Determination

by C.P. Odom

When Darcy decides to propose to Elizabeth, the sequence of events is modified by the appearance of Col. Fitzwilliam at the Parsonage. He has followed Darcy after he left Rosings, and he arrives just outside the house in time to hear angry voices through the window. After hearing Elizabeth tell Darcy that she could never have accepted the man who had ruined the hope of happiness for her sister, he enters unannounced and opened the door to the front room just in time to hear Elizabeth charge Darcy with being the cause of Wickham’s misfortunes. Col. Fitzwilliam cannot stop himself from intervening over this misunderstanding, and the rest of the disastrous proposal never takes place. Even though Darcy and Elizabeth flee from the room, Col. Fitzwilliam discovers that Elizabeth will be staying in London, and he is determined that this error regarding Wickham cannot be allowed to stand.

Genres: Romance, Regency, Fiction, Fan Fiction, Historical Romance

327 pages, ebook

First published September 3, 2007

About the author

By training, I’m a retired engineer, born in Texas, raised in Oklahoma, and graduated from the University of Oklahoma. Sandwiched in there was a stint in the Marines, and I’ve lived in Arizona since 1977, working first for Motorola and then General Dynamics. I raised two sons with my first wife, Margaret, before her untimely death from cancer, and my second wife, Jeanine, and I adopted two girls from China. The older of my daughters recently graduated with an engineering degree and is working in Phoenix, and the younger girl is heading toward a nursing degree. I’ve always been a voracious reader and collector of books, and my favorite genres are science fiction, historical fiction, histories, and, in recent years, reading (and later writing) Jane Austen romantic fiction. This late-developing interest was indirectly stimulated when I read my late wife's beloved Jane Austen books after her passing. One thing led to another, and I now have three novels published: A Most Civil Proposal (2013), Consequences (2014), and Pride, Prejudice, and Secrets (2015). My fourth novel, Perilous Siege, was just published. I retired from engineering in 2011, but I still live in Arizona with my family, a pair of dogs (one of which is stubbornly untrainable), and a pair of rather strange cats. My hobbies are reading, woodworking, and watching college football and LPGA golf (the girls are much nicer than the guys, as well as being fiendishly good putters). Lately I’ve reverted back to my younger years and have taken up building plastic model aircraft and ships (when I can find the time).

Reviews

[J. W. Garrett · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Desire is the key to motivation, but it’s determination and commitment to an unrelenting pursuit of your goal – a commitment to excellence – that will enable you to attain the success you seek.” Mario Andretti

SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***

>>Rating: MA: Mature: mild language, violence, sex scenes, and sexual discussions, a bit adventurous for virgins, one scene, in particular, seemed unnecessary.
>>Angst Level: slight: then a confrontation with the SBRB that raised the bar on the tensions
>>Source: Borrowed from KU [1-17-23] with no expectations of a review. The thought and opinions expressed are my own. I first read this as an unpublished WIP and enjoyed it. I was anxious to read it again once it was a published work. It was tightened up quite a bit. There were still places that could have been trimmed a bit more.
>>Trope: [1] A different pairing for Jane Bennet [2] the stubborn, recalcitrant Elizabeth syndrome: I wanted to shake her. [3] Douche Darcy: I wanted to shake him as well. GRRR!

“The difference between the impossible and the possible lies in a man’s determination.” Tommy Lasorda

Colonel Fitzwilliam, of His Majesty’s Horse Guards, had faced the enemy many times and had survived. But the day he looked into the eyes of Jane Bennet, was the day that Richard Fitzwilliam knew he had lost the battle over possession of his heart. He determined then and there that he would have this delightful angel as his wife. That was the most powerful scene I have read in a long time. The use of wording and expressions… the feelings that rose up in our dear Colonel were most excellent. This was a determined man.

I loved this depiction of Colonel Fitzwilliam. Man, this was a guy you did not want to deal with in a sword fight. Several officers found that out one day in the streets of Meryton. Unfortunately, they forgot their militia training and didn’t recognize a superior officer. They would not make that mistake again. And, Jane Bennet saw it all. Yep, she was mightily impressed with the strength and prowess displayed by Colonel Fitzwilliam. Boy-howdy did she ever. This story mainly focused on Jane Bennet with Darcy and Elizabeth in the background.

“Do not underestimate the determination of a quiet man.” lain Duncan Smith

Darcy was another determined man in his love of Elizabeth Bennet; however, his quest traveled over a rockier road than that of his cousin. His journey was rife with anger, guilt, frustration, and self-recrimination. I didn’t enjoy his journey as much as that of our dear Colonel. I think too much time was spent on Elizabeth’s anger and Darcy’s guilt. I wanted to shake both of them. However, once the problems were eliminated, they got on well enough. I think the author should just acknowledge that this was our dear Colonel’s story. That allows the D&E story to slip into the background where they belong. IMHO, the story would flow more smoothly if that was understood first.


