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Happy by Accident... or Not?: A Pride and Prejudice variation
“Happy by Accident…or Not?” is a Regency “Pride and Prejudice” novella variation that combines romance, humour, a little bit of angst, original twists and new characters mingling with the well-known and much-loved characters from the original novel.
The story begins the day after the party at Mrs. Phillips’ house and the disturbing conversation during which Wickham reveals to Elizabeth his past misfortunes caused by Darcy.
On a cold autumn morning, Elizabeth takes a long walk to clear her thoughts and to escape Mr. Collins’s annoying attentions.
Her solitary reverie is interrupted by cries for help and she discovers Mr. Bingley, who has fallen from his horse and is lying at the edge of a marsh. While Elizabeth tries to assist him, Darcy appears in search of his friend. With the threat of a storm approaching, Darcy hurries to fetch more help and Elizabeth remains with Bingley — a good opportunity for them to disagree about Darcy’s character.
Mr. Bingley’s wounds are not severe, but serious enough to affect his plans for the ball. Also, the disclosure of his argument with Miss Elizabeth will trouble Darcy, contradicting all his previous beliefs about the woman he secretly admires.
Therefore, the two gentlemen must decide how they want to proceed with the ladies of their hearts.
With several surprise visitors attending the Netherfield Ball, with opinions and feelings changed, with secrets unveiled and the truth finally exposed, our beloved couples will interact, argue, reconcile, bear some misunderstandings and suffer from a little bit of jealousy before they reach their well-deserved ‘Happily Ever After’.
The story begins the day after the party at Mrs. Phillips’ house and the disturbing conversation during which Wickham reveals to Elizabeth his past misfortunes caused by Darcy.
On a cold autumn morning, Elizabeth takes a long walk to clear her thoughts and to escape Mr. Collins’s annoying attentions.
Her solitary reverie is interrupted by cries for help and she discovers Mr. Bingley, who has fallen from his horse and is lying at the edge of a marsh. While Elizabeth tries to assist him, Darcy appears in search of his friend. With the threat of a storm approaching, Darcy hurries to fetch more help and Elizabeth remains with Bingley — a good opportunity for them to disagree about Darcy’s character.
Mr. Bingley’s wounds are not severe, but serious enough to affect his plans for the ball. Also, the disclosure of his argument with Miss Elizabeth will trouble Darcy, contradicting all his previous beliefs about the woman he secretly admires.
Therefore, the two gentlemen must decide how they want to proceed with the ladies of their hearts.
With several surprise visitors attending the Netherfield Ball, with opinions and feelings changed, with secrets unveiled and the truth finally exposed, our beloved couples will interact, argue, reconcile, bear some misunderstandings and suffer from a little bit of jealousy before they reach their well-deserved ‘Happily Ever After’.
132 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 26, 2021
69 people are currently reading
60 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
May 28, 2022
3.5 stars rounded up to 4 stars
There is really not much different from canon in this story. Bingley's accident and, Elizabeth coming to his rescue bring forward the better understanding between Elizabeth and Darcy. Elizabeth, while awaiting Darcy's return with help for Bingley, has revealed to Bingley her opinions about his friend. Thus Darcy learns much earlier that he needs to make some changes.
The injuries Bingley suffered do cause him to miss dancing at his own ball but Darcy steps up and dances more than his inclination would usually allow. He does dance with Elizabeth twice.
Elizabeth begins to have thoughts as to her closer relationship with, and better understanding of, Darcy. Then Collins throws a wet blanket on that warming attachment for Elizabeth. He informs her of Darcy's engagement with Anne de Bourgh.
There are several new characters, visitors to Netherfield: a Andrew Cranford (a friend also to Denny, who is in the militia at Meryton) and his sister, Sarah, as well as a Lord Stanton & his sister, Lady Eleanor, and Miss Amelia Greenwood. Wickham is still a bone of contention and gets himself into much more serious trouble over a card game.
