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Married in Haste: A Pride and Prejudice Reimagining
“Married in haste we may repent at leisure . . .” William Congreve
A month after her wedding, Elizabeth Bennet Darcy had taught herself to be silent, watchful, careful. She moved through the house with eyes downcast, avoiding contact, speaking only when spoken to. She walked through the garden in much the same way, her face hidden from the sun—and from the direct gaze of any servant she might encounter—by the deep brims of the fashionable bonnets she wore.
Just four short weeks after their marriage, the deep love between Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy is on the verge of collapsing forever. They must join forces to overcome whatever—or whoever—threatens to destroy their home, their love and their very lives.
A month after her wedding, Elizabeth Bennet Darcy had taught herself to be silent, watchful, careful. She moved through the house with eyes downcast, avoiding contact, speaking only when spoken to. She walked through the garden in much the same way, her face hidden from the sun—and from the direct gaze of any servant she might encounter—by the deep brims of the fashionable bonnets she wore.
Just four short weeks after their marriage, the deep love between Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy is on the verge of collapsing forever. They must join forces to overcome whatever—or whoever—threatens to destroy their home, their love and their very lives.
- GenresRomance
237 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 23, 2021
121 people are currently reading
48 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
November 4, 2023
I found it very hard to like this Elizabeth whose courage never rises at attempts at intimidation.
I also found it hard to like this Darcy who is obtuse to the nth degree.
Add in a climax event that was anticlimactic and I was less than impressed.
The book is well-written, edited, and proofread, which I always appreciate.
I also found it hard to like this Darcy who is obtuse to the nth degree.
Add in a climax event that was anticlimactic and I was less than impressed.
The book is well-written, edited, and proofread, which I always appreciate.
February 14, 2021
4.5 stars rounded up to 5 stars: One must read the author's note at the beginning which points out that this is not a variation but a reimagining. She gives other details as to changes in some of the characters and circumstances. M/M Bennet are dedicated to preparing their five daughters for marriage and not only provide good educations but also cut corners economically in order to provide £4,000 dowries for their daughters. Their wardrobes are provided by one of the finest modistes in London. Kitty and Lydia are not out yet.
I truly enjoyed this story: it has some tense moments. However, I do love angst and the first issue resolved quickly. Although I must say that Darcy in those moments acted OOC, IMHO.
Collins proposes and won't accept "no" for an answer so Elizabeth lies and relates to him that she has another love interest already and thus cannot even consider his offer. She becomes conscience stricken and goes off on a walk and sits down and weeps in her distress at this moral lapse. Darcy comes upon her and learns about the situation. He offers his hand in marriage. However, Elizabeth turns him down until she is then forced by her father to accept, stating that when her lie is exposed by Collins her family will be shamed and disgraced. Yes, Darcy has insulted her at the assembly already but he sees many good qualities in her now.
HOWEVER, four days into their marriage (which, by-the-way has gotten off to a passionate beginning) things change...drastically! Darcy wants to make sure Elizabeth is prepared to step into society and consults with his aunt who recommends and helps him procure a companion/governess, who comes highly recommended...a Mrs. Younge.
This woman is horrid. She strips all of Elizabeth's beauty products from her (soaps, perfumes, creams), relates than any woman who "enjoys" the marriage bed is a s**t, takes almost all her wardrobe away saying it doesn't meet standards, takes away her books, begins to use a horse hair comb on her locks, etc. Elizabeth offers some resistance and hides her journal and her brush and comb set away. However, she now walks around a shadow of the woman she used to be. She loves Darcy but Mrs. Younge is saying that he hired her to make all these changes, he approves all the changes, so she can become the wife he really wants...one who meets the standards of the ton.
It is only when Darcy overhears Mrs. Younge insulting his wife that he becomes aware of what a mistake he made. He has a lot to make up for and he also finds he can't believe that this Mrs. Younge is the woman who came with all those credentials. What follows makes for a very interesting "mystery" in the first part of this story.
As things become unraveled we find...yes, you probably suspected it was coming...a connection to George Wickham. Now things become even darker.
Darcy and Elizabeth now find that there are more aspects to this situation that they could have imagined and they just cannot figure out "why". As they keep digging, hiring a man to help investigate, calling in Darcy's cousin, putting men in place to guard, they have to widen the circle to also protect Georgiana who is staying at Pemberley while they are at Darcy House in London.
This is one of those stories you don't want to put down. So make sure you start reading this early in the day.
I have to add that Darcy's reasons for hiring Mrs. Younge were a disappointment if you look at things logically. But he had not taken time to get to know the Bennets and made some assumptions in looking at their home and the furniture. Even the Marriage Settlement seems to show a rather two-faced attitude in his treatment of his wife. Mr. Bennet sees this and does take some steps to give Elizabeth some protection on his own. He even shows up in London and Darcy finally gets to learn more about who this women is and how she was formed into the one he loves.
I recommend this story, a re-imagining of P&P, to JAFF lovers.