1st read #131 [April] on my 2017 Reading Challenge
2nd read 3-8-20 Unpub posted at Meryton pulled for publication
3rd read 1-19-23 borrowed through KU

[wosedwew · Rating 5 out of 5]

While I might find pleasure in your approval, your disapproval will not deter me. ~ Muriel Strode

Isn’t this the “fatal flaw” in Bingley in canon P&P? He allows the disapproval of others to deter him from his objective.

Not so with our dear Colonel!

Colonel Fitzwilliam visits the Gardiner residence to deliver a message to Elizabeth Bennet. While there, he meets her sister Jane and falls almost instantly in love. The Colonel will not be influenced by anyone to choose someone else.

He conquers who endures. ~ Persius

Darcy arranges with Bingley for a stay at Netherfield Park. Before Bingley arrives back in Meryton, Jane faces the truth: will she marry a boy when a man is interested in her?

Mother Bennet does her best to push Jane the way she should go. The question is whether Mrs. Bennet actually is in possession of all the facts.

This story contains mature scenes both before and after the wedding, although those scenes are toned down from the original online version.

As a means to success, determination has this advantage over talent — that it does not have to be recognized by others. ~ Robert Brault

[James S · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jane and Richard, Our Dear Couple

The protagonists in the book are Jane and the Colonel, Richard. There is a lot oh Lizzy and Darcy but it was mainly about them being a couple prickly pears. Jane want Lizzy to be with Darcy. Richard want Darcy to be with Lizzy. Very early in the story meets Jane it’s love at first sight for him.

Everything else is centers around their romance. Good story. There is a scene between Wickham and Richard that spells out the difference between a soldier and a militia man.

Very original and I enjoyed it a lot.

[Sophia · Rating 4 out of 5]

What if Colonel Fitzwilliam had followed his cousin Darcy to Hunsford Parsonage that fateful day? And, what if he overheard Elizabeth Bennet's erred accusations against his cousin regarding George Wickham during Darcy's disastrous proposal? And, what if this determined, war-hardened soldier caught sight of a sweet, lovely woman recently jilted by love and determined to have her for himself? Well, that is the making of an all-new story for Jane Austen's most famous book characters and I was eager to see where the variation took me.

Determination may feature the cast of Austen's P&P, but the focus couple is Colonel Fitzwilliam and Jane Bennet with the secondary couple being Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet. I adored this vibrant, saucy, and more self-assured version of Jane Bennet who matched the blunt strength and honor of a cavalry colonel who is somewhat weary and jaded of love.

This colonel was cast aside by father and some of his Fitzwilliam family so that he was taken in by Darcy's parents making them more brothers than cousins. He plans to do Darcy a favor and help save his romance by correcting Elizabeth about her woeful misconceptions about his cousin, but ends up falling in love at first sight with Jane.

The colonel has his work cut out for him because this version of Lizzy has a stubborn temper and a mulish disposition once someone gets her back up and will hold this even in the face of learning she was duped and also got a great deal wrong with her not-so brilliant presumptions. It was obvious that her vociferous denial of Darcy was her unwitting attraction to the man. This makes her demand actions out of him to 'prove' his worth.

Well, well, well... as I said, I loved this Jane and her colonel, but, I confess to being none to impressed with Elizabeth for about the first half of the book. She was unreasonable both in her reactions to Darcy after the truth and her treatment of the colonel and her sister. If it had been anyone but gentle, considering Jane that Lizzy presumptuously tried more than once to submarine her love life and did at one point...

But, Lizzy figures out her issues and makes a turnabout in the end.

There are a few scenes that were big-money moments and I was ready to whoop with joy or swoon. Colonel Fitz was a hero of the ages. His bold approach to Jane while courting her tenderly, his knack of handling a quick-action moment when everyone else stood gawking, and whoa-boy, his taking Darcy to task and deftly dealing with the flighty side of the Bennet household were fabulous. What really made me swoon was the way he handled a rival situation for Jane. He made it about her and her feelings rather than his own. Incidentally, I abhor love triangles, but this one didn't get me testy because it didn't fall overboard into deep drama.

I enjoyed where this variation went and how the characters were portrayed. Those who adore Austen variations with a bit of spice focusing on a couple lovable minor characters should definitely give this a go.

[Sheila Majczan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had tears at the end. Loved it.

In this variation we begin at Rosings as Darcy leaves his aunt's house and his cousin, Fitzwilliam, follows him not realizing at first that Darcy is on his way to the parsonage. When Fitzwilliam nears that house he overhears through open windows the end of the confrontation between Elizabeth and Darcy after his horrid proposal. He enters meaning to add information in order to correct what Elizabeth has said about Wickham but is interrupted as Charlotte, Maria and Collins return. He gains permission to visit Elizabeth at the Gardiners in London to finish telling her about Wickham.

So the Colonel does visit and corrects Elizabeth misconception as to who is the bad guy in that relationship between Darcy and Wickham. But the Colonel is now struck with "love at first sight" when he thinks back on meeting her and follows up with a second visit. Soon he is courting Jane. He is very open and up front about his motives and his own situation in being able to support a wife. However, Elizabeth demands that before she will allow Darcy a second chance he must inform Charles Bingley about his mistaken impression that Jane had no affection for him.

