gardnier's brother/George Darcy's best friend, Mr Wilson returns home after being away for 25 years. He is able to hold up a mirror to each person's flaws and bring his own story as well. The actual story itself starts at the Christmas season after the Netherfield Ball.
The author is very good at bringing the reader to feel the absolute devastation of Darcy as he fails at his attentions to Elizabeth. Elizabeth's pining for Darcy after she realizes her feelings for him are almost to much but make her torture equal to his. After many surprise revelations, their are happily ever afters all around.
The angst level is very high and the romance level was clean until the last chapter which was rather mature. No issues for me, but just FYI.
The author is very good at bringing the reader to feel the absolute devastation of Darcy as he fails at his attentions to Elizabeth. Elizabeth's pining for Darcy after she realizes her feelings for him are almost to much but make her torture equal to his. After many surprise revelations, their are happily ever afters all around.
The angst level is very high and the romance level was clean until the last chapter which was rather mature. No issues for me, but just FYI.
October 12, 2018
A mysterious connection
What if there was a connection, mysterious and virtually unknown, between the Darcys and the Bennets that forges a path between the two families? Could one individual smooth the rocky road to love between Darcy and his Elizabeth or would this emergence tear their tentative relationship apart when his secret is unmasked? Heaped in romance, angst, and treachery, this adult variation veers from canon just beyond the failed Hunsford proposal and inserts an original character that possesses means and motives to alter many lives and the families that created our dearest couple. Well written with nary a discernable error. Good job to the author and her admirable assistants.
What if there was a connection, mysterious and virtually unknown, between the Darcys and the Bennets that forges a path between the two families? Could one individual smooth the rocky road to love between Darcy and his Elizabeth or would this emergence tear their tentative relationship apart when his secret is unmasked? Heaped in romance, angst, and treachery, this adult variation veers from canon just beyond the failed Hunsford proposal and inserts an original character that possesses means and motives to alter many lives and the families that created our dearest couple. Well written with nary a discernable error. Good job to the author and her admirable assistants.
October 29, 2019
Reviewed at http://austendiaries.blogspot.com/
Title and Author: Bitterness of Spirit
Type: Pride and Prejudice Variation
Perspective: Elizabeth and Darcy
Romance Level: Steamy (Chapter 28 is a pretty detailed marriage night)
Recommended: yes, 4 stars without chapter 28
Summary: In this P&P variation, Mrs. Gardiners long lost brother returns to England, having made his fortune abroad. He arrives just after Bingley leaves Netherfield, but the story continues close to the cannon until just after the Hunsford proposal. Elizabeth returns to London to the Gardiners, only to find they have been displaced from their home and are staying one street over from Darcy. Running into each other at the park, their extended families become acquainted and the couple is able to slowly get to know each other. Mr Wilson, the long lost uncle, adds his own drama that causes the couple confusion too.
Things I Liked:
* Elizabeth's family gets a lot more respect in this version. Darcy's family is pretty awful, so it makes hers look good.
* Colonel Fitzwilliam gets his own happy ending in this one.
* This version features more of Anne and I like the friendship she develops with Elizabeth.
Things I Didn't Like:
* The marriage night part was over the top for me. I don't need details on this part.
* Wickham is out of the story pretty early on, but doesn't really get dealt with well.
* Darcy's family is over the top awful. I never liked Lady Catherine, but she has no redeeming qualities here.
Title and Author: Bitterness of Spirit
Type: Pride and Prejudice Variation
Perspective: Elizabeth and Darcy
Romance Level: Steamy (Chapter 28 is a pretty detailed marriage night)
Recommended: yes, 4 stars without chapter 28
Summary: In this P&P variation, Mrs. Gardiners long lost brother returns to England, having made his fortune abroad. He arrives just after Bingley leaves Netherfield, but the story continues close to the cannon until just after the Hunsford proposal. Elizabeth returns to London to the Gardiners, only to find they have been displaced from their home and are staying one street over from Darcy. Running into each other at the park, their extended families become acquainted and the couple is able to slowly get to know each other. Mr Wilson, the long lost uncle, adds his own drama that causes the couple confusion too.
Things I Liked:
* Elizabeth's family gets a lot more respect in this version. Darcy's family is pretty awful, so it makes hers look good.
* Colonel Fitzwilliam gets his own happy ending in this one.
* This version features more of Anne and I like the friendship she develops with Elizabeth.
Things I Didn't Like:
* The marriage night part was over the top for me. I don't need details on this part.
* Wickham is out of the story pretty early on, but doesn't really get dealt with well.
* Darcy's family is over the top awful. I never liked Lady Catherine, but she has no redeeming qualities here.
