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Pemberley House #1
In Want of a Wife
He calls her The Annoying One.
Liz overheard him say it to his friend, and that's just fine. She doesn't like him anyway. Vince Darcy is cold, arrogant, and detached from genuine feelings, and he's become her closest rival in the local antiques market. He might be her new neighbor, and Liz's sister might be falling for his best friend, but that doesn't mean Liz cares what Vince thinks of her.
Yes, he's hot. Very hot. Way too hot. It's another one of his infuriating characteristics. She's having trouble resisting his hotness, so she might consider a casual fling with him--as long as they keep it a secret and it doesn't become complicated.
But she isn't going to like him. He thinks she's The Annoying One. She can't fall for a man after that.
Pemberley House is a series of modern reimaginings of Jane Austen novels, and the books are set in a historic mansion in Virginia that has been converted into condos. In Want of a Wife is loosely inspired by Pride and Prejudice.
Liz overheard him say it to his friend, and that's just fine. She doesn't like him anyway. Vince Darcy is cold, arrogant, and detached from genuine feelings, and he's become her closest rival in the local antiques market. He might be her new neighbor, and Liz's sister might be falling for his best friend, but that doesn't mean Liz cares what Vince thinks of her.
Yes, he's hot. Very hot. Way too hot. It's another one of his infuriating characteristics. She's having trouble resisting his hotness, so she might consider a casual fling with him--as long as they keep it a secret and it doesn't become complicated.
But she isn't going to like him. He thinks she's The Annoying One. She can't fall for a man after that.
Pemberley House is a series of modern reimaginings of Jane Austen novels, and the books are set in a historic mansion in Virginia that has been converted into condos. In Want of a Wife is loosely inspired by Pride and Prejudice.
171 pages, ebook
First published March 26, 2019
306 people are currently reading
506 people want to read
About the author
Noelle Adams
140 books2,681 followersNoelle handwrote her first romance novel in a spiral-bound notebook when she was twelve, and she hasn't stopped writing since. She has lived in eight different states and currently resides in Virginia, where she teaches English, reads any book she can get her hands on, and offers tribute to a very spoiled cocker spaniel.
She loves travel, art, history, and ice cream. After spending far too many years of her life in graduate school, she has decided to reorient her priorities and focus on writing contemporary romances.
She loves travel, art, history, and ice cream. After spending far too many years of her life in graduate school, she has decided to reorient her priorities and focus on writing contemporary romances.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
April 27, 2021
Just don't keep skating on the surface of life. It's so much rewarding if you're willing to invest. Go deep.
How on earth is this the first time I've ever come across this author?! I'm so annoyed at myself because I've been missing out... but I digress... In Want of a Wife is a fantastic modern reimagining of Pride & Prejudice. Noelle Adams has certainly put her own spin on it by incorporating a friends-with-benefits and rivals-to-lovers trope. Trust me on this one, it actually works!
♡ Plot ♡
In Want of a Wife is about Liz Berkley (25) and Vince Darcy (29) who work for two rival antique shops. They meet at an estate antique sale while looking to acquire the same painting. They're attracted to each other from the get go and things heat up when they find out that they're actually neighbours and rivals too!
♡ The Characters & The Romance ♡
"Yes, we win. Because we told each other 'I love you' first."
I think both characters were wonderfully developed and they had so much richness in their characterization. Liz had such a fun competitive streak but she was so much more than that. And Vince totally won me over with his lack of social skills - I loved his shyness and how he was squirming in the friendzone. I thought that was pretty cute.
I loved Liz and Vince's first encounter so much. The chemistry was so hot! I loved that they saw each other for who they really were and how they each other so clearly... despite the misunderstanding that is.
♡ Other thoughts ♡
Despite how short and fast paced this book was, there was actually a lot of depth and substance to the romance. It was an easy read but it wasn't trifling if that makes sense.
Admittedly, I do think the resolution to the conflict was resolved a bit too quickly. And the financial aspect of it seemed implausible to me. The epilogue, however, was absolutely perfect! I actually teared up because it was adorable! Definitely one of the best epilogues I've read thus far... You know what, I think at this point, it should be mandatory for ALL romances to have epilogues. Wouldn't you agree?
All in all, this was a great read! You don't even need to be a P&P fan to enjoy this one, like I said, In Want of a Wife is a modern reimagining, rather than a retelling. Anyways, if you're interested in checking out this author's works but you have no idea where to start, you can check out her website, she has her books listed by tropes and by heroes. Happy reading!
Rating: 4/5
March 25, 2019
I’ve never met a Noelle Adams book that I didn’t like. And this one was no different.
Competative by nature, Liz’s job makes her doubly so. It is up to her to claim and purchase the very best items available at estate sales. She studies the inventory in advance, checks the layout of the property/home, and devises a plan of attack once she enters the door. But her main strategy is to be number one at the door before it begins. When she has a couple of paintings that she absolutely must aquire, she is aggravated to find a man already waiting at the door. And if that weren’t bad enough, the outcome of their race to the paintings is.
After the death of his father, Vince has returned home to help his mother with the business. It’s not really where he wants to be but he recognizes what needs to be done and follows through. Wiith his mother’s instructions clear, he arrives to the estate on time when the most unexpected thing happens. And what happens afterwards is flat out…annoying.
I absolutely loved watching this couple meet and remeet. Each subsequent meetings was fun and cute and filled with rife and unspoken emotion. Neither Liz nor Vince could discern their feelings and it resulted in some entertaining moments between them. When they begin to make a move closer to each other, I waited anxiously to see where and how they were going to find their happy ever after. They were both just so clueless at times, in a most endearing way.
However, when the conflict arises, I have to admit my heart hurt. Badly. I don’t want to give away who said and did what, but the end result was that both Liz and Vince were suffering from heartache and there really didn’t appear to be a clear way out. But I must confess that I choked up over Vince’s heartache. He had never allowed himself to feel anything and now he was feeling way too much. My own heart ached for him.
This is a fast paced read, as all of Ms. Adams’ books tend to be. It is filled with humor and witty banter, great characters that are well developed as well as the secondary characters, some of who will get their own book. Despite this not being a long book, this has a slow burn but when this couple finally catch flame, it is a bonfire.