So we have Charles returning and we also have a very reluctant Darcy moving slowly in both words and actions as he is fearful of spoiling this opportunity.

I had to love the Colonel. He never faltered in his campaign. This is a long story and other reviews give more details. Just know that I enjoyed it and highly recommend it.

[Les · Rating 3 out of 5]

Warning Rough language in this review (all mine)

This is a book I wanted to like. I liked the concept, where Colonel Fitzwilliam; here a Richard, gets hit with a thunderbolt and falls madly in lo.ve with Jane Bennet. His initial purpose is to acquaint Miss Elizabeth with the truth of Wickham because you see the Colonel interupts Mr. Darcy during tDP@H and there is no letter.

Lizzy demands that Darcy reunite Jane with Bingley effectively cock blocking the Colonel and being the best wingman Bingley ever hoped for. Seriously Darcy should take lessons

But Richard's thick wrists and big hands win Jane's heart and we all know what that means don't we ladies. Big gloves - am I right??

And Mrs. Bennet is such a witch to Jane for rejecting Bingley that Jane insists on a hasty marriage so she can get those big hands on her body.
The first half of the book is good, the second is draggy and the last bit is all but intolerable. This was a book that DID not need an epilogue but yet it had one (GRRRR)

But it was two utterly bizarre things that made me crazy and made me have to put on my Regency Nit Picking Hat (it's lovely with a half veil)
Through out the book the author goes into bizarre detail about pointless things but one egregious error is "A postal rider travelled only about three miles in an hour, and even the usual express rider could only manage to increase that to four miles." I have no idea where this idea sprang from. There were mail coaches and there were express riders. And express rider rode a horse not a carriage. A horse goes significantly faster than a carriage, is not restricted to roads and would be quicker.
Further the author defeats this statement himself later in the book. For some reason the author insisted upon putting the date on each chapter. On Sunday May 17th Col Fitzwilliam rides from Meryton to London to Kent to Meryton in less than 24 hours and probably less than 16. Thanks to Mr. Darcy we all know the distance from Kent to Meryton in 50 miles. So if an express rider could only travel 4 miles per hour and Col Fitzwilliam made a round trip of 100 miles in less than 25 hours you must acquit.
And travel on Sunday during the Regency was a no no unless it was an emergency.

And an Austen nit pick the following quote is about Jane "“She had nothing from her own experience to guide her since her mother had been completely inept in managing the Longbourn household, but she could not let that daunt her.”
Where did this come from. Mrs bennet may have been a bit dim and a lot pushy but she was an excellent housekeeper. Her dinners were praised, her home was always well turned out. Her daughters might be a bit overwhelmed by Pemberley but a townhouse would have been a cake walk.

[Ree · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Determined Colonel
4.5 stars - I couldn’t quite give it 5.
The focus of the story is two-fold. Colonel Fitzwilliam is determined to somehow convince Elizabeth she is mistaken about Darcy (and Wickham) after the failed proposal at Hunsford, and make Darcy realize he has to change some of his ways too. The second is to win the hand of Jane Bennet. We therefore follow two relationships throughout the book. Well, three relationships if you count Jane and Bingley.

I love a good Colonel “Richard” Fitzwilliam story. Odom’s portrayal of him in this book is excellent and, quite swoon worthy. Readers will love his confrontations with Wickham and Lady Catherine. His loyalty and brotherly bond with Darcy are noteworthy throughout.

Jane and Elizabeth are a bit surprising with their physical desires, which makes me give the story a mildly mature rating.

I thought it was well written, but thought there was a bit of unnecessary repetition in parts, which made the story a bit long. The Epilogue made me tear up at it’s beginning, and laugh at its end.

Another good read by this author, and will look forward to his next.

August 19-20, 2023 - Audiobook
Good narration by Christopher Jarvis. He is a narrator who includes sound recorded sound effects. I don’t really mind them, but sometimes they feel a bit off; such as when you hear the footsteps of one person, when two are walking, or after a wedding at a small town church when multiple bells ring that sound like they are from a grand cathedral.

[Carole (in Canada) · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Rating: 4.5 *

Wow! I love this Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam...he is one confident, disciplined and downright determined man. He is all that I imagined of Jane Austen's original character fully brought to life.

What if Colonel Fitzwilliam followed Darcy the evening he made his disastrous proposal and interrupted it. What caused him to do so? What was left unsaid? And most importantly, what did the Colonel say, especially to Elizabeth? I found this premise unique and captivating. By his presence, he flusters not only Darcy but especially Elizabeth. And, he is determined to not only change Miss Elizabeth's perception of Darcy, but also to try and help his cousin return to the man he once was before he left the shores of England five years prior.

