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Drawing Mr. Darcy #1
Drawing Mr. Darcy: Sketching His Character
Fitzwilliam Darcy has long wished to meet his sister’s friend, Miss Russell. He doesn't know that he already has.When Thomas Bennet's childless aunt and uncle ask that one of his five daughters come to live with them, he knows which girl to send. Bright, energetic, and endlessly inquisitive, his little Lizzy is poised to become the apple of her father’s eye and the target of her mother’s fears. Neither will promote family harmony.Years later, Elizabeth Bennet Russell returns to Longbourn having had an unconventional upbringing. She is in possession of an important name, a good fortune, and an artist's eye. When her parents ask her not to use her Russell surname while she is home, she reluctantly agrees. After all, nobody she knows will meet her in Hertfordshire.She’s mostly right.Drawing helps Elizabeth to literally sketch people’s character, and she’s become rather good at it. But she’s about to face her greatest challenge yet. Netherfield Park is let at last, and her good friend's much older brother--whom she has yet to meet--has arrived as a guest. It will take Elizabeth more than a drawing to help her understand the confounding Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy.This is full-length novel at just over 86,000 words.
264 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 14, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
December 17, 2018
5+ stars!!
Oh, such delectable irony! By the time this story gets to the Meryton assembly, this author has her readers salivating in anticipation of the inevitable meeting between Elizabeth and Darcy.
The book actually begins with Elizabeth at age 10. She is the daughter chosen to go and live with Mr. Bennet's childless aunt Olivia and her husband Phillip Russell. They adopt her, and she becomes Elizabeth Russell.
The Russells are quite wealthy, even bailing out Longbourn financially after Olivia's brother mismanaged it and the current Mr. Bennet became its master. Elizabeth is a favorite of an influential Russell connection: Phillip's cousin (and best friend) is the Duke of Bedford (unbeknownst to Mrs. Bennet). The Russells also are close friends of Darcy's parents, so Elizabeth gets to know Georgiana very well. However, their visits are always when Darcy is away at school (largely because her aunt and uncle don't want young George Wickham anywhere near her, and he and Darcy attend school together). As a result, Darcy and Elizabeth know OF each other, but they've never met.
The Meryton assembly happens when Elizabeth, at age 20, is visiting Longbourn for the first time since she went to live with the Russells. No one except her and Mr. Bennet know of her wealth or the extent of the Russells' connections, and it's assumed she and her sisters only have meager dowries. She is simply one of the Bennet girls to her neighbors though, of course, they know she hasn't lived with them in years. Elizabeth has corresponded regularly with Jane, with whom she's remained close, and she enjoys being reunited with all her sisters but, having spent so many years observing the respectful, loving marriage between Olivia and Phillip, she finds her parents' relationship perplexing. She fights her sense that her mother, who is distant and merely civil with her, had been glad to get rid of her 10 years earlier. She also has some resentment toward her father, who never invited her back to Longbourn or visited her after having treated her like a favorite when she was a child. Definite abandonment issues. Heavy stuff.
However, the meat of this story is the misconception on the part of the entire Netherfield party that the Bennets--and particularly Elizabeth--are SO far beneath them. The Bingley sisters' snobbishness is even more ridiculous when seen in this context. Interestingly, Louisa is much worse than Caroline in this imagining. And Darcy, introduced to Elizabeth BENNET, is unaware that she is actually his sister's beloved friend Elizabeth Russell.
Awesome premise. Elizabeth finds Darcy confusing, while he teeters back and forth between his attraction for her and his belief that his duty to his family name requires him to marry advantageously. Having had the benefit of the best teachers, Elizabeth is an accomplished sketch artist and keeps staring at the sketch portraits she's made of his different expressions, trying to understand this complicated man. His haughty behavior doesn't synch up with what she's heard of him from the Russells and Georgiana. Once she starts to fall for him, she decides it's important that he marry her for herself rather than HER money or connections, so she allows him to continue in his misconceptions. Love the romantic tension that builds between these two.
The writing is as good as the plot, flowing nicely with shifts in the point of view. Although it's the first of a two-book series, it does NOT end on a cliffhanger and could be read as a stand-alone--but you'll want to go on. (I've read it. Another 5+star book, IMO.) Content is clean.
Highly recommend!!
Oh, such delectable irony! By the time this story gets to the Meryton assembly, this author has her readers salivating in anticipation of the inevitable meeting between Elizabeth and Darcy.
The book actually begins with Elizabeth at age 10. She is the daughter chosen to go and live with Mr. Bennet's childless aunt Olivia and her husband Phillip Russell. They adopt her, and she becomes Elizabeth Russell.
The Russells are quite wealthy, even bailing out Longbourn financially after Olivia's brother mismanaged it and the current Mr. Bennet became its master. Elizabeth is a favorite of an influential Russell connection: Phillip's cousin (and best friend) is the Duke of Bedford (unbeknownst to Mrs. Bennet). The Russells also are close friends of Darcy's parents, so Elizabeth gets to know Georgiana very well. However, their visits are always when Darcy is away at school (largely because her aunt and uncle don't want young George Wickham anywhere near her, and he and Darcy attend school together). As a result, Darcy and Elizabeth know OF each other, but they've never met.
