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Murdering A Bennet: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Charles Bingley faces a dilemma. His best friend and his sisters are attempting to persuade him the love of his life does not return his affections. His affections, however, are committed. He has found the only lady he will ever love, and he thought he knew she returned his affections, but persuasion is a powerful tool when used improperly. Determined to discover the truth about Miss Jane Bennet’s affections, Bingley finally decides to turn to the only person who truly understands Miss Bennet’s feelings – her sister Miss Elizabeth Bennet. Bingley seeks out Miss Elizabeth only to stumble upon a murder in the process. He is fortunate to save one Bennet daughter but too late to save the other. Who hates the Bennet family enough to want to murder two of the daughters? The only one with the answer is unable to speak and is in a deep state of shock. Bingley, Jane, Darcy, and Georgiana will bring all their abilities to the forefront in an attempt to revive the only witness to the murder and attempted murder, but other factors might hinder their progress.
424 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 31, 2019
72 people are currently reading
49 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
May 18, 2024
I really enjoyed the premise of this story. It was definitely different, and I never thought it would be "that guy"!
I will note, like most of the other reviews here, the writing was not sophisticated in any way. There was far too much repetition of thought, speech and description. However, despite the 'simple' writing, I thoroughly enjoyed this story.
After a reread, I still like the premise and story. Still did not appreciate the writing though.
I will note, like most of the other reviews here, the writing was not sophisticated in any way. There was far too much repetition of thought, speech and description. However, despite the 'simple' writing, I thoroughly enjoyed this story.
After a reread, I still like the premise and story. Still did not appreciate the writing though.
December 1, 2019
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars
The crime is almost immediately presented to us in this tale.
That murder/assault mystery takes up the first 60% of the book as Elizabeth is still recovering from not only her injuries but also the loss of her memory - her complete memory, not just what happened to her and Kitty. Charles Bingley is the one who hears calls for help and rescues Elizabeth from death but not her sister. With Netherfield being closer it is there she is taken and spends months recovering. Jane nurses her which leads to a renewal of her romance with Charles. Mary also spends some time there and then Georgiana comes to stay.
Darcy had been in London but when Charles rushes to town to secure the services of a physician he goes to Darcy for advice on that matter. When Darcy hears that Elizabeth might possibly die of her injuries he is shocked into realizing he might never see her again and that makes him determined to return with Bingley to Netherfield and spend whatever time is granted with Elizabeth. He is allowed much (chaperoned) times with her even though she is unconscious and then in a state of shock and then gripped by amnesia.
Elizabeth's troubles are not over as Caroline adds to those in a most malicious way...with the help of another familiar character.
Lydia has no respect for the idea of mourning and, as in canon, has her fair share of trouble even if it is not as in canon.
This author adds a lot of minutia, i.e., describing the picking up of a tea cup, adding how hot or cold it is, how hands are folded in one's lap, etc. We could have done without that. The story is long enough without those details and they add nothing to the story.
Lady Catherine comes into play and then her daughter has her part of this story. An epilogue adds much in the end as we read a wrap-up of about 10 years.
I did enjoy this story but it would have been shortened. I kept my attention even with the parts which dragged.
The crime is almost immediately presented to us in this tale.
That murder/assault mystery takes up the first 60% of the book as Elizabeth is still recovering from not only her injuries but also the loss of her memory - her complete memory, not just what happened to her and Kitty. Charles Bingley is the one who hears calls for help and rescues Elizabeth from death but not her sister. With Netherfield being closer it is there she is taken and spends months recovering. Jane nurses her which leads to a renewal of her romance with Charles. Mary also spends some time there and then Georgiana comes to stay.
Darcy had been in London but when Charles rushes to town to secure the services of a physician he goes to Darcy for advice on that matter. When Darcy hears that Elizabeth might possibly die of her injuries he is shocked into realizing he might never see her again and that makes him determined to return with Bingley to Netherfield and spend whatever time is granted with Elizabeth. He is allowed much (chaperoned) times with her even though she is unconscious and then in a state of shock and then gripped by amnesia.
Elizabeth's troubles are not over as Caroline adds to those in a most malicious way...with the help of another familiar character.
Lydia has no respect for the idea of mourning and, as in canon, has her fair share of trouble even if it is not as in canon.
This author adds a lot of minutia, i.e., describing the picking up of a tea cup, adding how hot or cold it is, how hands are folded in one's lap, etc. We could have done without that. The story is long enough without those details and they add nothing to the story.
Lady Catherine comes into play and then her daughter has her part of this story. An epilogue adds much in the end as we read a wrap-up of about 10 years.
I did enjoy this story but it would have been shortened. I kept my attention even with the parts which dragged.