"...I thought myself uncommonly clever to form such a dislike for him. I considered it a spur to my genius and an opening for my wit. It allowed me to justify what I said. And now I find it just one among several mortifications I need to rectify, if only I knew how." (quote from the book)

There is so much that I loved in this variation besides our dear Colonel. Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner were brilliant in their handling of Elizabeth, who was having difficulty coming to terms with all that had happened in Kent. She was one obstinate, headstrong girl indeed! She lets her anger get the best of her, and I loved how Mrs. Gardiner took her to task. Pride goeth before the fall certainly applies here.

"But remember that manners were invented in order to be our guide when our tempers are high and our blood runs hot. Manners are what keep us from each other other's throats." (quote from the book - something we should remember even now)

Then, there was Jane. What they say about 'still waters run deep' is definitely apt when it comes to her. And when the Colonel meets her...well, he takes on another campaign. One he has no intention of losing. Her journey in dealing with the loss of Mr. Bingley and meeting Colonel Ftizwilliam was realistic, and I was enthralled by it all. It lifted the blinders from her eyes. Oh the intensity of their interactions was palpable. But when the Colonel deals with a certain situation, I, along with Jane, was in awe.

"He believed he would never forget this moment, his varied emotions twisting, turning, and melting together until no single strand could be untangled from the others." (quote from the book)

As for Elizabeth and Darcy, with insight from the Colonel and words of advice from her Aunt Gardiner, they slowly work through their misunderstandings, pride and prejudice. However, it is here where I have my only quibble. There is mature content, off-page, that in my humble opinion, detracted from their story, and I just couldn't see it happening.

I highly recommend this wonderful variation, where Colonel Fitzwilliam and Jane Bennet take centre stage. The epilogue was poignant and brought tears to my eyes, but it also had me laughing. I loved the cover that brought a certain scene to life. I enjoyed the quotes at the start of each chapter. There was one from a song by the incredible Canadian artist Loreena McKennitt that I absolutely love!

I was fortunate to win this book in a giveaway with no expectation for a review.

[Sara · Rating 3 out of 5]

Enjoyed the beginning. This is mostly about Richard and Jane. However, the 2nd half was nothing but romantic scenes that are for mature readers. So, it kinda lost me. I was hoping for more plot but instead got overly drawn out maritial and pre-maritial scenes.

If not for the switch 1/2 way would have rated higher.

[wosedwew · Rating 4 out of 5]

While I might find pleasure in your approval, your disapproval will not deter me. ~ Muriel Strode

Isn’t this the “fatal flaw” in Bingley in canon P&P? He allows the disapproval of others to deter him from his objective.

Not so with our dear Colonel!

Colonel Fitzwilliam visits the Gardiner residence to deliver a message to Elizabeth Bennet. While there, he meets her sister Jane and falls almost instantly in love. The Colonel will not be influenced by anyone to choose someone else.

He conquers who endures. ~ Persius

Darcy arranges with Bingley for a stay at Netherfield Park. Before Bingley arrives back in Meryton, Jane faces the truth: can she marry a boy when a man is interested in her?

Mother Bennet does her best to push Jane the way she should go. The question is whether Mrs. Bennet actually is in possession of all the facts.

This story contains mature scenes both before and after the wedding.

It is unpublished and available here:
http://meryton.com/aha/index.php?show...

As a means to success, determination has this advantage over talent — that it does not have to be recognized by others. ~ Robert Brault

[Anna Fitzwilliam · Rating 2 out of 5]

It was my mistake, since I thought I was reading about D&E, but the story is about Colonel and Jane.

[Dung · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5⭐️

[Meredith (Austenesque Reviews) · Rating 3 out of 5]

What If Colonel Fitzwilliam Fell In Love at First Sight?

Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Source: Gift from Publisher

TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation featuring Colonel Fitzwilliam

THE PREMISE: After overhearing Elizabeth’s heated refusal of Mr. Daracy’s proposal, Colonel Fitzwilliam takes it upon himself to disclose what he knows about Wickham. While paying a call at the Gardiners he finds himself utterly bewitched by the beauty and sweetness of Jane Bennet. Knowing of her recently broken heart, he wonders if that heart could heal, could love another, and could that another be him…?

WHAT I LOVED:

- Main Character Energy: First off, I love that this is a Pride and Prejudice variation that places our dear Colonel as the main character! (Darcy and Elizabeth are still featured, but their storyline is secondary and Darcy is shown up a little by his cousin 🫢). Secondly, as always, I loved spending more time with the Colonel. He is a man of action, and that is true for all areas of his life – including his romantic relationships. While I don’t typically love “love at first sight” premises (definitely a slow-burner here), I loved seeing the surety, awareness, and confidence with how Colonel Fitzwilliam pursued this relationship. It proves to be an interesting contrast from other characters such as Bingley (weak, doubtful) and Darcy (expectant, inconsiderate).