I truly enjoyed this story: it has some tense moments. However, I do love angst and the first issue resolved quickly. Although I must say that Darcy in those moments acted OOC, IMHO.
Collins proposes and won't accept "no" for an answer so Elizabeth lies and relates to him that she has another love interest already and thus cannot even consider his offer. She becomes conscience stricken and goes off on a walk and sits down and weeps in her distress at this moral lapse. Darcy comes upon her and learns about the situation. He offers his hand in marriage. However, Elizabeth turns him down until she is then forced by her father to accept, stating that when her lie is exposed by Collins her family will be shamed and disgraced. Yes, Darcy has insulted her at the assembly already but he sees many good qualities in her now.
HOWEVER, four days into their marriage (which, by-the-way has gotten off to a passionate beginning) things change...drastically! Darcy wants to make sure Elizabeth is prepared to step into society and consults with his aunt who recommends and helps him procure a companion/governess, who comes highly recommended...a Mrs. Younge.
This woman is horrid. She strips all of Elizabeth's beauty products from her (soaps, perfumes, creams), relates than any woman who "enjoys" the marriage bed is a s**t, takes almost all her wardrobe away saying it doesn't meet standards, takes away her books, begins to use a horse hair comb on her locks, etc. Elizabeth offers some resistance and hides her journal and her brush and comb set away. However, she now walks around a shadow of the woman she used to be. She loves Darcy but Mrs. Younge is saying that he hired her to make all these changes, he approves all the changes, so she can become the wife he really wants...one who meets the standards of the ton.
It is only when Darcy overhears Mrs. Younge insulting his wife that he becomes aware of what a mistake he made. He has a lot to make up for and he also finds he can't believe that this Mrs. Younge is the woman who came with all those credentials. What follows makes for a very interesting "mystery" in the first part of this story.
As things become unraveled we find...yes, you probably suspected it was coming...a connection to George Wickham. Now things become even darker.
Darcy and Elizabeth now find that there are more aspects to this situation that they could have imagined and they just cannot figure out "why". As they keep digging, hiring a man to help investigate, calling in Darcy's cousin, putting men in place to guard, they have to widen the circle to also protect Georgiana who is staying at Pemberley while they are at Darcy House in London.
This is one of those stories you don't want to put down. So make sure you start reading this early in the day.
I have to add that Darcy's reasons for hiring Mrs. Younge were a disappointment if you look at things logically. But he had not taken time to get to know the Bennets and made some assumptions in looking at their home and the furniture. Even the Marriage Settlement seems to show a rather two-faced attitude in his treatment of his wife. Mr. Bennet sees this and does take some steps to give Elizabeth some protection on his own. He even shows up in London and Darcy finally gets to learn more about who this women is and how she was formed into the one he loves.
I recommend this story, a re-imagining of P&P, to JAFF lovers.
February 15, 2021
Tedious, juvenile and dull
I really wouldn’t recommend this book.
I really wouldn’t recommend this book.
January 27, 2021
Married in haste
Well written story about Lizzy and Darcy marrying in haste. The first weeks of the marriage are horrible. Only flaw in the story that drew me out the story was Lizzy being way to amiable to Darcy and his relatives. Perhaps in Regency England it was a woman’s lot to put up with awful, stupid husbands his relatives but it was to much of a change from the original P&P Lizzy.
Otherwise I was drawn into the story. The writing moved it to 5 stars for me but I suspect many will give 4 stars.
Well written story about Lizzy and Darcy marrying in haste. The first weeks of the marriage are horrible. Only flaw in the story that drew me out the story was Lizzy being way to amiable to Darcy and his relatives. Perhaps in Regency England it was a woman’s lot to put up with awful, stupid husbands his relatives but it was to much of a change from the original P&P Lizzy.
Otherwise I was drawn into the story. The writing moved it to 5 stars for me but I suspect many will give 4 stars.
July 3, 2025
Reread, 2025- liked this better the second time. the Mrs. younge story line is pretty darn creative. I still can't get behind it taking Darcy over 3 weeks for him to notice something was wrong.
Or his total ignorance as far as Elizabeth's gifts and education.
And lust helps her forgive him pretty darned quickly. But not a bad read.
Or his total ignorance as far as Elizabeth's gifts and education.
And lust helps her forgive him pretty darned quickly. But not a bad read.
February 19, 2021
This is a re-imagining of Pride and Prejudice with a number of significant changes both to the Bennet family and to the plot premise. It's a unique storyline that's developed well...to a point.
Mr. and Mrs. Bennet both are attentive parents to their five daughters. Kitty and Lydia are not out. The Bennets are also responsible about Longbourn's finances; they run the household frugally in order to set money aside to provide all the girls with an education and adequate dowries. Their gowns might not be as fine as they could be and the room furnishings may look a bit worn, but the estate's coffers are quite healthy. To an outsider like Mr. Darcy, the lack of finery gives the opposite impression.