September 5, 2019
The why of murder always fascinates me so much more than the how. ~ Ann Rule
To begin, the story seems very wordy. We are treated to every thought Charles Bingley allows through his mind as he debates whether to return to Meryton or to listen to his sisters and Darcy. Finally, he realizes his sister is the one who is shrill, overbearing and loud. His sister is the one who is a fortune hunter. Bingley’s internal struggle fills the entire first chapter.
Bingley’s struggle is NOT the subject of the book.
Instead, as Bingley rides through the woods between Longbourn and Netherfield, he hears a woman’s screams. He finds a red-coated man strangling a woman. The man escapes and Bingley discovers two women – in fact, two of the Bennet sisters. Kitty is dead. Elizabeth lives but is badly injured. Bingley calls for help and moves the sisters to Netherfield Park. He summons Mr. Bennet and makes a hurried trip to London to arrange for a doctor to attend Elizabeth. Darcy returns to Meryton with Bingley.
Every unpunished murder takes away something from the security of every man's life. ~ Daniel Webster
The village constable can find no clues to the murderer. Colonel Forster confirms all his red-coated soldiers – including Wickham – were at their assignments at the time of the attack.
Elizabeth has no memory of the attack (yes, another amnesia plot). Slowly, her earlier life returns to her weeks after she was injured. The entire village with the exception of Mrs. Bennet and Lydia are in mourning and on alert to danger to any young women. When Elizabeth recovers enough, she is guarded at all times.
How, then, can she be kidnapped? Is someone negligent or a criminal conspirator?
I am always a Kitty-fan and it seemed that poor murdered girl received little attention for much of the story. Those at Netherfield kept quiet about her in front of Elizabeth which was understandable but part of the family at Longbourn resisted mourning at all. Very disturbing. Once again, this was a story where I wanted Papa Bennet to make use of his knee and a riding crop.
I enjoyed this story more than most of the “everyone is out to kill Elizabeth” trope but keep in mind: it is an “everyone is out to kill Elizabeth” story. I didn’t believe the second villain received appropriate consequences; indeed, the fate of that conspirator is left a bit up in the air.
The writing is not bad but the proofreading is completely inadequate.
Murder is not the crime of criminals, but that of law-abiding citizens. ~ Emmanuel Teney
To begin, the story seems very wordy. We are treated to every thought Charles Bingley allows through his mind as he debates whether to return to Meryton or to listen to his sisters and Darcy. Finally, he realizes his sister is the one who is shrill, overbearing and loud. His sister is the one who is a fortune hunter. Bingley’s internal struggle fills the entire first chapter.
Bingley’s struggle is NOT the subject of the book.
Instead, as Bingley rides through the woods between Longbourn and Netherfield, he hears a woman’s screams. He finds a red-coated man strangling a woman. The man escapes and Bingley discovers two women – in fact, two of the Bennet sisters. Kitty is dead. Elizabeth lives but is badly injured. Bingley calls for help and moves the sisters to Netherfield Park. He summons Mr. Bennet and makes a hurried trip to London to arrange for a doctor to attend Elizabeth. Darcy returns to Meryton with Bingley.
Every unpunished murder takes away something from the security of every man's life. ~ Daniel Webster
The village constable can find no clues to the murderer. Colonel Forster confirms all his red-coated soldiers – including Wickham – were at their assignments at the time of the attack.
Elizabeth has no memory of the attack (yes, another amnesia plot). Slowly, her earlier life returns to her weeks after she was injured. The entire village with the exception of Mrs. Bennet and Lydia are in mourning and on alert to danger to any young women. When Elizabeth recovers enough, she is guarded at all times.
How, then, can she be kidnapped? Is someone negligent or a criminal conspirator?
I am always a Kitty-fan and it seemed that poor murdered girl received little attention for much of the story. Those at Netherfield kept quiet about her in front of Elizabeth which was understandable but part of the family at Longbourn resisted mourning at all. Very disturbing. Once again, this was a story where I wanted Papa Bennet to make use of his knee and a riding crop.
I enjoyed this story more than most of the “everyone is out to kill Elizabeth” trope but keep in mind: it is an “everyone is out to kill Elizabeth” story. I didn’t believe the second villain received appropriate consequences; indeed, the fate of that conspirator is left a bit up in the air.
The writing is not bad but the proofreading is completely inadequate.
Murder is not the crime of criminals, but that of law-abiding citizens. ~ Emmanuel Teney
December 3, 2020
Lizzy is beaten, Kitty is killed
The story has quite a few plot lines started but not ended. And some obvious plot lines never occur.
For instance Lizzy remembers her being slapped by her mother when she was two but nothing else happens in the story concerning the event.
Wickham and Georgiana are both in the Meryton area yet there is no special protection for Georgiana mentioned.
Many characters at Netherfield are trying to help Lizzy recover and protect her yet no one thinks twice about leaving her alone with Caroline.
