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After Anne: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
What could possibly make Lady Catherine deliberately throw Elizabeth and Darcy together? Elizabeth Bennet cannot believe the effrontery of Mr. Darcy’s proposal to her, but before she can firmly decide to despise him, he hands her a letter. Unsure what he could possibly have to say to redeem himself, she sneaks off to read his words, only to witness the flight of Miss Anne de Bourgh. Now, despite the array of turbulent emotions between them, Lady Catherine de Bourgh insists that Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy form a team to search for her daughter. Though Lady Catherine has motives of her own, being thrown together may help Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth better understand each other, all while they go after Anne. After Anne is a Pride and Prejudice Variation Novel of approximately 64,000 words.
195 pages, Paperback
Published March 16, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
March 22, 2020
5+ stars
Anyone who's read other reviews I've written of books by Ms. McMann and Ms. Hanford knows I'm a huge fan. Not only is this going to be another of those reviews, I think this is their best story yet!
Anne de Bourgh has a lovely personality hidden from her mother, and she chafes for escape. While she isn't in love with Darcy, marriage to him would at least get her out of Rosings. When she realizes that he's determined not to offer for her, she disappears.
She and Elizabeth, who's visiting Hunsford, have developed a friendship. Elizabeth observes when Anne runs away and, when it seems Anne didn't leave a letter, brings the information to Rosings, knowing it would be wrong to keep Lady Catherine worrying. In the midst of the above, Darcy has proposed to Elizabeth and been refused. After relaying all the information she knows about Anne's departure, Elizabeth returns to Hertfordshire.
She's shocked when Lady Catherine comes to Longbourn and demands that Elizabeth accompany her to Brighton, where she believes Anne is hiding. Even more surprisingly, Lady Catherine gets Darcy to drive Elizabeth throughout Brighton, looking either for Anne or the servant and coach that only Elizabeth can identify. (The reason she brings Elizabeth and Darcy together is eventually revealed and does make sense.)
The time in Brighton corresponds with Lydia and the Meryton militia being there, including Mr. Wickham, of course. After an eventful time at the seaside town, the story moves back to Hertfordshire.
Both Anne as an escapee from Rosings and Wickham being... well, Wickham! are plot points that are brilliantly executed. There's an interesting subplot with Colonel Fitzwilliam, who is charming, as always, but it's described as forced cheerfulness; he has an air of sadness about him. The romance between Darcy and Elizabeth is also developed beautifully and believably.
The climactic scene is fantastic. Aside from some steamy kisses, content is clean.
Highly recommend!!!
Anyone who's read other reviews I've written of books by Ms. McMann and Ms. Hanford knows I'm a huge fan. Not only is this going to be another of those reviews, I think this is their best story yet!
Anne de Bourgh has a lovely personality hidden from her mother, and she chafes for escape. While she isn't in love with Darcy, marriage to him would at least get her out of Rosings. When she realizes that he's determined not to offer for her, she disappears.
She and Elizabeth, who's visiting Hunsford, have developed a friendship. Elizabeth observes when Anne runs away and, when it seems Anne didn't leave a letter, brings the information to Rosings, knowing it would be wrong to keep Lady Catherine worrying. In the midst of the above, Darcy has proposed to Elizabeth and been refused. After relaying all the information she knows about Anne's departure, Elizabeth returns to Hertfordshire.
She's shocked when Lady Catherine comes to Longbourn and demands that Elizabeth accompany her to Brighton, where she believes Anne is hiding. Even more surprisingly, Lady Catherine gets Darcy to drive Elizabeth throughout Brighton, looking either for Anne or the servant and coach that only Elizabeth can identify. (The reason she brings Elizabeth and Darcy together is eventually revealed and does make sense.)
The time in Brighton corresponds with Lydia and the Meryton militia being there, including Mr. Wickham, of course. After an eventful time at the seaside town, the story moves back to Hertfordshire.
Both Anne as an escapee from Rosings and Wickham being... well, Wickham! are plot points that are brilliantly executed. There's an interesting subplot with Colonel Fitzwilliam, who is charming, as always, but it's described as forced cheerfulness; he has an air of sadness about him. The romance between Darcy and Elizabeth is also developed beautifully and believably.
The climactic scene is fantastic. Aside from some steamy kisses, content is clean.
Highly recommend!!!
March 27, 2020
I have read and enjoyed so many books by these authors. This book was another such story.
After Anne could mean "what comes next after meeting her" but in this story it is what occurs when Lady Catherine finds Anne has left Rosings and even writes her mother not to try to look for her. Thus she and ODC go searching "after her".
Why does she have both Darcy and Elizabeth joining the hunt? Interestingly, Elizabeth has met and befriended Anne and learned of a hidden favorite spot of Anne's under some trees just off a path Elizabeth enjoys walking from the parsonage while visiting the Collinses. And it is from there that she alone has watched while Anne met up with a man with a coach who take her away.
Elizabeth has already turned Darcy's proposal down and Lady Catherine is bound and determined, not knowing of that proposal, to reveal to Darcy how unsuitable Elizabeth is by throwing them together. She is sure Elizabeth's character will reveal itself as unsuitable...even if Lady Catherine dresses her in fine clothes and how much a person of her class has no skills in managing money by giving Elizabeth money to "spend wildly".
Anne was quite a delight in this tale. She is not at all what canon describes. With her independence she is quite brave and adventurous, even flirting, dancing and managing her own household. Then when she is finally tracked down she proves to have a back bone.
Meanwhile Darcy has been in company with Elizabeth as they daily search for Anne. He has made attempts to change his behavior but he also learns to have different opinions about many things. So, too, does Elizabeth, although her changes are slower and even not quite understood by her. Does her admiration of Darcy mean she is falling in love or are they now just friends?