As for the plot, Elizabeth does enjoy her verbal sparring with Mr. Darcy during her stay at Netherfield when Jane is ill, and her attitude toward him softens. She is not taken in by Mr. Wickham, especially once she notices his inappropriate attention to Lydia and Kitty. Mr. Collins proposes to her when Mr. Bennet is from home and then aggressively pursues when she tries to escape by taking a walk. When he insists that she agree, she lies, saying her heart has already been given to another man - Mr. Darcy. Mr. Collins storms off, she collapses in sobs, and she's discovered by Darcy himself.
This leads to a Forced Marriage Scenario. Neither is especially distressed at the prospect; Darcy is already half in love with Elizabeth, and while she isn't as enthusiastic, she believes him to be a good man and doesn't dislike him.
All is wonderful the first weeks of their marriage. They're blissfully happy with each other.
But this is not the post-Hunsford Mr. Darcy; this is the unchanged, class-conscious snob, grossly underestimating what Elizabeth already knows. He hires a governess/companion to guide his simple country wife. Any reader familiar with Jane Austen's novel knows what a mistake this is as soon as we learn she's Mrs. Younge. Soon Elizabeth is miserable and her young marriage is deteriorating.
I love this premise. Ms. Madison is an excellent writer, drawing out all the angst as Darcy and Elizabeth both struggle to understand what's happened to the loving person they married.
However, I think the ending has a major misstep, where the tension climbs and climbs as the reader learns what the evil-doers are planning while our heroes believe they're well-prepared for anything. As it happens, they're not, but it doesn't matter. It's a lot of build-up leading to a mere fizzle.
I have other, more minor quibbles about some plot elements. Mrs. Young's pointed hatred for Elizabeth goes way beyond Mrs. Darcy being a mark in an evil plan; it's never logically explained. And Elizabeth's disgraceful sin leading to her marriage seems pretty weak - lying to convince a man you really DON'T want to marry him doesn't seem all that scandalous to me. I wish the author had come up with a more compelling reason for them to marry this early.
Otherwise, it's an interesting, well-written story that's definitely worth your time.
Content is clean.
Mr. and Mrs. Bennet both are attentive parents to their five daughters. Kitty and Lydia are not out. The Bennets are also responsible about Longbourn's finances; they run the household frugally in order to set money aside to provide all the girls with an education and adequate dowries. Their gowns might not be as fine as they could be and the room furnishings may look a bit worn, but the estate's coffers are quite healthy. To an outsider like Mr. Darcy, the lack of finery gives the opposite impression.
As for the plot, Elizabeth does enjoy her verbal sparring with Mr. Darcy during her stay at Netherfield when Jane is ill, and her attitude toward him softens. She is not taken in by Mr. Wickham, especially once she notices his inappropriate attention to Lydia and Kitty. Mr. Collins proposes to her when Mr. Bennet is from home and then aggressively pursues when she tries to escape by taking a walk. When he insists that she agree, she lies, saying her heart has already been given to another man - Mr. Darcy. Mr. Collins storms off, she collapses in sobs, and she's discovered by Darcy himself.
This leads to a Forced Marriage Scenario. Neither is especially distressed at the prospect; Darcy is already half in love with Elizabeth, and while she isn't as enthusiastic, she believes him to be a good man and doesn't dislike him.
All is wonderful the first weeks of their marriage. They're blissfully happy with each other.
But this is not the post-Hunsford Mr. Darcy; this is the unchanged, class-conscious snob, grossly underestimating what Elizabeth already knows. He hires a governess/companion to guide his simple country wife. Any reader familiar with Jane Austen's novel knows what a mistake this is as soon as we learn she's Mrs. Younge. Soon Elizabeth is miserable and her young marriage is deteriorating.
I love this premise. Ms. Madison is an excellent writer, drawing out all the angst as Darcy and Elizabeth both struggle to understand what's happened to the loving person they married.
However, I think the ending has a major misstep, where the tension climbs and climbs as the reader learns what the evil-doers are planning while our heroes believe they're well-prepared for anything. As it happens, they're not, but it doesn't matter. It's a lot of build-up leading to a mere fizzle.
I have other, more minor quibbles about some plot elements. Mrs. Young's pointed hatred for Elizabeth goes way beyond Mrs. Darcy being a mark in an evil plan; it's never logically explained. And Elizabeth's disgraceful sin leading to her marriage seems pretty weak - lying to convince a man you really DON'T want to marry him doesn't seem all that scandalous to me. I wish the author had come up with a more compelling reason for them to marry this early.
Otherwise, it's an interesting, well-written story that's definitely worth your time.
Content is clean.
January 25, 2021
A Stolen Identity
Be sure to read the Author’s Note at the beginning of this book, for a clear understanding of the circumstances of the Darcys and the Bennets—different in this reimagining of Pride and Prejudice.