- Healing from Heartbreak: Jane Bennet’s experiences with love and heartbreak is in the process of changing her, and she is learning more about herself and what she wants. When considering a future with a new suitor or reflecting on her feelings for a past suitor – our dear Jane is contemplative and analyzes her feelings with introspection and insight. I loved this journey for her! 😉 I appreciated this new depth to Jane – she is more aware, she is practical, she protects herself, yet sheds some of her reserve. I also enjoyed how she measured the two suitors pursuing her and dissected the differences between them to discover her own preferences.

- Colonel Fitzwilliam, Again: Yep, I got more to say about our hero. C.P. Odom gives our Colonel a different family history – one that explains his close brother-like relationship with Mr. Darcy, and also shows his own experience with pain and journey to be independent. This added such an interesting dynamic to both Colonel Fitzwilliam’s character and the story overall. I appreciated how his childhood and hardships shaped his character. Speaking of, I really admired the selflessness and integrity Colonel Fitzwilliam displayed while pursuing Jane. He saw and understood her emotions and was always so patient with her.

WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:

- Fast Developments/Slow-Telling: Colonel Fitzwilliam’s feelings aren’t the only ones that change or develop rapidly. I wouldn’t have minded seeing some more gradual groundwork or introspection for the Bennet sisters’ journeys to love. And while a lot of feelings developed swiftly, some of the action of the story seemed to drag. This was mostly when there were characters retelling scenes/conversations to other characters. While sharing information is necessary, it felt redundant to the reader since they also previously witnessed the same scenes/conversations that are being retold.

- That Escalated Quickly!: This might just be a personal preference, but I thought a few scenes felt a little outlandish or maybe out of proportion for the time period because they were quickly escalated to such high intensity. Two that stood out to me were Colonel Fitzwilliam’s encounter with Wickham and after Elizabeth’s declaration.

NOTE: With a few scenes and allusions to intimate encounters, I’d recommend this book for mature audiences.

CONCLUSION: I’m so happy to have read a story that features Colonel Fitzwilliam as a romantic hero! His rugged, masculine energy, fervent constancy, and considerate actions in this story will definitely make many readers swoon!

Austenesque Reviews

[Rita Deodato · Rating 4 out of 5]

3,5 Rounded up to 4

Review published at:
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...

Determination is a secondary character novel in which Colonel Fitzwilliam decides to reveal to Elizabeth Bennet what he knows about Mr. Wickham after hearing her angrily reject Mr. Darcy’s proposal. He does so after they’ve all returned to London after their sojourn at Rosings, so it is during his visit to the Gardiners, where he tells Elizabeth how her previous assumptions were wrong, that he meets Jane Bennet and is immediately captivated by her beauty and kindness. Unlike Mr. Bingley, Colonel Fitzwilliam is determined to fight for what he wants, and he has decided he wants Jane Bennet, so this book is their love story.

I loved the fact that Colonel Fitzwilliam is the main character in this book and that he was a determined besotted man. I loved his character, his bluntness and determination, but I also loved his background story and the events that shaped him into the man he is today.

Because I don’t believe in love at first sight, I wasn’t as interested in this tale as I could have been because even though they seemed to have a lot of physical attraction, and to be interested in each other, I didn’t get the impression that they were falling in love until the very end of the book. That was certainly a blocking point for me, but if you enjoy tales of love at first sight, then this is certainly the book for you because the Colonel was fierce in his pursuit of Jane Bennet, and that was truly impressive.

While I loved Colonel Fitzwilliam and Jane Bennet in this book, I cannot say the same of Elizabeth who was childish, angry, petulant, unpolite and emotional in the first part of the book. I felt she wanted to purposely despise Mr. Darcy and even though this was not their love story, they were present in the narrative, so I would have either preferred for them to be absent, allowing the main story to progress at a more even pace, or to see a more progressive understanding between them and a more likeable Elizabeth.

Another quibble I had with this book was the pacing, the characters spent too much time talking about their feelings and how their relationships may evolve, which made me feel I was “reading” a story instead of “experiencing” the story.

I did like, however, that Jane was given a choice, and that she was forced to make a decision. I enjoyed the character development that this involved as our beloved Jane is forced to consider what she truly wants out of life and learns how to know her inner self in this book.

In conclusion, Determination is a fantastic book for readers who love stories about people falling in love at first sight because it crafts a very unique and fascinating love story between Jane Bennet and Colonel Fitzwilliam. If Jane and the Colonel’s story had been the only one included, I think the story would have been more to my liking, nevertheless, I did like these characters, their backgrounds and character development, and still believe readers who like love at first sight may enjoy this book.

[Nicole Barton Sasser · Rating 5 out of 5]

Status: Read January 22-23, 2023

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5)

Review:
Fun read - I enjoyed this Colonel Fitzwilliam very much!

Edition Read:

Determination: A Pride & Prejudice Variation
by C.P. Odom
Kindle Edition, 422 pages
Published January 18, 2021 by Meryton Press
ASIN: B08SMMCW5F
[ kindle unlimited ]

“Love at first sight” is a laughable concept in the considered opinion of Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam and never occurs in real life—certainly not in the life of an experienced soldier. In fact, until he observes the smitten nature of his cousin Fitzwilliam Darcy, he doubts that fervent love exists. Marriage, after all, is a matter of money, social standing, and property.

