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Follies and Vices: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
What was Wickham’s real reason for not attending the Netherfield Ball?
Elizabeth Bennet had been looking forward to the ball at Netherfield Park. In particular, she’d been looking forward to dancing with the charming, amiable George Wickham. But when he fails to appear, Elizabeth blames the proud Mr Darcy and his animosity against Wickham for keeping him away. Disappointed in Wickham’s absence and eager to escape Mr Darcy and the flirtation of her boorish cousin, Mr Collins, she escapes to a quieter part of the house.
But she is not alone. Wickham owes money to dangerous criminals and the only way he can pay them back is to allow them into Netherfield Park while everyone is distracted by the ball. To Elizabeth’s horror, Wickham and his accomplices seize her so she cannot expose them.
Fitzwilliam Darcy has never been so bewitched by any woman as he is by Elizabeth Bennet. When she agreed to dance with him, he was so overwhelmed with delight, he could hardly speak. But she attracts him more than he likes and she is far too unsuited to be mistress of Pemberley. Wanting to avoid her before he makes her an offer he will regret, Darcy escapes to the garden. While there, he witnesses a strange sight; two men running across the lawn holding the very woman Darcy hoped to avoid. He pursues them but is soon outnumbered.
Only the knowledge that Darcy’s wealthy family will pay for his return keeps him safe. Darcy claims Elizabeth as his betrothed to add her to the ransom but when the thieves decide Darcy’s uncle will pay more for a Mrs Darcy than a Miss Bennet, the pair are forced into an illegal marriage ceremony. When they finally escape with help from an unexpected source, they are forced to put their differences aside as they navigate a dangerous countryside littered with rogues and highwaymen. And as their journey brings them closer together and forces them to disregard the rules of proprietary, they discover that their unwanted spouse might just be more perfect for them than they ever imagined.
Elizabeth Bennet had been looking forward to the ball at Netherfield Park. In particular, she’d been looking forward to dancing with the charming, amiable George Wickham. But when he fails to appear, Elizabeth blames the proud Mr Darcy and his animosity against Wickham for keeping him away. Disappointed in Wickham’s absence and eager to escape Mr Darcy and the flirtation of her boorish cousin, Mr Collins, she escapes to a quieter part of the house.
But she is not alone. Wickham owes money to dangerous criminals and the only way he can pay them back is to allow them into Netherfield Park while everyone is distracted by the ball. To Elizabeth’s horror, Wickham and his accomplices seize her so she cannot expose them.
Fitzwilliam Darcy has never been so bewitched by any woman as he is by Elizabeth Bennet. When she agreed to dance with him, he was so overwhelmed with delight, he could hardly speak. But she attracts him more than he likes and she is far too unsuited to be mistress of Pemberley. Wanting to avoid her before he makes her an offer he will regret, Darcy escapes to the garden. While there, he witnesses a strange sight; two men running across the lawn holding the very woman Darcy hoped to avoid. He pursues them but is soon outnumbered.
Only the knowledge that Darcy’s wealthy family will pay for his return keeps him safe. Darcy claims Elizabeth as his betrothed to add her to the ransom but when the thieves decide Darcy’s uncle will pay more for a Mrs Darcy than a Miss Bennet, the pair are forced into an illegal marriage ceremony. When they finally escape with help from an unexpected source, they are forced to put their differences aside as they navigate a dangerous countryside littered with rogues and highwaymen. And as their journey brings them closer together and forces them to disregard the rules of proprietary, they discover that their unwanted spouse might just be more perfect for them than they ever imagined.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 8, 2019
119 people are currently reading
92 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
June 5, 2022
A fun caper feat. OC Darcy & Lizzy
Sarah had recommended this to me forever ago and it had sat in my KU bookshelf gathering cyber dust since, but I kept waiting to be in the right mood for another kidnapping romp- as I so enjoyed The Journey. Anyways, not a chapter in and I was kicking myself that I hadn't just picked it up sooner, mood be damned! It was the sort of yarn you hold on tight to and don't let go to- at least up until the 83% mark. But otherwise I found it entertaining, tender, and featuring a sparkling, witty Lizzy and a lovable, steady Darcy.
P.S. Those kidnappers might as well have been Darcy x Elizabeth shippers, they pretty much held them at gunpoint to get together, that I can relate to 😝
Sarah had recommended this to me forever ago and it had sat in my KU bookshelf gathering cyber dust since, but I kept waiting to be in the right mood for another kidnapping romp- as I so enjoyed The Journey. Anyways, not a chapter in and I was kicking myself that I hadn't just picked it up sooner, mood be damned! It was the sort of yarn you hold on tight to and don't let go to- at least up until the 83% mark. But otherwise I found it entertaining, tender, and featuring a sparkling, witty Lizzy and a lovable, steady Darcy.
P.S. Those kidnappers might as well have been Darcy x Elizabeth shippers, they pretty much held them at gunpoint to get together, that I can relate to 😝
July 15, 2019
If you're in the mood for a fast-paced, well-written romantic adventure, this is a good Pride and Prejudice variation you might pick up. Wickham and his partners in crime come upon Elizabeth when they're in the midst of stealing valuable items in unused rooms during the Netherfield ball. They decide to take her with them. Darcy, outside getting some air, sees them and tries to intervene but ends up kidnapped along with her.