Elizabeth and Darcy are wed early in the story. I very much enjoyed their very brief courtship following Elizabeth’s refusal of Mr. Collins. Darcy presumptuously takes a prejudiced view of Elizabeth’s family, and also assumes she lacks the education and skills to enter the society to which he is accustomed. To this end, with Lady Matlock’s help, a companion/governess is hired to “educate” her. Elizabeth, whose first few days of marriage were bliss, cannot understand why her husband allows the woman to influence him. She is quickly losing her trust in him. Will she be able to overcome this threat to her marriage? Is he really the good man she thought he was, or was it all a ruse?
Mild spoiler ahead, which I’ve hopefully hidden.
I wondered at this portrayal of ODC after their marriage, but I came to really like them, once they began to work together. I also liked the portrayals of their trusted staff.
I also found the ending a bit anti-climactic and predictable. I still consider it a good read. There are some passionate moments between the married couple which I consider mildly mature.
Be sure to read the Author’s Note at the beginning of this book, for a clear understanding of the circumstances of the Darcys and the Bennets—different in this reimagining of Pride and Prejudice.
Elizabeth and Darcy are wed early in the story. I very much enjoyed their very brief courtship following Elizabeth’s refusal of Mr. Collins. Darcy presumptuously takes a prejudiced view of Elizabeth’s family, and also assumes she lacks the education and skills to enter the society to which he is accustomed. To this end, with Lady Matlock’s help, a companion/governess is hired to “educate” her. Elizabeth, whose first few days of marriage were bliss, cannot understand why her husband allows the woman to influence him. She is quickly losing her trust in him. Will she be able to overcome this threat to her marriage? Is he really the good man she thought he was, or was it all a ruse?
Mild spoiler ahead, which I’ve hopefully hidden.
I wondered at this portrayal of ODC after their marriage, but I came to really like them, once they began to work together. I also liked the portrayals of their trusted staff.
I also found the ending a bit anti-climactic and predictable. I still consider it a good read. There are some passionate moments between the married couple which I consider mildly mature.
March 5, 2021
If you marry before you really know someone, you make a lot of assumptions. Fitzwilliam Darcy makes the assumption that his new wife, Elizabeth Bennet, needs some city polish. Based on advice from his aunt, he hires a companion for his wife. This companion has been making Elizabeth's life an absolutely awful. As he puts together the pieces of things said and strange goings on, our dear couple has a mystery/puzzle to put together. As they learn to trust and work as a team, they are able to resolve the situation, much to everyone's satisfaction.
February 24, 2021
Horrible don’t waste your time
I have read many retelling or variations but this one was horrible. This story is highly unbelievable. Based on Lizzy’s character she would not stand by and let anyone mistreat her. She would stick up for herself but in this retelling she does not. This is how the plot of the story unfolds. If you like a strong smart Lizzie the. This is not the book for you.
I have read many retelling or variations but this one was horrible. This story is highly unbelievable. Based on Lizzy’s character she would not stand by and let anyone mistreat her. She would stick up for herself but in this retelling she does not. This is how the plot of the story unfolds. If you like a strong smart Lizzie the. This is not the book for you.
February 28, 2021
This book is mixed bag. I will admit that there were multiple times I wanted to give up on this book in the first part. You have to really abandon all ideas and expectations when it comes to the characters of both Darcy and Elizabeth. They are not recognizable or admirable or even interesting at all and the events setting up the engagement and their feelings for each other not convincing or engaging at all let alone believable. Jumping from the wedding to the marriage, you feel like you are missing something really big. You go from supposed happiness to misery without preamble or explanation. As you start piecing together what is happening and how things deteriorated so quickly, you are shaking your head asking yourself who are these people and how are they so, I don’t know, naive, passive, unconcerned, unperceptive and just plain stupid. The behavior of both Darcy and Elizabeth is just unacceptable in their different ways and I can never in a million years imagine either of them behaving as they did. Darcy would NEVER be so disrespectful to his wife and Elizabeth would NEVER just blindly comply to her husband without a fight let alone to a servant. These things made it very difficult to not walk away from this story.
With that being said, the book does finally start to improve when D&E finally start to care a little about their unhappiness and pay a tiny bit of attention to what’s going on & actually have a conversation. They suddenly wake from the fog and sleepy imitations of themselves and start to bear a slight resemblance to the D&E that we know & love. The story is much better from that point as they are finally on the same team so to speak, but it’s really hard to overlook the incredulous beginning. I also felt the story progressed a little too slowly with far too much “filler” material. Overall, three stars may be generous as I would not read it again despite the redeeming qualities.
With that being said, the book does finally start to improve when D&E finally start to care a little about their unhappiness and pay a tiny bit of attention to what’s going on & actually have a conversation. They suddenly wake from the fog and sleepy imitations of themselves and start to bear a slight resemblance to the D&E that we know & love. The story is much better from that point as they are finally on the same team so to speak, but it’s really hard to overlook the incredulous beginning. I also felt the story progressed a little too slowly with far too much “filler” material. Overall, three stars may be generous as I would not read it again despite the redeeming qualities.