Overall, this is the type of read that you sit back and enjoy without worry that anything is going to make you want to throw your kindle, at least not too badly, and assures you of the sweetest type of ending.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Competative by nature, Liz’s job makes her doubly so. It is up to her to claim and purchase the very best items available at estate sales. She studies the inventory in advance, checks the layout of the property/home, and devises a plan of attack once she enters the door. But her main strategy is to be number one at the door before it begins. When she has a couple of paintings that she absolutely must aquire, she is aggravated to find a man already waiting at the door. And if that weren’t bad enough, the outcome of their race to the paintings is.
After the death of his father, Vince has returned home to help his mother with the business. It’s not really where he wants to be but he recognizes what needs to be done and follows through. Wiith his mother’s instructions clear, he arrives to the estate on time when the most unexpected thing happens. And what happens afterwards is flat out…annoying.
I absolutely loved watching this couple meet and remeet. Each subsequent meetings was fun and cute and filled with rife and unspoken emotion. Neither Liz nor Vince could discern their feelings and it resulted in some entertaining moments between them. When they begin to make a move closer to each other, I waited anxiously to see where and how they were going to find their happy ever after. They were both just so clueless at times, in a most endearing way.
However, when the conflict arises, I have to admit my heart hurt. Badly. I don’t want to give away who said and did what, but the end result was that both Liz and Vince were suffering from heartache and there really didn’t appear to be a clear way out. But I must confess that I choked up over Vince’s heartache. He had never allowed himself to feel anything and now he was feeling way too much. My own heart ached for him.
This is a fast paced read, as all of Ms. Adams’ books tend to be. It is filled with humor and witty banter, great characters that are well developed as well as the secondary characters, some of who will get their own book. Despite this not being a long book, this has a slow burn but when this couple finally catch flame, it is a bonfire.
Overall, this is the type of read that you sit back and enjoy without worry that anything is going to make you want to throw your kindle, at least not too badly, and assures you of the sweetest type of ending.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
May 27, 2020
4.5 rounded up to 5 stars
This is a really nice modern romance loosely based on Pride and Prejudice. It's easy to spot parallels in iconic spots but, as the author points out in introductory remarks, these characters have different, more modern issues. The names are tweaked to reflect that they're NOT Jane Austen's characters. This book also establishes secondary characters who will have their own stories in future books of this series.
Vince Darcy is not shy, nor is he prideful, but he does distance himself from everyone except his mother and his friend Charlie Fielding. Liz Berkley and her sister Jane live in a lovely Pemberley House condo, and their spoiled sister Harriot (who goes by the appropriate nickname Riot) still live with their parents.
The Darcys and Berkleys own competing antique shops, although Riot, in rebellion against her parents, works for the Darcys. Mr. Darcy recently died, and Vince has moved to help his mother manage the business. Liz and Vince first meet at an estate sale where he makes a less-than-positive first impression, and the same day he and Charlie move into their condo. Liz's friend Em Woodson is up on all the local gossip and relates that Charlie had been in a longtime relationship that ended not that long ago, so he's probably not ready to start dating again. He and Jane seem to connect immediately, but he persists in the "friend" zone as an amiable neighbor and Jane can't tell whether he wants more from their relationship.
This is definitely a modern romance that reflects modern attitudes. Liz and Vince's mutual attraction leads them to a no-strings-attached sexual relationship fairly early. Both want more from their relationship, but Vince's inability to open up is often off-putting and, by the time he declares himself, things up between them just blow up. The book's turning point is similar enough to be recognizable from P&P while taking its own path to an HEA.
I found myself very invested in these characters, who feel real. The writing is excellent (yes, including the steamy bedroom scenes). It definitely gave me the "feels." One detail related to the resolution of a problem seemed improbable, but otherwise the plot is tightly woven together.
Now I'm really looking forward to reading the Emma and Persuasion-influenced books in this series!
This is a really nice modern romance loosely based on Pride and Prejudice. It's easy to spot parallels in iconic spots but, as the author points out in introductory remarks, these characters have different, more modern issues. The names are tweaked to reflect that they're NOT Jane Austen's characters. This book also establishes secondary characters who will have their own stories in future books of this series.
Vince Darcy is not shy, nor is he prideful, but he does distance himself from everyone except his mother and his friend Charlie Fielding. Liz Berkley and her sister Jane live in a lovely Pemberley House condo, and their spoiled sister Harriot (who goes by the appropriate nickname Riot) still live with their parents.
The Darcys and Berkleys own competing antique shops, although Riot, in rebellion against her parents, works for the Darcys. Mr. Darcy recently died, and Vince has moved to help his mother manage the business. Liz and Vince first meet at an estate sale where he makes a less-than-positive first impression, and the same day he and Charlie move into their condo. Liz's friend Em Woodson is up on all the local gossip and relates that Charlie had been in a longtime relationship that ended not that long ago, so he's probably not ready to start dating again. He and Jane seem to connect immediately, but he persists in the "friend" zone as an amiable neighbor and Jane can't tell whether he wants more from their relationship.
This is definitely a modern romance that reflects modern attitudes. Liz and Vince's mutual attraction leads them to a no-strings-attached sexual relationship fairly early. Both want more from their relationship, but Vince's inability to open up is often off-putting and, by the time he declares himself, things up between them just blow up. The book's turning point is similar enough to be recognizable from P&P while taking its own path to an HEA.
I found myself very invested in these characters, who feel real. The writing is excellent (yes, including the steamy bedroom scenes). It definitely gave me the "feels." One detail related to the resolution of a problem seemed improbable, but otherwise the plot is tightly woven together.
Now I'm really looking forward to reading the Emma and Persuasion-influenced books in this series!
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May 20, 2019
I´ve always loved Jane Austin, especially watching the movies and tv series that have been made out of her books.
This one is inspired by one of her novels. I really enjoyed it. It was sweet and a "tiny" little bit angsty (nothing overly bad).
It has great characters and I´m looking forward to read about the other girls at Pemberley House.