Charles and Jane seem incapable of not trusting Caroline.
No one seems to hurt deeply about Kitty being murdered.
Lots of inconsistencies in the story.
I don’t recommend the book.
The story has quite a few plot lines started but not ended. And some obvious plot lines never occur.
For instance Lizzy remembers her being slapped by her mother when she was two but nothing else happens in the story concerning the event.
Wickham and Georgiana are both in the Meryton area yet there is no special protection for Georgiana mentioned.
Many characters at Netherfield are trying to help Lizzy recover and protect her yet no one thinks twice about leaving her alone with Caroline.
Charles and Jane seem incapable of not trusting Caroline.
No one seems to hurt deeply about Kitty being murdered.
Lots of inconsistencies in the story.
I don’t recommend the book.
October 28, 2019
Avid Reader
Out of all the vicious attacks on Elizabeth, this was the worst. Sadly, Kitty died trying to help Elizabeth fight off Mr. Collins. Had Mr. Bingley not returned to ask Elizabeth how Jane felt about him, Elizabeth would have died. No one knew that Collins had attacked Elizabeth because he fled back to Hunsford to heal from the wounds Elizabeth has caused while she fought for her life. Darcy, Jane, Mary, and Mr. Bennet take care of Elizabeth at Netherfield because Mrs. Bennet and Lydia are the last people in the world Elizabeth needs to be near, especially since she is unconscious. Georgina 's arrival and confession concerning Wickham brings Elizabeth out of her shock, but she does not remember anything. Caroline in her jealousy, hands Elizabeth over to Collins after she drugs her. An angry Jane slaps Caroline and let's her know she is no longer welcome in her homes! Collis, Caroline, and Lady Catherine suffer the consequences of their behavior.
Out of all the vicious attacks on Elizabeth, this was the worst. Sadly, Kitty died trying to help Elizabeth fight off Mr. Collins. Had Mr. Bingley not returned to ask Elizabeth how Jane felt about him, Elizabeth would have died. No one knew that Collins had attacked Elizabeth because he fled back to Hunsford to heal from the wounds Elizabeth has caused while she fought for her life. Darcy, Jane, Mary, and Mr. Bennet take care of Elizabeth at Netherfield because Mrs. Bennet and Lydia are the last people in the world Elizabeth needs to be near, especially since she is unconscious. Georgina 's arrival and confession concerning Wickham brings Elizabeth out of her shock, but she does not remember anything. Caroline in her jealousy, hands Elizabeth over to Collins after she drugs her. An angry Jane slaps Caroline and let's her know she is no longer welcome in her homes! Collis, Caroline, and Lady Catherine suffer the consequences of their behavior.
November 27, 2019
This Pride and Prejudice variation is some what of a murder mystery. Someone has attacked Elizabeth and her sister. The shock of potentially loosing Elizabeth forces Darcy to realize he can't live without her. The whole family is in shock but the situation must be kept under wraps to prevent a scandal.
Our dear couple must find their way and solve the mystery to ensure that everyone will be safe and live happily ever after.
Our dear couple must find their way and solve the mystery to ensure that everyone will be safe and live happily ever after.
February 15, 2023
Great Love story
I loved this Bingley and this Darcy, they went all out for love! Well miss bingley couldn't have been worse. Mrs Bennet and Lydia worthless! The love story of Darcy and Lizzy was very well told. Glad no impact of Wickham on the Bennet family!y. The villans was easy to me to figure out. Good book I will be reading it again !!
I loved this Bingley and this Darcy, they went all out for love! Well miss bingley couldn't have been worse. Mrs Bennet and Lydia worthless! The love story of Darcy and Lizzy was very well told. Glad no impact of Wickham on the Bennet family!y. The villans was easy to me to figure out. Good book I will be reading it again !!
October 11, 2019
Skipped as much as I read
So much was repeated and listening to everyone in the room's thoughts became confusing at times. Needed serious editing. Storyline was very interesting.
So much was repeated and listening to everyone in the room's thoughts became confusing at times. Needed serious editing. Storyline was very interesting.
April 15, 2022
This was a very different variation and a good one too. The angst portion of the story was handled well but I felt the romance lacked chemistry. Only one question disturbed me, why would anyone with any sense leave a semi-amnesiac, physically not so strong woman alone with another who they know is capable of cruelty? Especially when they had a convenient not-out-yet girl to remain back and why wouldn't they check on her personally after they return? Since this is one of the main portion of the plot, I think the author should have paid more thought into it. The last two chapters felt more like an epilogue than part of the story because it sort of robbed the feeling of completion but I understand that the author wanted some happy occasion before she tied up the story after all the angst.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 1, 2020
I’m a big fan of murder mysteries, but was worried this one would feel too personal with the Bennets being the victims. This was a great story and I really enjoyed the mystery part quite a bit. I liked Darcy’s dedication to Elizabeth during her recovery. He was willing to be what she needed which was a friend who would read to her and talk to her and just support her without any expectations in return. It was a great recipe for a solid relationship. I appreciated Elizabeth’s struggle and courage as she tried to regain her life.