June 21, 2021
This made absolutely no sense. The character motivations were weak and often confusing. Lizzy would never have stood for what was going on. She’d have confronted Mrs. Younge and Mr. Darcy, even if she thought he was behind things. Wickham’s scheming was poorly done. There was no concrete reason behind it, no clever planning. He was like a puppet instead of a fully-fledged villain. And his end was anticlimactic and dull.
The writing was extremely repetitive and stilted. If a thing is described once, it’s described at least three more times.
Ex: Lizzy thinks about her journal. Lizzy looks for her journal to find it’s been stolen. Lizzy explains to the maid about said journal. Then explains to Darcy’s valet. And then explains it to Darcy again later.
She gives Darcy a verbal list of the items that have been taken from her. She lists the same to the maid. The maid produces a paper list of the same items. Then copies that list so Lizzy has a copy.
This kind of thing just keeps happening. I wanted to tear my hair out.
And don’t get me started on the overuse of bespeak, bespoke, and bespoken.
I did not enjoy this. I finished it out of pure spite. I don’t recommend it.
The writing was extremely repetitive and stilted. If a thing is described once, it’s described at least three more times.
Ex: Lizzy thinks about her journal. Lizzy looks for her journal to find it’s been stolen. Lizzy explains to the maid about said journal. Then explains to Darcy’s valet. And then explains it to Darcy again later.
She gives Darcy a verbal list of the items that have been taken from her. She lists the same to the maid. The maid produces a paper list of the same items. Then copies that list so Lizzy has a copy.
This kind of thing just keeps happening. I wanted to tear my hair out.
And don’t get me started on the overuse of bespeak, bespoke, and bespoken.
I did not enjoy this. I finished it out of pure spite. I don’t recommend it.
February 21, 2021
Love conquers all
Love conquers all and provides strength and enduring faith is what I would say after reading this book. Darcy and Elizabeth marry soon after they meet without the benefit of knowing each other’s full character. Darcy makes assumptions based on his short experiences with the Bennet’s and asks his aunt Lady Matlock to help his soon to be wife. He hires a companion/maid/governess to assist Elizabeth without giving her the benefit of knowing Elizabeth’s education.
The things this woman does to Elizabeth was truly awful. Elizabeth goes along with it unsure if this was really DArcy or the mean woman’s own actions. Thankfully Darcy sees the change in Elizabeth and decides to investigate the reasons for the change. This restores Elizabeth’s faith in her husband as they work to capture all the villains.
The plight of Elizabeth in the beginning of her marriage made me want her to leave Darcy for his assumptions and disregard for his wife’s wellbeing. Once he starts to think he becomes the man we love. Elizabeth’s journey makes her the heroine and the woman she is destined to become. I enjoyed this story.
Love conquers all and provides strength and enduring faith is what I would say after reading this book. Darcy and Elizabeth marry soon after they meet without the benefit of knowing each other’s full character. Darcy makes assumptions based on his short experiences with the Bennet’s and asks his aunt Lady Matlock to help his soon to be wife. He hires a companion/maid/governess to assist Elizabeth without giving her the benefit of knowing Elizabeth’s education.
The things this woman does to Elizabeth was truly awful. Elizabeth goes along with it unsure if this was really DArcy or the mean woman’s own actions. Thankfully Darcy sees the change in Elizabeth and decides to investigate the reasons for the change. This restores Elizabeth’s faith in her husband as they work to capture all the villains.
The plight of Elizabeth in the beginning of her marriage made me want her to leave Darcy for his assumptions and disregard for his wife’s wellbeing. Once he starts to think he becomes the man we love. Elizabeth’s journey makes her the heroine and the woman she is destined to become. I enjoyed this story.
February 14, 2021
For want of an accurate character (reference)
An unusual start to the usual romance, with a particularly oblivious Darcy. The woman he loves vanishes within days of the marriage, but remains in plain sight. And though that quandary is the focus of almost one half of the book, the story continues briskly, moving from one mystery and intrigue to the next. This is a good story, maintained my interest throughout, alluded frequently to the "relationship" but never with vulgarity. This aspect will satisfy many readers; while there was steam, somehow the love between the couple was most evident.
An unusual start to the usual romance, with a particularly oblivious Darcy. The woman he loves vanishes within days of the marriage, but remains in plain sight. And though that quandary is the focus of almost one half of the book, the story continues briskly, moving from one mystery and intrigue to the next. This is a good story, maintained my interest throughout, alluded frequently to the "relationship" but never with vulgarity. This aspect will satisfy many readers; while there was steam, somehow the love between the couple was most evident.
January 27, 2021
Stunningly good. Gripping storyline. Couldn't put it down.
July 23, 2022
This is a five plus star book, well edited, and superbly written, as is the norm for A.K. Madison. We are treated to a delightful one-of-a-kind JAFF novel that is certain to please all except the most frightenable angst weenie. The excellent writing and clever plot ensure that we are well-satisfied in the end.
This will be a technical review, to identify the items most reviewers don’t mention, but that have the potential to turn off readers and cause a book to lose a star. There will be no synopsis and little for subjective comments.