It's obvious from the beginning that Wickham is a reluctant participant, especially once Elizabeth and Darcy are involved. Recognizing they've netted a big fish here, the ringleader, Jerry Shaw, intends to ransom Darcy. With Elizabeth's fate at their hands uncertain, Darcy announced she is his betrothed and that his family will pay for both of them to be safely released.
The circumstances force the two to be alone together through most of the book and open Elizabeth's eyes to Darcy's honorable character. While the content is clean throughout, they're locked in the same room together for weeks, and their mutual attraction is palpable.
Several plot details lack credibility, but it's a good yarn if you just ignore this and go with it.
It's obvious from the beginning that Wickham is a reluctant participant, especially once Elizabeth and Darcy are involved. Recognizing they've netted a big fish here, the ringleader, Jerry Shaw, intends to ransom Darcy. With Elizabeth's fate at their hands uncertain, Darcy announced she is his betrothed and that his family will pay for both of them to be safely released.
The circumstances force the two to be alone together through most of the book and open Elizabeth's eyes to Darcy's honorable character. While the content is clean throughout, they're locked in the same room together for weeks, and their mutual attraction is palpable.
Several plot details lack credibility, but it's a good yarn if you just ignore this and go with it.
July 15, 2019
This isn't the first book I've read where Lizzy has been kidnapped. Not even the first book I read where she was kidnapped with Darcy. Nor the first where Wickham is involved. But this was one of the best.
It isn't just that the book is clean and while a bit nerve wracking at times it isn't excessively violent. It is a well written story that is well paced. Yes there were times I wanted it to go faster because I wanted to know what would happen next. There were also times where I was forced to suspend my disbelief a little.
I only found one definite mistake where Lizzy is called Mrs. Darcy by someone who was introduced to her using a false name. Another possible one is when Darcy says "your family is distracted" and I felt that distracted wasn't the correct word unless it was being used in the Mrs Bennet sense of "I shall go distracted" https://www.janeausten.org/pride-and-...
And you know it's coming... I could have lived a long, happy and productive life without the epilogue.
It isn't just that the book is clean and while a bit nerve wracking at times it isn't excessively violent. It is a well written story that is well paced. Yes there were times I wanted it to go faster because I wanted to know what would happen next. There were also times where I was forced to suspend my disbelief a little.
I only found one definite mistake where Lizzy is called Mrs. Darcy by someone who was introduced to her using a false name. Another possible one is when Darcy says "your family is distracted" and I felt that distracted wasn't the correct word unless it was being used in the Mrs Bennet sense of "I shall go distracted" https://www.janeausten.org/pride-and-...
And you know it's coming... I could have lived a long, happy and productive life without the epilogue.
July 13, 2019
A very entertaining book. I just wish the ending was not so long.
August 31, 2022
Another Elizabeth and Darcy are kidnapped story. Gripping and enjoyable.
I love the relationship Elizabeth and Darcy develop.
Second time of reading. Still brilliant.
I love the relationship Elizabeth and Darcy develop.
Second time of reading. Still brilliant.
May 27, 2021
“The goal is to have a ‘soulmate’ not a cellmate.” –Kevin Darné, Every Ending is a New Beginning
Rating: MA: PG-17: due to violence, mayhem, death, and the sleaze factor of some of the miscreants [shudder] Angst Level: medium: depending on your tolerance level, it could slide into the high range. Source: KU [5-19-21] Spoiler Alert: This review may contain *** Spoilers ***
“The problem is that the people with the most ridiculous ideas are always the people who are most certain of them.” (The Decider, July 21, 2007) –Bill Maher
Darcy and Elizabeth were kidnapped and held for ransom. The miscreants decided they needed to sweeten the deal by forcing the couple to marry. A Mrs. Darcy would garner more ransom than a plain Miss Elizabeth would. The miscreants did not know what hit them. One should never underestimate Miss Elizabeth Bennet.
“Love is a journey and a destination – long and excruciating on the way, unexpected and ecstatic if found.” –Stewart Stafford
D & E did what they could to survive until they could escape. It took time, planning, careful watching for opportunities, and help from an unlikely source for a dirty and disheveled Mr. and Mrs. Darcy to make it to his London townhouse. Now if only the butler would recognize his master and allow him into his own home. LOL! That was hilarious.
“He who profits by villainy has perpetrated it.” –Iain Pears, An Instance of the Fingerpost
There were several layers to this story. First and foremost, our dear couple coming into their understanding. Next, we had Wickham forced to see himself through another’s eyes as he contemplated his behavior and life choices. We do not see the results of that until the epilogue. Wow! Lastly, we had our villain receiving his comeuppance… the scene was worthy of Drury Lane. I loved it.
It could have been trimmed a bit. I loved the characters they met along the way, one especially. If you don’t watch closely, you will miss it. Farfetched and a bit crazy, true. However, it was an interesting read.
Rating: MA: PG-17: due to violence, mayhem, death, and the sleaze factor of some of the miscreants [shudder] Angst Level: medium: depending on your tolerance level, it could slide into the high range. Source: KU [5-19-21] Spoiler Alert: This review may contain *** Spoilers ***
“The problem is that the people with the most ridiculous ideas are always the people who are most certain of them.” (The Decider, July 21, 2007) –Bill Maher
Darcy and Elizabeth were kidnapped and held for ransom. The miscreants decided they needed to sweeten the deal by forcing the couple to marry. A Mrs. Darcy would garner more ransom than a plain Miss Elizabeth would. The miscreants did not know what hit them. One should never underestimate Miss Elizabeth Bennet.