This one is inspired by one of her novels. I really enjoyed it. It was sweet and a "tiny" little bit angsty (nothing overly bad).
It has great characters and I´m looking forward to read about the other girls at Pemberley House.
May 18, 2021
המצב במדינה עושה חשק לקצת אסקפיזם. נואל אדמס היא סופרת רומנים רומנטיים שאני מאוד מחבבת (קראתי שלושה ספרים שלה). היא הוציאה סדרה של שלושה ספרים ששואבים השראה מספריה של ג'יין אוסטן, ומתרחשים במתחם המגורים "פמברלי האוס" שהוסב מאחוזה ויקטוריאנית ושוכן בעיירה אבינגדון בוירג'יניה. הספר הזה, הראשון בסדרה, שואב השראה מהספר "גאווה ודעה קדומה".
ליז ברקלי עובדת בעסק העתיקות של משפחתה. וינס דרסי מגיע לעיירה כדי לעזור לאימו לנהל את עסק העתיקות שלה לאחר מות אביו. היא חושבת שהוא יהיר וגס רוח, הוא חושב שהיא מעצבנת, וההמשך ברור, די בהלימה לעלילת "גאווה ודעה קדומה". ספר מהנה ועיבוד מודרני טוב לקלאסיקה של ג'יין אוסטן. נהניתי מאוד ולכן המשכתי גם לספרים הבאים.
ליז ברקלי עובדת בעסק העתיקות של משפחתה. וינס דרסי מגיע לעיירה כדי לעזור לאימו לנהל את עסק העתיקות שלה לאחר מות אביו. היא חושבת שהוא יהיר וגס רוח, הוא חושב שהיא מעצבנת, וההמשך ברור, די בהלימה לעלילת "גאווה ודעה קדומה". ספר מהנה ועיבוד מודרני טוב לקלאסיקה של ג'יין אוסטן. נהניתי מאוד ולכן המשכתי גם לספרים הבאים.
April 1, 2019
Lovely start to this new series! Pemberley House is an old mansion now separated into condo units, and this series is about the women (and men) who live there, with Jane Austen's stories as inspirations (in this case it's Pride and Prejudice). We are quickly introduced to our heroine Liz Berkley, who lives with her sister Jane at Pemberley, and her best friend Em who has one of the more luxurious suites with her aging father. Liz works for her parent's antique shop and she has quite a competitive nature, so when one of her estate sales brings a rival into her midst, she's ready to show him that she plays to win.
Vince Darcy has moved back to town to help his mom out after his father's death, and is more than a little stunned at his intense reaction to the beautiful woman who clearly cheated to get at a painting at the estate sale before him. And now he discovers she's his neighbour too, as he's just moved in with his friend Charlie at Pemberley House. The Darcy's have put in a bid to buy the Berkley's shop but with the caveat that the Darcy name be the one to stay, an offer the Berkley's have refused. In close quarters Liz and Vince start out as rivals, but can't deny their attraction to each other and engage in a secret sex-only fling. But what happens when one of them wants more?
I enjoyed this story! Vince might seem cold and arrogant but really he's just shy, and not good around strangers or new situations and that's definitely the water he's in here. It takes him a while to warm up and to show Liz his interest but once that happens they connect and share some sensual love scenes. Liz's feelings for Vince are complicated by the stress of her family's financial situation, and by her sister Riot, who is currently working at the Darcy's shop (mostly to annoy their parents) and is getting herself into more than a little trouble that Liz will have to deal with. There are a few small misunderstandings that lead to the big black moment and then the chance to apologize and make things right, with a lovely romantic ending. Fans of Noelle's previous books will enjoy this one and new fans will have a great place to start!
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the author for review.
Vince Darcy has moved back to town to help his mom out after his father's death, and is more than a little stunned at his intense reaction to the beautiful woman who clearly cheated to get at a painting at the estate sale before him. And now he discovers she's his neighbour too, as he's just moved in with his friend Charlie at Pemberley House. The Darcy's have put in a bid to buy the Berkley's shop but with the caveat that the Darcy name be the one to stay, an offer the Berkley's have refused. In close quarters Liz and Vince start out as rivals, but can't deny their attraction to each other and engage in a secret sex-only fling. But what happens when one of them wants more?
I enjoyed this story! Vince might seem cold and arrogant but really he's just shy, and not good around strangers or new situations and that's definitely the water he's in here. It takes him a while to warm up and to show Liz his interest but once that happens they connect and share some sensual love scenes. Liz's feelings for Vince are complicated by the stress of her family's financial situation, and by her sister Riot, who is currently working at the Darcy's shop (mostly to annoy their parents) and is getting herself into more than a little trouble that Liz will have to deal with. There are a few small misunderstandings that lead to the big black moment and then the chance to apologize and make things right, with a lovely romantic ending. Fans of Noelle's previous books will enjoy this one and new fans will have a great place to start!
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the author for review.
July 14, 2021
קצת התאכזבתי מהספר. הוא מבוסס על "גאווה ודעה קדומה", אבל בגירסת רומן רומנטי מודרני. ליז ואחותה ג'יין עובדות בחנות העתיקות המשפחתית. צ'רלי הוא מורה שמגיע מבית עשיר ומשתקם משברון לב לאחר שארוסתו לשעבר זנחה אותו מספר שבועות לפני החתונה. ודרסי הוא חתיך הורס גם בגירסה המודרנית הזו, אבל הוא מגיע לעזור לאמא שלו לנהל את חנות העתיקות המתחרה בחנות המשפחתית של ליז.
הכל נמצא שם כדי להפוך את הספר הזה לרומן נהדר, הכל חוץ מרומנטיקה. מרוב תיאורי תשוקה וסקס הסופרת שכחה את החלק שהפך את "גאווה ודעה קדומה" לסיפור המושלם שהוא: אהבה רומנטית ענקית שגוברת על כל המכשולים שהיו אמורים להפוך אותה לבלתי אפשרית. ב-In want of a wife אין רומנטיקה. רק תשוקה. תוך כדי הקריאה לא מרגישים את הכיוצוץ' הזה בלב שאמור להביא לקתרזיס רומנטי מושלם בסוף הספר, אלא רק מרגישים שיעמום ממספר הפעמים שבהם הגיבורים מתחרמנים ורצים למיטה. ומילא אם ספינות הסקס היו כתובות היטב, אבל למרבה הצער הן משעממות או באנליות או כתובות בצורה מביכה.
