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The Impulse of the Moment
An incident during Elizabeth Bennet’s first assembly at the age of sixteen leaves her wary of men—and of Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy in particular. When Mr. Darcy returns four years later, he finds a young woman matured from the girl he knew, resolved to overcome the trials she has endured. The uncertainty leads Elizabeth to a situation which once again puts her at risk. Uncertain how Mr. Darcy will act, Elizabeth is forced to question what kind of man he is. Despite all these hurdles, the course of true love cannot be diverted. Elizabeth finds herself strangely compelled by Mr. Darcy and attraction grows, a connection begins to be forged. But while the lovers are sorting through the misunderstandings of their turbulent past, forces gather from a distance, intent upon separating them forever. Elements of Mr. Darcy’s family, those who possess the power to exert great influence over his future, do not take kindly to his potential choice of a wife. And the machinations of a detested rival threaten their happiness, one who believes he has been misused and is determined to receive his due no matter what the cost.
- GenresRegencyHistorical
361 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 20, 2019
216 people are currently reading
68 people want to read
About the author
Jann Rowland
88 books192 followersJann Rowland is a Canadian, born and bred. Other than a two-year span in which he lived in Japan, he has been a resident of the Great White North his entire life, though he professes to still hate the winters.
Though Jann did not start writing until his mid-twenties, writing has grown from a hobby to an all-consuming passion. His interests as a child were almost exclusively centered on the exotic fantasy worlds of Tolkien and Eddings, among a host of others. As an adult, his interests have grown to include historical fiction and romance, with a particular focus on the works of Jane Austen.
When Jann is not writing, he enjoys rooting for his favorite sports teams. He is also a master musician (in his own mind) who enjoys playing piano and singing as well as moonlighting as the choir director in his church’s congregation.
Jann lives in Alberta with his wife of more than twenty years, two grown sons, and one young daughter. He is convinced that whatever hair he has left will be entirely gone by the time his little girl hits her teenage years. Sadly, though he has told his daughter repeatedly that she is not allowed to grow up, she continues to ignore him.
Website: http://onegoodsonnet.com/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/OneGoodSonnetPub...
Twitter: @OneGoodSonnet
Mailing List: http://eepurl.com/bol2p9
Though Jann did not start writing until his mid-twenties, writing has grown from a hobby to an all-consuming passion. His interests as a child were almost exclusively centered on the exotic fantasy worlds of Tolkien and Eddings, among a host of others. As an adult, his interests have grown to include historical fiction and romance, with a particular focus on the works of Jane Austen.
When Jann is not writing, he enjoys rooting for his favorite sports teams. He is also a master musician (in his own mind) who enjoys playing piano and singing as well as moonlighting as the choir director in his church’s congregation.
Jann lives in Alberta with his wife of more than twenty years, two grown sons, and one young daughter. He is convinced that whatever hair he has left will be entirely gone by the time his little girl hits her teenage years. Sadly, though he has told his daughter repeatedly that she is not allowed to grow up, she continues to ignore him.
Website: http://onegoodsonnet.com/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/OneGoodSonnetPub...
Twitter: @OneGoodSonnet
Mailing List: http://eepurl.com/bol2p9
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
April 8, 2023
Love's first snow-drop, virgin kiss. ~ Robert Burns
Like most 16-year-old girls of her time, Elizabeth Bennet believes her first kiss will be the one she gives to the man she will marry.
Yet, at her first Assembly, Elizabeth has a confrontation with her neighbor’s friend. Impulsively, giving no thought to the consequences, he kisses her.
Years pass, Elizabeth matures and one day Fitzwilliam Darcy again visits his friend Charles Bingley in Meryton.
The backstory has many changes from canon P&P.
The Bennets have a son, Thomas, followed by three daughters, Jane, Elizabeth and Mary. Longbourn is much more prosperous and the girls have respectable dowries.
Both of the Darcy parents are still alive.
The Bingleys have lived at Netherfield for most of their children’s lives. Their fortune has come from trade but they are now landowners.
Mr. Darcy, Sr. is proud of his family history – which is much more ancient than that of his in-laws, the Fitzwilliams, even though the Fitzwilliams are titled. He expects his children to marry with their heritage at the forefront of the requirements in a future spouse. He is completely deceived by George Wickham and takes Wickham’s word over that of his son.
The author teases with hints of violence and retribution throughout. The resolution surprised me but was appropriate.
“Impulse of the Moment” is an enjoyable story that kept my attention to the end. A few typos remain. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys JAFF.
The decision to kiss for the first time is the most crucial one in any love story. ~ Emil Ludwig
Like most 16-year-old girls of her time, Elizabeth Bennet believes her first kiss will be the one she gives to the man she will marry.
Yet, at her first Assembly, Elizabeth has a confrontation with her neighbor’s friend. Impulsively, giving no thought to the consequences, he kisses her.
Years pass, Elizabeth matures and one day Fitzwilliam Darcy again visits his friend Charles Bingley in Meryton.
The backstory has many changes from canon P&P.
The Bennets have a son, Thomas, followed by three daughters, Jane, Elizabeth and Mary. Longbourn is much more prosperous and the girls have respectable dowries.
Both of the Darcy parents are still alive.
The Bingleys have lived at Netherfield for most of their children’s lives. Their fortune has come from trade but they are now landowners.