“Love is a journey and a destination – long and excruciating on the way, unexpected and ecstatic if found.” –Stewart Stafford
D & E did what they could to survive until they could escape. It took time, planning, careful watching for opportunities, and help from an unlikely source for a dirty and disheveled Mr. and Mrs. Darcy to make it to his London townhouse. Now if only the butler would recognize his master and allow him into his own home. LOL! That was hilarious.
“He who profits by villainy has perpetrated it.” –Iain Pears, An Instance of the Fingerpost
There were several layers to this story. First and foremost, our dear couple coming into their understanding. Next, we had Wickham forced to see himself through another’s eyes as he contemplated his behavior and life choices. We do not see the results of that until the epilogue. Wow! Lastly, we had our villain receiving his comeuppance… the scene was worthy of Drury Lane. I loved it.
It could have been trimmed a bit. I loved the characters they met along the way, one especially. If you don’t watch closely, you will miss it. Farfetched and a bit crazy, true. However, it was an interesting read.
July 16, 2019
4.5 rounded up to 5 stars
This is not the first book I have read in which Elizabeth and Darcy are kidnapped together and in which he claims a close relationship to her to save her from harm. And then there is the FMS which I always find intriguing and which kept me glued to the pages, waiting for that Ah-Ha moment when they realize that they are in love.
There are some passages which are not supported by the text but readers will just have to go with the flow. Wickham is the cause for the whole abduction as men to whom he is indebted demand instant repayment and decide that robbing Netherfield during the ball is the quickest and surest way to settle that debt. They depend on guests and servants alike to be distracted by the demands of the ball. What no one counts on is the fact that Elizabeth will remove herself from the ballroom in order to escape two men: Mr. Collins and Darcy. It is decided to take her with them in order that she not raise the alarm about the burglars. And then Darcy espies them and rushes to help her so he, too, is forced to go along.
I do like angst in stories and this one gave me much of that. Not only do we worry about whether ODC will be ransomed, whether they will be ransomed as a couple, but also as to how their being together, much of the time alone, will play out in their relationship. Wickham has revealed to Darcy how much Elizabeth has hated him. However, Darcy has claimed that he and Elizabeth are betrothed so the abductors have no qualms about forcing their togetherness...and even stage a "possibly fake" marriage in order to raise the value of their ransom demands.
This tale doesn't end with this first matter of kidnapping and ransom demands but has ODC agreeing to a ruse to draw in and capture the one miscreant who has a long history of crimes.
The epilogue is quite a turn about for one and I am not sure how I felt about it. Yes, we read of redemption but the character has such a place in most JAFF that this ending is just the opposite of what one would expect. Forgiveness is needed.
This is a story that I would reread at some time or another.
This is not the first book I have read in which Elizabeth and Darcy are kidnapped together and in which he claims a close relationship to her to save her from harm. And then there is the FMS which I always find intriguing and which kept me glued to the pages, waiting for that Ah-Ha moment when they realize that they are in love.
There are some passages which are not supported by the text but readers will just have to go with the flow. Wickham is the cause for the whole abduction as men to whom he is indebted demand instant repayment and decide that robbing Netherfield during the ball is the quickest and surest way to settle that debt. They depend on guests and servants alike to be distracted by the demands of the ball. What no one counts on is the fact that Elizabeth will remove herself from the ballroom in order to escape two men: Mr. Collins and Darcy. It is decided to take her with them in order that she not raise the alarm about the burglars. And then Darcy espies them and rushes to help her so he, too, is forced to go along.
I do like angst in stories and this one gave me much of that. Not only do we worry about whether ODC will be ransomed, whether they will be ransomed as a couple, but also as to how their being together, much of the time alone, will play out in their relationship. Wickham has revealed to Darcy how much Elizabeth has hated him. However, Darcy has claimed that he and Elizabeth are betrothed so the abductors have no qualms about forcing their togetherness...and even stage a "possibly fake" marriage in order to raise the value of their ransom demands.
This tale doesn't end with this first matter of kidnapping and ransom demands but has ODC agreeing to a ruse to draw in and capture the one miscreant who has a long history of crimes.
The epilogue is quite a turn about for one and I am not sure how I felt about it. Yes, we read of redemption but the character has such a place in most JAFF that this ending is just the opposite of what one would expect. Forgiveness is needed.
This is a story that I would reread at some time or another.
July 19, 2019
This is a brilliant book - at the start, the reader gets drawn in straight away as we spend some time in the devious mind of Mr Wickham and witness him getting a bit of comeuppance which sets this story in motion. In attempt to pay his debts, he is pressured into robbing Netherfield during the ball. However, Elizabeth interrupts things and is consequently kidnapped - Darcy witnesses her being taken and intervenes and finds himself kidnapped too!! There are no spoilers here- this is the action packed opening few chapters. What follows is their plan to escape which is not straight forward.