But his cousin becomes besotted with Elizabeth Bennet, the lovely but penniless daughter of a Hertfordshire gentleman, and is determined to make her his wife. Unfortunately, emotions overwhelm his good judgment, and he botches an offer of marriage.

When the colonel attempts to untangle the mess, his own world becomes almost as chaotic when he makes the accidental acquaintance of Miss Jane Bennet, Elizabeth’s beloved eldest sister. Can emotions previously deemed impossible truly seize such a level-headed person as himself? And can impassible obstacles deter a man of true determination?

[Holly · Rating 3 out of 5]

Adequate offering, entertaining book.

I should have read more reviews (I only read the blurb provided by the author), as I did not understand when I started this book that it was more about Jane than Elizabeth. Subsequently, I felt disappointed by the story, which is no fault of the author.
I rate most books with three stars - four and five stars are reserved for exceptional writing, plot intricacies and my personal enjoyment.
Edit: see notes re: disgusting rape joke at 96%. It would be nice if the author removed it from the publication. I’m aware that not all women would be offended by this, but considering that one in three women is sexually assaulted in her lifetime, I found this “joke” callous at a moment in the story that should be fun.

[Madenna U · Rating 4 out of 5]

This Pride and Prejudice variation is from Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam’s point of view. He is a man on a mission and drags his cousin, Fitzwilliam Darcy with him. They will prove to their lady loves their consistency and their feelings.

I really enjoyed this version of the story. Richard was a definite romantic Knight in shining armor.

[Fastidious Kingdoms · Rating 3 out of 5]

I tried.

This is my 2nd go at this book, and I cannot do it. It is so wordy, and so full of telling instead of showing. I’m sorry, but I just can’t.

[Laurann Wilkey · Rating 2 out of 5]

Jane and Elizabeth act as unchaste lewd females

I wanted to like this book as I really enjoyed reading Consequences by the same author, and although I didn't mind the different storyline of Jane getting together with Colonel Fitzwilliam, I was very offended by how the author portrayed Elizabeth. She acted extremely immature throughout the entire book (ie: sticking her tongue out at both Richard then later Darcy, and saying very rude and mean spirited things) which is completely out of her nature. The biggest offense occurred when the author decided to have her engage in fornification which she clearly would not have done in the way Jane Austen portrayed her. In cannon, Elizabeth condemned Lydia for her passions being stronger than her virtue. Jane also was completely out of character as she clearly would have fornicated as well had Richard allowed her to.

How does Elizabeth, a maiden/virgin who has never been kissed or even as much as hold hands with Darcy go from scornfully rejecting his proposal of marriage due to profound dislike 3 weeks prior, act so unprincipled by boldly kissing Darcy while laying on top of him while frantically removing his clothing. All this being done without and before any encouragement from Darcy is completely and utterly ludicrous and unbelievable!

It is abundantly clear a male wrote this book to not understand that a female who is taught a strong moral code their entire life would NOT so readily be thinking about sex all the time and make all the first moves with their, beaux, fiance's or husbands. The author portrayed both of them as having no shyness whatsoever in unclothing themselves which is completely unrealistic for a maiden and is more in line with how a prostitute would behave.

[Christina, but with tea · Rating 2 out of 5]

What I liked:
Colonel Fitzwilliam being resolute and steady in contrast to Mr. Bingley’s seeming inability to be decisive.

Jane seeing the contrast between her two suitors - one who shows his reliability and steadfastness and one who dissembles when asked how long he plans to stay in the neighborhood.

The bits of military history and such.

What I didn’t like:
POV changes mid-paragraph.

Lizzy. She was very OOC and quite off-putting in her attitude and way of dealing with things. Sisterly love and protection aside, she took it upon herself to interfere too much in Jane’s business, coming across as manipulative, childish, and rude at times.

The unevenness of the narrative. It felt choppy and often repetitive. It lead to page skimming at times due to boredom.

The epilogue. It was certainly a choice to end a love story on the funeral of one half of the couple you’ve just spent several hundred pages rooting for. Even if it’s the “they had a full life together and she’s left surrounded by their grown children” kind of thing, it’s a sour way to end a romance, in my opinion.

[Katja · Rating 4 out of 5]

I rated this three and a half stars or so. Thereabouts. Some bits were more rewarding than others.