בקיצור, ספר מאכזב. לא מהמוצלחים מהז'אנר.
מפלס סקס גבוה אבל משעמם.
הכל נמצא שם כדי להפוך את הספר הזה לרומן נהדר, הכל חוץ מרומנטיקה. מרוב תיאורי תשוקה וסקס הסופרת שכחה את החלק שהפך את "גאווה ודעה קדומה" לסיפור המושלם שהוא: אהבה רומנטית ענקית שגוברת על כל המכשולים שהיו אמורים להפוך אותה לבלתי אפשרית. ב-In want of a wife אין רומנטיקה. רק תשוקה. תוך כדי הקריאה לא מרגישים את הכיוצוץ' הזה בלב שאמור להביא לקתרזיס רומנטי מושלם בסוף הספר, אלא רק מרגישים שיעמום ממספר הפעמים שבהם הגיבורים מתחרמנים ורצים למיטה. ומילא אם ספינות הסקס היו כתובות היטב, אבל למרבה הצער הן משעממות או באנליות או כתובות בצורה מביכה.
בקיצור, ספר מאכזב. לא מהמוצלחים מהז'אנר.
מפלס סקס גבוה אבל משעמם.
April 25, 2019
Cute Pride and Prejudice retelling
May 6, 2019
”Each book in the Pemberley House series is inspired by a particular Jane Austen novel, but the books aren’t not Austen retellings. They are original contemporary romance novels featuring characters with (mostly) modern sensibility—including language and ideas about sex.”
So Vincent Darcy... I read about “The Suit” (they called him) in the Loft series so naturally was curious to see who he was and what kind of woman he’d end up with, and of course Liz Berkeley would be that girl. He was made out to be this super confident, stoic, manwhore Casanova so his personality was a bit like that, but I just expected more... he felt lack lustre, like how did he suddenly flip his opinion on Liz from someone annoying and not “pretty enough” to someone he was suddenly bedding?
It would’ve been nice to see the part of Pride and Prejudice where Elizabeth was potentially going to engage someone else. That could’ve manifested itself in this book in the form of her going on a date with another man so Vincent could get his head out of his ass.
Author said the characters are inspired by Austen novels but it’s still a loose retelling when the plot is based around it too? It felt like a historical romance with the speech, language and point of view it was written, the relationships and intimacy. Author does give the heads up. Historical romances have never been my thing, I try to like them but just find them lacking vigour for some reason. So it was an okay book for me.
So Vincent Darcy... I read about “The Suit” (they called him) in the Loft series so naturally was curious to see who he was and what kind of woman he’d end up with, and of course Liz Berkeley would be that girl. He was made out to be this super confident, stoic, manwhore Casanova so his personality was a bit like that, but I just expected more... he felt lack lustre, like how did he suddenly flip his opinion on Liz from someone annoying and not “pretty enough” to someone he was suddenly bedding?
It would’ve been nice to see the part of Pride and Prejudice where Elizabeth was potentially going to engage someone else. That could’ve manifested itself in this book in the form of her going on a date with another man so Vincent could get his head out of his ass.
Author said the characters are inspired by Austen novels but it’s still a loose retelling when the plot is based around it too? It felt like a historical romance with the speech, language and point of view it was written, the relationships and intimacy. Author does give the heads up. Historical romances have never been my thing, I try to like them but just find them lacking vigour for some reason. So it was an okay book for me.
April 2, 2021
The author informs us that this is not a variation, even though she uses some relationships and events which might remind us of P&P. This is a modern story which has our principal characters as competitors in the field of antiquities. There is also a sexual chemistry which both try to deny until they decide that "friends with benefits" might just relieve that tension and allow them to then move on in life.
Yes, there are MA scenes. Liz Berkley, her sister, Jane, and several of her friends live in a mansion which has been converted into condos. Vince Darcy come to live there with his friend, Charlie Fielding. The condos have balconies which are set up in a such a manner that conversation is often overheard by the neighbors, even if sometimes it is from within those balcony doors. Liz overhears Vince calling her "the annoying one" and so an "insult" is one of the first events which reminds us of P&P canon.
Vince has moved back into town when his father dies and his mother is left to run the family business. She has no sense of how to handle the financial side but is good with buying antiques which might resell well. Elizabeth also runs her family business. There had been an attempt to merge the two businesses but the Darcys wanted the Berkleys to give up their "name over the door".
There are three sisters herein with Harriet, aka Riot, living with her parents. Riot works for the Darcys which is an act of rebellion against her parents. It is Riot who (like Lydia in canon) provides us with a great deal of drama which brings her family to a breaking point.
There are two other events which reflect canon - an awful proposal and a letter with some explanations.
This is the first in a series. I enjoyed this story but it is a modern version and does have sexual interactions described.
Yes, there are MA scenes. Liz Berkley, her sister, Jane, and several of her friends live in a mansion which has been converted into condos. Vince Darcy come to live there with his friend, Charlie Fielding. The condos have balconies which are set up in a such a manner that conversation is often overheard by the neighbors, even if sometimes it is from within those balcony doors. Liz overhears Vince calling her "the annoying one" and so an "insult" is one of the first events which reminds us of P&P canon.
Vince has moved back into town when his father dies and his mother is left to run the family business. She has no sense of how to handle the financial side but is good with buying antiques which might resell well. Elizabeth also runs her family business. There had been an attempt to merge the two businesses but the Darcys wanted the Berkleys to give up their "name over the door".
There are three sisters herein with Harriet, aka Riot, living with her parents. Riot works for the Darcys which is an act of rebellion against her parents. It is Riot who (like Lydia in canon) provides us with a great deal of drama which brings her family to a breaking point.
There are two other events which reflect canon - an awful proposal and a letter with some explanations.
This is the first in a series. I enjoyed this story but it is a modern version and does have sexual interactions described.