This was a pleasant read with no angst IMHO.
There is really not much different from canon in this story. Bingley's accident and, Elizabeth coming to his rescue bring forward the better understanding between Elizabeth and Darcy. Elizabeth, while awaiting Darcy's return with help for Bingley, has revealed to Bingley her opinions about his friend. Thus Darcy learns much earlier that he needs to make some changes.
The injuries Bingley suffered do cause him to miss dancing at his own ball but Darcy steps up and dances more than his inclination would usually allow. He does dance with Elizabeth twice.
Elizabeth begins to have thoughts as to her closer relationship with, and better understanding of, Darcy. Then Collins throws a wet blanket on that warming attachment for Elizabeth. He informs her of Darcy's engagement with Anne de Bourgh.
There are several new characters, visitors to Netherfield: a Andrew Cranford (a friend also to Denny, who is in the militia at Meryton) and his sister, Sarah, as well as a Lord Stanton & his sister, Lady Eleanor, and Miss Amelia Greenwood. Wickham is still a bone of contention and gets himself into much more serious trouble over a card game.
This was a pleasant read with no angst IMHO.
December 4, 2021
This story starts after the assembly and before the Netherfield Ball. While escaping Mr Collins' attentions, Elizabeth finds Mr Bingley who is injured having been thrown from his horse. His injury interrupts the usual timeline of events - he cannot leave Netherfield after the ball. Also while Elizabeth was with him they exchange views on Mr Darcy so he eventually finds out Elizabeth dislikes him. He already realises he has feelings for her so sets about changing her opinion of him.
This book is quite good fun - there is a lot of humour and a lovely relationship grows between Elizabeth and Darcy. I didn't like the epilogue particularly... but then generally I don't like them. There are also a few extra characters in here and I'm not really sure they added much to the story. Overall,I enjoyed this and zoomed through it!
This book is quite good fun - there is a lot of humour and a lovely relationship grows between Elizabeth and Darcy. I didn't like the epilogue particularly... but then generally I don't like them. There are also a few extra characters in here and I'm not really sure they added much to the story. Overall,I enjoyed this and zoomed through it!
May 9, 2022
Review published at:
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
4.5 stars
What if prior to the Netherfield Ball Mr. Bingley is thrown off his horse and ends up being rescued by Elizabeth Bennet? What if she lets him know her true opinion about Mr. Darcy? Or what if Mr. Bingley decides to host the ball despite his injuries and invites a few more guests to it? Could these guests change the outcome of the story?
In Happy By Accident… or Not? the Netherfield party must remain in Hertfordshire due to Mr. Bingley’s injuries, and the part Elizabeth Bennet had in his rescue will change the dynamics of her relationship with Mr. Darcy. This is a small and simple novella that can be read very quickly but that has it all, and given the length of the book, I was amazed with how much the author was able to convey without ever rushing events.
I truly enjoyed the writing style of this book because it focuses on dialogues and shows the reader without telling him what is happening and what the characters are thinking or feeling. It goes straight to the point without unnecessary minutiae that would otherwise make it a lengthier but tedious book, and is able to accomplish everything in a lighter and interesting manner. Because of this appealing writing style, the book is also very fast paced and I was able to read it in one single sitting which is not very common for me.
Happy by Accident…or Not? is a low angst story, but it is capable of generating strong feelings in the reader because of its strong dialogues. I loved the interchanges between Darcy and Elizabeth and the complicity they developed with one another. I always love books where this couple is surrounded by other people, but are still able to share a look or a private joke between them without anyone realizing it, and that is precisely what happens in Happy by Accident…or Not?.