The Meryton assembly happens when Elizabeth, at age 20, is visiting Longbourn for the first time since she went to live with the Russells. No one except her and Mr. Bennet know of her wealth or the extent of the Russells' connections, and it's assumed she and her sisters only have meager dowries. She is simply one of the Bennet girls to her neighbors though, of course, they know she hasn't lived with them in years. Elizabeth has corresponded regularly with Jane, with whom she's remained close, and she enjoys being reunited with all her sisters but, having spent so many years observing the respectful, loving marriage between Olivia and Phillip, she finds her parents' relationship perplexing. She fights her sense that her mother, who is distant and merely civil with her, had been glad to get rid of her 10 years earlier. She also has some resentment toward her father, who never invited her back to Longbourn or visited her after having treated her like a favorite when she was a child. Definite abandonment issues. Heavy stuff.
However, the meat of this story is the misconception on the part of the entire Netherfield party that the Bennets--and particularly Elizabeth--are SO far beneath them. The Bingley sisters' snobbishness is even more ridiculous when seen in this context. Interestingly, Louisa is much worse than Caroline in this imagining. And Darcy, introduced to Elizabeth BENNET, is unaware that she is actually his sister's beloved friend Elizabeth Russell.
Awesome premise. Elizabeth finds Darcy confusing, while he teeters back and forth between his attraction for her and his belief that his duty to his family name requires him to marry advantageously. Having had the benefit of the best teachers, Elizabeth is an accomplished sketch artist and keeps staring at the sketch portraits she's made of his different expressions, trying to understand this complicated man. His haughty behavior doesn't synch up with what she's heard of him from the Russells and Georgiana. Once she starts to fall for him, she decides it's important that he marry her for herself rather than HER money or connections, so she allows him to continue in his misconceptions. Love the romantic tension that builds between these two.
The writing is as good as the plot, flowing nicely with shifts in the point of view. Although it's the first of a two-book series, it does NOT end on a cliffhanger and could be read as a stand-alone--but you'll want to go on. (I've read it. Another 5+star book, IMO.) Content is clean.
Highly recommend!!
April 1, 2025
Art, like morality, consists in drawing the line somewhere. ~ G.K. Chesterton
What do Fanny Price and Frank Churchill have in common? That’s right – they are sent from their childhood homes and raised by wealthier relatives.
In this story, Elizabeth Bennet joins them in being adopted into a different family.
Mr. Bennet’s Aunt and Uncle Russell have been financially helpful to Mr. Bennet in the past when Longbourn was in dire straits. This loving older couple is childless and has always felt that loss. They offer to take one of the Bennet daughters into their home. The Bennets don’t want to give up a child but they understand the other couple’s needs and the obligation they have.
So, if they allow one child to go to the Russells, which child should it be?
Not shy Jane – she would be lost to leave home at twelve. The youngest girls are very young – much too young. That leaves the bold second daughter – the one with the questions and activity that upset her Mother and enchant her Father. Ten-year-old Elizabeth will move to Weymouth House in Derbyshire.
Lying in bed would be an altogether perfect and supreme experience if only one had a colored pencil long enough to draw on the ceiling. ~ G.K. Chesterton
When she walks into the entry hall of her new home, Elizabeth is fascinated with the painting on the ceiling. Her Great-Aunt begins drawing and painting lessons.
Elizabeth’s sisters are not left out. The Russells add to their meagre dowries and send a governess to Longbourn to see to their education. The entire family changes.
Every portrait that is painted with feeling is a portrait of the artist, not of the sitter. ~ Oscar Wilde
At twenty, Elizabeth returns to visit the Bennets after an absence of more than ten years. Her parents ask her to use the name “Bennet” rather than “Russell” during her several months at Longbourn.
Netherfield Park is let at last! The Bennet family meets Darcy, the Bingleys and the Hursts at the Meryton Assembly.
Elizabeth is insulted by Darcy but is also curious about him. She begins sketching – his haughty face at the Assembly; his surprised and lustful face when he met her during a walk; his smiling face when they debated at Netherfield. Her sketches tell their story.
Miss Bingley is her usual shrewish self. Mrs. Hurst is at her very worst. Mr. Hurst is a bit of a spy. Mr. Bingley has a bit of a backbone. Then … “not-yet-a-Colonel” Fitzwilliam arrives.
This is a strong, confident Elizabeth. Loved her as a ten-year-old! As an adult, she knows who she is and she takes nothing from the Superior Sisters. Loved her when she confronted Mrs. Hurst! Loved her even more when she met with Miss Bingley!
The book is clean, well-written and proofread. It is the first of a two-part story and ends at a good point for Elizabeth but many questions are unanswered. Happily, the second part will be published very soon. I have put in my pre-order already.
Artists are just children who refuse to put down their crayons. ~ Al Hirschfeld
What do Fanny Price and Frank Churchill have in common? That’s right – they are sent from their childhood homes and raised by wealthier relatives.
In this story, Elizabeth Bennet joins them in being adopted into a different family.
Mr. Bennet’s Aunt and Uncle Russell have been financially helpful to Mr. Bennet in the past when Longbourn was in dire straits. This loving older couple is childless and has always felt that loss. They offer to take one of the Bennet daughters into their home. The Bennets don’t want to give up a child but they understand the other couple’s needs and the obligation they have.
So, if they allow one child to go to the Russells, which child should it be?
Not shy Jane – she would be lost to leave home at twelve. The youngest girls are very young – much too young. That leaves the bold second daughter – the one with the questions and activity that upset her Mother and enchant her Father. Ten-year-old Elizabeth will move to Weymouth House in Derbyshire.
Lying in bed would be an altogether perfect and supreme experience if only one had a colored pencil long enough to draw on the ceiling. ~ G.K. Chesterton
When she walks into the entry hall of her new home, Elizabeth is fascinated with the painting on the ceiling. Her Great-Aunt begins drawing and painting lessons.