March 24, 2019
If you love Pride and Prejudice then you will really enjoy this one. The characters are great with Liz all warm and fuzzy and all about family while Vince is all about family but comes across as cold and rigid. Turns out Vince has more heart than Liz first though and it seems that he may be losing it to her.
This book is nicely written with a nice steady pace to the story. I definitely recommend this one.
This book is nicely written with a nice steady pace to the story. I definitely recommend this one.
November 27, 2025
A cute Pride and Prejudice re-telling.
April 16, 2019
I’ve read the majority of the author’s books and always loved them. She tends to have a variety of writing styles and subjects and always masters them. Unfortunately, this one didn’t work for me and lacked energy with the characters and plot.
The pace took its time and was slow. At times I thought I forgot to turn the page when it went in circles stretching and repeating conversations. I did skim quite a bit but it picked up around the 75% mark when it reached the climax.
It’s told in dual POV’s. Liz was more of the outwardly aggressive of the two, but from Vince’s POV it was easy to see there was a lot more than his silent brooding.
I’m not sure if Em (“the bossy one”) appeals to me, but I am interested in the 3rd book about Anne and Vince’s brother, Robert.
2.5
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley for an honest review.
The pace took its time and was slow. At times I thought I forgot to turn the page when it went in circles stretching and repeating conversations. I did skim quite a bit but it picked up around the 75% mark when it reached the climax.
It’s told in dual POV’s. Liz was more of the outwardly aggressive of the two, but from Vince’s POV it was easy to see there was a lot more than his silent brooding.
I’m not sure if Em (“the bossy one”) appeals to me, but I am interested in the 3rd book about Anne and Vince’s brother, Robert.
2.5
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley for an honest review.
March 23, 2022
I don't normally enjoy modern P &P books, but I enjoyed this a great deal.
July 17, 2023
3.75 stars
I’m a huge fan of Noelle Adams, so it’s no surprise that I really enjoyed this book that is loosely inspired by Pride and Prejudice.
The characters were well-drawn (Liz is pushily friendly, Vince is aloof) and their dynamic was fun (they work at rival antique stores and take competing at estate sales to the next level).
The third act conflict and its resolution was a bit jarring in its pacing, but I liked the storyline itself.
Overall, a great read and I’m looking forward to the next book in the series (inspired by Emma!).
I’m a huge fan of Noelle Adams, so it’s no surprise that I really enjoyed this book that is loosely inspired by Pride and Prejudice.
The characters were well-drawn (Liz is pushily friendly, Vince is aloof) and their dynamic was fun (they work at rival antique stores and take competing at estate sales to the next level).
The third act conflict and its resolution was a bit jarring in its pacing, but I liked the storyline itself.
Overall, a great read and I’m looking forward to the next book in the series (inspired by Emma!).
March 30, 2019
DNF 20%
I just didn't care about their romance.
I need something to set them apart from everyone else. Being normal and boring just doesn't do it for me when reading a romance.
I just didn't care about their romance.
I need something to set them apart from everyone else. Being normal and boring just doesn't do it for me when reading a romance.
November 17, 2025
AH. OMG. I didn’t know how much I needed a modern pride and prejudice. And the whole rival antique shop aspect made it 10 times cuter 🥰
July 8, 2025
In Want of a Wife pairs two rival antique buyers in a slow-burn romance where business, family legacy, and unexpected emotional baggage complicate what should havebeen a straightforward competition.
25 year old Liz Berkley is determined to save her family’s struggling antique business. Meanwhile, 29 year old Vince Darcy, recently returned home after the death of his father, is equally determined to honor his own family’s legacy by stepping up for their antique shop. Their shared passion for the trade ignites sparks of both rivalry and attraction—and when a steamy fling starts to feel like something more, neither is quite prepared for what follows.
Liz is the type of character who is sharp, observant, and quietly anxious, always carrying the weight of responsibility for her family’s store. I think we can all relate to how that can be. She thrives in the world of estate sales and flea market deals, driven by both passion and necessity.
Vince, on the other hand, is the more stoic of the two. With a finance background and an analytical mind, he left a promising corporate job to help his mother and take care of the store in the wake of his father’s death. Beneath the surface, he grapples with grief—which also harbors a deeper pain, a shadow that lingers over much of his emotional journey.
While Liz and Vince begin with mutual attraction and business tension (as do most protagonists), their attempt to keep things physical and casual quickly falls apart as real feelings surface. Vince’s reticence—rooted in past trauma and a naturally reserved personality—clashes with Liz’s expectations and emotional needs, creating a rift that requires honesty and courage. Their professional rivalry and tangled family connections (including a complicated link through Liz’s sister) makes things messier.
I really enjoyed the setting—antique sales and estate auctions added a fresh flavor to the usual small-town romance backdrop. Liz was easy to root for, and Vince’s brooding, wounded energy made him a compelling, if not always easy, hero. Their chemistry was believable, especially once they dropped the pretense of it being “just sex.”
That said, I didn’t enjoy this as much as I had hoped to. The dual POV, while offering insights into both characters, seemed to drain some of the emotional punch. I found myself less invested than I usually am with heroes as crafted by Ms. Adams. Vince’s introspection was necessary for his arc, but it made the pacing feel uneven at times. Also, I remember picking this up before and abandoning it partway, which tells me it did not hook me as strongly as her best work does.
That said, Ward and Em’s story teased in the background seems like one I would really enjoy!
Recommended for: Readers who enjoy rivals-to-lovers, quiet heroes with emotional depth, family business dynamics, and stories where casual flings turn into something deeply meaningful.
Final Verdict: From antiques to affection, this is a warm, slow-burn romance between two guarded hearts who weren’t looking for love; but then again, isn’t that the best kind?
Rating = 3.75/5
For more reviews and quotes, please visit A Maldivian's Passion for Romance
25 year old Liz Berkley is determined to save her family’s struggling antique business. Meanwhile, 29 year old Vince Darcy, recently returned home after the death of his father, is equally determined to honor his own family’s legacy by stepping up for their antique shop. Their shared passion for the trade ignites sparks of both rivalry and attraction—and when a steamy fling starts to feel like something more, neither is quite prepared for what follows.