Another surprise in this story is Anne's reaction to meeting Lydia. I'll let you read that without any hints from me. Yes, Wickham makes his appearance and Colonel Fitzwilliam seems to be suffering some PTSD.
I enjoyed this story and recommend it.
After Anne could mean "what comes next after meeting her" but in this story it is what occurs when Lady Catherine finds Anne has left Rosings and even writes her mother not to try to look for her. Thus she and ODC go searching "after her".
Why does she have both Darcy and Elizabeth joining the hunt? Interestingly, Elizabeth has met and befriended Anne and learned of a hidden favorite spot of Anne's under some trees just off a path Elizabeth enjoys walking from the parsonage while visiting the Collinses. And it is from there that she alone has watched while Anne met up with a man with a coach who take her away.
Elizabeth has already turned Darcy's proposal down and Lady Catherine is bound and determined, not knowing of that proposal, to reveal to Darcy how unsuitable Elizabeth is by throwing them together. She is sure Elizabeth's character will reveal itself as unsuitable...even if Lady Catherine dresses her in fine clothes and how much a person of her class has no skills in managing money by giving Elizabeth money to "spend wildly".
Anne was quite a delight in this tale. She is not at all what canon describes. With her independence she is quite brave and adventurous, even flirting, dancing and managing her own household. Then when she is finally tracked down she proves to have a back bone.
Meanwhile Darcy has been in company with Elizabeth as they daily search for Anne. He has made attempts to change his behavior but he also learns to have different opinions about many things. So, too, does Elizabeth, although her changes are slower and even not quite understood by her. Does her admiration of Darcy mean she is falling in love or are they now just friends?
Another surprise in this story is Anne's reaction to meeting Lydia. I'll let you read that without any hints from me. Yes, Wickham makes his appearance and Colonel Fitzwilliam seems to be suffering some PTSD.
I enjoyed this story and recommend it.
May 7, 2020
“Well my gun fires seven different shades of [$#!t], so what’s your favorite color, punk?” –Gerard Way
Source: This was a gift from the author [4-9-20] with no expectations of a review. The views and opinions are my own. Rating: clean, hilarious: quick read at 22-chapters + epilogue: highly recommend.
This was an amazing story sprinkled throughout with a healthy dose of our favorite couples’ love story as it crashed and burned on the sidelines as Anne had her adventure. This Anne was a hoot. Nothing got past her and Elizabeth Bennet always seemed to be one step ahead of her at every turn.
Even though it was Anne’s story, the reader didn’t have a clue as to what was going on in her head. This POV was totally through the eyes of Elizabeth and Darcy. Nothing was known until D&E figured it out or they experienced it. That was so strange and really made the mystery and tension more exciting. I had no idea what-the-heck was going on.
Anne de Bourgh: “We are all entitled to our own share of mistakes and learning experiences in life. No one should take them away from us. Not even our parents.” –Lukasz Laniecki, You Have The Right Not To Make Your Parents Proud. A Book Of Quotes
This title should be changed to ‘Anne’s Hertfordshire Adventure.’ No, maybe… ‘Meryton Holiday’ like the ‘Roman Holiday’ movie. This was Anne’s holiday/adventure. Perhaps it should be… ‘Annie Oakley takes on Meryton’. I can’t say any more as it will give a spoiler. Look at my beginning quote.
Lady Catherine: “Instead of promoting healthy development, they unconsciously undermine it, often with the belief that they are acting in their child’s best interest.” –Susan Forward, Toxic Parents: Overcoming Their Hurtful Legacy and Reclaiming Your Life
Surprise of all surprises, I actually enjoyed this Lady Catherine even though I didn’t know what she had up her sleeve. She surprised me in her every interaction with Elizabeth. What was her plan? Why was she dragging Elizabeth alone in her search for Anne? Does she really understand Elizabeth? Did she have an alternative purpose as she dragged Darcy along with her? And, what was her purpose in throwing D&E together at every turn? What was that all about? And, did she accomplish what she intended?
Our dear Colonel: “The soldier above all others prays for peace, for it is the soldier who must suffer and bear the deepest wounds and scars of war.” Douglas MacArthur
My heart went out to this surviving soldier of the war against Napoleon. I always love a good Colonel Fitzwilliam, the cousin/brother to our Darcy. This man was a bit damaged but was willing to do his part in Anne’s adventure. I just loved him.
Wickham: see beginning quote. LOL!! This SBRB [scum-bag-rat-bastard] finally met a wall he could not climb over, dig under, slink around or plow through. That was hilarious. I love a rip-roaring good SBRB comeuppance. Yeah, it was one he’ll never forget.
Source: This was a gift from the author [4-9-20] with no expectations of a review. The views and opinions are my own. Rating: clean, hilarious: quick read at 22-chapters + epilogue: highly recommend.
This was an amazing story sprinkled throughout with a healthy dose of our favorite couples’ love story as it crashed and burned on the sidelines as Anne had her adventure. This Anne was a hoot. Nothing got past her and Elizabeth Bennet always seemed to be one step ahead of her at every turn.
Even though it was Anne’s story, the reader didn’t have a clue as to what was going on in her head. This POV was totally through the eyes of Elizabeth and Darcy. Nothing was known until D&E figured it out or they experienced it. That was so strange and really made the mystery and tension more exciting. I had no idea what-the-heck was going on.