Elizabeth’s sisters are not left out. The Russells add to their meagre dowries and send a governess to Longbourn to see to their education. The entire family changes.
Every portrait that is painted with feeling is a portrait of the artist, not of the sitter. ~ Oscar Wilde
At twenty, Elizabeth returns to visit the Bennets after an absence of more than ten years. Her parents ask her to use the name “Bennet” rather than “Russell” during her several months at Longbourn.
Netherfield Park is let at last! The Bennet family meets Darcy, the Bingleys and the Hursts at the Meryton Assembly.
Elizabeth is insulted by Darcy but is also curious about him. She begins sketching – his haughty face at the Assembly; his surprised and lustful face when he met her during a walk; his smiling face when they debated at Netherfield. Her sketches tell their story.
Miss Bingley is her usual shrewish self. Mrs. Hurst is at her very worst. Mr. Hurst is a bit of a spy. Mr. Bingley has a bit of a backbone. Then … “not-yet-a-Colonel” Fitzwilliam arrives.
This is a strong, confident Elizabeth. Loved her as a ten-year-old! As an adult, she knows who she is and she takes nothing from the Superior Sisters. Loved her when she confronted Mrs. Hurst! Loved her even more when she met with Miss Bingley!
The book is clean, well-written and proofread. It is the first of a two-part story and ends at a good point for Elizabeth but many questions are unanswered. Happily, the second part will be published very soon. I have put in my pre-order already.
Artists are just children who refuse to put down their crayons. ~ Al Hirschfeld
January 17, 2022
Lizzy spends 10 years growing with relatives
Very enjoyable book. Well written, engaging, lots of new story elements.
If possible you read this without spoilers...it’s that good.
Darcy is still a dunderhead but in his defense he wants to do the right thing(s) for Georgiana.
This Lizzy is very interesting in this story. Her time growing up is fun to read about.
I recommend this book highly.
Very enjoyable book. Well written, engaging, lots of new story elements.
If possible you read this without spoilers...it’s that good.
Darcy is still a dunderhead but in his defense he wants to do the right thing(s) for Georgiana.
This Lizzy is very interesting in this story. Her time growing up is fun to read about.
I recommend this book highly.
November 17, 2018
Avid Reader
It has been some time since I have read a book that held me spellbound from beginning to end. Elizabeth is amazing, She manages everyone around her with ease, and Jane is no slouch either. The relationship that Elizabeth has with Georgina saved her from Mr. Wickham. Her Uncle Russell gets through Mr. Darcy 's blindness concerning Wickham. He is left nothing in the will. If course, Mr. Collins shows up in the end. Why her mother thinks Elizabeth would want to marry such a man is a puzzle. Obviously, she doesn't know about the doweries.
It has been some time since I have read a book that held me spellbound from beginning to end. Elizabeth is amazing, She manages everyone around her with ease, and Jane is no slouch either. The relationship that Elizabeth has with Georgina saved her from Mr. Wickham. Her Uncle Russell gets through Mr. Darcy 's blindness concerning Wickham. He is left nothing in the will. If course, Mr. Collins shows up in the end. Why her mother thinks Elizabeth would want to marry such a man is a puzzle. Obviously, she doesn't know about the doweries.
April 18, 2020
My Rating: 5++++
Exquisite!
You know when you read a book and you say to yourself: "Why didn't I read this sooner?" But I sometimes think, when this happens, I was meant to read this book at the time I did...not any sooner, nor any later. That is the case for this story. I needed this book now, during this home isolation period, to bring me such joy and delight. For that pretty well sums up my feelings for it.
The book description gives you a good idea what this variation will be about. But the content, the feelings, the beautifully written story itself are so much more. There are delightful depictions of Elizabeth as a child with her Aunt and Uncle that gave me such contentment.
"Lizzy was a lively sprite. She had a sense of adventure and a glib tongue to match Olivia's, not to mention wit that begged for the more formal education his aunt promised."
The level of detail and research were perfectly matched without being heavy. Being able to 'see' Elizabeth's thoughts as she assists her Aunt and Uncle with their investments showed a wonderful love and respect between them. And being with them, gave her the education and potential for so much more.
"It was breathtaking. Something inside her stirred to life." (quote from the book)
There is so much more within this story that I would love to talk about. But, for me, experiencing it on one's own is so much more enjoyable. Yes, this story is in two separate books. But in order to give the reader a 'complete picture', I feel it needed to be. Mind you, I love long sagas, so I wouldn't have complained if it was all in one book, but it isn't.
Needless, to say, I highly recommend this exquisite story.
Now I am off to read "Drawing Mr. Darcy: A Faithful Portrait (Book Two).
Exquisite!
You know when you read a book and you say to yourself: "Why didn't I read this sooner?" But I sometimes think, when this happens, I was meant to read this book at the time I did...not any sooner, nor any later. That is the case for this story. I needed this book now, during this home isolation period, to bring me such joy and delight. For that pretty well sums up my feelings for it.
The book description gives you a good idea what this variation will be about. But the content, the feelings, the beautifully written story itself are so much more. There are delightful depictions of Elizabeth as a child with her Aunt and Uncle that gave me such contentment.
"Lizzy was a lively sprite. She had a sense of adventure and a glib tongue to match Olivia's, not to mention wit that begged for the more formal education his aunt promised."