Another aspect I enjoyed in this book was the fact that it centers around Darcy and Elizabeth, even though other characters are present in the book, and namely Mr. Bingley and Mr. Bennet have interesting developments, I never felt their interventions where occupying too much page time. I love both main characters, but Darcy was my favorite in this novel. He was true to himself, but with the different circumstances he had to face, he was able to question his own opinions earlier in the story which means he was a charming, strong and irresistible gentleman during the entire novel. I also have to mention that I particularly liked to see the changes in Mr. Bennet and the way he handled issues after his first conversation with Darcy.
Even if in some situations the discourses were a little too blunt, I didn’t have any quibble with this book, and to be honest, the only issue I have with it is its title because I don’t believe it is as catchy as the book deserves. If this is the author’s debut book, I cannot wait to see what Michelle D’arcy will present us with next. I highly recommend Happy by Accident…or Not? to readers who like lighter romances and do not have time for lengthier stories.
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
4.5 stars
What if prior to the Netherfield Ball Mr. Bingley is thrown off his horse and ends up being rescued by Elizabeth Bennet? What if she lets him know her true opinion about Mr. Darcy? Or what if Mr. Bingley decides to host the ball despite his injuries and invites a few more guests to it? Could these guests change the outcome of the story?
In Happy By Accident… or Not? the Netherfield party must remain in Hertfordshire due to Mr. Bingley’s injuries, and the part Elizabeth Bennet had in his rescue will change the dynamics of her relationship with Mr. Darcy. This is a small and simple novella that can be read very quickly but that has it all, and given the length of the book, I was amazed with how much the author was able to convey without ever rushing events.
I truly enjoyed the writing style of this book because it focuses on dialogues and shows the reader without telling him what is happening and what the characters are thinking or feeling. It goes straight to the point without unnecessary minutiae that would otherwise make it a lengthier but tedious book, and is able to accomplish everything in a lighter and interesting manner. Because of this appealing writing style, the book is also very fast paced and I was able to read it in one single sitting which is not very common for me.
Happy by Accident…or Not? is a low angst story, but it is capable of generating strong feelings in the reader because of its strong dialogues. I loved the interchanges between Darcy and Elizabeth and the complicity they developed with one another. I always love books where this couple is surrounded by other people, but are still able to share a look or a private joke between them without anyone realizing it, and that is precisely what happens in Happy by Accident…or Not?.
Another aspect I enjoyed in this book was the fact that it centers around Darcy and Elizabeth, even though other characters are present in the book, and namely Mr. Bingley and Mr. Bennet have interesting developments, I never felt their interventions where occupying too much page time. I love both main characters, but Darcy was my favorite in this novel. He was true to himself, but with the different circumstances he had to face, he was able to question his own opinions earlier in the story which means he was a charming, strong and irresistible gentleman during the entire novel. I also have to mention that I particularly liked to see the changes in Mr. Bennet and the way he handled issues after his first conversation with Darcy.
Even if in some situations the discourses were a little too blunt, I didn’t have any quibble with this book, and to be honest, the only issue I have with it is its title because I don’t believe it is as catchy as the book deserves. If this is the author’s debut book, I cannot wait to see what Michelle D’arcy will present us with next. I highly recommend Happy by Accident…or Not? to readers who like lighter romances and do not have time for lengthier stories.
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January 27, 2025What a delightful story! Bingley suffers an accident before Netherfield ball and while rescuing him, Elizabeth reveals some of her impressions of Darcy. When Darcy learns of this, he decides to change her mind and his manners to win her approval. A few additional characters who don't actually do much except change Wickham's destiny the story proceeds really well. I especially liked the rapport between Darcy and Mr. Bennet.
February 8, 2022
A chance situation/accident causes the residents of Netherfield and Longbourn to take a step back and take a look at things differently. An act of kindness by Elizabeth Bennet puts a different timeline and experiences for multiple couples. The title of the story asks did they find happiness by accident or due to an accident did they find happiness.
I really enjoyed this sweet light story.
I really enjoyed this sweet light story.