Mr. Darcy, Sr. is proud of his family history – which is much more ancient than that of his in-laws, the Fitzwilliams, even though the Fitzwilliams are titled. He expects his children to marry with their heritage at the forefront of the requirements in a future spouse. He is completely deceived by George Wickham and takes Wickham’s word over that of his son.
The author teases with hints of violence and retribution throughout. The resolution surprised me but was appropriate.
“Impulse of the Moment” is an enjoyable story that kept my attention to the end. A few typos remain. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys JAFF.
The decision to kiss for the first time is the most crucial one in any love story. ~ Emil Ludwig
March 22, 2019
An excellent alternate world of Darcy and Elizabeth
Another excellent story from the author. If you enjoyed ‘Bound by Love’ you will love this story. In this world Darcy’s parents are still alive and Mr. Darcy still is willfully blind about Wickham.
The fun of getting to know Darcy’s parents better, getting to know Lizzy’s brother and to experience all the ramifications of this different world is VERY enjoyable.
This was the first variation in a long time to cause me to lose sleep. I read it all the way through until 3:30 am, until I finished it. I generally don’t like sequels but I would love a follow up volume to continue to know everyone’s stories.
I recommend this book highly and will put in the Read Again pile of books.
Another excellent story from the author. If you enjoyed ‘Bound by Love’ you will love this story. In this world Darcy’s parents are still alive and Mr. Darcy still is willfully blind about Wickham.
The fun of getting to know Darcy’s parents better, getting to know Lizzy’s brother and to experience all the ramifications of this different world is VERY enjoyable.
This was the first variation in a long time to cause me to lose sleep. I read it all the way through until 3:30 am, until I finished it. I generally don’t like sequels but I would love a follow up volume to continue to know everyone’s stories.
I recommend this book highly and will put in the Read Again pile of books.
March 29, 2019
4.5 stars rounded up to 5 stars.
The list of characters is expanded in this variation as M/M Darcy and M/M Bingley are alive and quite involved in their offspring's lives. Mr. Collins is a surprise and I quite liked him. Mrs. Bennet has died a few years after the story begins. The makeup of the Bennet family is different with only three daughters but with an heir, Thomas. The Bingleys have owned Netherfield for some time so that their children and the Bennets' children have grown up together. Caroline Bingley and Thomas Bennet are destined for each other as are Charles and Jane. However as the story begins Charles still has several years of university so the young men are not quite ready for marriage at the start of our tale.
Charles invites his friend, Fitzwilliam Darcy to visit. Darcy's father is the one in this variation who has that disdain for those below him in society and he frowns on the friendship with the Bingleys even though he does not forbid it. Darcy (with the approval of his mother) determines to marry for more than connections and money. So when he meets, dances with and then breaks propriety with a 16-year-old, just out young lady, he find in the ensuing years he cannot quite forget her. She is like no one he has ever met. She, however, knows that his action could ruin her reputation if she makes it known and fears his intentions, dreading that he will return and do more harm. She is not ready to have him forced to marry her due to that first act.
This fact about Darcy plays a big role in this story. He does not return for four years and it is all due to what he did and his thoughts about her. When he does return Elizabeth is wary about him and takes precautions to guard against being in a situation which would allow him to repeat his action or further impose on her. They do have a confrontation and the air is cleared and Darcy's attentions to Elizabeth are obvious to most, even her cousin who has loved her for years. But Jane is the only one who knows what he did and when Elizabeth goes off to the Gardiners to help out her ill aunt and Darcy follows within two days, Jane is alarmed that his purpose is not what it should be and seeks help.
That crisis is only one of the obstacles that ODC must face and overcome. In this tale Wickham is even more attached to his godfather and sponsor and when the position Mr. Darcy secured for him with a law firm does not suit his plans he returns to Pemberley and sows seeds of discord reporting that Fitzwilliam is involved with a young lady totally unsuitable for the Darcy family. He hopes the father will disinherit his son and give Pemberley to him.
So the angst continues. M/M Darcy are off to Netherfield to check out this situation. Georgiana goes with them and Wickham (again) sees her as just another possibility for financial gain, if he can just get her alone, away from her mother.
I enjoyed this story and recommend it to JAFF lovers. I have read all of this author's stories.
The list of characters is expanded in this variation as M/M Darcy and M/M Bingley are alive and quite involved in their offspring's lives. Mr. Collins is a surprise and I quite liked him. Mrs. Bennet has died a few years after the story begins. The makeup of the Bennet family is different with only three daughters but with an heir, Thomas. The Bingleys have owned Netherfield for some time so that their children and the Bennets' children have grown up together. Caroline Bingley and Thomas Bennet are destined for each other as are Charles and Jane. However as the story begins Charles still has several years of university so the young men are not quite ready for marriage at the start of our tale.
Charles invites his friend, Fitzwilliam Darcy to visit. Darcy's father is the one in this variation who has that disdain for those below him in society and he frowns on the friendship with the Bingleys even though he does not forbid it. Darcy (with the approval of his mother) determines to marry for more than connections and money. So when he meets, dances with and then breaks propriety with a 16-year-old, just out young lady, he find in the ensuing years he cannot quite forget her. She is like no one he has ever met. She, however, knows that his action could ruin her reputation if she makes it known and fears his intentions, dreading that he will return and do more harm. She is not ready to have him forced to marry her due to that first act.