Anne de Bourgh: “We are all entitled to our own share of mistakes and learning experiences in life. No one should take them away from us. Not even our parents.” –Lukasz Laniecki, You Have The Right Not To Make Your Parents Proud. A Book Of Quotes
This title should be changed to ‘Anne’s Hertfordshire Adventure.’ No, maybe… ‘Meryton Holiday’ like the ‘Roman Holiday’ movie. This was Anne’s holiday/adventure. Perhaps it should be… ‘Annie Oakley takes on Meryton’. I can’t say any more as it will give a spoiler. Look at my beginning quote.
Lady Catherine: “Instead of promoting healthy development, they unconsciously undermine it, often with the belief that they are acting in their child’s best interest.” –Susan Forward, Toxic Parents: Overcoming Their Hurtful Legacy and Reclaiming Your Life
Surprise of all surprises, I actually enjoyed this Lady Catherine even though I didn’t know what she had up her sleeve. She surprised me in her every interaction with Elizabeth. What was her plan? Why was she dragging Elizabeth alone in her search for Anne? Does she really understand Elizabeth? Did she have an alternative purpose as she dragged Darcy along with her? And, what was her purpose in throwing D&E together at every turn? What was that all about? And, did she accomplish what she intended?
Our dear Colonel: “The soldier above all others prays for peace, for it is the soldier who must suffer and bear the deepest wounds and scars of war.” Douglas MacArthur
My heart went out to this surviving soldier of the war against Napoleon. I always love a good Colonel Fitzwilliam, the cousin/brother to our Darcy. This man was a bit damaged but was willing to do his part in Anne’s adventure. I just loved him.
Wickham: see beginning quote. LOL!! This SBRB [scum-bag-rat-bastard] finally met a wall he could not climb over, dig under, slink around or plow through. That was hilarious. I love a rip-roaring good SBRB comeuppance. Yeah, it was one he’ll never forget.
June 20, 2021
Feisty cousin Anne
Anne DB is not nearly as sick as she was in P&P so she can be in an adventure of her own. A likable Anne but she has some of her mother’s idiosyncrasies. A fine story where she helps Lizzy and Darcy come together.
Anne DB is not nearly as sick as she was in P&P so she can be in an adventure of her own. A likable Anne but she has some of her mother’s idiosyncrasies. A fine story where she helps Lizzy and Darcy come together.
May 1, 2020
I usually really love books by these authors but I was slow to warm to this one. As always, there is a brilliantly original idea- Anne de Bourgh runs away to lead a life of her own and Darcy and Elizabeth are thrown together by Lady Catherine to help find her.
I think my main issue with this book is just how long it took to get going. I dont think anything happened in the first 25% that was massively relevant or particularly interesting. However, I'm glad I stuck with it as when the story does get going, it's a great adventure! Anne is quite a manipulative character, others might consider her creative! Either way her tales get her into trouble. Wickham is a scoundrel as always but gets an unusual and satisfying comeuppance! I think my favourite moment in the book is just about as Darcy is going to make his second proposal.... Elizabeth's response was setting up a massive misunderstanding.... but I loved the way it worked out! The reason Lady Catherine explains putting Darcy and Elizabeth together was funny too... I wasn't expecting it.
I wasnt a huge fan of the ending... but this is a personal thing. I really hate epilogues. I really do. Especially ones like this that are years into the future. I also found towards the end I noticed more American expression than I had while reading the rest of it - it takes away the very classical english feel making it seem more modern.
In all, i didn't like the beginning, felt a bit dissatisfied with the end but really enjoyed what happened in between!
I think my main issue with this book is just how long it took to get going. I dont think anything happened in the first 25% that was massively relevant or particularly interesting. However, I'm glad I stuck with it as when the story does get going, it's a great adventure! Anne is quite a manipulative character, others might consider her creative! Either way her tales get her into trouble. Wickham is a scoundrel as always but gets an unusual and satisfying comeuppance! I think my favourite moment in the book is just about as Darcy is going to make his second proposal.... Elizabeth's response was setting up a massive misunderstanding.... but I loved the way it worked out! The reason Lady Catherine explains putting Darcy and Elizabeth together was funny too... I wasn't expecting it.
I wasnt a huge fan of the ending... but this is a personal thing. I really hate epilogues. I really do. Especially ones like this that are years into the future. I also found towards the end I noticed more American expression than I had while reading the rest of it - it takes away the very classical english feel making it seem more modern.
In all, i didn't like the beginning, felt a bit dissatisfied with the end but really enjoyed what happened in between!
April 9, 2020
This is a really original and clever twist on P&P When Lizzy gets to Hunsford she becomes confidante with Anne deBourgh who is a bit of fraud. Following DP@H she observes Anne and a maid slipping away. Once she is able to explain what she saw Rosings is in an uproar and Darcy & Col Fitzwilliam are kept onsite.
In the following weeks Lizzy will be swept off to Brighton by Lady C to help hunt for Anne. Anne is a terrific character albeit a bit of a fabulist. This gives Lizzy & Darcy time to court right under Lady C's nose.
Eventually everyone ends up back in Meryton and many HEAs will come out. This story has an epilogue that actually works.
In the following weeks Lizzy will be swept off to Brighton by Lady C to help hunt for Anne. Anne is a terrific character albeit a bit of a fabulist. This gives Lizzy & Darcy time to court right under Lady C's nose.
Eventually everyone ends up back in Meryton and many HEAs will come out. This story has an epilogue that actually works.
March 26, 2020
This Pride and Prejudice variation is wonderful. It could easily be called Chasing After Anne!
Anne de Bourgh is not sickly, has her own money, and is not willing to stay cooped up at Rosings. Her antics are the driver of the story and keep all the characters on their toes. Elizabeth and Darcy are able to spend time together and find their love, much to the surprise of Lady Catherine. Wickham also has a part to play with a fantastic result. Lots of happily ever afters in this story as people stand up for themselves and realize their happiness is important!