The plot is unique and original. It starts with a rehash of canon, a kind of back story I’m not fond of. However, this section is required to get to the main story. The tale utilizes two interlocked story arcs, since we’re engaged in the story about Mrs. Younge at first, then the author continues to solve Mrs. Younge’s mystery by going into another type of arc regarding George Wickham’s story. As such, there is a minor and a major climax to be found. One knows that when we see Mrs. Younge’s situation change that it isn’t the main story climax, as it’s too early and not satiating enough, though it’s the highest tension in the story to that point. The pace is on the slow side since the author doesn’t rush the mystery. This isn’t because of any redundancy or side plot, it’s just pure good fiction.
No roller coaster here—this book is high energy steadily from not long after the initial back story is doled out. Moderate angst can be expected for most of the book, to high angst near the end. It’s not necessarily fast-paced as a result, yet it’s a page-turner because you keep expecting to find all the answers soon, yet the author cleverly doesn’t spill all the beans at once and holds onto the reader for a long time.
Point of view moved from third person, omniscient to third person, multiple, deep point of view. Ms. Madison should read up on deep point of view to learn how to remove the head-hopping she had in this book and to be consistent with the wonderful personal introspection she does so well. Filter words for the POV character (such as felt, saw, thought, wondered) should be cut so these parts of the book are showing, not telling.
Language is appropriate for a JAFF novel set in the Regency period, with only a few minor setbacks into more modern language as follows: compromised, “wedding breakfast,” optimistic, staff, “catch up,” check, snort, modiste, and “air kisses.” The Americanism “I will” comes out of British speakers’ mouths when it should be “I shall.” Now, I know that the author chose to use British spellings, yet I still find I get irritated with “I guess” and “gotten” in a British Regency setting. The level of the language was easy to read, with good use of interesting words without too many big words, and none that had to be looked up.
Other language items that bother me are the fanon use of “hedgerows” and “mask.” The author can do better than this.
Typos and punctuation errors include one case of missing quotation marks, “chee ” for “cheek.”, a second missing period, and an apostrophe used for a plural.
A Regency issue was that the dinner time was late even for town.
The visuals were especially well done. The author was required to show clothing and locations, and did so in a way that enhanced her book. In addition, the other senses were used to ensure excellent scene-setting.
I much admired the characterization in this novel as the initially understated but eventually evil Mrs. Younge had to be drawn out carefully and remain consistent. Mr. Wickham was a more dastardly version of the canon character. I liked her take on Elizabeth and Darcy, and the maid, Martha.
The book contains violence that could put off some readers, though it isn’t at all graphic.
I enjoy looking at book covers, and this one is especially a treat. Although it doesn’t give out anything in the way of telling the story inside, its richness of colour, balance of font and image, good fonts, and pretty image all come together to work well not only in the thumbnail size for Amazon, but also in full size: I read a hard copy of this book. The back cover is plain.
This is a wonderful novel. The story is gripping and keeps one on one’s toes from soon after the idyllic beginning is completed to the very end. I find it hard to find enough superlatives to describe how clever the author was in her generosity towards readers in this novel. In my opinion, this is a splendid, amazing, remarkable book that I will remember for a long time, the litmus test of a good novel. I’m in awe at Ms. Madison’s ability to have come up with this unique plot and craft her words so well that I actually extended my reading time each night just to be able to read for longer. That, along with the nearly perfect editing, and it’s a brilliant read. Highly recommended.
Disclaimer: I’m a JAFF author, and some might feel that this review could be a conflict of interest. However, I was a reader first, and my reviews are honest and impartial. I write them for the benefit of both the reader and the author.
This will be a technical review, to identify the items most reviewers don’t mention, but that have the potential to turn off readers and cause a book to lose a star. There will be no synopsis and little for subjective comments.
The plot is unique and original. It starts with a rehash of canon, a kind of back story I’m not fond of. However, this section is required to get to the main story. The tale utilizes two interlocked story arcs, since we’re engaged in the story about Mrs. Younge at first, then the author continues to solve Mrs. Younge’s mystery by going into another type of arc regarding George Wickham’s story. As such, there is a minor and a major climax to be found. One knows that when we see Mrs. Younge’s situation change that it isn’t the main story climax, as it’s too early and not satiating enough, though it’s the highest tension in the story to that point. The pace is on the slow side since the author doesn’t rush the mystery. This isn’t because of any redundancy or side plot, it’s just pure good fiction.
No roller coaster here—this book is high energy steadily from not long after the initial back story is doled out. Moderate angst can be expected for most of the book, to high angst near the end. It’s not necessarily fast-paced as a result, yet it’s a page-turner because you keep expecting to find all the answers soon, yet the author cleverly doesn’t spill all the beans at once and holds onto the reader for a long time.