Liz is the type of character who is sharp, observant, and quietly anxious, always carrying the weight of responsibility for her family’s store. I think we can all relate to how that can be. She thrives in the world of estate sales and flea market deals, driven by both passion and necessity.
Vince, on the other hand, is the more stoic of the two. With a finance background and an analytical mind, he left a promising corporate job to help his mother and take care of the store in the wake of his father’s death. Beneath the surface, he grapples with grief—which also harbors a deeper pain, a shadow that lingers over much of his emotional journey.
While Liz and Vince begin with mutual attraction and business tension (as do most protagonists), their attempt to keep things physical and casual quickly falls apart as real feelings surface. Vince’s reticence—rooted in past trauma and a naturally reserved personality—clashes with Liz’s expectations and emotional needs, creating a rift that requires honesty and courage. Their professional rivalry and tangled family connections (including a complicated link through Liz’s sister) makes things messier.
I really enjoyed the setting—antique sales and estate auctions added a fresh flavor to the usual small-town romance backdrop. Liz was easy to root for, and Vince’s brooding, wounded energy made him a compelling, if not always easy, hero. Their chemistry was believable, especially once they dropped the pretense of it being “just sex.”
That said, I didn’t enjoy this as much as I had hoped to. The dual POV, while offering insights into both characters, seemed to drain some of the emotional punch. I found myself less invested than I usually am with heroes as crafted by Ms. Adams. Vince’s introspection was necessary for his arc, but it made the pacing feel uneven at times. Also, I remember picking this up before and abandoning it partway, which tells me it did not hook me as strongly as her best work does.
That said, Ward and Em’s story teased in the background seems like one I would really enjoy!
Recommended for: Readers who enjoy rivals-to-lovers, quiet heroes with emotional depth, family business dynamics, and stories where casual flings turn into something deeply meaningful.
Final Verdict: From antiques to affection, this is a warm, slow-burn romance between two guarded hearts who weren’t looking for love; but then again, isn’t that the best kind?
Rating = 3.75/5
For more reviews and quotes, please visit A Maldivian's Passion for Romance
April 10, 2019
This Austen-esque book starts off a new series and one that seems to hold great promise after reading book one. It introduces us to the main characters of the story, the 3 very different sisters, Liz living at Pemberley House which is perfectly dreamy. Her two best friends, the family business and the men who orbit the story. This is Liz's story, she works for her families antique business and her job is to procure antiques and other items of value to sell in her families struggling business. They were the only shop in town until another family moved in and opened an antique store as well.
Vince is our main male character in this one, called home to help his mother's antique business after the death of his father. He's not to happy about it and can be surly. That's only step beyond grumpy. Maybe two or three steps. Vince and Liz meet by accident while arriving very early at an estate sale, Vince is there first and she doesn't know who he is, trying to make polite conversation, he blows Liz off. That sets them off on what's the be a funny at times and thought provoking friendship beyond that. And now since Vince is living next door to Liz and her sister with his friend Danny, how terribly convenient for them both. This is definitely a slow burn and the pace and dialogue of this book is a change from Noelle's usual stories. It at times felt a little too formal for me, riding really close the the edge of Austen's books. Just a tad of an adjustment when the shifts in dialogue took place. Lots of well placed drama in the story, some serious angst going on in the home stretch and I really enjoyed all the characters in this book. Well done and I look forward to the next book!
Vince is our main male character in this one, called home to help his mother's antique business after the death of his father. He's not to happy about it and can be surly. That's only step beyond grumpy. Maybe two or three steps. Vince and Liz meet by accident while arriving very early at an estate sale, Vince is there first and she doesn't know who he is, trying to make polite conversation, he blows Liz off. That sets them off on what's the be a funny at times and thought provoking friendship beyond that. And now since Vince is living next door to Liz and her sister with his friend Danny, how terribly convenient for them both. This is definitely a slow burn and the pace and dialogue of this book is a change from Noelle's usual stories. It at times felt a little too formal for me, riding really close the the edge of Austen's books. Just a tad of an adjustment when the shifts in dialogue took place. Lots of well placed drama in the story, some serious angst going on in the home stretch and I really enjoyed all the characters in this book. Well done and I look forward to the next book!
March 18, 2019
I've read a few other books by this author and I liked them. When I saw this on netgalley, I told myself not to request it because my ARCs are getting out of control. I told myself again not to request it when I saw the publish date was so soon, I already had a few books I 'had' to read before the end of the month and didn't think I'd get to it.... and then I saw the title and read the synopsis and it was all over red rover. I cannot resist anything P&P related, and from an author I've already read and liked? Impossible.
Right at the beginning, the author says this is *not* a retelling. I love P&P retellings so I was a teensy bit disappointed and worried about that, but there was no need. The bones are there, with small changes and other things that are all Noelle Adams, not Jane Austen. It flowed so well, I adored all the characters (I already need the next ones, stat). I loved Vince and Liz so so much. I loved the spins that Noelle put on the story. I just... loved it, okay? Okay. Seriously. It was adorable and fabulous. Super short too, so I read it in a couple of hours. I think this would appeal to non-P&P fans as well, though I do think P&P fans get a leg up on these kinds of books because we understand the characters already. Honestly, I don't think I have a bad thing to say about this book. I liked the others I've read by this author, but this is by far my favourite. What a delightful read. That epilogue! killed me dead with all the feelings, I tell you. Loved it, highly recommend it. Need the next one now.
received ARC from netgalley in exchange for honest review
Right at the beginning, the author says this is *not* a retelling. I love P&P retellings so I was a teensy bit disappointed and worried about that, but there was no need. The bones are there, with small changes and other things that are all Noelle Adams, not Jane Austen. It flowed so well, I adored all the characters (I already need the next ones, stat). I loved Vince and Liz so so much. I loved the spins that Noelle put on the story. I just... loved it, okay? Okay. Seriously. It was adorable and fabulous. Super short too, so I read it in a couple of hours. I think this would appeal to non-P&P fans as well, though I do think P&P fans get a leg up on these kinds of books because we understand the characters already. Honestly, I don't think I have a bad thing to say about this book. I liked the others I've read by this author, but this is by far my favourite. What a delightful read. That epilogue! killed me dead with all the feelings, I tell you. Loved it, highly recommend it. Need the next one now.
received ARC from netgalley in exchange for honest review
May 18, 2020
Dopo aver letto Loved None But You, mi sono buttata a capofitto sul primo romanzo della serie Pemberley House con tre dei romanzi di Jane Austen rivisitati in chiave moderna in modo molto convincente e appassionante. Naturalmente, questo è il retelling di Orgoglio e pregiudizio, anche se compariranno anche Em ed Anne in qualità di amiche di Liz e Jane, anticipandoci quelle che saranno le protagoniste delle due prossime novelle.