What I didn’t like- the book was way too long. We were given much too many details about everyone’s thoughts and mundane activities. I didn’t like that everything wrapped up at 70% and the story continued for so long in a vein that was very unrelated and unconnected to the rest of the book. It was just boring and rambled on for what seemed like forever. There was also a strange scene that really bothered me where after Elizabeth’s recovery she ran into Wickham and another officer. Elizabeth, who almost lost her life after being attacked, tries picking a fight with Wickham and wanting to challenge him for kissing Lydia and saying things if she was a boy she would kick his butt so to speak. I don’t know why, but this was really annoying to me. A woman in her position would almost certainly be afraid of a physical confrontation with a man, especially so soon after almost dying in that very scenario. I’m also just not a fan of the “bad-ass” Elizabeth that goes around being physically or verbally confrontational. Elizabeth Bennet is too classy for that kind of behavior and was always a proper lady, even when standing up for herself.
This story was a great idea with many enjoyable aspects. It could have been much better with a quicker wrap up and some content editing.
What I didn’t like- the book was way too long. We were given much too many details about everyone’s thoughts and mundane activities. I didn’t like that everything wrapped up at 70% and the story continued for so long in a vein that was very unrelated and unconnected to the rest of the book. It was just boring and rambled on for what seemed like forever. There was also a strange scene that really bothered me where after Elizabeth’s recovery she ran into Wickham and another officer. Elizabeth, who almost lost her life after being attacked, tries picking a fight with Wickham and wanting to challenge him for kissing Lydia and saying things if she was a boy she would kick his butt so to speak. I don’t know why, but this was really annoying to me. A woman in her position would almost certainly be afraid of a physical confrontation with a man, especially so soon after almost dying in that very scenario. I’m also just not a fan of the “bad-ass” Elizabeth that goes around being physically or verbally confrontational. Elizabeth Bennet is too classy for that kind of behavior and was always a proper lady, even when standing up for herself.
This story was a great idea with many enjoyable aspects. It could have been much better with a quicker wrap up and some content editing.
July 14, 2023
Концепт цікавий: Бінґлі повертається з Лондона й перериває убивство. Одна з доньок Беннетів мертва, інша — ледве жива. Хто й навіщо задумав убити Кітті та Ліззі? Чи зможуть вони знайти вбивцю?
Детективна загадка мені сподобалась, як і розкриття злочинця, але книга затягнута надмірними сценами, без яких можна було б обійтися. Скидається на те, що це перший великий текст авторки, який треба було б ретельно поредагувати й повикидати воду й нелогічності.
Детективна загадка мені сподобалась, як і розкриття злочинця, але книга затягнута надмірними сценами, без яких можна було б обійтися. Скидається на те, що це перший великий текст авторки, який треба було б ретельно поредагувати й повикидати воду й нелогічності.
November 24, 2024
A Pride and Prejudice variation where Bingley decides to start to grow a backbone and returns to Netherfield. Only to interrupt an attack on Elizabeth Bennet, but he is too late to save Kitty. How will this affect the various families.
I had hoped to actually read a mystery not just another Darcy Elizabeth story but overall an enjoyable read
I had hoped to actually read a mystery not just another Darcy Elizabeth story but overall an enjoyable read
April 5, 2022
This variation had an interesting idea, but needs a lot of editing. There's too much repetition, internal monologue, and rehashing of events and conversations that have already occurred.
Things I liked: Charles Bingley thinks for himself and manages to fix his relationship with Jane-I tire of Darcy being forgiven and Bingley being treated as a spineless puppy as happens in so many other variations. The clues were not all available in Hertfordshire, and depended on information from somewhere else to figure out the identity of the killer.
Things I disliked (CONTAINS SPOILERS)
* No one seemed to actually mourn Kitty, especially Lydia and Mrs. Bennet. The timing is also off-at some point in April, they mention not even being half out of full mourning, then by May they are out of mourning. The author states they should have 6 months of full mourning, so it should end at the beginning of June.
* Some characters seemed completely unnecessary, such as Bingley's Aunt Alyse. There's little need for her to act as chaperone since Jane and Bingley married the day after he returned from London, and he had no need for her to act as hostess once he married Jane. According to the mourning customs of the time, they would not host any social events while in full mourning. Also, Elizabeth was recovering in the house and they wanted to keep the house calm and quiet.
* Inconsistencies: Elizabeth refuses to call Darcy William because it was the name of the man who attacked her and killed her sister, but they later name one of their sons William.