May 24, 2022
As Elizabeth is on her daily walk she hears a cry for help. She leaves the path to investigate. Mr. Bingley's horse has thrown him, and he rolled down an incline and was hidden from the path. He has suffered injuries and cannot get up or walk.
Mr. Darcy meets Elizabeth as she is going for help and he goes and brings back others to retrieve Mr. Bingley. As a result of Bingley's accident, plans are changed which brings about more changes.
22
Mr. Darcy meets Elizabeth as she is going for help and he goes and brings back others to retrieve Mr. Bingley. As a result of Bingley's accident, plans are changed which brings about more changes.
22
December 23, 2022
This was a quick, easy read. It’s well written and flowed along nicely. Mr Bingley’s accident is the catalyst that brings Darcy and Elizabeth to a better understanding of each other and love is not far behind. There’s a new twist to the Wickham storyline and Darcy does what he can to warn Mr Bennet about Wickham. I liked seeing Darcy and Mr Bennet getting to know one another. I was disappointed that Colonel Fitzwilliam played such an insignificant role. He’s invited to the Netherfield Ball but hardly does or says anything, I wonder why he was included at all.
January 20, 2023
I went back and forth on rating this 4 or 5 stars, so I can safely say it falls somewhere between the two. But for me it's not an absolute favorite, so I'll keep it at 4 stars. That said, it's very good, and just enough of a nice change from the typical P&P variation that it held my interest throughout.
The story begins the day after Wickham has told Elizabeth his story about Darcy refusing him the living that Darcy's father intended for him. Lizzy takes an early walk, partly to avoid Mr. Collins who has become annoying in his attentions toward her, and her certainty that he's working up to proposing marriage.
As she's walking near Oakham Mount, she hears a cry for help, and finds that Mr. Bingley has been thrown from his horse and fallen into a gully, at some distance from the road. She's already walked longer than she intended, and it's cold and about to rain. Mr. Bingley can't, because of an injured leg and arm, get himself back up to the road. He asks her to find Mr. Darcy, who will surely know what to do. She is cynical of his faith in Mr. Darcy, but she starts toward Netherfield, only to find Darcy riding his horse in her direction. She explains what has happened, and he follows her to Bingley. It's decided that she'll stay with Bingley, and Darcy will ride to Netherfield for help, which she reluctantly agrees will be fastest, much as she hates to admit he's right about anything. She really detests the man. He leaves her with his coat, for her own warmth against the impending rain, and while he's gone she goes down to Bingley to reassure him, and both get soaking wet waiting for rescue, but rescue comes quickly enough, and both arrive safely back at their respective houses.
The following day, Bingley insists that Darcy call on the Bennets, both to ensure that Miss Elizabeth has not taken ill from the ordeal, and to reassure all the Bennets that he will recover soon. He still hopes he'll be able to dance at the ball he's planned, and he refuses to cancel or postpone it.
When Darcy arrives at Longbourn, Mr. Collins insists on being introduced and imposes himself on Mr. Darcy, full of praise for Lady Catherine. Seeing Darcy's discomfort, Mr. Bennet is at first amused, but then he invites Darcy into his library, where there's a separate entrance he can leave through. He offers Darcy a drink, and they talk, forming the beginnings of a friendship. Meanwhile a group of officers arrive at Longbourn, including George Wickham, and Darcy warns Mr. Bennet about Wickham.
Although this isn't as angst-driven a story as some variations are, it's definitely romantic, and I love how Mr. Bennet helps things along, and how Mrs. Bennet comes around to liking Darcy, along with her younger daughters. Well done.
The story begins the day after Wickham has told Elizabeth his story about Darcy refusing him the living that Darcy's father intended for him. Lizzy takes an early walk, partly to avoid Mr. Collins who has become annoying in his attentions toward her, and her certainty that he's working up to proposing marriage.