This fact about Darcy plays a big role in this story. He does not return for four years and it is all due to what he did and his thoughts about her. When he does return Elizabeth is wary about him and takes precautions to guard against being in a situation which would allow him to repeat his action or further impose on her. They do have a confrontation and the air is cleared and Darcy's attentions to Elizabeth are obvious to most, even her cousin who has loved her for years. But Jane is the only one who knows what he did and when Elizabeth goes off to the Gardiners to help out her ill aunt and Darcy follows within two days, Jane is alarmed that his purpose is not what it should be and seeks help.
That crisis is only one of the obstacles that ODC must face and overcome. In this tale Wickham is even more attached to his godfather and sponsor and when the position Mr. Darcy secured for him with a law firm does not suit his plans he returns to Pemberley and sows seeds of discord reporting that Fitzwilliam is involved with a young lady totally unsuitable for the Darcy family. He hopes the father will disinherit his son and give Pemberley to him.
So the angst continues. M/M Darcy are off to Netherfield to check out this situation. Georgiana goes with them and Wickham (again) sees her as just another possibility for financial gain, if he can just get her alone, away from her mother.
I enjoyed this story and recommend it to JAFF lovers. I have read all of this author's stories.
March 28, 2019
Fitzwilliam Darcy is visiting the Bingley family, that has purchased the Netherfield estate and he meets 16 year old Elizabeth Bennet at her first public assembly in Mertyon. In the impulse of the moment, he kisses her! A freaked out Lizzy doesn't know if she should be fearful that were discovered or if he is a rake out to ruin her. However, he is quickly called away and leaves town.
Four years later, a more mature Elizabeth meets him again. He is still attracted to her and needs to prove that he is not a rake but has genuine interest in her. Jane knows of the past and situations and conversations ensure that misunderstandings to resolve are all around.
The story has a large cast of characters that change up the relationships. Elizabeth has an older brother, Darcy & Bingley's parents are alive, etc. It is quite imaginative.
Four years later, a more mature Elizabeth meets him again. He is still attracted to her and needs to prove that he is not a rake but has genuine interest in her. Jane knows of the past and situations and conversations ensure that misunderstandings to resolve are all around.
The story has a large cast of characters that change up the relationships. Elizabeth has an older brother, Darcy & Bingley's parents are alive, etc. It is quite imaginative.
July 7, 2022
Another gem from Jann Rowland.
April 20, 2019
3 1/2 stars rounded up to 4 stars
The story begins with an incident that involves a young 16 year old Elizabeth and an impulsive Darcy. Elizabeth’s first kiss that could have ruined her reputation. The story advances 4 years with the return of Darcy to Netherfield. Can Darcy show Elizabeth he is not longer impulsive but, loves her? In this story the older Bingleys’ and Darcys’ are alive. Mrs. Bennet has passed away and there is only Jane, Elizabeth and Mary. Mr. Collins is a different character and of course Mr. Wickham is jealous of Darcy and trying to get what he thinks is owed to him. What begins with a kiss, end with a kiss.
The story begins with an incident that involves a young 16 year old Elizabeth and an impulsive Darcy. Elizabeth’s first kiss that could have ruined her reputation. The story advances 4 years with the return of Darcy to Netherfield. Can Darcy show Elizabeth he is not longer impulsive but, loves her? In this story the older Bingleys’ and Darcys’ are alive. Mrs. Bennet has passed away and there is only Jane, Elizabeth and Mary. Mr. Collins is a different character and of course Mr. Wickham is jealous of Darcy and trying to get what he thinks is owed to him. What begins with a kiss, end with a kiss.
February 20, 2023
rather bland
A scant 3* for me.
This author is usual a safe pair of hands if rather too wordy but this book is far too long with too much unnecessary padding. I know this author tends to the verbose so I was ready for that but this one falls short on too many points for me,
Minor spoilers ahead
1) something which would have happened under the mistletoe each year does not constitute a compromise
2) the Jane/Bingley is drawn out soooo much and I could not understand the way everyone talked about them the whole time as if they weren’t in the room
3) the two courting couples travelled from London to Longbourn in a carriage which was much more compromising than anything else in the book
4) with the Bingley and Darcy parents still alive there was no consistency in how the author distinguishes the parents and the children making it difficult to know who was being referenced. This was the most annoying point for me and there was a clear social structure to handle this which the author should have deployed.
Sadly a clear miss for me.
A scant 3* for me.
This author is usual a safe pair of hands if rather too wordy but this book is far too long with too much unnecessary padding. I know this author tends to the verbose so I was ready for that but this one falls short on too many points for me,
Minor spoilers ahead
1) something which would have happened under the mistletoe each year does not constitute a compromise
2) the Jane/Bingley is drawn out soooo much and I could not understand the way everyone talked about them the whole time as if they weren’t in the room
3) the two courting couples travelled from London to Longbourn in a carriage which was much more compromising than anything else in the book
4) with the Bingley and Darcy parents still alive there was no consistency in how the author distinguishes the parents and the children making it difficult to know who was being referenced. This was the most annoying point for me and there was a clear social structure to handle this which the author should have deployed.
Sadly a clear miss for me.
August 6, 2022
I added this to my TBR challenge for 2022 because Jann had written one of my most favorite variations. I was not disappointed in this one, for I read each as if they are their own and for it's own value. The premise was wonderful, having his parents while Mrs. Bennet was gone, and there were only three Bennet daughters. I loved the premise of the impulse, and while I did not agree with some of the reactions for the characters, but I believe that it was true for the times and with respect to the story that he wished. I enjoyed Mary and the depiction of Mr. Collins and his role in the family, and it was an excellent story to fall into when on travel for a weekend when people are worried now about the Monkeypox. :)
March 23, 2019
What if taken to a pleasant place
What if the Bennet’s had a son and had money.