The level of detail and research were perfectly matched without being heavy. Being able to 'see' Elizabeth's thoughts as she assists her Aunt and Uncle with their investments showed a wonderful love and respect between them. And being with them, gave her the education and potential for so much more.
"It was breathtaking. Something inside her stirred to life." (quote from the book)
There is so much more within this story that I would love to talk about. But, for me, experiencing it on one's own is so much more enjoyable. Yes, this story is in two separate books. But in order to give the reader a 'complete picture', I feel it needed to be. Mind you, I love long sagas, so I wouldn't have complained if it was all in one book, but it isn't.
Needless, to say, I highly recommend this exquisite story.
Now I am off to read "Drawing Mr. Darcy: A Faithful Portrait (Book Two).
December 31, 2018
A wonderfully written,addictive and surprisingly different perspective on our beloved P and P,one which I highly recommend.
Can't wait to read book two!!
Can't wait to read book two!!
November 17, 2018
A very enjoyable book
This was a thoroughly enjoyable read. The essence of the story is that Elizabeth is set away to live with an older, much richer aunt and uncle when she is ten. Her life is changed greatly by this down to her name as she is known as Elizabe5h Bennet Russel. When she is older she goes back to stay with her Bennet family for several months and is asked to go by Elizabeth Bennet. This sets the story up for some of the happenings from Pride and Prejudice. I am now impatiently waiting for the next book to continue the story.
This was a thoroughly enjoyable read. The essence of the story is that Elizabeth is set away to live with an older, much richer aunt and uncle when she is ten. Her life is changed greatly by this down to her name as she is known as Elizabe5h Bennet Russel. When she is older she goes back to stay with her Bennet family for several months and is asked to go by Elizabeth Bennet. This sets the story up for some of the happenings from Pride and Prejudice. I am now impatiently waiting for the next book to continue the story.
November 28, 2018
If I had to describe this book with one word, it would be elegant. It had a sophistication to it, that made it a delightful read. Written with warmth and intellect, highly recommend this book by one of the most talented authors I have come across.
Enters ten years before canon with the ten year old Elizabeth who was the chosen daughter to be sent off North, to some very wealthy but childless relatives. I love these premises with Elizabeth of elevated rank, especially when done in this plausible manner.
To give a summary is hard though as it is difficult without risking spoiling your read. I will not attempt it but will only add that although a lot of the framework was still intact, it was all new material and that I loved the development of ODC's relationship and their interactions.
The book had depth, thoughtfulness and was beautifully written. I urge you to read it!
Enters ten years before canon with the ten year old Elizabeth who was the chosen daughter to be sent off North, to some very wealthy but childless relatives. I love these premises with Elizabeth of elevated rank, especially when done in this plausible manner.
To give a summary is hard though as it is difficult without risking spoiling your read. I will not attempt it but will only add that although a lot of the framework was still intact, it was all new material and that I loved the development of ODC's relationship and their interactions.
The book had depth, thoughtfulness and was beautifully written. I urge you to read it!
February 16, 2025
This is one of my favorites of this genre. There are moments that make me tear up and other just smile. The dialogue between the characters is perfect. Jane & Elizabeth's relationship is flawless. Darcy is curmudgeonly and dashing at the same time - perhaps his cravat IS too tight.
This has become one of my go-to read again and again books.
This has become one of my go-to read again and again books.
July 16, 2022
Completely Engaging
Reviewed in Canada on February 16, 2019
I loved this book and can’t wait to start book 2. The storyline is off canon for sure, which I don’t mind at all, because no book will ever match the original, so bring on the non-canon variations as long as the story is well written. The dialogue is wonderful. This will definitely be on my favorites list.
Reviewed in Canada on February 16, 2019
I loved this book and can’t wait to start book 2. The storyline is off canon for sure, which I don’t mind at all, because no book will ever match the original, so bring on the non-canon variations as long as the story is well written. The dialogue is wonderful. This will definitely be on my favorites list.
May 14, 2025
Status: Read April 23-30, 2025 via kindle edition & audible edition of Drawing Mr. Darcy: A Pride & Prejudice Duology (Drawing Mr. Darcy, #1-2)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Edition Read:
Drawing Mr. Darcy: Sketching His Character (Drawing Mr. Darcy, #1)
by Melanie Rachel
Kindle Edition, 264 pages
Published November 14, 2018 by Melanie Rachel (first published November 9, 2018)
ASIN: B07JQLHF21
[ kindle unlimited ]
When Thomas Bennet's childless aunt and uncle ask that one of his five daughters come to stay with them, he knows just which girl to send. Bright, energetic, and endlessly inquisitive, his little Lizzy is poised to become the apple of her father's eye and the target of her mother's fears. Neither will promote family harmony.
When she returns to Longbourn as a young woman, Elizabeth Bennet Russell has had an unconventional upbringing. She is in possession of an important name, a fine education, a good fortune, and a love of drawing. When her parents ask her not to use her Russell surname while she is home, she reluctantly agrees. After all, nobody she knows will meet her in Hertfordshire.
She's mostly right.
Drawing helps Elizabeth to literally sketch people's character, and she's become rather good at it. But she's about to face her greatest challenge yet. Netherfield Park is let at last, and her good friend's much older brother--whom she has yet to meet--has arrived as a guest.