* Caroline Bingley and Jane. We know Jane is an incredibly forgiving person, but she is also supposed to be dedicated to helping Lizzy recover. Allowing Caroline multiple chances while Lizzy is in danger makes no sense.
* The night Jane and Georgiana both wake up and need to speak to Darcy. Why didn't anyone check on Lizzy? Why did the maid not say anything when she saw Lizzy abducted, and how did she keep her position after that?
* Way too much giggling and chuckling and hiding the laughter behind a hand.
This book has a lot of potential. If it is revised, I will gladly reread it and update my review.
Things I liked: Charles Bingley thinks for himself and manages to fix his relationship with Jane-I tire of Darcy being forgiven and Bingley being treated as a spineless puppy as happens in so many other variations. The clues were not all available in Hertfordshire, and depended on information from somewhere else to figure out the identity of the killer.
Things I disliked (CONTAINS SPOILERS)
* No one seemed to actually mourn Kitty, especially Lydia and Mrs. Bennet. The timing is also off-at some point in April, they mention not even being half out of full mourning, then by May they are out of mourning. The author states they should have 6 months of full mourning, so it should end at the beginning of June.
* Some characters seemed completely unnecessary, such as Bingley's Aunt Alyse. There's little need for her to act as chaperone since Jane and Bingley married the day after he returned from London, and he had no need for her to act as hostess once he married Jane. According to the mourning customs of the time, they would not host any social events while in full mourning. Also, Elizabeth was recovering in the house and they wanted to keep the house calm and quiet.
* Inconsistencies: Elizabeth refuses to call Darcy William because it was the name of the man who attacked her and killed her sister, but they later name one of their sons William.
* Caroline Bingley and Jane. We know Jane is an incredibly forgiving person, but she is also supposed to be dedicated to helping Lizzy recover. Allowing Caroline multiple chances while Lizzy is in danger makes no sense.
* The night Jane and Georgiana both wake up and need to speak to Darcy. Why didn't anyone check on Lizzy? Why did the maid not say anything when she saw Lizzy abducted, and how did she keep her position after that?
* Way too much giggling and chuckling and hiding the laughter behind a hand.
This book has a lot of potential. If it is revised, I will gladly reread it and update my review.
May 20, 2020
I enjoyed the first 50-70% of this book very much. It's fairly different.
The beginning really focuses on Bingley, which I thought was cool. Then they completely veer away from him and his inner thoughts, which was unfortunate because we really don't get his perspective much. I would have liked his thoughts and presence to remain more central in this particular story. I enjoyed the murder mystery part of the book very much. The story really doesn't focus on Darcy and Elizabeth falling in love. Which is very different. It delves more into the characters around them, which I always appreciate. Jane and Bingley, however, are a little wishy-washy. In the beginning, they are so determined, and Bingley realizes his sister is a fortune hunter, and overall not a good person who can't be trusted. Yet he repeatedly forgets that and both Jane and Bingley decide to keep giving her chances, and I think it's just a bit insulting of their intelligence.
There were a couple parts that were repetitive - using the same lines multiple times. Then I didn't care for the conclusion of the murder mystery part. I appreciate who the villain was - but how his story was concluded - not a fan. That part could have been handled in a much more satisfactory way.
But really I found the last quarter of the book the most jarring. The murder mystery part is over, so they start focusing on weddings, and balls, and shopping. It was now about Anne getting away from Lady Catherine, and her love life. The tone was completely different than the rest of the book, and it didn't fit. The author tried to jam too much into the end. I think a separate book could have been made if she wanted to focus on those pieces.
I still gave this book a four, as I did enjoy the beginning quite a bit, and I do think it's worth a read!
The beginning really focuses on Bingley, which I thought was cool. Then they completely veer away from him and his inner thoughts, which was unfortunate because we really don't get his perspective much. I would have liked his thoughts and presence to remain more central in this particular story. I enjoyed the murder mystery part of the book very much. The story really doesn't focus on Darcy and Elizabeth falling in love. Which is very different. It delves more into the characters around them, which I always appreciate. Jane and Bingley, however, are a little wishy-washy. In the beginning, they are so determined, and Bingley realizes his sister is a fortune hunter, and overall not a good person who can't be trusted. Yet he repeatedly forgets that and both Jane and Bingley decide to keep giving her chances, and I think it's just a bit insulting of their intelligence.
There were a couple parts that were repetitive - using the same lines multiple times. Then I didn't care for the conclusion of the murder mystery part. I appreciate who the villain was - but how his story was concluded - not a fan. That part could have been handled in a much more satisfactory way.
But really I found the last quarter of the book the most jarring. The murder mystery part is over, so they start focusing on weddings, and balls, and shopping. It was now about Anne getting away from Lady Catherine, and her love life. The tone was completely different than the rest of the book, and it didn't fit. The author tried to jam too much into the end. I think a separate book could have been made if she wanted to focus on those pieces.