As she's walking near Oakham Mount, she hears a cry for help, and finds that Mr. Bingley has been thrown from his horse and fallen into a gully, at some distance from the road. She's already walked longer than she intended, and it's cold and about to rain. Mr. Bingley can't, because of an injured leg and arm, get himself back up to the road. He asks her to find Mr. Darcy, who will surely know what to do. She is cynical of his faith in Mr. Darcy, but she starts toward Netherfield, only to find Darcy riding his horse in her direction. She explains what has happened, and he follows her to Bingley. It's decided that she'll stay with Bingley, and Darcy will ride to Netherfield for help, which she reluctantly agrees will be fastest, much as she hates to admit he's right about anything. She really detests the man. He leaves her with his coat, for her own warmth against the impending rain, and while he's gone she goes down to Bingley to reassure him, and both get soaking wet waiting for rescue, but rescue comes quickly enough, and both arrive safely back at their respective houses.
The following day, Bingley insists that Darcy call on the Bennets, both to ensure that Miss Elizabeth has not taken ill from the ordeal, and to reassure all the Bennets that he will recover soon. He still hopes he'll be able to dance at the ball he's planned, and he refuses to cancel or postpone it.
When Darcy arrives at Longbourn, Mr. Collins insists on being introduced and imposes himself on Mr. Darcy, full of praise for Lady Catherine. Seeing Darcy's discomfort, Mr. Bennet is at first amused, but then he invites Darcy into his library, where there's a separate entrance he can leave through. He offers Darcy a drink, and they talk, forming the beginnings of a friendship. Meanwhile a group of officers arrive at Longbourn, including George Wickham, and Darcy warns Mr. Bennet about Wickham.
Although this isn't as angst-driven a story as some variations are, it's definitely romantic, and I love how Mr. Bennet helps things along, and how Mrs. Bennet comes around to liking Darcy, along with her younger daughters. Well done.
May 4, 2022
Sweet
Accidents happen and sometimes they have interesting consequences. This one brought an earlier and better understanding and some entertaining dialogues.
Accidents happen and sometimes they have interesting consequences. This one brought an earlier and better understanding and some entertaining dialogues.
December 8, 2021
The premise of the story is good, we've had accidents happen before but generally to the ODC, other members of the Bennet family but this was my first that involved Bingley. The execution, however, could use a little bit of love. The female characters all seem a bit over the top. Elizabeth is such a super bitch in the beginning that she needs to wear a cape while she's passing judgement. Maybe a pair of kicky boots. Caroline, super snarky and even snarky at inappropriate times. The women who are there attending for the ball are set up as "acting superior" but there isn't really any follow through. Even Mrs. Bennet was too "Mrs Bennet" if that makes sense. She's more concerned with cancelling the ball than with Bingley's physical condition. Won't she want him in good health for Jane?
Tricky Wicky is there (always up to no good) and does something super soap opera-y but later it's labeled as an "accident" (Whhhaaa?)
The ODC come together as always.
Anywho, it's 3 stars for me. I didn't hate it but it's not one that I will read again.
Tricky Wicky is there (always up to no good) and does something super soap opera-y but later it's labeled as an "accident" (Whhhaaa?)
The ODC come together as always.
Anywho, it's 3 stars for me. I didn't hate it but it's not one that I will read again.
November 30, 2021
Lovely
An interesting start to an enjoyable variation inspired by author Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Michelle D’Arcy.
An interesting start to an enjoyable variation inspired by author Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Michelle D’Arcy.
May 17, 2022
Rich energy fills this novella, which zips along quickly and stays lively throughout, with a well-developed plot as well as a complete romance. Minimal errors exist to distract the reader.
I write reviews that are technical in nature, so they don't include a great deal of subjective material, rather, they identify the items that could put off the reader that the editor or author missed.
The plot is unique and moves along at a brisk pace, which keeps the reader involved. This is a blessing because I've read two sloooow books lately and I deserved a reprieve. There were no unnecessary side plots or plot holes that I could discern.