There were so many things I loved about this book. Elizabeth is a great character - just as she should be - the perfect combination of wit, honesty and humour. The way her relationship with Darcy develops is just lovely - it made me have 'the stupid grin' in so many places. Poor Darcy - the way he finds out Elizabeth doesn't like him in this book is just brilliant. Heartbreaking for him but deliciously agonising for the reader. I think one of my favourite bits in the whole book is Mrs Bennet's discussion with Elizabeth about marrying Mr Collins - this occurs at Netherfield whilst Collins making a total fool of himself. I could picture this scene in my head like I was there.... it's really funny!
I've read all of the books by Emily Russell but I think this my favourite so far. There is such lovely humour in this book - not all of intentional which makes it a really feel good story, despite the subject matter being very serious. There is a lot of action in this story but, as is usual for this author, relatively low angst. This is definitely one of my favourites of the year!
There were so many things I loved about this book. Elizabeth is a great character - just as she should be - the perfect combination of wit, honesty and humour. The way her relationship with Darcy develops is just lovely - it made me have 'the stupid grin' in so many places. Poor Darcy - the way he finds out Elizabeth doesn't like him in this book is just brilliant. Heartbreaking for him but deliciously agonising for the reader. I think one of my favourite bits in the whole book is Mrs Bennet's discussion with Elizabeth about marrying Mr Collins - this occurs at Netherfield whilst Collins making a total fool of himself. I could picture this scene in my head like I was there.... it's really funny!
I've read all of the books by Emily Russell but I think this my favourite so far. There is such lovely humour in this book - not all of intentional which makes it a really feel good story, despite the subject matter being very serious. There is a lot of action in this story but, as is usual for this author, relatively low angst. This is definitely one of my favourites of the year!
July 10, 2019
Lots of action, no sense
SPOILERS
the last 20% of the book is some bogus scheme to catch the bad guy. Lizzy is the bait for the scheme. At the beginning of the scheme the bad guy comes out of hiding to talk to Lizzy. Why don’t the good guys come out of hiding and just clap him in irons. They have all the info they need to have him hung. He kidnapped Darcy and Lizzy earlier in the book. Makes no sense. All the book has gaping holes in the story, like this. Not a fun read.
SPOILERS
the last 20% of the book is some bogus scheme to catch the bad guy. Lizzy is the bait for the scheme. At the beginning of the scheme the bad guy comes out of hiding to talk to Lizzy. Why don’t the good guys come out of hiding and just clap him in irons. They have all the info they need to have him hung. He kidnapped Darcy and Lizzy earlier in the book. Makes no sense. All the book has gaping holes in the story, like this. Not a fun read.
December 1, 2021
Great Tale
Reviewed in Canada on September 7, 2019
Great non-canon story. I get so tired of Wickham sometimes, but while he’s in this book, he’s given a slightly different twist. The dialogue throughout is wonderful. I loved the ending. Loved it all.
Reviewed in Canada on September 7, 2019
Great non-canon story. I get so tired of Wickham sometimes, but while he’s in this book, he’s given a slightly different twist. The dialogue throughout is wonderful. I loved the ending. Loved it all.
August 6, 2019
Pride and Prejudice variation.
I absolutely loved it!
This is the best abduction story I have read. It grabbed my attention from the start and held it in an iron grip to the end. It will be added to my favourite list and reread countless times...
Cleverly written, plausible and highly engaging. Elizabeth were abducted at the Netherfield ball, Darcy came to her rescue but were overpowered.
Together against at flock of villains, they had to learn to cooperate and trust each other, despite their former inclinations.
The development of the relationship between ODC was brilliantly done, I loved every second of it.
Rated: Chaste
Heartily recommend this book!
I absolutely loved it!
This is the best abduction story I have read. It grabbed my attention from the start and held it in an iron grip to the end. It will be added to my favourite list and reread countless times...
Cleverly written, plausible and highly engaging. Elizabeth were abducted at the Netherfield ball, Darcy came to her rescue but were overpowered.
Together against at flock of villains, they had to learn to cooperate and trust each other, despite their former inclinations.
The development of the relationship between ODC was brilliantly done, I loved every second of it.
Rated: Chaste
Heartily recommend this book!
August 17, 2019
In this Pride and Prejudice variation, our dear couple is kidnapped together during the Netherfield Ball. They must work together and learn to understand each other in order to survive and find their happily ever after.
I have read a few books with this type of plot before, but I really enjoyed the author's take on the story. There were a few plot points that seemed a bit odd, but the characters were exactly what I like.
I have read a few books with this type of plot before, but I really enjoyed the author's take on the story. There were a few plot points that seemed a bit odd, but the characters were exactly what I like.
April 25, 2020
This book is 90% Elizabeth and Darcy arguing, bantering, working together and getting to know one another. I.E. everything I want out of JAFF. The plot is fast paced, it’s witty and clever, romantic and well written. Loved it!
August 4, 2019
Terrific E & D abduction book. Really enjoyed it.
October 1, 2022
Well written, exciting, & I loved the banter & humor between ODC. However, I thought the romance could have been more prevalent. I mean they had Soooo much time to do nothing but talk & they barely did until it was almost over. I wanted to reach into the building ok & smack their heads together. Actually, I wanted to smack Elizabeth’s head against anything the majority of the book. She hated Darcy so much! & for what? A rude comment, a stranger’s sob story, & because he acted a little uppity? Yet, despite all the horrible things Wickham does in this book she continues to constantly defend & say he’s better than this, she knows he’s really a good person. Why?!?! Why does she know that? I thought Jane was the clueless naive optimist, but no here goes Elizabeth more angry at being told she’s not pretty enough to dance with than she is at a law for repeatedly breaking the law & just being a general thug & scoundrel.