La storia si svolge nel mondo dell'antiquariato, visto che sia Liz che Vince Darcy lavorano nel campo. E ci sarà Lydia, impersonata da Riot, la sorella minore di Liz, che combinerà i suoi bei pasticci, come ogni Lydia che si rispetti.
Tra l'altro, Riot sarà personaggio secondario in tutti e tre i volumi della serie, visto che ha fatto la parte di Louisa in Loved None But You, e sarà Harriet in If I Loved You Less, in cui, tra l'altro, mantiene il suo vero nome, visto che Riot è una sorta di diminutivo scherzoso per Harriet (che non avrebbe potuto essere più azzeccato, visto che dove va, Riot porta Scompiglio.)
La storia si svolge nel mondo dell'antiquariato, visto che sia Liz che Vince Darcy lavorano nel campo. E ci sarà Lydia, impersonata da Riot, la sorella minore di Liz, che combinerà i suoi bei pasticci, come ogni Lydia che si rispetti.
Tra l'altro, Riot sarà personaggio secondario in tutti e tre i volumi della serie, visto che ha fatto la parte di Louisa in Loved None But You, e sarà Harriet in If I Loved You Less, in cui, tra l'altro, mantiene il suo vero nome, visto che Riot è una sorta di diminutivo scherzoso per Harriet (che non avrebbe potuto essere più azzeccato, visto che dove va, Riot porta Scompiglio.)
March 30, 2019
**My thanks to the author for providing me with a free copy for an honest review**
Although i liked this book and the fact that it was a very modern telling of Pride and Prejudice, it also fell a little flat for me. To be honest, i struggled to relate or connect to Vince Darcy.
I like Liz, her sister Jane and their friends and the supporting characters, it was just Vince i had a problem with and therefore the story was pulled down.
Liz is a lovely character. She loves her family and loves the family business of being antique hunters and the apartment that she lives in with her sister in Pemberly House.
Liz is very competitive and when Vince turns out to be a rival, then the gloves come off, but as she gets to know him she warms up to him.
I look forward very much to see what else will happen with this series and whoop of this group of friends will next have a story and which Jane Austen book will be inspired to be written for them.
Although i liked this book and the fact that it was a very modern telling of Pride and Prejudice, it also fell a little flat for me. To be honest, i struggled to relate or connect to Vince Darcy.
I like Liz, her sister Jane and their friends and the supporting characters, it was just Vince i had a problem with and therefore the story was pulled down.
Liz is a lovely character. She loves her family and loves the family business of being antique hunters and the apartment that she lives in with her sister in Pemberly House.
Liz is very competitive and when Vince turns out to be a rival, then the gloves come off, but as she gets to know him she warms up to him.
I look forward very much to see what else will happen with this series and whoop of this group of friends will next have a story and which Jane Austen book will be inspired to be written for them.
February 16, 2020
Adorable
I loved this pride and prejudice variation! Liz and Vince were just perfect. It follows the story well but it was changed quite a bit. Most of the time I don't enjoy changes, but these were done so well that I loved the new story too! These variations are my guilty pleasure.
I loved this pride and prejudice variation! Liz and Vince were just perfect. It follows the story well but it was changed quite a bit. Most of the time I don't enjoy changes, but these were done so well that I loved the new story too! These variations are my guilty pleasure.
May 30, 2023
Probably more like a 3.5. Enjoyed this reworking of pride and prejudice. It was a quick fun novel. Although there is a lot of adaptation from the original novel, the main characters feel both true to those in the original in the best ways, especially in the growth they show throughout. Certain points in the novel were a little laboured ‘go deep’ (emotionally) and I thought the ending a bit rushed but overall fun read.
April 15, 2019
In Want of a Wife by Noella Adams is the first book for in the Pemberley House series, which are loosely based on Jane Austen books. In Want of a Wife is based on my favorite Jane Austen, Pride and Prejudice. I really enjoyed this book, it was a lot of fun to ready this modern version. The characters were well written. If you enjoy a sweet and sexy romance, give this book a try.
I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and the publisher. Thank you.
I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and the publisher. Thank you.
March 29, 2019
This was such a disappointment :( I was really looking forward to reading this and had also purchased other books by this author before. The writing really threw me off and the characters acted like immature teenagers with so much over the top drama because of miscommunication... (my pet peeve...ugh).
The "telling and not showing" really bothered me. We are told several times how Liz has an "inexpensive" Sedan (as if it's not enough to describe Vince Darcy's Mustang in same sentence) and Vince has the exact same thought (...she's getting out of her inexpensive (!) Sedan) in the middle of an emotional scene (who would notice that right at that moment??). Don't get me started on the awkward sex scenes ("erotic moans"... ??).
The additional conflict at the end also felt contrived, coming from out of nowhere (involving Riot, who's taken the role of Lydia - yes, she calls herself Riot and makes trouble... O_O).
The "telling and not showing" really bothered me. We are told several times how Liz has an "inexpensive" Sedan (as if it's not enough to describe Vince Darcy's Mustang in same sentence) and Vince has the exact same thought (...she's getting out of her inexpensive (!) Sedan) in the middle of an emotional scene (who would notice that right at that moment??). Don't get me started on the awkward sex scenes ("erotic moans"... ??).
The additional conflict at the end also felt contrived, coming from out of nowhere (involving Riot, who's taken the role of Lydia - yes, she calls herself Riot and makes trouble... O_O).