The Colonel happens to overhear and interrupt part of the D&E argument at Hunsford, and jumps to an awful lot of conclusions without having any of the facts. (He happened to be right, though.). Darcy never gave her a letter, but the Colonel decides to visit Lizzy in London and tells her the truth about Wickham. Well, apart from what concerns Georgiana. On this errand, he falls madly in love with Jane and her violet eyes, and woos her with a lot more decisiveness and determination than Bingley. Elizabeth is wary but she agrees that Darcy could call on her but her condition is that Darcy must inform Bingley of what he did. Bingley returns, so Jane is courted by two men for a while. The colonel has been estranged from the earl ever since a disagreement when he was twelve. I liked the Colonel's stubborn and forthright way of wooing, and his backstory was interesting. Jane is a bit more wishy-washy and undecided about Bingley at first but she jumps in the relationship with the Colonel at full speed once Bingley gets sent away. There is an extended happy end although Mrs. Bennet and the Fitzwilliam relatives introduce some more tension before the wedding

D&E are more like minor characters here, and a lot of their courting conversations get just paraphrased. Important things that gave them a better understanding were said but we are not sure what, so their part of the story was not that satisfying having missed out on both the pining and the fluff, so to speak. The Colonel thought that Darcy had changed for the worse during the time he was away at war and the reasons for that were speculated on but it was left hanging a bit.

Bingley is nice and civil, despite his disappointment, perhaps even a bit too nice. Eventually he gains a secondary love interest that I am not truly happy with because if Bingley gets it on with a rich daughter of a peer it would mean that her catty sisters totally get their wish.

Steam level: I wouldn't call it steamy in that there are no graphic scenes, however, a lot of sex gets implied. There is plenty of ogling and touching, and one of the two couples anticipate their vows. (Not necessarily who I expected to do so, given that some people were so taken with each other's bosoms and wrists and others are described as more tentative in their approach.)

There is an incident in which it is implied that Wickham, Denny et al are planning to do violence to Darcy. It wasn't believable to me as I thought officers in the militia would likely be in a huge load of trouble if they attacked an unarmed wealthy gentleman in broad daylight in front of several witnesses on a crowded street. It would be more Wickham's style to hurt Darcy more stealthily. But it was the Colonel's time to shine, Jane was impressed with his muscles and authority, and Wickham got dealt with so no harm done.

The writing flows mostly nicely but there is a lot of introspection and on several occasions, the characters' mental ponderings are written out in an awkward blend of third person sentences and first person sentences that are not set apart with italics or anything. I think it would be better to stick with one approach, at least in within the same paragraph.

[Sheryl Gordon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Charming Story of a Man Besotted

This is a full " What if ..." and centers completely on Jane and her romance with the Colonel. It's A full exploration of characters who generally fill in the scenery but here they are given center stage. There is estrangement from family on both sides and our author has added some unusual quirks of 'personality' to both the elder Bennett girls that may give a better understanding of the youngest. It's very well written and plotted throughout, so if you don't mind letting Darcy and Elizabeth fumble their way together on the outskirts for once, this is a very enjoyable read. For the pure-ists, don't bother. It wasn't written for you.

[mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't know why I avoided this book for so long. Maybe cause it was more about Colonel Fitzwilliam/Jane than Darcy/Lizzy But I finally read it and have thoroughly enjoyed it. It is definitely a different story line and still gives you the Darcy/Lizzy you desire but also gives you the Colonel/Jane you didn't know you needed. I probably avoided it before since I was unsure about Jane with someone other than Bingley..... but that was ignorant me.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

So worthy

This was an amazing book, as in I could barely put it down. Was it a Pride and Prejudice variation about Elizabeth and Darcy or Jane or Fitzwilliam? Who cares? I almost called in sick just so I could read this utterly wonderful book. Bravo!

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is as much about Jane and her love life as it is about Elizabeth and Darcy.

I highlighted some humorous passages but can’t figure out how to make them show up.

I loved all the scenes with the Colonel’s bat man. He was hilarious.

Richard’s reactions to Jane’s gown were fun.

[Bettye McKee · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Pursuit of Miss Jane

The first time Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam laid eyes on Miss Jane Bennet, he was thunderstruck. From that moment on, Richard's main goal in life was his pursuit of Jane.

Elizabeth had convinced Darcy of his error in separating Charles Bingley from Jane. In his effort to right a wrong, Darcy confessed his mistake to Bingley and urged him to return to Netherfield Park.

I have read several books written by this fine author and have enjoyed them all.

5

[Adriana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Variation of Pride and Prejudice in which ODC are not the main characters. Darcy manages to be even more aloof and Elizabeth even more stubborn than usual and they really need Colonel Fitzwilliam's help. He falls in love at first sight with Jane, who still suffers for Bingley. I just couldn't stop reading.

[Donadee's Corner · Rating 5 out of 5]

CP Odom – Determination – Reviewed 1/27/21 – Read 1/27/21.

Do you believe in love at first sight???? Or is it something out of a ladies' novel?

The year is 1812 - Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam and Fitzwilliam Darcy are at Rosings, Kent visiting their aunt, Lady Catherine. At the moment they are taking tea along with her guest from the Parsonage and her ladyship was expounding on the proper method of cleaning the dining room furniture. Fitzwilliam looked up and spotted Darcy making a clean getaway and decided that he should do the same because as soon as his aunt realized that Darcy had left it would be him that received the brunt of her anger. Shortly thereafter he spotted his time and slipped out to catch up with Darcy.