I still gave this book a four, as I did enjoy the beginning quite a bit, and I do think it's worth a read!
April 1, 2020
The premise looked quite interesting and promising, as did the firsts chapters. However I found soon enough that the dialogue became repetitive and that it didn't reflect the structure or style of the original book. I tried to overlook that but it really put me off the longer I read.
The characters, even though they retain some of their basic traits, felt really shallow. The culprit, as soon as he is discovered, acts in a really predictable way along the other antagonists of the book. Even though the idea and motives of the culprit could have worked really well, I believe the execution leaves a lot to be desired. I tried my best to enjoy it but it felt tedious even before reaching a quarter of the book. I found it boring and couldn't even force myself to read the final chapters.
If I had to summarise it, I would honestly say that the idea behind the story is good and that it could have created an interesting alternative universe within the canon, but the execution, characterization, plot development and dialogue fell short. It really wasn't the book for me
The characters, even though they retain some of their basic traits, felt really shallow. The culprit, as soon as he is discovered, acts in a really predictable way along the other antagonists of the book. Even though the idea and motives of the culprit could have worked really well, I believe the execution leaves a lot to be desired. I tried my best to enjoy it but it felt tedious even before reaching a quarter of the book. I found it boring and couldn't even force myself to read the final chapters.
If I had to summarise it, I would honestly say that the idea behind the story is good and that it could have created an interesting alternative universe within the canon, but the execution, characterization, plot development and dialogue fell short. It really wasn't the book for me
July 24, 2024
2.5 stars
This intriguing storyline (with an unusual character death) falls under the weight of endless repetition and endless attention to unneeded detail. In addition, the plot ends around 75% in, so we are treated to the filler of Lizzy buying her trousseau, being introduced to society, etc.
This intriguing storyline (with an unusual character death) falls under the weight of endless repetition and endless attention to unneeded detail. In addition, the plot ends around 75% in, so we are treated to the filler of Lizzy buying her trousseau, being introduced to society, etc.
April 16, 2020
Needs editor
The English is immature at best. Only read if you like being an editor. I once had a creative writing teacher say killing off a character is too easy. I suppose it was needed to establish the severe trauma in this story.
The English is immature at best. Only read if you like being an editor. I once had a creative writing teacher say killing off a character is too easy. I suppose it was needed to establish the severe trauma in this story.
October 8, 2020
Interesting concept.
Not my favorite variation. The plot was interesting but the writing needs some solid editing. It was way too long. I skipped pages to get through it and I don’t feel I missed anything. I do applaud the effort.
Not my favorite variation. The plot was interesting but the writing needs some solid editing. It was way too long. I skipped pages to get through it and I don’t feel I missed anything. I do applaud the effort.
November 26, 2023
Allow others to Edit
The story is good but holy moly. Let someone else read and edit things before you publish. It’s ridiculous to be reading and have a word that absolutely doesn’t belong come across your vision. Takes you entirely out of the story.
The story is good but holy moly. Let someone else read and edit things before you publish. It’s ridiculous to be reading and have a word that absolutely doesn’t belong come across your vision. Takes you entirely out of the story.
October 9, 2019
Reminder - author not for me. DNF, first 2 chapters only. Quite basic, over wordy, and repetitive.
November 5, 2019
Very Repetitive
Good premise, but I felt you kept rereading the same thoughts. I struggled to get through this book. But I truly enjoyed the plot of the book.
Good premise, but I felt you kept rereading the same thoughts. I struggled to get through this book. But I truly enjoyed the plot of the book.