Anne de Bourgh is not sickly, has her own money, and is not willing to stay cooped up at Rosings. Her antics are the driver of the story and keep all the characters on their toes. Elizabeth and Darcy are able to spend time together and find their love, much to the surprise of Lady Catherine. Wickham also has a part to play with a fantastic result. Lots of happily ever afters in this story as people stand up for themselves and realize their happiness is important!
June 21, 2024
This was a fun story although I looked at the title and thought it was about Anne de Bourgh dying at first.
August 18, 2020
Interesting new plot twist. Lady Catherine even agreeable?
Enjoyable read.
Enjoyable read.
July 5, 2022
Best way to describe this book is “putdownable.”
There wasn’t much chemistry between ODC. Even when Elizabeth goes to Brighton with Lady Catherine and Mr Darcy, the time spent with him wasn’t fledged out well enough to make the reader excited or feel that they were getting closer. It was over before I knew it and Elizabeth was heading back to Longbourn. It would have been nice if the author delved deeper into Elizabeth and Darcy’s relationship when they were out driving around Brighton alone (which was a lot, yet felt like they only gained the SMALLEST amount of better understanding of each other and no chemistry whatsoever).
I wish the author used the premise of going after Anne to get Elizabeth and Darcy to connect and build upon a deeper and more meaningful relationship. I lost interest in the story. After a few days and only half way through, I decided it was best to not finish the book anymore :( also some OOC moments for Elizabeth and Darcy
There wasn’t much chemistry between ODC. Even when Elizabeth goes to Brighton with Lady Catherine and Mr Darcy, the time spent with him wasn’t fledged out well enough to make the reader excited or feel that they were getting closer. It was over before I knew it and Elizabeth was heading back to Longbourn. It would have been nice if the author delved deeper into Elizabeth and Darcy’s relationship when they were out driving around Brighton alone (which was a lot, yet felt like they only gained the SMALLEST amount of better understanding of each other and no chemistry whatsoever).
I wish the author used the premise of going after Anne to get Elizabeth and Darcy to connect and build upon a deeper and more meaningful relationship. I lost interest in the story. After a few days and only half way through, I decided it was best to not finish the book anymore :( also some OOC moments for Elizabeth and Darcy
December 26, 2022
In this Pride and Prejudice variation while staying at the Hunsford Parsonage Elizabeth Bennet meets Anne de Bough out walking. A talkative and healthy Anne who eventually escapes Rosings. But why and where to. Is it possible for anybody to have a happy ending.
An entertaining story
An entertaining story
May 31, 2020
3.5 stars rounded up. This is a Pride and Prejudice variation that begins when Elizabeth Bennet arrives at Hunsford Parsonage, and on her first early morning walk through Rosings woods, she comes upon Anne de Bourgh. They become instant friends, but it's a secret friendship, because Anne doesn't think her mother would approve, so they pretend they don't know one another when they are introduced formally, and they meet in private on early morning walks to pursue the friendship.
Later Elizabeth is proposed to by Mr. Darcy, and rejects him, but she begins to change her mind about him after he writes her a letter. She's reading his letter, seated on a hidden bench in the woods, when she sees Anne leave with her maid and luggage in an unmarked carriage.
The parsonage, in particular Mr. Collins, is all aflutter over the mysterious disappearance of Anne when Elizabeth returns there, and as soon as she has the chance, she tells Mr. Collins what she has seen. They go to Rosings to inform Lady Catherine, but she won't see anyone, and so Elizabeth asks for Mr. Darcy, and they tell him the story, which he arranges to let them relay to his aunt. Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam are off at once to search for their cousin Anne.
Later, when Elizabeth has returned home to Longbourn, Lady Catherine visits and enlists her help in finding Anne.
While this is a very different plot from the original, the characters remain somewhat true to my expectations, all except for Anne. This is also a slightly more mellow Lady Catherine. But it's an enjoyable and interesting variation, and held my interest as the different chain of events played out. Recommended to Austenesque/JAFF readers.
Later Elizabeth is proposed to by Mr. Darcy, and rejects him, but she begins to change her mind about him after he writes her a letter. She's reading his letter, seated on a hidden bench in the woods, when she sees Anne leave with her maid and luggage in an unmarked carriage.
The parsonage, in particular Mr. Collins, is all aflutter over the mysterious disappearance of Anne when Elizabeth returns there, and as soon as she has the chance, she tells Mr. Collins what she has seen. They go to Rosings to inform Lady Catherine, but she won't see anyone, and so Elizabeth asks for Mr. Darcy, and they tell him the story, which he arranges to let them relay to his aunt. Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam are off at once to search for their cousin Anne.
Later, when Elizabeth has returned home to Longbourn, Lady Catherine visits and enlists her help in finding Anne.
While this is a very different plot from the original, the characters remain somewhat true to my expectations, all except for Anne. This is also a slightly more mellow Lady Catherine. But it's an enjoyable and interesting variation, and held my interest as the different chain of events played out. Recommended to Austenesque/JAFF readers.
May 17, 2021
I was introduced to the JAFF with these authors’ “ hypothetically married “ which I followed with “ a long road to longbourn “ both were excellent books.. since then I have read many of their books.. some hits some misses .. but none which I loved as well as the first two..