It will take Elizabeth more than a drawing to help her understand Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Edition Read:
Drawing Mr. Darcy: Sketching His Character (Drawing Mr. Darcy, #1)
by Melanie Rachel
Kindle Edition, 264 pages
Published November 14, 2018 by Melanie Rachel (first published November 9, 2018)
ASIN: B07JQLHF21
[ kindle unlimited ]
When Thomas Bennet's childless aunt and uncle ask that one of his five daughters come to stay with them, he knows just which girl to send. Bright, energetic, and endlessly inquisitive, his little Lizzy is poised to become the apple of her father's eye and the target of her mother's fears. Neither will promote family harmony.
When she returns to Longbourn as a young woman, Elizabeth Bennet Russell has had an unconventional upbringing. She is in possession of an important name, a fine education, a good fortune, and a love of drawing. When her parents ask her not to use her Russell surname while she is home, she reluctantly agrees. After all, nobody she knows will meet her in Hertfordshire.
She's mostly right.
Drawing helps Elizabeth to literally sketch people's character, and she's become rather good at it. But she's about to face her greatest challenge yet. Netherfield Park is let at last, and her good friend's much older brother--whom she has yet to meet--has arrived as a guest.
It will take Elizabeth more than a drawing to help her understand Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy.
April 12, 2023
This book was fantastic. Off to read part 2.
July 31, 2019
I enjoyed reading this as much the second time as the first. I didn't have time to post a review the first time due to how busy the holiday season was for me and determined that I must reread it in order to have facts clear in my mind. Believe me, it was a pleasure both times.
Elizabeth at age ten is sent to live with her father's childless Aunt Olivia and Uncle Phillip Russell. They have not only helped Mr. Bennet over some financial difficulties which save the estate but have also set up dowries for the daughters as well as put in place a governess. But during the next ten years invitations to visit are turned down by Mr. Bennet. So Elizabeth, while benefiting from an excellent education overseen by both her "adoptive" parents, has only letters to keep her in any type of closeness with her immediate family members. She now goes by the name of Elizabeth Bennet Russell.
Her education is not by any means a "normal" education as her uncle has gifted her with investments and guided her in how to invest further monies. Her aunt is diligent in correcting any tendency on Elizabeth's part to favor one subject or activity over others necessary to round out her character. Practicing on the pianoforte is demanded, attending school away from home, thinking and listening before acting are all part of what she has experienced or learned.
During these ten years she has become best friends with Georgiana Darcy as her father and Elizabeth's uncle are good friends. Georgiana's older brother is never there when they visit at Pemberley as he is away at school. But he knows of her and is indebted to her when she learns of Wickham's "courting" of Georgiana at Ramsgate and notifies Darcy to take action.
When Uncle Phillip dies and her aunt decides to move to London for a time, Elizabeth is to stay with her family and get to know them all over again. Mrs. Bennet demands that she use the name with which she was born. So when Bingley leases Netherfield and brings Darcy along they meet the Bennet sisters. Darcy is the Darcy we know in canon in that he looks down on the assembly and insults Elizabeth with his "tolerable but not handsome enough to tempt me" insult when urged to dance with her by Bingley.
This story then gives us a Darcy with all his opinions about class and connections and suitability but in this variation he comes to realize and profess his love sooner. Even then his friend and his cousin and her sisters all proclaim they could see the couple was not only best suited for each other but also showed signs of being in love.
The story does include Mr. Collins...more a bumbling fool than ever.
The story ends as Elizabeth is part of the discussion as to what her future role will be...if they marry.
Elizabeth at age ten is sent to live with her father's childless Aunt Olivia and Uncle Phillip Russell. They have not only helped Mr. Bennet over some financial difficulties which save the estate but have also set up dowries for the daughters as well as put in place a governess. But during the next ten years invitations to visit are turned down by Mr. Bennet. So Elizabeth, while benefiting from an excellent education overseen by both her "adoptive" parents, has only letters to keep her in any type of closeness with her immediate family members. She now goes by the name of Elizabeth Bennet Russell.
Her education is not by any means a "normal" education as her uncle has gifted her with investments and guided her in how to invest further monies. Her aunt is diligent in correcting any tendency on Elizabeth's part to favor one subject or activity over others necessary to round out her character. Practicing on the pianoforte is demanded, attending school away from home, thinking and listening before acting are all part of what she has experienced or learned.
During these ten years she has become best friends with Georgiana Darcy as her father and Elizabeth's uncle are good friends. Georgiana's older brother is never there when they visit at Pemberley as he is away at school. But he knows of her and is indebted to her when she learns of Wickham's "courting" of Georgiana at Ramsgate and notifies Darcy to take action.
When Uncle Phillip dies and her aunt decides to move to London for a time, Elizabeth is to stay with her family and get to know them all over again. Mrs. Bennet demands that she use the name with which she was born. So when Bingley leases Netherfield and brings Darcy along they meet the Bennet sisters. Darcy is the Darcy we know in canon in that he looks down on the assembly and insults Elizabeth with his "tolerable but not handsome enough to tempt me" insult when urged to dance with her by Bingley.
This story then gives us a Darcy with all his opinions about class and connections and suitability but in this variation he comes to realize and profess his love sooner. Even then his friend and his cousin and her sisters all proclaim they could see the couple was not only best suited for each other but also showed signs of being in love.
The story does include Mr. Collins...more a bumbling fool than ever.
The story ends as Elizabeth is part of the discussion as to what her future role will be...if they marry.
March 19, 2019
Lovely story
I felt bad for Lizzy in the beginning but I loved the way her life is going so far. She got her sisters back and her love life is heading in the right direction up to now. Can't wait to read the second book of this story!
I felt bad for Lizzy in the beginning but I loved the way her life is going so far. She got her sisters back and her love life is heading in the right direction up to now. Can't wait to read the second book of this story!