What if Darcy’s parents were alive.
What if Darcy fell I love with Elizabeth before she came of age.
All of these possibilities in a wonderfully written and touching story. Another great book that took me on a journey that made me smile and glad I read this book.
What if the Bennet’s had a son and had money.
What if Darcy’s parents were alive.
What if Darcy fell I love with Elizabeth before she came of age.
All of these possibilities in a wonderfully written and touching story. Another great book that took me on a journey that made me smile and glad I read this book.
October 17, 2020
Very Good
Darcy compromises Elizabeth with an impulsive kiss when she is just 16 years old. Four years later, after refusing many invitations from Bingley, he returns to Netherfield in order to see how she receives him after so much time has passed.
This cast of characters is quite different and includes two healthy pairs of parents—Mr. and Mrs. Darcy, and Mr. and Mrs. Bingley. Mrs. Bennet is already deceased. There is no Lydia, but there is a Bennet heir, Thomas, the older brother of the three Bennet sisters. Caroline is nice. Lady Catherine and Colonel Fitzwilliam are only mentioned, and Lord Matlock is briefly in the story. Of course, there’s Wickham, who always has to interfere.
Jann Rowland always tells his own very much non-canon P&P variations/retellings. There is usually a slight element of angst, as in this book, but it is very mild, and not of the gut-wrenching kind. This book is very good for the Jann Rowland and fanfic fans who enjoy them, as I do. Recommend.
Darcy compromises Elizabeth with an impulsive kiss when she is just 16 years old. Four years later, after refusing many invitations from Bingley, he returns to Netherfield in order to see how she receives him after so much time has passed.
This cast of characters is quite different and includes two healthy pairs of parents—Mr. and Mrs. Darcy, and Mr. and Mrs. Bingley. Mrs. Bennet is already deceased. There is no Lydia, but there is a Bennet heir, Thomas, the older brother of the three Bennet sisters. Caroline is nice. Lady Catherine and Colonel Fitzwilliam are only mentioned, and Lord Matlock is briefly in the story. Of course, there’s Wickham, who always has to interfere.
Jann Rowland always tells his own very much non-canon P&P variations/retellings. There is usually a slight element of angst, as in this book, but it is very mild, and not of the gut-wrenching kind. This book is very good for the Jann Rowland and fanfic fans who enjoy them, as I do. Recommend.
March 28, 2019
First Confusing Kiss and Then Leading to Love!
I always enjoy Jann Rowland's novel and this being no exception. It is well written, keeping you engrossed in the plot.
I also loved the plot where both of Darcy's parents are alive through the whole novel. Naturally as always, I hate the part where Wickham is involved but then again, it does add to the story line.
Mr. Bennet was written to show his always humorous side of while I love and the teasing he does to his daughters.
I also thought the part that was written pertaining to Mary Bennet was delightful that she was more like Elizabeth than the religious Mary.
The love between the sisters showed through with Jane always worrying and being protective of Elizabeth.
A great love story that came about although taking more time due to the young age of Lizzy and the separation of time.
Thanks for a great and enjoyable read.
I always enjoy Jann Rowland's novel and this being no exception. It is well written, keeping you engrossed in the plot.
I also loved the plot where both of Darcy's parents are alive through the whole novel. Naturally as always, I hate the part where Wickham is involved but then again, it does add to the story line.
Mr. Bennet was written to show his always humorous side of while I love and the teasing he does to his daughters.
I also thought the part that was written pertaining to Mary Bennet was delightful that she was more like Elizabeth than the religious Mary.
The love between the sisters showed through with Jane always worrying and being protective of Elizabeth.
A great love story that came about although taking more time due to the young age of Lizzy and the separation of time.
Thanks for a great and enjoyable read.
May 3, 2019
A different Darcy
If Fitzwilliam Darcy remained the son of a very determined father, how different would he behave? This story allows the reader to observe the Darcy family, still intact. We get to see the young man, a prideful, entitled product of the upper circles of society, commit a faux pas that has a long lasting affect on his innocent victim. But Darcy is Darcy, thank goodness so his destiny remains Elizabeth. An interesting variation with quite a few change-ups in circumstances and characters.
If Fitzwilliam Darcy remained the son of a very determined father, how different would he behave? This story allows the reader to observe the Darcy family, still intact. We get to see the young man, a prideful, entitled product of the upper circles of society, commit a faux pas that has a long lasting affect on his innocent victim. But Darcy is Darcy, thank goodness so his destiny remains Elizabeth. An interesting variation with quite a few change-ups in circumstances and characters.
October 6, 2019
Slow moving with no real pay-off.
July 2, 2019
Not great
In fairness to the writer, I gave up after 5 chapters. Poorly written, it just drags on and on, going nowhere.
I have loved Regency Romances all my adult life.
This drudgery does not qualify.
Not a book I would recommend.
In fairness to the writer, I gave up after 5 chapters. Poorly written, it just drags on and on, going nowhere.
I have loved Regency Romances all my adult life.
This drudgery does not qualify.
Not a book I would recommend.
June 30, 2019
So it seems this year is the year I am determined to read as many P& P variations/continuations as I can... Anyway, this story is quite different from canon, and I think this makes it very interesting.