But with this one they are back to their best ( as per me :))
So there is continuous interaction between the ODC .. and both are very likeable.. neither is Darcy too pompous and arrogant nor is Elizabeth too pigheaded and unfair.. there are misunderstandings to resolve which happen timely and naturally and growing camaraderie and love between them is a delight to read.. also the story is liberally peppered with some dry humour
There is some intrigue and novelty in the form of a runaway but likeable Anne..a sadder than usual Col Fitzwilliam.. a Lady C with her bark worse than her bite and a vile as usual Wickham..
Only thing I don’t like with these authors is their benevolence with Wickham.. a person who goes around ruining unsuspecting females.. causing destitution and misery deserves more of punishment than they mete out to him always.....in the regency times bringing out ruination of a girl and ostracisation of her family by association shouldn’t be considered so lightly as the authors do .. marrying a shopkeeper’s daughter, having a son and family and helping out in the shop may sound like punishment for a greedy man with extreme ambitions but I still don’t find it just at all :(
Anyhow despite Wickham and his not just desserts .. thoroughly recommend the book 👍
But with this one they are back to their best ( as per me :))
So there is continuous interaction between the ODC .. and both are very likeable.. neither is Darcy too pompous and arrogant nor is Elizabeth too pigheaded and unfair.. there are misunderstandings to resolve which happen timely and naturally and growing camaraderie and love between them is a delight to read.. also the story is liberally peppered with some dry humour
There is some intrigue and novelty in the form of a runaway but likeable Anne..a sadder than usual Col Fitzwilliam.. a Lady C with her bark worse than her bite and a vile as usual Wickham..
Only thing I don’t like with these authors is their benevolence with Wickham.. a person who goes around ruining unsuspecting females.. causing destitution and misery deserves more of punishment than they mete out to him always.....in the regency times bringing out ruination of a girl and ostracisation of her family by association shouldn’t be considered so lightly as the authors do .. marrying a shopkeeper’s daughter, having a son and family and helping out in the shop may sound like punishment for a greedy man with extreme ambitions but I still don’t find it just at all :(
Anyhow despite Wickham and his not just desserts .. thoroughly recommend the book 👍
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 8, 2020
Entertaining
Book was fun to read, but the plot and some of the characters so ludicrous that I had to deduct stars. Very silly premise, and behavior of many main characters far fetched. Seemed like Anne, Lady Catherine, even Elizabeth and Darcy, made to act almost cartoonishly weird just to advance some strange plot points. The romance between Elizabeth and Darcy is nicely handled, in spite of the strange circumstances.
However, these authors are talented writers, and know how to develop their ideas. The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it, if you don't mind a lot of silliness.
Book was fun to read, but the plot and some of the characters so ludicrous that I had to deduct stars. Very silly premise, and behavior of many main characters far fetched. Seemed like Anne, Lady Catherine, even Elizabeth and Darcy, made to act almost cartoonishly weird just to advance some strange plot points. The romance between Elizabeth and Darcy is nicely handled, in spite of the strange circumstances.
However, these authors are talented writers, and know how to develop their ideas. The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it, if you don't mind a lot of silliness.
November 6, 2025
Absolute Kudos to the pair of authors here. This work is one of those well-written stories where there is a lot going on at the surface, and somehow even more going on beneath. Our narrarator characters, Lizzy & Darcy, are not able to understand all of the undercurrents, but they make eddies on the surface that impact the plot in interesting ways.
Firstly, this book contains a very different Anne de Bourgh than most P&P variations take, and tbh she felt very much like a real person to me. I enjoyed it a lot. Lizzy is also great, as is Darcy, but to me, Anne is what brought this story to life. Really, this book was kind of an exploration of how growing up under Lady Catherine's thumb might have shaped Anne, as seen through Lizzy's eyes.
The intial chapters do some great forshadowing. After commiserating about their awful families, Anne asks if Lizzy would ever run away and Lizzy basically would never consider it as she loves them too much. Meanwhile, Anne does not say anything, but its pretty clear they don't agree.
It felt very accurate to how two friends who both grew up in difficult home lives might still not see eye-to-eye - Lizzy cannot really comprehend the level of abuse (mostly just severely controlling behaviour) that Anne has been under her whole life and so can't predict, understand, or condone the actions Anne takes in response to get away.
The confrontation between Darcy and Anne in the hallway felt similar and nicely echoed lines from the first meetings between Anne and Lizzy. In that meeting, Lizzy says she expects to stay with her family until she marries. In the hallway, a furious and distraught Anne demands whether Darcy will marry her. Darcy, fresh off of being rejected by Lizzy, says no, and Anne lashes out at him briefly. Later, Lizzy interprets this as her trying to find an excuse to stay at Rosings, but I see it more as Anne trying to find a way to leave without just running away. I also like that we never find out what the conflict is that set Anne off - Anne is fairly close-mouthed in this, and Lady Catherine would certainly never tell (or maybe even understand what she said that tipped Anne over).
I also enjoyed the way Colonel Fitzwilliam is portrayed here. He's still sociable and charming, but its a facade. After returning from Spain, he has fallen into what looks like either depression or PTSD. When he and Anne later agree to marry, it feels understandable in a way - both of them understand what it is to be driven to extreme actions by a situation out of their control, and both of them have been deeply touched by it and want only peace and a retiring life in the countryside.
The side plot regarding Wickham was, imho, one of the best Wickham plots I have read. It was original, it fit the characters involved, and I think it only made Wickham a little worse than canon - this doesn't come out of nowhere, as it is only after Anne humiliates Wickham in public and makes him lose his place in the militia that he aims to kidnap her and take her north to be married against her will. It's both a revenge and to get money, which feels very fitting to his canon character. And then the outcome of this plot felt very much like just desserts.