June 16, 2025
wonderful premise, solid story
Reread after two years upped 3.5 stars to 4 bc quality of storytelling. Brutal early morning attack against two of the Bennet daughters by a ‘redcoat’ (cleverly done) who ran when Mr Bingley after returning to Netherfield to ascertain Jane’s true feelings, scared him off, leaving one survivor. Survivor taken to Netherfield due to proximity and help summoned, CB has a quick trip to London for a female chaperone & a ‘proper’ physician (where FD becomes involved). Story (for me) drags in middle which deals mainly with recovery & search for bad guy, but has our minor characters building relationships, there’s some angst, & loved the kindness shown to injured daughter & strength shown by main characters too; some low tense angst due to the murderer not id yet & his presence in the community. FD strong& steady while helping the Bennet family & search efforts. Mrs B & Lydia worse than usual & imo, Lydia so foolish to be laughable, both are so unaware of their respective roles in a family or community their behavior incomprehensible! Mr Bennet shows up for his family FINALLY after several instances of egregious conduct by…. IYKYK! What prevents this being a 5 star read (imo) is that w/in many chapters far too much minutiae —and other chapters little emotional context between main characters. Reading the internal dialogue of the injured Bennet during her recovery period is insightful & admit gave me much to consider in applying to real life situations. Caroline is as waspish as evah (almost criminal) & I believe she didn’t get her just desserts in this story, but Jane certainly stepped up and sent her packing with a stinging set down! ODC has a great HEA after the dramatic chapters. Would love to see this story streamlined, more emotional contact expressed in feelings by word/deed, & the bad guy to suffer more, but still a very good read for a summer evening
Reread after two years upped 3.5 stars to 4 bc quality of storytelling. Brutal early morning attack against two of the Bennet daughters by a ‘redcoat’ (cleverly done) who ran when Mr Bingley after returning to Netherfield to ascertain Jane’s true feelings, scared him off, leaving one survivor. Survivor taken to Netherfield due to proximity and help summoned, CB has a quick trip to London for a female chaperone & a ‘proper’ physician (where FD becomes involved). Story (for me) drags in middle which deals mainly with recovery & search for bad guy, but has our minor characters building relationships, there’s some angst, & loved the kindness shown to injured daughter & strength shown by main characters too; some low tense angst due to the murderer not id yet & his presence in the community. FD strong& steady while helping the Bennet family & search efforts. Mrs B & Lydia worse than usual & imo, Lydia so foolish to be laughable, both are so unaware of their respective roles in a family or community their behavior incomprehensible! Mr Bennet shows up for his family FINALLY after several instances of egregious conduct by…. IYKYK! What prevents this being a 5 star read (imo) is that w/in many chapters far too much minutiae —and other chapters little emotional context between main characters. Reading the internal dialogue of the injured Bennet during her recovery period is insightful & admit gave me much to consider in applying to real life situations. Caroline is as waspish as evah (almost criminal) & I believe she didn’t get her just desserts in this story, but Jane certainly stepped up and sent her packing with a stinging set down! ODC has a great HEA after the dramatic chapters. Would love to see this story streamlined, more emotional contact expressed in feelings by word/deed, & the bad guy to suffer more, but still a very good read for a summer evening
April 9, 2025
Minus a star for editing. There are plenty of misspellings, errors in grammar, homophones, etc. These errors interfere with the flow of the story.
Interesting tale…if rather dark. Elizabeth and Kitty are attacked by a mystery assailant dressed in a red coat. Could it be an officer in the militia? Bingley interrupts the attack when he returns to Meryton to discover Jane’s feelings for himself. He does manage to save Elizabeth by scaring off the assailant but, unfortunately, Kitty is already dead and Bingley does not get a look at the person beyond seeing a red coat. Elizabeth experiences extreme trauma and is unable to name the attacker. She is unconscious for days. When she finally begins to respond again she has lost her memory, including her own identity, and is in this state for months. No one can conceive of a motive for the attack and murder and the attacker remains at large.
Immediately after the attack Bingley brings Elizabeth to Netherfield to recover knowing things are, and will be more, chaotic at Longbourn due to Mrs Bennet’s “nerves.” He goes to London to get his aunt to be hostess and consult with Darcy about a physician. Bingley and Jane marry right away so Jane can be at Netherfield to care for Elizabeth. Darcy and, eventually, Georgiana come to Netherfield to help care for Elizabeth. Mr Bennet requires Darcy to admit his feelings for Elizabeth or to leave. Darcy then has to admit his love and vows to make amends and try to gain Elizabeth’s good opinion. But first Elizabeth must come back from wherever she’s hiding in her mind…and there’s still an unknown murderer on the loose.
Interesting tale…if rather dark. Elizabeth and Kitty are attacked by a mystery assailant dressed in a red coat. Could it be an officer in the militia? Bingley interrupts the attack when he returns to Meryton to discover Jane’s feelings for himself. He does manage to save Elizabeth by scaring off the assailant but, unfortunately, Kitty is already dead and Bingley does not get a look at the person beyond seeing a red coat. Elizabeth experiences extreme trauma and is unable to name the attacker. She is unconscious for days. When she finally begins to respond again she has lost her memory, including her own identity, and is in this state for months. No one can conceive of a motive for the attack and murder and the attacker remains at large.
Immediately after the attack Bingley brings Elizabeth to Netherfield to recover knowing things are, and will be more, chaotic at Longbourn due to Mrs Bennet’s “nerves.” He goes to London to get his aunt to be hostess and consult with Darcy about a physician. Bingley and Jane marry right away so Jane can be at Netherfield to care for Elizabeth. Darcy and, eventually, Georgiana come to Netherfield to help care for Elizabeth. Mr Bennet requires Darcy to admit his feelings for Elizabeth or to leave. Darcy then has to admit his love and vows to make amends and try to gain Elizabeth’s good opinion. But first Elizabeth must come back from wherever she’s hiding in her mind…and there’s still an unknown murderer on the loose.