I liked it a lot. The story starts when Elizabeth was 16 and she was coming out into society at a Meryton assembly (similar to the canon one but 4 years before). The Bingleys have been living in Netherfield for many many years and they are well acquainted with the Bennets, being of the same class, and the most prominent families of the neighbourhood.
Mr Darcy visits his friend Bingley and they attend the assembly together. Elizabeth dances with Mr Darcy, and then she suggests that he dance with other ladies but he refuses, they have a disagreement about it, she goes to the balcony for some fresh air, Darcy follows her to apologise, but instead unexpectedly kisses her, making her wary of men. During 4 years they have been in each other's minds, but not for the same motives. Mr Darcy returns to Netherfield 4 years later (Elizabeth is 20 like in canon) and Elizabeth is very worried. Is Mr Darcy just a rake that takes advantage of innocent young women or did he kiss Elizabeth as an impulse of the moment? You'll find out!
In this story, Mr Bennet is not as indolent as in canon, he is a scholar but he still takes care of his estate, so the girls have better dowries.
Spoiler alert!!!!!
He has a son, Thomas Bennet, older than Jane. Kitty and Lydia don't appear in the story. Mary is very witty, just a little shy but very similar to Lizzie in appearance and character. The estate is not entailed away from the female line, but Thomas is the heir.
Caroline Bingley is actually nice and Louisa Hurst is the haughty one only. Caroline is in love with someone else so she never throws herself on Mr Darcy.
Mr Collins is much more sensible since his father died when he was 15 and he was received and educated by Mr Bennet, so he is just like a brother to the Bennets. Mr Bennet loves Mrs Bennet...but I won't spoil more...
Anyway, Lizzie learns to trust Mr Darcy after the incident 4 years ago and slowly they fall for each other... but Mr Darcy's father, who is alive like his mother in this story, is not happy with his son's choices, which creates difficulties for the couple.
And Mr Wickham is just as awful, doing everything he can to create discord between Mr Darcy and his father, and trying to get his favour and his money.
So if you like something that is very different and creative, you'll love this story!! I highly recommend it! Very well written, a good plot and an interesting alternate version.
I liked it a lot. The story starts when Elizabeth was 16 and she was coming out into society at a Meryton assembly (similar to the canon one but 4 years before). The Bingleys have been living in Netherfield for many many years and they are well acquainted with the Bennets, being of the same class, and the most prominent families of the neighbourhood.
Mr Darcy visits his friend Bingley and they attend the assembly together. Elizabeth dances with Mr Darcy, and then she suggests that he dance with other ladies but he refuses, they have a disagreement about it, she goes to the balcony for some fresh air, Darcy follows her to apologise, but instead unexpectedly kisses her, making her wary of men. During 4 years they have been in each other's minds, but not for the same motives. Mr Darcy returns to Netherfield 4 years later (Elizabeth is 20 like in canon) and Elizabeth is very worried. Is Mr Darcy just a rake that takes advantage of innocent young women or did he kiss Elizabeth as an impulse of the moment? You'll find out!
In this story, Mr Bennet is not as indolent as in canon, he is a scholar but he still takes care of his estate, so the girls have better dowries.
Spoiler alert!!!!!
He has a son, Thomas Bennet, older than Jane. Kitty and Lydia don't appear in the story. Mary is very witty, just a little shy but very similar to Lizzie in appearance and character. The estate is not entailed away from the female line, but Thomas is the heir.
Caroline Bingley is actually nice and Louisa Hurst is the haughty one only. Caroline is in love with someone else so she never throws herself on Mr Darcy.
Mr Collins is much more sensible since his father died when he was 15 and he was received and educated by Mr Bennet, so he is just like a brother to the Bennets. Mr Bennet loves Mrs Bennet...but I won't spoil more...
Anyway, Lizzie learns to trust Mr Darcy after the incident 4 years ago and slowly they fall for each other... but Mr Darcy's father, who is alive like his mother in this story, is not happy with his son's choices, which creates difficulties for the couple.
And Mr Wickham is just as awful, doing everything he can to create discord between Mr Darcy and his father, and trying to get his favour and his money.
So if you like something that is very different and creative, you'll love this story!! I highly recommend it! Very well written, a good plot and an interesting alternate version.
April 25, 2019
Mr. Rowland never disappoints
I try to read everything this author releases, and for good reason. His stories are well constructed, entertaining and quality writing. This book should be called a reimagining rather than a variation of P&P, since situations and characters are vastly altered from original. The family dynamic of both Elizabeth and Darcy is changed, as well as that of the Bingleys. Mr. Collins' relationship with the Bennett's is different. Various personalities of main characters are changed. In short, only a few key elements are retained.
The whole story centers around the impulsive action referred to in the title, which is a kiss Darcy bestows on Elizabeth when she is just sixteen, out on a balcony during a ball when no one else is present. This kiss, from a man she's only just met, has a profound effect on her outlook on men and causes a kind of wariness she otherwise wouldn't have had. She doesn't see Darcy again for four years, and he has to win back her trust and eventual esteem when he returns to her neighborhood. By modern standards I wouldn't have thought a little kiss should have had such an impact, but I must trust that in Regency times this is a big deal. Elizabeth and Jane make a huge deal about it, as Jane is the only person Elizabeth confides in. It causes Jane to assume a highly protective stance with Elizabeth whenever they're in company.
Besides the struggle that ODC have to overcome the past impropriety, there is also Darcy's dad to win over and Wickham to outsmart. Through it all, they have the powerfully strong family ties of the Bennetts, Bingleys and Darcys behind them. This is one glaring difference from canon, namely that our main characters come from loving, sensible and supportive families. It's refreshing to have characters that communicate and esteem each other.