July 12, 2022
I really enjoyed this variation. I decided to read every kidnapping of Darcy and Elizabeth I could find. This was my first time reading this one. I highly recommend it.
I especially liked this epilogue. There were typos and a lack of possessive apostrophes but that’s better to me than too many incorrect possessive typos.
I especially liked this epilogue. There were typos and a lack of possessive apostrophes but that’s better to me than too many incorrect possessive typos.
Read
July 28, 2019Avid Reader
I found this particular abduction of Elizabeth and Darcy quite interesting. ODC manage to work together as a team, capture the culprits, marry twice, meet Wickham for a surprising conclusion. Their adventures help Georgina find her future spouse.
I found this particular abduction of Elizabeth and Darcy quite interesting. ODC manage to work together as a team, capture the culprits, marry twice, meet Wickham for a surprising conclusion. Their adventures help Georgina find her future spouse.
December 31, 2024
I loved it!
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. What was Wickham’s real reason for not attending the Netherfield Ball? Elizabeth Bennet had been looking forward to the ball at Netherfield Park. In particular, she’d been looking forward to dancing with the charming, amiable George Wickham, but when he fails to appear, Elizabeth blames the proud Mr Darcy and his animosity against Wickham for keeping him away. Disappointed in Wickham’s absence and eager to escape Mr Darcy and the flirtation of her boorish cousin, Mr Collins, she escapes to a quieter part of the house, but she is not alone. Wickham owes money to dangerous criminals, and the only way he can pay them back is to allow them into Netherfield Park while everyone is distracted by the ball, and to Elizabeth’s horror, Wickham and his accomplices seize her so she cannot expose them. Fitzwilliam Darcy has never been so bewitched by any woman as he is by Elizabeth Bennet. When she agreed to dance with him, he was so overwhelmed with delight that he could hardly speak, but she attracts him more than he likes, and she is far too unsuited to be the mistress of Pemberley. Wanting to avoid her before he makes her an offer he will regret, Darcy escapes to the garden. While there, he witnesses a strange sight; two men running across the lawn holding the very woman Darcy hoped to avoid. He pursues them but is soon outnumbered. Only the knowledge that Darcy’s wealthy family will pay for his return keeps him safe. Darcy claims Elizabeth as his betrothed to add her to the ransom, but when the thieves decide Darcy’s uncle will pay more for a Mrs Darcy than a Miss Bennet, the pair are forced into an illegal marriage ceremony. When they finally escape with help from an unexpected source, they are forced to put their differences aside as they navigate a dangerous countryside littered with rogues and highwaymen; and as their journey brings them closer together and forces them to disregard the rules of propriety, they discover that their unwanted spouse might just be more perfect for them than they ever imagined. So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. What was Wickham’s real reason for not attending the Netherfield Ball? Elizabeth Bennet had been looking forward to the ball at Netherfield Park. In particular, she’d been looking forward to dancing with the charming, amiable George Wickham, but when he fails to appear, Elizabeth blames the proud Mr Darcy and his animosity against Wickham for keeping him away. Disappointed in Wickham’s absence and eager to escape Mr Darcy and the flirtation of her boorish cousin, Mr Collins, she escapes to a quieter part of the house, but she is not alone. Wickham owes money to dangerous criminals, and the only way he can pay them back is to allow them into Netherfield Park while everyone is distracted by the ball, and to Elizabeth’s horror, Wickham and his accomplices seize her so she cannot expose them. Fitzwilliam Darcy has never been so bewitched by any woman as he is by Elizabeth Bennet. When she agreed to dance with him, he was so overwhelmed with delight that he could hardly speak, but she attracts him more than he likes, and she is far too unsuited to be the mistress of Pemberley. Wanting to avoid her before he makes her an offer he will regret, Darcy escapes to the garden. While there, he witnesses a strange sight; two men running across the lawn holding the very woman Darcy hoped to avoid. He pursues them but is soon outnumbered. Only the knowledge that Darcy’s wealthy family will pay for his return keeps him safe. Darcy claims Elizabeth as his betrothed to add her to the ransom, but when the thieves decide Darcy’s uncle will pay more for a Mrs Darcy than a Miss Bennet, the pair are forced into an illegal marriage ceremony. When they finally escape with help from an unexpected source, they are forced to put their differences aside as they navigate a dangerous countryside littered with rogues and highwaymen; and as their journey brings them closer together and forces them to disregard the rules of propriety, they discover that their unwanted spouse might just be more perfect for them than they ever imagined. So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
June 4, 2020
To be clear, this is not five stars because it's a work of literary genius. It was just an outlandishly fun read I couldn't seem to put down. It felt deserving of the rating after keeping me so lightheartedly entertained.
Some quick pros & cons for other readers who find themselves falling down the rabbit hole that is P&P variations....
Pros:
-A Darcy and Elizabeth who aren't annoying and unrecognizable
-No dragging out the plot at every turn by making D & E willfully misunderstand and assume the worst of each other.