He was quick but it seems that Darcy was even quicker and soon he could not spot him. He realized the path that they were on lead directly to the Parsonage, and there could only be one reason for him to take that path. He was on his way to visit the only person that was not up at the main house, Miss Elizabeth Bennett. As he approached the house, he realized that a heated discussion was taking place. He could not help himself as the window was open and he could overhear what was being said, but when he heard Miss Bennett accuse Darcy of mistreatment to George Wickham. He could not stop himself he rushed into the room to make things clear that that was not the case. George Wickham was a scoundrel and deserved to be made accountable for the misery that he had caused Darcy and many others!

Darcy took that moment to escape and left upon hearing the noise from the returning members of the household. Fitzwilliam knew that Elizabeth was returning to London and told her that he would finish this conversation with her at her Uncles home. And the story begins….

What did I like? As most of you know, Pride & Prejudice is my favorite of all the books that Jane Austen wrote. Over the years, I think I have read it many times, and of late have enjoyed the many variations that have been written by other authors. I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed this version. I had many a laugh as the story progressed. The key difference in this version is that the main characters are Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam and Jane Bennett. Don’t get me wrong when I say this because of course, Elizabeth and Darcy are most certainly in the book and play major parts, but “Determination” is about Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam! I know my enjoyment was tripled with the interaction between the two boys as the story develops.

What will you like? Humor, romance, more humor, and more romance! This is a perfect example of the original story, and if you loved it you most certainly will enjoy this one. The story is emotional and so sweet. The men play their parts to the tee, and we learn more about the childhood of both. Jane and Lizzy are amazing and give us another version of the love of both women. I most certainly loved the ending, and I think you will find it a perfect way to end this saga! Be prepared for your heart to be stolen! A wonderful story and beautifully written.


• File Size: 2585 KB
• Print Length: 327 pages
• Publication Date: 1/18/2021
• Publisher: Meryton Press
• ASIN: B08SMMCW5F
• Genre: Regency Historical Romance, Regency Romances, Classic Literature & Fiction

[lori huff · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful, Mr Odom! Keep them coming, please!

This is one author whose books I automatically buy as soon as I see his name on them. He has a wondrous way with words, a wicked sense of humor, and the talent for putting together clever, imaginative, engaging stories. This work is primarily about Colonel Fitzwilliam, one of Jane Austen's more lovable characters, and you will fall in love with him all over again. Darcy and Elizabeth definitely appear in the story in their usual roles, but the focus is not on them, but is rather on Colonel Fitzwilliam and Jane Bennett.

The story begins with the disastrous proposal at Hunsford parsonage, which Fitzwilliam eavesdrop on, and then actually interrupts when the name Wickham is raised by Elizabeth. He feels a compulsion to defend Darcy when Elizabeth is asking about Wickham, so circumstances change, there is no subsequent letter from Darcy to Elizabeth, and Fitzwilliam becomes involved in the aftermath of Darcy's bumbling pursuit of Elizabeth. Because of this he eventually meets Jane, and falls instantly in love.

The persona of Colonel Fitzwilliam is drawn in such detail, and is given a far more poignant background, a far more difficult childhood and early manhood. He definitely has graduated from the school of hard knocks, and the reader can't help but be cheering and hoping for his success. He's just a lovely and lovable character. Fortunately, Jane, who is usually a rather insipid and calm character, has a lot of personal growth, and starts to take charge of her life, instead of just pining for Bingley and doing nothing. She is a pleasant surprise, and I love the way she evolves.

Although Darcy and Elizabeth are present sort of in the background, they each are also given a bit of a makeover. They each are given sharper edges that need the influence of Colonel Fitzwilliam to soften. After being away at war for five years, Colonel Fitzwilliam returns to find that Darcy has undergone drastic personality changes, and is now cold and hard to most people, unlike the pleasant person he used to be. Elizabeth becomes kind of a pesky and annoying over protective younger sister to Jane as soon as Colonel Fitzwilliam starts to show serious interest in her. Neither Darcy nor Elizabeth is a match for the good Colonel's wonderfully bold and decisive actions.

It's such a pleasure to read great prose and wonderful storytelling. The book is beautifully written and superbly edited. I recommend it highly.

[Bello Valérie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have delayed reading this variation centered on Jane, who is not my favourite character. I have read it in a day and have really enjoyed it. I really liked this Colonel and his story. He kept me interested, despite the focus on Jane (as boring as always even if the author tried to spice her up and did not completely fail). The romance between Darcy and Elizabeth is an afterthought at best, which is fine since the author's intentions are clear from the beginning, but I didn't like this Elizabeth nor this Darcy. They are meddling and very irritating busybodies. They act very arrogantly, Elizabeth in particular, and they don't really learn from their mistakes. Unpleasant characters. The author is forgiven though because I can well imagine an unreformed Elizabeth acting this way. Canon Elizabeth grew up and reformed herself after Hunsford. This Elizabeth does not, despite some very harsh truths made quite clear to her by the Colonel. I started to see her as one more annoying Bennet sister to this Jane and that was ok.This Colonel is well worth the read though. Quality JAFF.