Some of the schemes of Lady Catherine felt a bit off the wall. The whole Darcy-Lizzy driving daily together would probably raise rumors and eyebrows at the time - plus, suggest a romantic attachment between the two sanctioned by Lady Catherine. However, as in canon, it doesnt feel too much of a stretch to think that she is too blinded by her own prejudices to see clearly the outcome of her actions, and it is not jarring enough for me not to enjoy the story.
Overall, an amazing read. 5/5
Firstly, this book contains a very different Anne de Bourgh than most P&P variations take, and tbh she felt very much like a real person to me. I enjoyed it a lot. Lizzy is also great, as is Darcy, but to me, Anne is what brought this story to life. Really, this book was kind of an exploration of how growing up under Lady Catherine's thumb might have shaped Anne, as seen through Lizzy's eyes.
The intial chapters do some great forshadowing. After commiserating about their awful families, Anne asks if Lizzy would ever run away and Lizzy basically would never consider it as she loves them too much. Meanwhile, Anne does not say anything, but its pretty clear they don't agree.
It felt very accurate to how two friends who both grew up in difficult home lives might still not see eye-to-eye - Lizzy cannot really comprehend the level of abuse (mostly just severely controlling behaviour) that Anne has been under her whole life and so can't predict, understand, or condone the actions Anne takes in response to get away.
The confrontation between Darcy and Anne in the hallway felt similar and nicely echoed lines from the first meetings between Anne and Lizzy. In that meeting, Lizzy says she expects to stay with her family until she marries. In the hallway, a furious and distraught Anne demands whether Darcy will marry her. Darcy, fresh off of being rejected by Lizzy, says no, and Anne lashes out at him briefly. Later, Lizzy interprets this as her trying to find an excuse to stay at Rosings, but I see it more as Anne trying to find a way to leave without just running away. I also like that we never find out what the conflict is that set Anne off - Anne is fairly close-mouthed in this, and Lady Catherine would certainly never tell (or maybe even understand what she said that tipped Anne over).
I also enjoyed the way Colonel Fitzwilliam is portrayed here. He's still sociable and charming, but its a facade. After returning from Spain, he has fallen into what looks like either depression or PTSD. When he and Anne later agree to marry, it feels understandable in a way - both of them understand what it is to be driven to extreme actions by a situation out of their control, and both of them have been deeply touched by it and want only peace and a retiring life in the countryside.
The side plot regarding Wickham was, imho, one of the best Wickham plots I have read. It was original, it fit the characters involved, and I think it only made Wickham a little worse than canon - this doesn't come out of nowhere, as it is only after Anne humiliates Wickham in public and makes him lose his place in the militia that he aims to kidnap her and take her north to be married against her will. It's both a revenge and to get money, which feels very fitting to his canon character. And then the outcome of this plot felt very much like just desserts.
Some of the schemes of Lady Catherine felt a bit off the wall. The whole Darcy-Lizzy driving daily together would probably raise rumors and eyebrows at the time - plus, suggest a romantic attachment between the two sanctioned by Lady Catherine. However, as in canon, it doesnt feel too much of a stretch to think that she is too blinded by her own prejudices to see clearly the outcome of her actions, and it is not jarring enough for me not to enjoy the story.
Overall, an amazing read. 5/5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 1, 2020
Anne becomes a commoner.
Another enjoyable story from Renata McMann and Summer Hanford. This story starts at Rosings where Elizabeth and Anne De Bourgh start a friendship which Anne insists remains secret from everyone. The morning following Darcy's shockingly inept proposal Anne goes missing and Lizzy, who is secluded behind some dense bushes and trees reading Darcy's letter, sees her go.
Mayhem ensues but many hours are lost due to Mr Collin's insisting that Elizabeth not be made aware of the situation—going so far as to lock her in her room!—not allowing her to get any words out as to the fact of her having seen Miss De Bourgh's flight.
Anne is not able to be found and Lizzy goes home to Longbourn. Life at Longbourn goes on until Lady Catherine comes a callin' to demand Lizzy accompany her to Brighton where she has tracked down a lead that points to Anne being in Brighton. She needs Lizzy as she is the only one who saw the carriage and horses Anne left in as well as the two men who were with the carriage. Lizzy does not know until the day they leave London (where Lady C had some business to settle) for Brighton that Darcy is to accompany them. Upon seeing him ensconced in Lady C's carriage, she realises that she is not unhappy with the situation. After Brighton, we end up in Meryton for the culmination of the many threads to this story.
This is a Lizzy and Darcy love story, but it also about Anne and how she wants to live her life. Darcy's transformation into a decent and likeable man is quite slow but Lizzy is there for a good proportion of the time and her love grows alongside his transformation. I was not very enamoured of Darcy's character for almost half the book but then things picked up for me.
Well worth the read with a full cast of the characters we know and love (or perhaps love to hate). Four stars. 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Another enjoyable story from Renata McMann and Summer Hanford. This story starts at Rosings where Elizabeth and Anne De Bourgh start a friendship which Anne insists remains secret from everyone. The morning following Darcy's shockingly inept proposal Anne goes missing and Lizzy, who is secluded behind some dense bushes and trees reading Darcy's letter, sees her go.
Mayhem ensues but many hours are lost due to Mr Collin's insisting that Elizabeth not be made aware of the situation—going so far as to lock her in her room!—not allowing her to get any words out as to the fact of her having seen Miss De Bourgh's flight.