-Plot that is juuust quirky enough to be delightfully fun to read.
-Certain characters (Wickam, Collins, Catherine, & Lydia) don't get to distract readers and take away from what I read these variations for--Darcy and Elizabeth's relationship.
Cons:
-A frequent bit of innuendo from the villains of this tale. It was getting rather irritating.
-The story began to lose steam and drag just a touch toward the end.
-I would have preferred a couple of scenes of present day felicity between the happy couple after things settled down instead of a time jump. (Personal preference)
All in all, a very satisfying variation to add to my short list of favorites. :)
Some quick pros & cons for other readers who find themselves falling down the rabbit hole that is P&P variations....
Pros:
-A Darcy and Elizabeth who aren't annoying and unrecognizable
-No dragging out the plot at every turn by making D & E willfully misunderstand and assume the worst of each other.
-Plot that is juuust quirky enough to be delightfully fun to read.
-Certain characters (Wickam, Collins, Catherine, & Lydia) don't get to distract readers and take away from what I read these variations for--Darcy and Elizabeth's relationship.
Cons:
-A frequent bit of innuendo from the villains of this tale. It was getting rather irritating.
-The story began to lose steam and drag just a touch toward the end.
-I would have preferred a couple of scenes of present day felicity between the happy couple after things settled down instead of a time jump. (Personal preference)
All in all, a very satisfying variation to add to my short list of favorites. :)
July 20, 2023
Almost completely delightful
I went back and forth between 4 & 5 stars because I absolutely loved 95% of this book. However the catching Jerry part was absolutely ridiculous and unnecessary. Everyone knows he kidnapped them and has committed other crimes & even back then you didn't have to be caught in a bad act to be convicted & hung. The whole entrapment scenario was just ridiculous. Then Elizabeth went into a house and traveled with him! Ugh. I skipped over most of it instead of just returning the book unfinished only because I had loved it so much up to that point. There was plenty of post return drama with Collins & the threat of Lady Catherine (that the author could have further developed if she wanted) without the unnecessary second brief adventure. I am so annoyed by that whole side thread because it jarred me out of absolutely loving this book. Thankfully the rest of it was absolutely wonderful.
I went back and forth between 4 & 5 stars because I absolutely loved 95% of this book. However the catching Jerry part was absolutely ridiculous and unnecessary. Everyone knows he kidnapped them and has committed other crimes & even back then you didn't have to be caught in a bad act to be convicted & hung. The whole entrapment scenario was just ridiculous. Then Elizabeth went into a house and traveled with him! Ugh. I skipped over most of it instead of just returning the book unfinished only because I had loved it so much up to that point. There was plenty of post return drama with Collins & the threat of Lady Catherine (that the author could have further developed if she wanted) without the unnecessary second brief adventure. I am so annoyed by that whole side thread because it jarred me out of absolutely loving this book. Thankfully the rest of it was absolutely wonderful.
April 14, 2020
4.5 stars! This was such an exciting and captivating book! I really loved it. We get to spend lots of time with our favorite hero and heroine while they get to know and understand one another better and eventually fall in love while also trying survive being kidnapped and held captive together. I agree with some other reviewers in that there are some parts of the story that were a bit beyond belief, but I enjoyed the story so much that it didn’t bother me and it was easy to overlook. This book moved fast enough that it kept my attention the entire time. I highly recommend this to P&P fans. I have mixed feelings about the epilogue.
June 19, 2025
Started out well
It started out very well and an interesting twist on the original. However it started to change half way through, the characters became inconsistent. Why Elizabeth needed to trap Shaw into confessing and not just convict him on their testimony is beyond me.
When they got back to civilisation the story lacked everything. A lot of the original story could have been used. Only with Darcy and Elizabeth in the same situation as Lydia and Wickham. I presume truck writer got board with adding original phases into the book and thus the characters changed completely.
It started out very well and an interesting twist on the original. However it started to change half way through, the characters became inconsistent. Why Elizabeth needed to trap Shaw into confessing and not just convict him on their testimony is beyond me.
When they got back to civilisation the story lacked everything. A lot of the original story could have been used. Only with Darcy and Elizabeth in the same situation as Lydia and Wickham. I presume truck writer got board with adding original phases into the book and thus the characters changed completely.
September 2, 2020
Follies and Vices.
I liked this variation, I did not stop reading until the end, it is entertaining, I will look for more about this author.
I liked this variation, I did not stop reading until the end, it is entertaining, I will look for more about this author.

I liked this variation, I did not stop reading until the end, it is entertaining, I will look for more about this author.
I liked this variation, I did not stop reading until the end, it is entertaining, I will look for more about this author

I liked this variation, I did not stop reading until the end, it is entertaining, I will look for more about this author.
I liked this variation, I did not stop reading until the end, it is entertaining, I will look for more about this author.

I liked this variation, I did not stop reading until the end, it is entertaining, I will look for more about this author.