There were a number of editing errors, but not enough to interrupt the flow of the story. I recommend it highly.
I try to read everything this author releases, and for good reason. His stories are well constructed, entertaining and quality writing. This book should be called a reimagining rather than a variation of P&P, since situations and characters are vastly altered from original. The family dynamic of both Elizabeth and Darcy is changed, as well as that of the Bingleys. Mr. Collins' relationship with the Bennett's is different. Various personalities of main characters are changed. In short, only a few key elements are retained.
The whole story centers around the impulsive action referred to in the title, which is a kiss Darcy bestows on Elizabeth when she is just sixteen, out on a balcony during a ball when no one else is present. This kiss, from a man she's only just met, has a profound effect on her outlook on men and causes a kind of wariness she otherwise wouldn't have had. She doesn't see Darcy again for four years, and he has to win back her trust and eventual esteem when he returns to her neighborhood. By modern standards I wouldn't have thought a little kiss should have had such an impact, but I must trust that in Regency times this is a big deal. Elizabeth and Jane make a huge deal about it, as Jane is the only person Elizabeth confides in. It causes Jane to assume a highly protective stance with Elizabeth whenever they're in company.
Besides the struggle that ODC have to overcome the past impropriety, there is also Darcy's dad to win over and Wickham to outsmart. Through it all, they have the powerfully strong family ties of the Bennetts, Bingleys and Darcys behind them. This is one glaring difference from canon, namely that our main characters come from loving, sensible and supportive families. It's refreshing to have characters that communicate and esteem each other.
There were a number of editing errors, but not enough to interrupt the flow of the story. I recommend it highly.
December 15, 2020
Reviewed at: http://austendiaries.blogspot.com/202...
Title and Author: Impulse of the Moment by Jann Rowland
Type: Pride and Prejudice Alternate Path
Perspective:
Romance Level:
Recommended: yes, 3.5 stars
Summary: In this alternate path, Elizabeth is more wary and less vivacious because of an incident with Darcy at her first assembly. When she crosses paths with Darcy again 4 years later, she is unsure if he is a (reasonably) good man or a villain. As Darcy falls in love, he struggles to make himself know so that Elizabeth will trust him. Of course, there is tension with members of his family in the process, but not the usual ones.
Pros:
* The conflict in this one was mainly because of the main characters having a completely different misunderstanding. Elizabeth is beneath him, but not as much so.
* I liked Mr Collins in this one. Not so bright, but fundamentally good.
* It changed things a lot to have Darcy's parents living. He has so much freedom in the original because his parents died.
Cons:
* There are so many differences in this one, it almost doesn't resemble the original (Darcy's parents are alive, Mrs. Bennet is not, Elizabeth has a brother, Caroline loves someone else).
* It does drag in the middle, especially when Jane gets defensive for Lizzie (that part didn't work for me)
Title and Author: Impulse of the Moment by Jann Rowland
Type: Pride and Prejudice Alternate Path
Perspective:
Romance Level:
Recommended: yes, 3.5 stars
Summary: In this alternate path, Elizabeth is more wary and less vivacious because of an incident with Darcy at her first assembly. When she crosses paths with Darcy again 4 years later, she is unsure if he is a (reasonably) good man or a villain. As Darcy falls in love, he struggles to make himself know so that Elizabeth will trust him. Of course, there is tension with members of his family in the process, but not the usual ones.
Pros:
* The conflict in this one was mainly because of the main characters having a completely different misunderstanding. Elizabeth is beneath him, but not as much so.
* I liked Mr Collins in this one. Not so bright, but fundamentally good.
* It changed things a lot to have Darcy's parents living. He has so much freedom in the original because his parents died.
Cons:
* There are so many differences in this one, it almost doesn't resemble the original (Darcy's parents are alive, Mrs. Bennet is not, Elizabeth has a brother, Caroline loves someone else).
* It does drag in the middle, especially when Jane gets defensive for Lizzie (that part didn't work for me)
April 28, 2019
Ladies, we (men) can’t control ourselves when...
... the object of our desire is momentarily alone and we will face no consequences for our behavior.
Is Fitzwilliam Darcy a Regency-era Brock Turner?
You decide. I was disgusted that the author would stoop to a “you never know, you may have the opportunity to marry the man that didn’t give you the opportunity to consent at the very first social event you were allowed to attend, thus damaging your ability to trust the actions of any man.” Huh. What a sexist gem that is. I read an abundance of JAFF and I don’t think I’ve ever been angry like this. The whole era was incredibly sexist— but this just crossed too many lines for me. Some survivors of abuse could be triggered powerfully by this message.
Outside of my anger and irritation as stated above,
I liked the way the author structured the Bennet, Bingley and Darcy families, and the way Caroline was characterized.
I read the entire book (free with KU) and doubt I will ever pay for a work by this author.
... the object of our desire is momentarily alone and we will face no consequences for our behavior.
Is Fitzwilliam Darcy a Regency-era Brock Turner?
You decide. I was disgusted that the author would stoop to a “you never know, you may have the opportunity to marry the man that didn’t give you the opportunity to consent at the very first social event you were allowed to attend, thus damaging your ability to trust the actions of any man.” Huh. What a sexist gem that is. I read an abundance of JAFF and I don’t think I’ve ever been angry like this. The whole era was incredibly sexist— but this just crossed too many lines for me. Some survivors of abuse could be triggered powerfully by this message.