December 10, 2018
Well written and only a little different
I enjoy books by this author. She writes well and has some good ideas for variations. However, early in this book I was getting a little annoyed that so much of the text was right out of P & P, with only the new character of Mr. Wilson thrown in to change it up. Nevertheless, I liked Mr. Wilson and considered him a facilitator for the romantic relationships, and an instrument whereby the bad guys get their comeuppance. It was rather satisfying to have someone in the story to come down hard on the villains, when all the regular characters have too much tact and propriety, and not enough backbone to do it. Wilson is ruthless, almost to a manic degree, about defending those he cares for.
Fortunately, the second half of the book takes a definite turn towards a true variation. Certain characters we always thought we knew turn out to be less than honest and honorable. The plot was interesting and well considered. It kept my attention fixed to the end. There was a certain amount of editing mistakes, but that seems to be unavoidable in these JAFF works. The editing here was better than some.
I enjoy books by this author. She writes well and has some good ideas for variations. However, early in this book I was getting a little annoyed that so much of the text was right out of P & P, with only the new character of Mr. Wilson thrown in to change it up. Nevertheless, I liked Mr. Wilson and considered him a facilitator for the romantic relationships, and an instrument whereby the bad guys get their comeuppance. It was rather satisfying to have someone in the story to come down hard on the villains, when all the regular characters have too much tact and propriety, and not enough backbone to do it. Wilson is ruthless, almost to a manic degree, about defending those he cares for.
Fortunately, the second half of the book takes a definite turn towards a true variation. Certain characters we always thought we knew turn out to be less than honest and honorable. The plot was interesting and well considered. It kept my attention fixed to the end. There was a certain amount of editing mistakes, but that seems to be unavoidable in these JAFF works. The editing here was better than some.
November 20, 2018
Very Good Story
This is a longer story, about 363 pages, but it is well told and the author keeps it moving at a reasonable pace. About the time it is beginning to become tedious, she injects the next action and you are re-engaged. The romance is good and grows between Darcy and Elizabeth despite the numerous misunderstandings and wrong assumptions. Mr Wilson, a non-canon character, adds much mystery and intrigue which helps drive the story along. I liked it a lot and think you will, too.
This is a longer story, about 363 pages, but it is well told and the author keeps it moving at a reasonable pace. About the time it is beginning to become tedious, she injects the next action and you are re-engaged. The romance is good and grows between Darcy and Elizabeth despite the numerous misunderstandings and wrong assumptions. Mr Wilson, a non-canon character, adds much mystery and intrigue which helps drive the story along. I liked it a lot and think you will, too.
August 2, 2019
A rollicking good yarn
Thoroughly enjoyed this book, best read in a long while. I have read 10 of Lory Lillian's books and I think this is one of her best!
The way Mr. Drake Wilson was introduced into the story was believable and cleverly done.
I guessed very early on in the tale who the villain of the piece was, but that in no way impinged on my enjoyment of the story.
I also liked the slow burn of D and E 's relationship and the lead up to their HEA
I would recommend this book 100%
Thoroughly enjoyed this book, best read in a long while. I have read 10 of Lory Lillian's books and I think this is one of her best!
The way Mr. Drake Wilson was introduced into the story was believable and cleverly done.
I guessed very early on in the tale who the villain of the piece was, but that in no way impinged on my enjoyment of the story.
I also liked the slow burn of D and E 's relationship and the lead up to their HEA
I would recommend this book 100%
November 12, 2020
Good story, well written
The author is a good writer, using 18th century type dialogue but easily readable. A couple of good/not so good things:
I enjoyed the story - no crazy plots.
The author dropped a potential storyline when Lizzy meets with Anne and notices a small brown bottle. I wish she pursued it.
Mrs Bennet does not come to London with her family, which I thought strange, and there’s no explanation.
I enjoyed the new character and didn’t think he overtook the story.
I love stories with a epilogue. This one has one.
All in all, a very enjoyable book.
The author is a good writer, using 18th century type dialogue but easily readable. A couple of good/not so good things:
I enjoyed the story - no crazy plots.
The author dropped a potential storyline when Lizzy meets with Anne and notices a small brown bottle. I wish she pursued it.
Mrs Bennet does not come to London with her family, which I thought strange, and there’s no explanation.
I enjoyed the new character and didn’t think he overtook the story.
I love stories with a epilogue. This one has one.
All in all, a very enjoyable book.
November 14, 2018
A Good Story
In this Pride & Prejudice variation, a wealthy relative (in-law) appears and takes Elizabeth & her family to London for the season. This give Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam the opportunity to get to know each other after his disastrous proposal in Kent. The interesting addition of this wealthy in-law adds a new dimension to the story and allows us to see the main couple (Elizabeth & Fitzwilliam) in new situations. It’s a nice story.