July 27, 2019
It seems a bit artificial to review this book without its companion second volume, because the two seem inseparable (this one literally ends in the middle of a scene). Still, that's what technology dictates, and what technology dictates, I for one am not woman enough to fight.
This first book of Drawing Mr. Darcy is a period variation on Pride and Prejudice (for those of you who haven't guessed) that takes the story on a different path even before it begins. The year is 1801, a decade before the opening of the original. Mr. Bennet lives at Longbourn with his wife and five young daughters, but the estate he inherits is in terrible condition and he is struggling. An aunt of his, who has married an offshoot of the Duke of Bedford's family, comes to his rescue but at a terrible price: he must give up one of his daughters to the childless couple. And the daughter chosen for the sacrifice is Elizabeth. (Quick note here: I am usually not a fan of using real peers and their families in novels, but the author handled this well. I don't think the Russells would terribly mind.)
So Elizabeth, starting at age ten, is raised in northern England by an eccentric couple who are eager to foster her talents. She gets an extensive and unusual education at their hands, tempered by a year at a London finishing school, and then returns for a visit to Longbourn just when the original story is about to begin. Of course, the family's different life experiences have turned them into somewhat different characters, so all the patterns of the original book shift. For the most part I found these changes reasonable, though I missed the original's wit and the point of view--two of the hardest things for today's writers to reproduce in their homages to the Goddess of the Drawing Room. This book has many charms, however, along with some fresh wit of its own (I particularly enjoyed what was done molding the unpromising clay of Mr. Hurst) and I liked the new characters and this more worldly and competent version of Elizabeth Bennet.
The research behind the story was quite good so I wasn't troubled by many of the boners that abound in Austenesque fiction--though two of my pet peeves were in evidence, the eye roll and "huff" used as a verb. The forty or so eye rolls were enough to knock a star off my rating. But over all I am liking the different complexities and dilemmas Melanie Rachel has brought to the novel by the simple twist of making Elizabeth less of a country ingenue. Forging on into the second book.
This first book of Drawing Mr. Darcy is a period variation on Pride and Prejudice (for those of you who haven't guessed) that takes the story on a different path even before it begins. The year is 1801, a decade before the opening of the original. Mr. Bennet lives at Longbourn with his wife and five young daughters, but the estate he inherits is in terrible condition and he is struggling. An aunt of his, who has married an offshoot of the Duke of Bedford's family, comes to his rescue but at a terrible price: he must give up one of his daughters to the childless couple. And the daughter chosen for the sacrifice is Elizabeth. (Quick note here: I am usually not a fan of using real peers and their families in novels, but the author handled this well. I don't think the Russells would terribly mind.)
So Elizabeth, starting at age ten, is raised in northern England by an eccentric couple who are eager to foster her talents. She gets an extensive and unusual education at their hands, tempered by a year at a London finishing school, and then returns for a visit to Longbourn just when the original story is about to begin. Of course, the family's different life experiences have turned them into somewhat different characters, so all the patterns of the original book shift. For the most part I found these changes reasonable, though I missed the original's wit and the point of view--two of the hardest things for today's writers to reproduce in their homages to the Goddess of the Drawing Room. This book has many charms, however, along with some fresh wit of its own (I particularly enjoyed what was done molding the unpromising clay of Mr. Hurst) and I liked the new characters and this more worldly and competent version of Elizabeth Bennet.
The research behind the story was quite good so I wasn't troubled by many of the boners that abound in Austenesque fiction--though two of my pet peeves were in evidence, the eye roll and "huff" used as a verb. The forty or so eye rolls were enough to knock a star off my rating. But over all I am liking the different complexities and dilemmas Melanie Rachel has brought to the novel by the simple twist of making Elizabeth less of a country ingenue. Forging on into the second book.
May 7, 2019
Warning to those who did not read the details about this book: It's not a complete novel, it's the first half of the story. Though it ends in a good place, the story arc is incomplete and the reader won't feel full satiation without reading the second half. The two books are very pricey considering this, more so than other serial books I've read and complained about the price. That's why it took me so long to get to them. I was waiting for a sale, which didn't happen.
The writing is superb. Few Regency flaws, excellent editing, well-told story with a low level of angst, yet there's good conflict throughout. A good third of the story is back-story but it's so well done, there will be no boredom here. The pacing is excellent. This author has grown into her craft and shows no beginner errors such as other authors can even after a successful first book. It's a comfortable read and one of those books that you constantly want to get back to rather than read at a sedate pace.
Although I've made every effort to write a fair and unbiased review, I could be considered as having a conflict of interest since not only am I also a JAFF author, but I consider the author a friend through the Chat Chits.
The writing is superb. Few Regency flaws, excellent editing, well-told story with a low level of angst, yet there's good conflict throughout. A good third of the story is back-story but it's so well done, there will be no boredom here. The pacing is excellent. This author has grown into her craft and shows no beginner errors such as other authors can even after a successful first book. It's a comfortable read and one of those books that you constantly want to get back to rather than read at a sedate pace.
Although I've made every effort to write a fair and unbiased review, I could be considered as having a conflict of interest since not only am I also a JAFF author, but I consider the author a friend through the Chat Chits.
February 22, 2022
I cannot recommend this book highly enough. Everything about this, the writing, the unique plot, the character development, the new characters....is just perfection. This book has languished in my TBR for far too long, it deserved so much more respect. Looking over the books Melanie Rachel's I've read so far, it has struck me that all of them are so completely different from each other. She hasn't repeated herself. That's impressive. I've truly enjoyed each and every story.