Point of view moved from third person, omniscient to third person, multiple, deep point of view. Ms. Madison should read up on deep point of view to learn how to remove the head-hopping she had in this book and to be consistent with the wonderful personal introspection she does so well. Filter words for the POV character (such as felt, saw, thought, wondered) should be cut so these parts of the book are showing, not telling.
Language is appropriate for a JAFF novel set in the Regency period, with only a few minor setbacks into more modern language as follows: compromised, “wedding breakfast,” optimistic, staff, “catch up,” check, snort, modiste, and “air kisses.” The Americanism “I will” comes out of British speakers’ mouths when it should be “I shall.” Now, I know that the author chose to use British spellings, yet I still find I get irritated with “I guess” and “gotten” in a British Regency setting. The level of the language was easy to read, with good use of interesting words without too many big words, and none that had to be looked up.
Other language items that bother me are the fanon use of “hedgerows” and “mask.” The author can do better than this.
Typos and punctuation errors include one case of missing quotation marks, “chee ” for “cheek.”, a second missing period, and an apostrophe used for a plural.
A Regency issue was that the dinner time was late even for town.
The visuals were especially well done. The author was required to show clothing and locations, and did so in a way that enhanced her book. In addition, the other senses were used to ensure excellent scene-setting.
I much admired the characterization in this novel as the initially understated but eventually evil Mrs. Younge had to be drawn out carefully and remain consistent. Mr. Wickham was a more dastardly version of the canon character. I liked her take on Elizabeth and Darcy, and the maid, Martha.
The book contains violence that could put off some readers, though it isn’t at all graphic.
I enjoy looking at book covers, and this one is especially a treat. Although it doesn’t give out anything in the way of telling the story inside, its richness of colour, balance of font and image, good fonts, and pretty image all come together to work well not only in the thumbnail size for Amazon, but also in full size: I read a hard copy of this book. The back cover is plain.
This is a wonderful novel. The story is gripping and keeps one on one’s toes from soon after the idyllic beginning is completed to the very end. I find it hard to find enough superlatives to describe how clever the author was in her generosity towards readers in this novel. In my opinion, this is a splendid, amazing, remarkable book that I will remember for a long time, the litmus test of a good novel. I’m in awe at Ms. Madison’s ability to have come up with this unique plot and craft her words so well that I actually extended my reading time each night just to be able to read for longer. That, along with the nearly perfect editing, and it’s a brilliant read. Highly recommended.
Disclaimer: I’m a JAFF author, and some might feel that this review could be a conflict of interest. However, I was a reader first, and my reviews are honest and impartial. I write them for the benefit of both the reader and the author.
August 10, 2022
Highly recommended affecting variation
For a first JAFF Pride & Prejudice variation for the author, the writing is so well-done. The descriptions are detailed and thorough.
Although Elizabeth Bennet seems initially weaker and submissive, her impertinence and strength comes out eventually. Mr. Darcy proves himself worthy of her with self-recriminations and acts proving he constantly strives to be a better man and husband to his beloved Elizabeth. In the first part of the story, the angst is mostly the inner conflicts of our beloved couple as well as a character well-known to fans but not as sinister and conniving here. In the second half, it’s more Wickham and his evil deeds. In the end, all who wish the Darcys ill gets their just desserts. It’s remarkable though how Darcy and Wickham has this brief yet tender reconciliation towards the end.
Highly recommended indeed for the excellent writing and the sweet affectionate exchanges between Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet. Rose Cottage still remains my favorite of the author though.
For a first JAFF Pride & Prejudice variation for the author, the writing is so well-done. The descriptions are detailed and thorough.
Although Elizabeth Bennet seems initially weaker and submissive, her impertinence and strength comes out eventually. Mr. Darcy proves himself worthy of her with self-recriminations and acts proving he constantly strives to be a better man and husband to his beloved Elizabeth. In the first part of the story, the angst is mostly the inner conflicts of our beloved couple as well as a character well-known to fans but not as sinister and conniving here. In the second half, it’s more Wickham and his evil deeds. In the end, all who wish the Darcys ill gets their just desserts. It’s remarkable though how Darcy and Wickham has this brief yet tender reconciliation towards the end.
Highly recommended indeed for the excellent writing and the sweet affectionate exchanges between Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet. Rose Cottage still remains my favorite of the author though.
March 2, 2021
Interesting story
I liked the story. But it changes character dramatically and some protagonists, who live in Kent, are mostly left out. The following might be spoilers. Scary at the start that they might actually represent in leisure. I am still a little confused about the time line. Mr Wyatt says he prepared a report 2.5 months earlier but somewhere else it says the horror went on for 3 weeks. So they were married at most a month. Did Darcy meet with his Aunt more than 2 months before their wedding? I did not think they were engaged much more than a month. In fact, holding the wedding in less than a month was Mr Bennet's condition.
I liked the story. But it changes character dramatically and some protagonists, who live in Kent, are mostly left out. The following might be spoilers. Scary at the start that they might actually represent in leisure. I am still a little confused about the time line. Mr Wyatt says he prepared a report 2.5 months earlier but somewhere else it says the horror went on for 3 weeks. So they were married at most a month. Did Darcy meet with his Aunt more than 2 months before their wedding? I did not think they were engaged much more than a month. In fact, holding the wedding in less than a month was Mr Bennet's condition.