Outside of my anger and irritation as stated above,
I liked the way the author structured the Bennet, Bingley and Darcy families, and the way Caroline was characterized.
I read the entire book (free with KU) and doubt I will ever pay for a work by this author.
March 14, 2024
WOWSA
Have read several of this author’s works, & enjoyed such, but THIS BOOK was (for me) absolutely riveting. Perhaps there’s some unnecessary detailed events/convos which fill out the requirements for a novel, but the hearing, understanding the human condition & inner workings of JAFF characters personality’s & how they interact with others kept me reading long after I should’ve turned off my kindle lol. I was amazed at the newfound sense his words revealed of characters I believed I already knew so very well—-So. Now im re-reading all his previous books w/a new eye and hoping (for my edification) more like this book will follow. This is a book i will most definitely read again and, purchase for my own library since i borrowed by KU (lucky me!). This book was written well & im so happy I had the sense to borrow it :)
TY Mr Rowland, you have as few others (there are some) have done w/their words, made JAFF beloved characters even more worthy of my love and affection
Have read several of this author’s works, & enjoyed such, but THIS BOOK was (for me) absolutely riveting. Perhaps there’s some unnecessary detailed events/convos which fill out the requirements for a novel, but the hearing, understanding the human condition & inner workings of JAFF characters personality’s & how they interact with others kept me reading long after I should’ve turned off my kindle lol. I was amazed at the newfound sense his words revealed of characters I believed I already knew so very well—-So. Now im re-reading all his previous books w/a new eye and hoping (for my edification) more like this book will follow. This is a book i will most definitely read again and, purchase for my own library since i borrowed by KU (lucky me!). This book was written well & im so happy I had the sense to borrow it :)
TY Mr Rowland, you have as few others (there are some) have done w/their words, made JAFF beloved characters even more worthy of my love and affection
April 11, 2019
Fantastic variation
Jann....you are an unbelievable writer with all of your variations. It is quite refreshing to relish books written by a talented man! I think your male perspective on writing your books changes the men. Bingley being hesitant to marry was so very different than other variations. It seems expected of him to marry Jane since they were very young....made him take stock in his final decision. You characterized Mr. Collins marvelously...I knew there had to be more to his character. Having all the parents still living except Mrs. Bennett was genius...so much more delightful! Even Caroline was much more tolerable as was Mary. This book is a must read. Please tell me you have a continuing book to carry this story further. I would love for Darcy’s parents to continue to live to see Georgiana through her introduction to society and then marry, more about Mary’s life, the Collins’ lives, etc. Please promise us!!
Jann....you are an unbelievable writer with all of your variations. It is quite refreshing to relish books written by a talented man! I think your male perspective on writing your books changes the men. Bingley being hesitant to marry was so very different than other variations. It seems expected of him to marry Jane since they were very young....made him take stock in his final decision. You characterized Mr. Collins marvelously...I knew there had to be more to his character. Having all the parents still living except Mrs. Bennett was genius...so much more delightful! Even Caroline was much more tolerable as was Mary. This book is a must read. Please tell me you have a continuing book to carry this story further. I would love for Darcy’s parents to continue to live to see Georgiana through her introduction to society and then marry, more about Mary’s life, the Collins’ lives, etc. Please promise us!!
December 15, 2019
A Different Pride And Prejudice
In this story the family makeup of both the Darcy’s and Bennet’s families are altered. Both of Darcy’s parents are alive but Mrs Bennet has died and there are only 3 children in the Bennet family. The story begins with Fitzwilliam kissing Elizabeth without permission or even a courtship. She is wary of men for the next 4
years. He then returns to her neighborhood as if nothing has happened. She is, understandably, not interested in friendship with him. The story is interesting but does use some dialogue from the original story. This is a negative for me.
Towards the end of the story, Jane causes problems for Elizabeth and Mr Darcy. This is because Elizabeth did not confide in her so she misunderstands Elizabeth’s feelings for Mr Darcy. In the original story and in this story, Elizabeth and Jane are very close. I found this unbelievable. This was overall a very average story.
In this story the family makeup of both the Darcy’s and Bennet’s families are altered. Both of Darcy’s parents are alive but Mrs Bennet has died and there are only 3 children in the Bennet family. The story begins with Fitzwilliam kissing Elizabeth without permission or even a courtship. She is wary of men for the next 4
years. He then returns to her neighborhood as if nothing has happened. She is, understandably, not interested in friendship with him. The story is interesting but does use some dialogue from the original story. This is a negative for me.
Towards the end of the story, Jane causes problems for Elizabeth and Mr Darcy. This is because Elizabeth did not confide in her so she misunderstands Elizabeth’s feelings for Mr Darcy. In the original story and in this story, Elizabeth and Jane are very close. I found this unbelievable. This was overall a very average story.
January 20, 2023
Great Read
Well written with really interesting departure from canon - Darcy's and Bingley's respective parents are alive and well. The Bingleys own Netherfield and have grown up as best friends of the Bennets. The author gives us a prosperous, entail-free Longbourn as well as a Bennet heir - oldest child Thomas - who has sisters Jane, Elizabeth, and Mary. We are also given a self aware Darcy, an orphaned Collins, raised and educated by the , a Caroline kind, competent Caroline who teases just as much as Elizabeth, and a scheming Wickham who is still enmeshed in the Darcy family.