December 27, 2019
Charming variation of Elizabeth Bennet's life inspired by intriguing childhood arrangements adding unique perspectives. Loved the author's insights and storytelling.
August 8, 2022
Love this set, by one of my favorite authors.
In the first book, we learn of Elizabeth's life. Being "chosen" to live with her aunt and uncle and having the upbringing full of love, warmth, creativity and respect she never would have received in Longbourn to her 2 biological parents.
She is encouraged to learn, ask questions and consequently grows to trust the 2 adults in her life who are the best parents she could have asked for.
As a family, they travel, meet new people, experience the arts and music. Elizabeth is also introduced to one of their closest friends- Mr. George Darcy and his young daughter. They become the closest of friends (but never visiting Pemberley when Darcy and Wickham are around).
This book closes at changes in Elizabeth's life and her return to Hertfordshire. Just in time for the Netherfield party to arrive.
In the first book, we learn of Elizabeth's life. Being "chosen" to live with her aunt and uncle and having the upbringing full of love, warmth, creativity and respect she never would have received in Longbourn to her 2 biological parents.
She is encouraged to learn, ask questions and consequently grows to trust the 2 adults in her life who are the best parents she could have asked for.
As a family, they travel, meet new people, experience the arts and music. Elizabeth is also introduced to one of their closest friends- Mr. George Darcy and his young daughter. They become the closest of friends (but never visiting Pemberley when Darcy and Wickham are around).
This book closes at changes in Elizabeth's life and her return to Hertfordshire. Just in time for the Netherfield party to arrive.
April 18, 2020
Elizabeth is too perfect to be real. And that's boring.
August 6, 2023
Really, really enjoyed this variation so far. Don’t really understand why it’s been split into two books though.
November 17, 2018
Enchanting
Though I prefer stories completed in one book, this preview intrigued me. I found it difficult to put it down (and must now catch up on the work that should have been done yesterday). The underlying humor throughout the story is wonderful. I actually found it necessary to reach out to the author over one particular line which had me smiling most of the day. In truth, I would give it a 4.5 but only due to editing issues. I am anxiously awaiting part two.
Though I prefer stories completed in one book, this preview intrigued me. I found it difficult to put it down (and must now catch up on the work that should have been done yesterday). The underlying humor throughout the story is wonderful. I actually found it necessary to reach out to the author over one particular line which had me smiling most of the day. In truth, I would give it a 4.5 but only due to editing issues. I am anxiously awaiting part two.
September 17, 2020
4.5 I really enjoyed this very different P&P variation. Elizabeth is sent to live with her Aunt and Uncle Russell when she is 10 years old and even becomes Elizabeth Bennet Russell when her relatives request she take on their name. It was fun getting a glimpse of what a young and curious Lizzy Bennet would be like. I wanted to reach into the book and squeeze cute little Lizzy! As she grows and matures, she is encouraged to ask questions and to not only nurture her gifts and talents, but to always strive to learn new things and be the best version of yourself. A very refined Elizabeth Bennet Russell returns to Longbourn to spend the summer and fall with her birth family after being away from Longbourn for 10 years with few letters from anyone in her family besides Jane. Elizabeth reluctantly agrees to drop Russell from her name at her mother's request during her stay at Longbourn. She finds that this gives her the anonymity to enjoy country life without the everyone knowing she is a wealthy heiress and helps her to find her place in her family amongst her sisters.
At this point the timeline of the story lines up with the canon story and we have Bingley and his party arriving at Netherfield. I love the similarities as well as the differences in the story and in the development of the relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth as well as Bingley and Jane. It was so well written and enjoyable. Bingley's sisters were as superficial and nasty as ever and Bingley had a little more substance which I appreciated! I found this story very engaging and interesting. I felt the characters were very true to their originals. Elizabeth may have been a little "too perfect" but more from her upbringing and she still felt very authentic with perhaps a little more refinement that I found pleasing. I enjoyed the characters both old and new. I was so excited to continue the story that I immediately picked up part 2 of this story the minute I finished part 1.
My only complaint was that this first book ends very abruptly and right in the middle of an important scene. My advice is if you buy book one, have book two ready and waiting because you will want it handy when you finish the first!
At this point the timeline of the story lines up with the canon story and we have Bingley and his party arriving at Netherfield. I love the similarities as well as the differences in the story and in the development of the relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth as well as Bingley and Jane. It was so well written and enjoyable. Bingley's sisters were as superficial and nasty as ever and Bingley had a little more substance which I appreciated! I found this story very engaging and interesting. I felt the characters were very true to their originals. Elizabeth may have been a little "too perfect" but more from her upbringing and she still felt very authentic with perhaps a little more refinement that I found pleasing. I enjoyed the characters both old and new. I was so excited to continue the story that I immediately picked up part 2 of this story the minute I finished part 1.
My only complaint was that this first book ends very abruptly and right in the middle of an important scene. My advice is if you buy book one, have book two ready and waiting because you will want it handy when you finish the first!
March 25, 2024
“Document your dreams.
Sketch that shape you saw.
Write those lyrics before they fade out.”