February 13, 2021
In the epilogue, the author writes, "...she sometimes felt she was perpetually engaged either in eating or sleeping", which made me laugh, because that's exactly what I had written in my notes for the review. This book takes the prize for naps and tea trays. Nothing happens without tea, coffee, or alcohol, or without food being planned, prepared, served, or eaten. Interspersed among all the eating, drinking, and imbibing is a little action here and there, much of it implausible.
There are very few errors, which earned an extra star.
There are very few errors, which earned an extra star.
February 17, 2021
Another good read from this author
I like the way she reimagines P&P. Didn’t realize that she was also the author of Rose Cottage, another book I enjoyed. There are new characters but none superfluous to the story. One part of the book that said it all about Elizabeth’s and Darcy’s relationship is near the end of the story when Darcy lays his head into Elizabeth’s lap. Poignant and so telling. To have that kind of relationship.
I like the way she reimagines P&P. Didn’t realize that she was also the author of Rose Cottage, another book I enjoyed. There are new characters but none superfluous to the story. One part of the book that said it all about Elizabeth’s and Darcy’s relationship is near the end of the story when Darcy lays his head into Elizabeth’s lap. Poignant and so telling. To have that kind of relationship.
February 7, 2021
Loved It!
Plot kept me interested and couldn't wait to see what happened next! Loved the Mrs. Young evil character that kept me anticipating the next chapter!
I really loved finding out that the author lives in my hometown!
I read The Rose Cottage too and can't wait for your next book!
Plot kept me interested and couldn't wait to see what happened next! Loved the Mrs. Young evil character that kept me anticipating the next chapter!
I really loved finding out that the author lives in my hometown!
I read The Rose Cottage too and can't wait for your next book!
February 10, 2021
Min
Excellent read. Couldn’t put it down. Good pace. Well developed variation. The story just flowed easily. There were parts that made you laugh and parts that saddened you. Darcy didn’t let the reader down. In the beginning, I angry with him. But as I said he won’t let you down.
Excellent read. Couldn’t put it down. Good pace. Well developed variation. The story just flowed easily. There were parts that made you laugh and parts that saddened you. Darcy didn’t let the reader down. In the beginning, I angry with him. But as I said he won’t let you down.
January 29, 2021
Lovely
An absolutely lovely variation inspired by author Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by A.K. Madison. An interesting premise and a well written and enjoyable story.
An absolutely lovely variation inspired by author Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by A.K. Madison. An interesting premise and a well written and enjoyable story.
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March 24, 2021Nice premise
It was a nice premise and the story had good flow. However at times t was pure narrative and jarred the reader out of the story.
This is a good work by a new author and well worth the reading. I strongly suspect the author will greatly improve with time.
It was a nice premise and the story had good flow. However at times t was pure narrative and jarred the reader out of the story.
This is a good work by a new author and well worth the reading. I strongly suspect the author will greatly improve with time.
April 3, 2021
The Bennet family was completely changed, which okay, it's a variation. However, they were all so altered and it was jarring. At that point, just write a different story. It also fell apart about halfway through and I struggled to finish it. It also felt SO long.
May 24, 2021
Great Story
I loved the love story of Darcy and Lizzy. The wickhams were evil unlocked, glad the villains all got their comeuppance. Good story , wished for a little more story of after marriage!
I loved the love story of Darcy and Lizzy. The wickhams were evil unlocked, glad the villains all got their comeuppance. Good story , wished for a little more story of after marriage!
October 25, 2021
While the writing was good, it just didn't feel "right" since many of the characters were 100% dofferent than the original. What fun is a sensible Mrs. Bennett? And in what world would Lizzie let a maid treat her so badly and not tell Mr. Darcy?
August 23, 2023
Interesting variation
Entertaining read. It seemed a little contrived that Darcy would happily marry Elizabeth, only to then make the assumption from his aunt who had never met her that she needed improved and it basically went downhill from there before recovering.
Entertaining read. It seemed a little contrived that Darcy would happily marry Elizabeth, only to then make the assumption from his aunt who had never met her that she needed improved and it basically went downhill from there before recovering.
January 31, 2021
When I started reading it I could'nt stop until midnight had no track of time, it was so interesting read loved the book till the end
February 6, 2021
Not too awful
Plot was ok. Lizzy’s heirloom dressing table set where just dismissed after being stolen. Pawn shops should have been checked.
Plot was ok. Lizzy’s heirloom dressing table set where just dismissed after being stolen. Pawn shops should have been checked.
February 9, 2021
A very interesting take
This story worried by the second chapter but went on to better outcome for ODC.
It is quite original in it's plot and very well written.
This story worried by the second chapter but went on to better outcome for ODC.
It is quite original in it's plot and very well written.
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