Anne is not able to be found and Lizzy goes home to Longbourn. Life at Longbourn goes on until Lady Catherine comes a callin' to demand Lizzy accompany her to Brighton where she has tracked down a lead that points to Anne being in Brighton. She needs Lizzy as she is the only one who saw the carriage and horses Anne left in as well as the two men who were with the carriage. Lizzy does not know until the day they leave London (where Lady C had some business to settle) for Brighton that Darcy is to accompany them. Upon seeing him ensconced in Lady C's carriage, she realises that she is not unhappy with the situation. After Brighton, we end up in Meryton for the culmination of the many threads to this story.
This is a Lizzy and Darcy love story, but it also about Anne and how she wants to live her life. Darcy's transformation into a decent and likeable man is quite slow but Lizzy is there for a good proportion of the time and her love grows alongside his transformation. I was not very enamoured of Darcy's character for almost half the book but then things picked up for me.
Well worth the read with a full cast of the characters we know and love (or perhaps love to hate). Four stars. 🌟🌟🌟🌟
June 1, 2021
After Anne definitely had some potential.
I don't necessarily think it reached said potential, but there were shimmers of it hiding beneath the the ridiculousness of the plot at times.
I thought Anne's character in this story was well worth exploring, especially because she has a lot more of backbone than she normally has. She didn't exactly display a large amount of character growth though. And that goes for virtually all of the characters. I guess it's easy to ~~neglect~~ forget about characterization when you're already working with established and well-loved characters, but I did find myself wishing there was a little more to sift through in that department.
The plot was a little too contrived as well. Not to the point where it was glaringly annoying, but there moments where I wondered why Lizzy really needed to be included in the search party when they were kinda half-assing it in the first place (which is explained with a reason, but I didn't really find that good of a reason), and the fact that her contribution was purely based on luck. And since it didn't take a genius to find Anne it really felt like she was there because the plot dictated she had to be. Anne's choice to relocate to Meryton? Same thing, it didn't feel natural, it felt contrived and very much due to the fact that plot needed her to go Meryton and so she did.
But don't let my negative mood deter you from this story. It's by no means a poorly written one. It's just not terribly ground-breaking in the JAFF universe. And as someone who has been reading entirely too much JAFF for what is probably going to amount to half of this year before I finally get sick and tired of it in general, I wasn't enthralled.
I don't necessarily think it reached said potential, but there were shimmers of it hiding beneath the the ridiculousness of the plot at times.
I thought Anne's character in this story was well worth exploring, especially because she has a lot more of backbone than she normally has. She didn't exactly display a large amount of character growth though. And that goes for virtually all of the characters. I guess it's easy to ~~neglect~~ forget about characterization when you're already working with established and well-loved characters, but I did find myself wishing there was a little more to sift through in that department.
The plot was a little too contrived as well. Not to the point where it was glaringly annoying, but there moments where I wondered why Lizzy really needed to be included in the search party when they were kinda half-assing it in the first place (which is explained with a reason, but I didn't really find that good of a reason), and the fact that her contribution was purely based on luck. And since it didn't take a genius to find Anne it really felt like she was there because the plot dictated she had to be. Anne's choice to relocate to Meryton? Same thing, it didn't feel natural, it felt contrived and very much due to the fact that plot needed her to go Meryton and so she did.
But don't let my negative mood deter you from this story. It's by no means a poorly written one. It's just not terribly ground-breaking in the JAFF universe. And as someone who has been reading entirely too much JAFF for what is probably going to amount to half of this year before I finally get sick and tired of it in general, I wasn't enthralled.
August 10, 2025
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. This is a part of the A Pride and Prejudice Variation series.
What could possibly make Lady Catherine deliberately throw Elizabeth and Darcy together? Elizabeth Bennet cannot believe the effrontery of Mr. Darcy’s proposal to her, but before she can firmly decide to despise him, he hands her a letter. Unsure what he could possibly have to say to redeem himself, she sneaks off to read his words, only to witness the flight of Miss Anne de Bourgh. Now, despite the array of turbulent emotions between them, Lady Catherine de Bourgh insists that Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy form a team to search for her daughter. Though Lady Catherine has motives of her own, being thrown together may help Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth better understand each other, all while they go after Anne. 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. This is a part of the A Pride and Prejudice Variation series.
What could possibly make Lady Catherine deliberately throw Elizabeth and Darcy together? Elizabeth Bennet cannot believe the effrontery of Mr. Darcy’s proposal to her, but before she can firmly decide to despise him, he hands her a letter. Unsure what he could possibly have to say to redeem himself, she sneaks off to read his words, only to witness the flight of Miss Anne de Bourgh. Now, despite the array of turbulent emotions between them, Lady Catherine de Bourgh insists that Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy form a team to search for her daughter. Though Lady Catherine has motives of her own, being thrown together may help Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth better understand each other, all while they go after Anne. 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.
March 12, 2023
A tale that did not jerk one about despite the mischief the main character engaged in, it is a tale of love both proclaimed and hidden. I confess I enjoyed the tale of Richard's love of Anne more than I did Elizabeth's and Darcy's for theirs was expected and held no unexpected parts other than the impetus that drove them together. The fun changes made to Lydia's character were a delight, the contentment found in Jane's with her Mr. Bingley, and the comeuppance meted out to Wickham made the tale a pleasure, the kindly neighbor found in Mrs. Clay would be welcome in any society, I would imagine, but as Colonel Fitzwilliam needed his Anne more, it all ended most satisfactorily for me this evening.
May 10, 2022
For reasons I don't know, I was slow to obtain this book and read it. I can't believe what I have missed! This book is by far my favorite of the 23 Pride and Prejudice variations I have read from these two authors.