The interplay and resolutions are satisfying. Put this one on your list..
Well written with really interesting departure from canon - Darcy's and Bingley's respective parents are alive and well. The Bingleys own Netherfield and have grown up as best friends of the Bennets. The author gives us a prosperous, entail-free Longbourn as well as a Bennet heir - oldest child Thomas - who has sisters Jane, Elizabeth, and Mary. We are also given a self aware Darcy, an orphaned Collins, raised and educated by the , a Caroline kind, competent Caroline who teases just as much as Elizabeth, and a scheming Wickham who is still enmeshed in the Darcy family.
The interplay and resolutions are satisfying. Put this one on your list..
November 26, 2019
There were elements of JAFF that were unique nd enjoyable here, primarily the lack of conflict through the elimination of, addition of, or alteration to some of the main characters. The original incident between Darcy and Elizabeth taking place when she was 16 and he was 24 was a bit unsavory given modern sensibilities. Additionally, holy cow did the story go on and on and on. I could have cut it by a third and not missed it, although the writing was well done enough and free from the (usual) grammatical and editorial errors.
February 18, 2025
Fun and low angst
Interesting shifts in character behavior and family dynamics. No Lydia or Mrs Bennet, Lady CdB is only mentioned, Earl and family are relaxed and friendly, Caroline Bingley is totally is unrecognizable, Collins is a sympathetic character, and Darcy's parents are still living. There is no entail because Bennets have a son. Wickham is still a slimy villain, however. Frankly, I loved this what-if, low angst variation. It's nice to find a feel-good story with multiple HEAs that are realistic. Clean and creative. Borrowed in KU, but this one is a keeper IMHO.
Interesting shifts in character behavior and family dynamics. No Lydia or Mrs Bennet, Lady CdB is only mentioned, Earl and family are relaxed and friendly, Caroline Bingley is totally is unrecognizable, Collins is a sympathetic character, and Darcy's parents are still living. There is no entail because Bennets have a son. Wickham is still a slimy villain, however. Frankly, I loved this what-if, low angst variation. It's nice to find a feel-good story with multiple HEAs that are realistic. Clean and creative. Borrowed in KU, but this one is a keeper IMHO.
April 18, 2022
Jan Rowland does not disappoint
I enjoy reading the Pride and Prejudice variations very much. Especially those bu this author. Each time, he varies the relationships of the characters to,each other, but the ending is always the same. In this version, William’s parents are alive and the Bingleys own an estate next to the Bennetts. Caroline Bingley marries Elizabeth’s older brother and is a much nicer person. Wick ham is the same.
I enjoy reading the Pride and Prejudice variations very much. Especially those bu this author. Each time, he varies the relationships of the characters to,each other, but the ending is always the same. In this version, William’s parents are alive and the Bingleys own an estate next to the Bennetts. Caroline Bingley marries Elizabeth’s older brother and is a much nicer person. Wick ham is the same.
April 21, 2019
Interesting Variation 3.5 Stars
This novel is not fast-paced, but it is a good read. The departure from canon is intriguing and it gives a refreshing perspective on the families and characters. There are a few typos, and one mistaken homonym (shuddered vs. shuttered) which are a bit jarring, but it’s generally well-written.
This novel is not fast-paced, but it is a good read. The departure from canon is intriguing and it gives a refreshing perspective on the families and characters. There are a few typos, and one mistaken homonym (shuddered vs. shuttered) which are a bit jarring, but it’s generally well-written.
May 9, 2019
Low angst
Though the author is a prolific writer of fan fiction, he still does not respect his readers enough to proofread his work. Sometimes the opposite meaning is given from the original intention by double negatives. Otherwise, it is a mild read and interesting to have Darcy's parents alive.
Though the author is a prolific writer of fan fiction, he still does not respect his readers enough to proofread his work. Sometimes the opposite meaning is given from the original intention by double negatives. Otherwise, it is a mild read and interesting to have Darcy's parents alive.
August 27, 2019
As always a great read.
This story took some time for me to get invested in. The idea of Darcy doing something which is really out of character (in all the clean versions of P&P) and the possibility of it changing our fearless Lizzy threw me. But. As per usual Jann nailed it. I was using all my free time to finish this book and am looking forward to the next one.
This story took some time for me to get invested in. The idea of Darcy doing something which is really out of character (in all the clean versions of P&P) and the possibility of it changing our fearless Lizzy threw me. But. As per usual Jann nailed it. I was using all my free time to finish this book and am looking forward to the next one.
March 25, 2021
I enjoyed the book and thought the story was well written. I enjoyed the interplay between Elizabeth and Darcy. I had 2 issues with the story (i) Jane's reaction to Darcy going to London after Elizabeth was a little over reaction and (ii) why did Bingley take so long to propose to Jane (it wasn't really explained in the book).
February 1, 2023
P&P Shake Up
There were times when I was a confused about who was who (both Darcy and Bingley's parents are living), other than that it was a nice story. Darcy meets Elizabeth at sixteen and is instantly drawn to her. Years pass and Darcy is determined to win Elizabeth regardless of any naysayers.
A bit slow at times, but I liked all the characters.
There were times when I was a confused about who was who (both Darcy and Bingley's parents are living), other than that it was a nice story. Darcy meets Elizabeth at sixteen and is instantly drawn to her. Years pass and Darcy is determined to win Elizabeth regardless of any naysayers.
A bit slow at times, but I liked all the characters.
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