–Michael Bassey Johnson, The Oneironaut’s Diary
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***
>>Rating: appropriate for everyone
>>Angst Level: low to medium
>>Source: Purchased 9-1-19: Drawing Mr. Darcy Series [Book 1: Sketching His Character] [Book 2: A Faithful Portrait]
Trope: Not raised a Bennet
This was a delightful story. I adore the trope where Elizabeth is raised by someone who appreciates her and allows her to learn those things that interest her. She had a brilliant mind and was raised by intelligent people who appreciated her intellect and nurtured it. She also had a talent for sketching, drawing, and finally art. They had connections and wealth Bennet did not know of. Mrs. Bennet would have called for her salts if she had any idea. Bennet made a bargain in letting them have Elizabeth. He was ashamed of it but it passed soon enough. His family benefited from the deal. Uncle Phillip and Aunt Olivia were in trade so no one noticed or paid attention to their wealth. Mrs. Bennet wanted to separate from trade. More to her loss.
This first book is not a stand-alone and ended with a soft cliffhanger. The second book picks up right at that point and the story continues.
Sketch that shape you saw.
Write those lyrics before they fade out.”
–Michael Bassey Johnson, The Oneironaut’s Diary
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***
>>Rating: appropriate for everyone
>>Angst Level: low to medium
>>Source: Purchased 9-1-19: Drawing Mr. Darcy Series [Book 1: Sketching His Character] [Book 2: A Faithful Portrait]
Trope: Not raised a Bennet
This was a delightful story. I adore the trope where Elizabeth is raised by someone who appreciates her and allows her to learn those things that interest her. She had a brilliant mind and was raised by intelligent people who appreciated her intellect and nurtured it. She also had a talent for sketching, drawing, and finally art. They had connections and wealth Bennet did not know of. Mrs. Bennet would have called for her salts if she had any idea. Bennet made a bargain in letting them have Elizabeth. He was ashamed of it but it passed soon enough. His family benefited from the deal. Uncle Phillip and Aunt Olivia were in trade so no one noticed or paid attention to their wealth. Mrs. Bennet wanted to separate from trade. More to her loss.
This first book is not a stand-alone and ended with a soft cliffhanger. The second book picks up right at that point and the story continues.
October 27, 2025
In this Pride and Prejudice variation Thomas Bennet has received a request from his childless Aunt Olivia. To raise one of his daughters as her own. With the three youngest deemed to be too young and Mrs Bennet refusing to send Jane. That leaves Elizabeth to grow up in her wealthy and well-connected relation's home.
Then she returns to Longbourn for a long visit just as the Bingleys and Darcy arrive at Netherfield.
I enjoyed this well-written story a lot. I even actually liked Elizabeth, and enjoyed the portrayal of Jane and Mary. The characters of the Bingleys sisters were wonderful, and look forward to their reactions to Elizabeth in the next book.
An entertaining re-read.
Then she returns to Longbourn for a long visit just as the Bingleys and Darcy arrive at Netherfield.
I enjoyed this well-written story a lot. I even actually liked Elizabeth, and enjoyed the portrayal of Jane and Mary. The characters of the Bingleys sisters were wonderful, and look forward to their reactions to Elizabeth in the next book.
An entertaining re-read.
November 9, 2023
A delightful story. Every character was perfect including Bingley's sisters (perfectly horrible). I loved the Russels and their affection for Elizabeth. I loved Mr. Hurst portrayed by this author. I loved this improved Elizabeth (not that she needed it, I would have loved her anyway). I loved that Darcy talked to Elizabeth before knowing who she was. I loved every interaction between Elizabeth and the superior sisters. I loved Fitzwilliam needling Darcy. I loved too many things and now I'm really looking forward to the next part.
August 7, 2022
Melanie Rachel has become one 0f my favorate JAFF authors. Her writing is so vividly descriptive that one feels more like a bystander to what is going on in each scene. Witty, humerous, sad and never boring or lagging in the story line, I found myself rereading many scenes because they were just too delicious to not enjoy twice. The book is a delightful read that one wishes could go on forever. Fortunately for us, the story does go on to book 2 which, I am absolutely sure, will be just as exciting and pleasurable a read as this was.
April 3, 2019
No wonder this book has so many 5 star reviews. It is truly wonderful! I couldn’t put it down. The storyline was skewed slightly but made for amazing, gripping tale. Loved it!
June 1, 2021
This is one of the best written "Elizabeth Bennet grows up away from Longbourn" stories I have ever read. She is loaned out to her great aunt and uncle. They admire her spirit and wit and raise her to use her intelligence as Miss Russell.
Fast forward to the time in her life for her coming out and she travels home for the summer, where she is to live as Miss Bennet. As Miss Bennet, she meets Fitzwilliam Darcy, the brother of her best friend Georgiana. They experience the traditional pride and prejudice as Darcy feels Elizabeth is below him. She, who is a wonderful artist, tries to sketch his character physically and emotionally.
They have to get out of each others way as the author creates great characters and emotion throughout the story. It is set up for the next story in the series. It is not stand alone.
Fast forward to the time in her life for her coming out and she travels home for the summer, where she is to live as Miss Bennet. As Miss Bennet, she meets Fitzwilliam Darcy, the brother of her best friend Georgiana. They experience the traditional pride and prejudice as Darcy feels Elizabeth is below him. She, who is a wonderful artist, tries to sketch his character physically and emotionally.
They have to get out of each others way as the author creates great characters and emotion throughout the story. It is set up for the next story in the series. It is not stand alone.
August 31, 2024
What a superbly written story. The additional characters are endearing and the classic characters are portrayed in a sympathetic and engaging fashion.
For fans of Pride and Prejudice variations this story is a must-read.
For fans of Pride and Prejudice variations this story is a must-read.
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