July 4, 2025
a very enjoyable book
A well worked modernisation of Pride and Prejudice. The author sensibly left out the elements which do not readily translate into the 21st century and as a result has written an authentic and enjoyable story.
There was one little thing with finance which niggled me near the end but it was only a tiny niggle -
I shall definitely move on to the Emma and Persuasion inspired ones by this author.
Tidily edited which is always a plus.
A well worked modernisation of Pride and Prejudice. The author sensibly left out the elements which do not readily translate into the 21st century and as a result has written an authentic and enjoyable story.
There was one little thing with finance which niggled me near the end but it was only a tiny niggle -
I shall definitely move on to the Emma and Persuasion inspired ones by this author.
Tidily edited which is always a plus.
March 28, 2019
In Want of a Wife is a modern re-telling of Pride and Prejudice, but very loosely. If you love that book, you will most certainly love this, and if it is not your fav, go on and jump in anyway. This book is fun to read!
Liz works for the family's antique shop and spends her days finding worthy treasures to resell. One morning she meets a new man, Vince, at an estate sale. They are instantly rivals-going after the same pieces. Who is this man and why is she feeling all prickly around him??
Vince recently moved back home to be with his mother and help with the family's antique shop after his father died. He is struggling a bit since he knows this is where he needs to be, but hasn't quite settled in yet. When he attends an estate sale his mother wants a couple of chosen items from, he didn't expect to meet her. The girl turns out to be Liz and she is the most annoying person he has ever met! Attractive as all get out, but just plain annoying!
I loved watching these two running into each other at all these sales and around their condos. Each meeting builds on the one before and then, wham, they are both head over tail in lust with each other! I loved seeing their progression from rivals to tolerate each other to lovers and beyond! They were so set in their ways and somewhat clueless in recognizing each others signs! I had high hopes they would find a way to make it work and get their HEA! They just needed to navigate the obstacles ahead.
Nothing is all that easy though, and we are handed some angst and situations that need to be dealt with. Unfortunately misunderstandings arise and things are said in haste. Although I do not like all the angst, I did like seeing Liz and Vince totally heartsick about having "lost" each other with no way in sight to fix it. I felt they would eventually see reason and let the other person know their feelings.
I also loved the supporting characters and they offered lots of advice, humor, and fodder for other books down the road!!
Solid first book in the Pemberley House series!
I voluntarily chose to review a gifted copy of this book by the publisher through NetGalley. The rating and review are my opinion.
Liz works for the family's antique shop and spends her days finding worthy treasures to resell. One morning she meets a new man, Vince, at an estate sale. They are instantly rivals-going after the same pieces. Who is this man and why is she feeling all prickly around him??
Vince recently moved back home to be with his mother and help with the family's antique shop after his father died. He is struggling a bit since he knows this is where he needs to be, but hasn't quite settled in yet. When he attends an estate sale his mother wants a couple of chosen items from, he didn't expect to meet her. The girl turns out to be Liz and she is the most annoying person he has ever met! Attractive as all get out, but just plain annoying!
I loved watching these two running into each other at all these sales and around their condos. Each meeting builds on the one before and then, wham, they are both head over tail in lust with each other! I loved seeing their progression from rivals to tolerate each other to lovers and beyond! They were so set in their ways and somewhat clueless in recognizing each others signs! I had high hopes they would find a way to make it work and get their HEA! They just needed to navigate the obstacles ahead.
Nothing is all that easy though, and we are handed some angst and situations that need to be dealt with. Unfortunately misunderstandings arise and things are said in haste. Although I do not like all the angst, I did like seeing Liz and Vince totally heartsick about having "lost" each other with no way in sight to fix it. I felt they would eventually see reason and let the other person know their feelings.
I also loved the supporting characters and they offered lots of advice, humor, and fodder for other books down the road!!
Solid first book in the Pemberley House series!
I voluntarily chose to review a gifted copy of this book by the publisher through NetGalley. The rating and review are my opinion.
March 13, 2019
Vince is a quiet man, mostly an introvert who comes off as aloof rather then just shy or unsure of himself. He wants to do better but he doesn't know how to invest that deep with his emotions until moving to another town to help his mom and meeting Liz.
Liz is the middle child, smart and in charge of buying antiques for her families struggling business. Meeting her competition the Darcys makes her even more competitive but meeting Vince tops it all. These two are magnets but sometimes instead of pulling together push each other away.
I really enjoyed this arc. Noelle Adams is one of my favorite authors, always giving us strong independent women and taking emotionally unavailable guys and giving them someone who can match them and draw them out of themselves.
First introduced to Vince in passing was in the loft series I was waiting impatiently to see him in his own book and I wasn't disappointed.
This story did well to bring out some of Jane Austin's pride and prejudice. I would have loved to see more of Jane and Charlie as well I'd love to see Riot grow up and become a great women- maybe she just needs someone to believe in her but push her to do right (maybe the person supervising her to pay off her debt?).
I am excited to read the other stories in this series. Especially Anne's- I hope she gets a second chance and find out why she needs one in the first place.
This story was perfection, steamy, sweet and with some tears and drama to even it all out.
**I received this arc directly from Noelle Adams and her team in exchange for my honest opinion.
Liz is the middle child, smart and in charge of buying antiques for her families struggling business. Meeting her competition the Darcys makes her even more competitive but meeting Vince tops it all. These two are magnets but sometimes instead of pulling together push each other away.
I really enjoyed this arc. Noelle Adams is one of my favorite authors, always giving us strong independent women and taking emotionally unavailable guys and giving them someone who can match them and draw them out of themselves.
First introduced to Vince in passing was in the loft series I was waiting impatiently to see him in his own book and I wasn't disappointed.
This story did well to bring out some of Jane Austin's pride and prejudice. I would have loved to see more of Jane and Charlie as well I'd love to see Riot grow up and become a great women- maybe she just needs someone to believe in her but push her to do right (maybe the person supervising her to pay off her debt?).
I am excited to read the other stories in this series. Especially Anne's- I hope she gets a second chance and find out why she needs one in the first place.
This story was perfection, steamy, sweet and with some tears and drama to even it all out.
**I received this arc directly from Noelle Adams and her team in exchange for my honest opinion.
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