May 6, 2024
So tearful
This story was surprisingly sorrowful, sad, and suspenseful in some places. I loved Charles in this variation. There were some grammar concerns, and inconsistent names. But I kept reading. One daughter is murdered and the other nearly murdered. Goergianna had a major role in the healing of Elizabeth. She is developed with still the enduring sweetness. Jane has a slow transformation that I enjoyed. The best character was Ann. Even though she was not a main character though out she was well written and allowed a happy ever after.
This is a brutal tail in the beginning and middle but the putting all the loose ends together is healing and soothing. I recommend this for adults not due to the sexual (no explicit sex dialogue) but to violence described.
This story was surprisingly sorrowful, sad, and suspenseful in some places. I loved Charles in this variation. There were some grammar concerns, and inconsistent names. But I kept reading. One daughter is murdered and the other nearly murdered. Goergianna had a major role in the healing of Elizabeth. She is developed with still the enduring sweetness. Jane has a slow transformation that I enjoyed. The best character was Ann. Even though she was not a main character though out she was well written and allowed a happy ever after.
This is a brutal tail in the beginning and middle but the putting all the loose ends together is healing and soothing. I recommend this for adults not due to the sexual (no explicit sex dialogue) but to violence described.
October 28, 2024
Nope. Interesting premise but so badly executed. Plot holes, false telegraphing (why mention a silver button?), Unnecessary detail (the handling of teacups, and how much one drank, and how hot the tea was, was described ad nauseam), Nothing about major transitions, like Elizabeth’s health and when her leg and arm healed, and their wedding) and the apparent carelessness of the death of Kitty. And why he needed to steal a red coat and how did he even manage to do that? And the viciousness just seem to come out of nowhere. And it seemed like they gave up on any investigations so quickly. So very overwritten. The story was basically over after 80% of the book, but she didn’t seem to know when to stop writing! I will not read another one of her books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 23, 2021
I love JAFF that includes some mystery, but this was disappointing. Does no one really care that Kitty died? The murderer seemed obvious to me fairly early on. (It’s always one of two characters in these books, and one had an alibi.). Despite their concern for Lizzy, everyone leaves her alone one night, knowing someone wants her dead.
There are a great many unnecessary storylines that could have been omitted. The book really should have ended when the murderer was discovered. Also, this book needed some careful proofreading, especially to avoid having characters sound as though they’re living in the 21st rather than the 19th century.
There are a great many unnecessary storylines that could have been omitted. The book really should have ended when the murderer was discovered. Also, this book needed some careful proofreading, especially to avoid having characters sound as though they’re living in the 21st rather than the 19th century.
August 12, 2020
I was drawn to this book because of its unusual premise, so very different from other P & P variations. I enjoyed the plotline and the various twists that the author employed. And, for once, George Wickham was not the villain!
Four and a half stars for story.
However, this author was in SERIOUS need of an experienced editor / proofreader. Her spelling, punctuation, and grammar were all atrocious.
One and a half stars for style.
Three stars for an average rating.
Four and a half stars for story.
However, this author was in SERIOUS need of an experienced editor / proofreader. Her spelling, punctuation, and grammar were all atrocious.
One and a half stars for style.
Three stars for an average rating.
October 4, 2023
a thrilling mystery and a sweet romance
This book started out a bit darker yet very mysterious. You get very caught up in the tragic circumstances of lovely characters. Who is the murderer, will we ever find out? How will ODC get out of this one and make it to HEA. Will Meryton ever be safe again?
Once things calm down we then have a sweet love story that makes all the darkness worth it. I really enjoyed this JAFF and found it hard to put down.
This book started out a bit darker yet very mysterious. You get very caught up in the tragic circumstances of lovely characters. Who is the murderer, will we ever find out? How will ODC get out of this one and make it to HEA. Will Meryton ever be safe again?
Once things calm down we then have a sweet love story that makes all the darkness worth it. I really enjoyed this JAFF and found it hard to put down.
February 14, 2020
Such a wonderful story!
What a creative way to retell P&P. Lots of twists and turns, but without the old angst of so many retellings. Love the way ask if the characters are included and are true to who JA intended them to be, but in duo many different ways. Another story that i didn't want to end.
What a creative way to retell P&P. Lots of twists and turns, but without the old angst of so many retellings. Love the way ask if the characters are included and are true to who JA intended them to be, but in duo many different ways. Another story that i didn't want to end.
September 9, 2023
I enjoyed the book. However, in this kindle version there were many typos — misspelled words and incorrect grammar. I mentioned it to Amazon in a phone call and noted the frequency of this and even offered my services to proof read and noted their loss of reputation — they did not care.
Vis a vis above, that is why I gave a 3. Either the authors or Amazon needs to fix this problem.
Vis a vis above, that is why I gave a 3. Either the authors or Amazon needs to fix this problem.
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