In this Pride & Prejudice variation, a wealthy relative (in-law) appears and takes Elizabeth & her family to London for the season. This give Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam the opportunity to get to know each other after his disastrous proposal in Kent. The interesting addition of this wealthy in-law adds a new dimension to the story and allows us to see the main couple (Elizabeth & Fitzwilliam) in new situations. It’s a nice story.
February 24, 2019
I loved this book! I have several books written by this author, and have enjoyed them all. In this tale, Darcy is shot down at Huntsford and returns to London to lick his wounds. But he meets Elizabeth there, and also a mysterious link to his past. The story takes on a mystery to be solved. Which was very entertaining and fun to read. And, after Darcy is humbled, we can fall in love with him again. Great read!
January 30, 2020
OC took over the book
Did not finish. The Gary Stue, aka Mr Wilson took over the entire story. He directed, pushed, prodded things along so much, by the time I had read 50% of the book, i wanted to smack him to death. It was like watching a male Mary Poppins taking over the family, solving every misunderstandings and ensuring happily ever after. I am surprised that most people liked this book. I can only give 2 star rating.
Did not finish. The Gary Stue, aka Mr Wilson took over the entire story. He directed, pushed, prodded things along so much, by the time I had read 50% of the book, i wanted to smack him to death. It was like watching a male Mary Poppins taking over the family, solving every misunderstandings and ensuring happily ever after. I am surprised that most people liked this book. I can only give 2 star rating.
November 8, 2018
Avid Reader
What an awesome story.! I love 💘j the character Gilbert Wilson, a friend of Mr. George Darcy who mysteriously left Pemberly for 25 years. When he speaks, he lets people have it. He takes no prisoners. Mr. Wilson is Mrs. Gardenier 's long-lost brother. He shakes things up.
What an awesome story.! I love 💘j the character Gilbert Wilson, a friend of Mr. George Darcy who mysteriously left Pemberly for 25 years. When he speaks, he lets people have it. He takes no prisoners. Mr. Wilson is Mrs. Gardenier 's long-lost brother. He shakes things up.
February 19, 2019
Not much variety in this variation. Much of the first part is so similar to the original that I questioned why I was reading it. The original character didn't make things significantly interesting until I was already 75% in, and even that crisis was resolved without much fanfare. Not a bad read, but not very worthwhile either.
February 26, 2019
Slow start but story builds
The beginning of this story (after the prelude) was a bit boring and too close to the original, a lot of exact text from the original. However, as the story began to really bring in the interactions with the new character, the story began to change into its own variation and I really enjoyed it.
The beginning of this story (after the prelude) was a bit boring and too close to the original, a lot of exact text from the original. However, as the story began to really bring in the interactions with the new character, the story began to change into its own variation and I really enjoyed it.
July 17, 2020
What a treasure to read!
What a treasure to read! I wish there were more stories about Gilbert Wilson. His introduction into the story added a new intriguing slant. The story is generous in page count, so you get more of the details! One of the best JAFF variations I have read! Of course, Lizzy and Darcy get their happily ever after, which is a MUST!
What a treasure to read! I wish there were more stories about Gilbert Wilson. His introduction into the story added a new intriguing slant. The story is generous in page count, so you get more of the details! One of the best JAFF variations I have read! Of course, Lizzy and Darcy get their happily ever after, which is a MUST!
September 19, 2021
Mr. Wilson
As if Lady Catherine couldn’t be any worse, she toys with poor Mr Wilson’s affection for her then tries to have him killed after her fathers Anne and she’s engaged to Lewis deBourgh. Shameful behavior even for her. I like this debased version of Lady Catherine - something different. What I didn’t like? Lydia, Mrs Bennet and the tired old Jane & Bingley.
As if Lady Catherine couldn’t be any worse, she toys with poor Mr Wilson’s affection for her then tries to have him killed after her fathers Anne and she’s engaged to Lewis deBourgh. Shameful behavior even for her. I like this debased version of Lady Catherine - something different. What I didn’t like? Lydia, Mrs Bennet and the tired old Jane & Bingley.
October 12, 2018
So this book took entirely to long to read as I couldn't get into it that much. However, I got invested when all the drama with Mr. Wilson happened about 70% into the book. This novel is not my favorite out of Lory Lilian's but it is worth a read.
October 20, 2018
Last chapter ruined a good read
I really enjoyed this variation but was thoroughly disgusted with the last chapter. It was unnecessary and did not follow how the rest of the book was written. I would have given it a 5.
I really enjoyed this variation but was thoroughly disgusted with the last chapter. It was unnecessary and did not follow how the rest of the book was written. I would have given it a 5.
November 30, 2018
Good adaptation
I enjoyed this story. There are a handful off details that stretch the imagination thus the deduction of one star. Overall though it's a solid work. Happy to have read it.
I enjoyed this story. There are a handful off details that stretch the imagination thus the deduction of one star. Overall though it's a solid work. Happy to have read it.
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