I love this wonderful storyline, so much, but especially loved the characters! I adored Colonel Fitzwilliam! Darcy is wonderful in this book, though still needs someone to guide him to his better self. Elizabeth and Jane are much the same. The real gem is Miss Anne de Bourgh. She is refreshingly lovely and witty in this variation. This book holds some excellent surprises along the way to Darcy and Elizabeth's HEA.
I love this wonderful storyline, so much, but especially loved the characters! I adored Colonel Fitzwilliam! Darcy is wonderful in this book, though still needs someone to guide him to his better self. Elizabeth and Jane are much the same. The real gem is Miss Anne de Bourgh. She is refreshingly lovely and witty in this variation. This book holds some excellent surprises along the way to Darcy and Elizabeth's HEA.
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April 25, 2020Clever title
This is not my favourite book by these authors. Somehow these characters were not as compelling or sympathetic. Lady Catherine is milder than usual. Darcy is more laconic. Nor quite sure how Anne became such a polar opposite of what we are told she was before. There's a lot of telling rather than showing but I think that is so the authors can get on with the story they are trying to tell rather than the one it is based on.
This is not my favourite book by these authors. Somehow these characters were not as compelling or sympathetic. Lady Catherine is milder than usual. Darcy is more laconic. Nor quite sure how Anne became such a polar opposite of what we are told she was before. There's a lot of telling rather than showing but I think that is so the authors can get on with the story they are trying to tell rather than the one it is based on.
March 9, 2024
Who would believe Anne Debourghe had the gumption to leave her mother and venture out on her own.
Secretly becoming fast friends with Elizabeth Bennet, while speaking about her wish for freedom from her oppressive mother, Anne Debourghe runs away from Rosings Park. The search for her brings about unexpected alliances, which will lead those involved on a merry chase, from Kent to London, to Brighton to Merryton. This was a wonderful story. Enjoy!
Secretly becoming fast friends with Elizabeth Bennet, while speaking about her wish for freedom from her oppressive mother, Anne Debourghe runs away from Rosings Park. The search for her brings about unexpected alliances, which will lead those involved on a merry chase, from Kent to London, to Brighton to Merryton. This was a wonderful story. Enjoy!
April 4, 2020
Super fun!
What a fun twist this one was! Best version of Anne I have read in a long time. Sweet and clean but definitely not boring! Loved how ODC, especially Darcy, grew in this one. Richard was his charming self but with a bit more realistic human emotion..and I actually liked Lady C a bit by the end. Loved the way Wickham was handled. Well done.
What a fun twist this one was! Best version of Anne I have read in a long time. Sweet and clean but definitely not boring! Loved how ODC, especially Darcy, grew in this one. Richard was his charming self but with a bit more realistic human emotion..and I actually liked Lady C a bit by the end. Loved the way Wickham was handled. Well done.
April 23, 2020
Delightful and well written
What a delightful read. Loved how Anne was portrayed in this book. This will take many by surprise, but definitely well worth the read. Darcy and Elizabeth through the book come together. Colonel Fitzwilliam is a strong personality in the atory. Highly recommended to read. Well written, storyline is awesome, and the characters come alive as you read.
What a delightful read. Loved how Anne was portrayed in this book. This will take many by surprise, but definitely well worth the read. Darcy and Elizabeth through the book come together. Colonel Fitzwilliam is a strong personality in the atory. Highly recommended to read. Well written, storyline is awesome, and the characters come alive as you read.
May 22, 2020
Characters were not remotely like cannon
I was NOT impressed. I read fan fiction because I'm a fan of Jane Austen's characters. If this author wanted to tell this story she should have come up with new characters instead of this farce. It was badly done. I struggled to even finish the book I was so put out.
I was NOT impressed. I read fan fiction because I'm a fan of Jane Austen's characters. If this author wanted to tell this story she should have come up with new characters instead of this farce. It was badly done. I struggled to even finish the book I was so put out.
June 26, 2020
This book begins by painting a very different picture of Miss Anne deBourgh. We find out that she outgrew her sickly constitution long ago but keeps up the facade to allow for some freedom from her oppressive mother. She befriends Lizzy and shows her some of her favorite outdoor escapes. When Lizzy receives Darcy's letter and wishes a private place to read it, she ensconces herself on a hidden bench near Rosings. She witnesses Miss deB and some servants secretly leave Rosings in a carriage from a hidden, unused lane. E & D are thrown together often as her observations make her a vital part of searching for the wayward Miss deB. This was an enjoyable read. It's always fun to see a more spirited Anne and to see a hint of a softer side of Lady C.
April 7, 2020
Great tale worth the purchase!
My favorite thing about this book is that it takes its time. The pacing is great! Though each step is predictable, it is well written and the characterizations are believable. I highly recommend this book.
My favorite thing about this book is that it takes its time. The pacing is great! Though each step is predictable, it is well written and the characterizations are believable. I highly recommend this book.
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April 30, 2020Simple and sweet.
I liked this variation because it didn't make things too complicated or dramatic. It was a nice take on Anne and it didn't get too caught up in any of the negative characters that some of the other variations get too into.
I liked this variation because it didn't make things too complicated or dramatic. It was a nice take on Anne and it didn't get too caught up in any of the negative characters that some of the other variations get too into.
May 6, 2020
A Fun Variation
I enjoyed this interesting variation, which offered some intriguing departures from canon, though all of the characters were faithful to their originals. There were a few annoying typos, which need editing.
I enjoyed this interesting variation, which offered some intriguing departures from canon, though all of the characters were faithful to their originals. There were a few annoying typos, which need editing.
May 13, 2020
This story takes us on a road trip with Anne de Bourgh that is actually quite fun. Join the ride as our favorite characters take a trip down an entirely different path to their happy ending. I quite liked the personalities of the characters in the book.
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