I liked this variation, I did not stop reading until the end, it is entertaining, I will look for more about this author

February 2, 2022
I think if not for the delightful way ODC were written, their humour and banter, -- this book would have been quite a dumpster fire. The whole plotline about the highwaymen got a bit ridiculous about halfway through, and the police proceedings seemed to be too modern for the era. Did they really need to lure Shaw out for the police to arrest him? I should think Darcy's word would have been enough of a proof at the time.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 26, 2020
Such a fun read! One of my favorite versions of the kidnapping variation. This version of Darcy is wonderfully strong and vulnerable in all the right places. Plus the scenes with Mr Grahm! And all the cuddling! Plus probably one of the best variations of Wickham as well, he's perfectly reprehensible and also wonderfully redeemable.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 7, 2020
I loved this variation. It was kind of corny and adorable. Elizabeth and Darcy are abducted by Wickham and some crooks. The fall in love - it's beautiful.
One thing I enjoyed about this variation was Wickham's character. It was more complicated than good guy/bad guy. It made it more interesting.
It's a quick read and enjoyable through the end!
One thing I enjoyed about this variation was Wickham's character. It was more complicated than good guy/bad guy. It made it more interesting.
It's a quick read and enjoyable through the end!
July 12, 2021
An excellent adventure.
As Darcy and Elizabeth are kidnapped from the Netherfield Ball by Wickham and his criminal friends, we follow their series of exciting and romantic adventures. Characters improve, misunderstandings occur, villains threaten, and love grows. Well written and edited,with creative plotting and a sweet ending.
As Darcy and Elizabeth are kidnapped from the Netherfield Ball by Wickham and his criminal friends, we follow their series of exciting and romantic adventures. Characters improve, misunderstandings occur, villains threaten, and love grows. Well written and edited,with creative plotting and a sweet ending.
March 7, 2024
Kidnapping and escaping
Darcy tries to rescue Elizabeth but is taken too. This story follows them along this path and the twists and turns they have to navigate. It’s a well done story but I think they could have left out the last confrontation with one of the villains. This is a story I would read again.
Darcy tries to rescue Elizabeth but is taken too. This story follows them along this path and the twists and turns they have to navigate. It’s a well done story but I think they could have left out the last confrontation with one of the villains. This is a story I would read again.
September 20, 2019
This book was as good, if not better than the last. In both books I read of this author, she always put ODC in strange and at times dangerous situations. Who would've thought the charming Mr Wickham could associate himself with thieves? And be part of a kidnapping that would change Mr. Darcy's and Elizabeth's lives forever....
The story starts in the Netherfield ball. Lizzie wants nothing to do with Mr. Darcy or Mr. Collins, so she runs away from the ball to spend some time in the quiet of the library. She is disappointed she hasn't seen Wickham and blames Mr. Darcy for it. When she moves to another room escaping some footsteps in the library, Mr Wickham comes from another room with some of the house's decorations, what is he doing? once Elizabeth realises it, it is too late. She is taken by Mr. Wickham's thieves companions. Outside, Mr. Darcy has been taking some air and looking for Elizabeth, even if he doesn't want too much to do with her, he can't escape her charms. Then he sees some men carrying her away, he fights them but another hits him in the head and both are taken so they can't tell on them.
That's the beginning of a great adventure for ODC. Mr Darcy tells the thieves they are engaged, so they can keep them both safe for ransom. Because Wickham knows how much Elizabeth dislikes Darcy, she is forced to say it was for mercenary reasons they are marrying. Darcy learns she dislikes him and is mortified and aggrieved, but her dislike will quickly melt. The circumstances push ODC to one another, they seek warmth and comfort from each other, until Mr Darcy come to grips with his growing attraction for Elizabeth, with the fear of losing her, and Elizabeth, in spite of everything, starts falling in love with Mr Darcy. They protect and defend each other. The thieves force them to ditch propriety and by the week together they don't mind to sleep together anymore (as in only sleeping). They share a room and a bed, warmth and comfort and they hate to be apart.
Spoilers......
Slowly they grow to love one another, and then the thieves have another idea to get more money, they decide to perform an illegal wedding, they force ODC to marry and they send the marriage certificate to Darcy's uncle, the Earl of Matlock, in order to get more money, because they think Mrs Darcy is more valuable than Elizabeth Bennet, Darcy's betrothed. Just before the sham wedding, Mr Darcy proposes to Elizabeth and she accepts, making them actually engaged. In the weeks after Elizabeth is let out to do housework around the house, do the laundry and serve the thieves, meanwhile Darcy has to wait impatiently in the room because the thieves don't trust him to let him out of it. One night the thieves indulge too much in alcohol and other things, and they knock themselves out... when Elizabeth opens the door and tells Darcy they can escape, help comes from an unexpected part. They manage to run to London, sleeping in barns and caves. A bit doubtful and hesitant at first, they keep on sleeping together, coming to grips with their feelings and recognising that even if they are coming back to society, the rules of propriety that didn't exist in the extreme situation they were in don't apply to them anymore. They have a very honest conversation and realise that for them, they are already married even if the marriage may be illegal and it hasn't been consummated, and when they have the opportunity, they will marry one another legally, because they want to and not because they are forced to. Some people help them on their way to London and they get in some sticky situation in a dangerous village.... but all is well afterwards....
end of spoilers....
Ok, I almost summarised the whole book so don't read the above if you don't want to get too spoiled. I liked this book very much, it is very different and unexpected. It is no wonder to say that Elizabeth quickly realises she is being utterly wrong when judging W and Mr. Darcy's character. He risks his life to save her, facing such a situation that forces him to accept his feelings and stop deliberating about the unsuitability of a match between them. Elizabeth comes to see Mr Darcy in a total different light, spending so much time with him and knowing him in extreme and difficult situations. They inevitably fall in love. There are many moments that are charged with chemistry, tenderness and sensual tension and lots of sweet moments. The angst is mild but it's there every time the thieves figure something new out and in every new situation they are forced to face. Lizzie is very brave and Mr Darcy is willing to risk everything to protect her.
Mr Collins and Mrs Bennet are the ultimate silly people, even in this situation. The Gardiners are the best as always. Jane gets her HEA and there is redemption for our villain in the Epilogue.
Very good book for people who would like to see ODC in a extreme situation, the sweetness is overwhelming and the way that the other comes to be the most important person in their lives, ditching every societal norm in the process, because when everything else looses importance, the most relevant is the person you have by your side. Beautiful and very romantic. Many kisses involved. I highly recommend it!
The story starts in the Netherfield ball. Lizzie wants nothing to do with Mr. Darcy or Mr. Collins, so she runs away from the ball to spend some time in the quiet of the library. She is disappointed she hasn't seen Wickham and blames Mr. Darcy for it. When she moves to another room escaping some footsteps in the library, Mr Wickham comes from another room with some of the house's decorations, what is he doing? once Elizabeth realises it, it is too late. She is taken by Mr. Wickham's thieves companions. Outside, Mr. Darcy has been taking some air and looking for Elizabeth, even if he doesn't want too much to do with her, he can't escape her charms. Then he sees some men carrying her away, he fights them but another hits him in the head and both are taken so they can't tell on them.
That's the beginning of a great adventure for ODC. Mr Darcy tells the thieves they are engaged, so they can keep them both safe for ransom. Because Wickham knows how much Elizabeth dislikes Darcy, she is forced to say it was for mercenary reasons they are marrying. Darcy learns she dislikes him and is mortified and aggrieved, but her dislike will quickly melt. The circumstances push ODC to one another, they seek warmth and comfort from each other, until Mr Darcy come to grips with his growing attraction for Elizabeth, with the fear of losing her, and Elizabeth, in spite of everything, starts falling in love with Mr Darcy. They protect and defend each other. The thieves force them to ditch propriety and by the week together they don't mind to sleep together anymore (as in only sleeping). They share a room and a bed, warmth and comfort and they hate to be apart.
Spoilers......
Slowly they grow to love one another, and then the thieves have another idea to get more money, they decide to perform an illegal wedding, they force ODC to marry and they send the marriage certificate to Darcy's uncle, the Earl of Matlock, in order to get more money, because they think Mrs Darcy is more valuable than Elizabeth Bennet, Darcy's betrothed. Just before the sham wedding, Mr Darcy proposes to Elizabeth and she accepts, making them actually engaged. In the weeks after Elizabeth is let out to do housework around the house, do the laundry and serve the thieves, meanwhile Darcy has to wait impatiently in the room because the thieves don't trust him to let him out of it. One night the thieves indulge too much in alcohol and other things, and they knock themselves out... when Elizabeth opens the door and tells Darcy they can escape, help comes from an unexpected part. They manage to run to London, sleeping in barns and caves. A bit doubtful and hesitant at first, they keep on sleeping together, coming to grips with their feelings and recognising that even if they are coming back to society, the rules of propriety that didn't exist in the extreme situation they were in don't apply to them anymore. They have a very honest conversation and realise that for them, they are already married even if the marriage may be illegal and it hasn't been consummated, and when they have the opportunity, they will marry one another legally, because they want to and not because they are forced to. Some people help them on their way to London and they get in some sticky situation in a dangerous village.... but all is well afterwards....
end of spoilers....
Ok, I almost summarised the whole book so don't read the above if you don't want to get too spoiled. I liked this book very much, it is very different and unexpected. It is no wonder to say that Elizabeth quickly realises she is being utterly wrong when judging W and Mr. Darcy's character. He risks his life to save her, facing such a situation that forces him to accept his feelings and stop deliberating about the unsuitability of a match between them. Elizabeth comes to see Mr Darcy in a total different light, spending so much time with him and knowing him in extreme and difficult situations. They inevitably fall in love. There are many moments that are charged with chemistry, tenderness and sensual tension and lots of sweet moments. The angst is mild but it's there every time the thieves figure something new out and in every new situation they are forced to face. Lizzie is very brave and Mr Darcy is willing to risk everything to protect her.
Mr Collins and Mrs Bennet are the ultimate silly people, even in this situation. The Gardiners are the best as always. Jane gets her HEA and there is redemption for our villain in the Epilogue.
Very good book for people who would like to see ODC in a extreme situation, the sweetness is overwhelming and the way that the other comes to be the most important person in their lives, ditching every societal norm in the process, because when everything else looses importance, the most relevant is the person you have by your side. Beautiful and very romantic. Many kisses involved. I highly recommend it!
January 10, 2021
Angsty but good
Interesting premise and enjoyed the story. Showed the good and bad of different people just as in real life. Left off a star as there was one storyline that had an unsatisfactory conclusion and wanted more of a follow up thus making the ending lacking.
Interesting premise and enjoyed the story. Showed the good and bad of different people just as in real life. Left off a star as there was one storyline that had an unsatisfactory conclusion and wanted more of a follow up thus making the ending lacking.
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