Point of view is marred by a little bit of head-hopping per usual, and the author will have to learn to discipline herself to stick to one POV per scene to help readers to know who's thinking or saying what so they don't have to backtrack to understand, thus breaking the flow of reading, something you never want to happen as an author.
A few filter words were used that take the reader out of the head of the character. For example, "when she saw Darcy approaching her" could have been "when Darcy approached her," removing the filter word "saw" as well as making the phrase more active than passive. It was her POV; her seeing it was a given.
Language was appropriate for a JAFF audience, complex yet with no big words to look up, and the word use was reminiscent of the Regency, with a few exceptions I will now note. The author used the American "I will" and "we will" instead of "I shall" and "we shall." Non-Regency words and phrases included bored/boring, attitude (for mindset), "how come" (for why), and "taken aback." This is a low count for a JAFF book, which means the author and editor did well by catching the non-Regency words elsewhere.
Too many times, fancy alternate words were used instead of "said." This draws attention to the dialogue tag, when it's the dialogue that we want the audience to notice. Usually the dialogue already shows the gist of the fancy dialogue tag and it's not needed. If not, freshen up the dialogue itself, and simply use said. Better yet, use a sentence without a dialogue tag at all.
Most characterizations were fairly good and consistent per this novella. Bingley had more of a spine, but he was still careful to be kind. Darcy was more romantic than in canon, which is typical of fanon.
Elizabeth was more fiesty, a canon attribute that was selected by the author and continuous through the book rather than a diversion from her Austen character. Readers so often want her to be a Mary Sue and forget she had a rainbow of attributes in canon. So she wasn't exactly fanon. I liked her spunk.
The development of the romance was very well done. It wasn't the work of a minute, so it was believable and we as readers could see each step as feelings deepened. There was obvious passion in the relationship that held through the ups and downs of the building up of the true final romance to HEA. This is where the dramatic tension resided, so the angst was not that high, and I love angst. Even so, I admire the way this drama and romance was done.
A couple of items were non-Regency: engagements weren't announced in the papers, and militia didn't pay for commissions. These are simple assumptions made from reading the error in other Regency romances that get it wrong. Just like compromise. Don't use compromise in your books, authors, please.
I'm not so keen on the title, particularly because it uses the "...or Not?" at the end. I find that such titles don't sound as professional to me. Now that could just be me. The title does describe the story well, though.
The cover is good at describing the story, and it's different than many of those out there, but the balance of the fonts is off so it looks home-made. For that reason, people may not snag it as quickly as they might another book that may have a more enticing cover.
This review this far sounds like a lot of nit-picking, but it's mostly objective. I could gush on and on about how I got a great deal of enjoyment out of reading this novella and look forward to more books from Michelle D'Arcy. What a gift for a debut book!
Disclaimer: I'm a JAFF author, and some might claim my review is a conflict of interest. However, I was a reader first, and my reviews are honest and impartial. I write them for the benefit of the reader and the author.
I write reviews that are technical in nature, so they don't include a great deal of subjective material, rather, they identify the items that could put off the reader that the editor or author missed.
The plot is unique and moves along at a brisk pace, which keeps the reader involved. This is a blessing because I've read two sloooow books lately and I deserved a reprieve. There were no unnecessary side plots or plot holes that I could discern.
Point of view is marred by a little bit of head-hopping per usual, and the author will have to learn to discipline herself to stick to one POV per scene to help readers to know who's thinking or saying what so they don't have to backtrack to understand, thus breaking the flow of reading, something you never want to happen as an author.
A few filter words were used that take the reader out of the head of the character. For example, "when she saw Darcy approaching her" could have been "when Darcy approached her," removing the filter word "saw" as well as making the phrase more active than passive. It was her POV; her seeing it was a given.
Language was appropriate for a JAFF audience, complex yet with no big words to look up, and the word use was reminiscent of the Regency, with a few exceptions I will now note. The author used the American "I will" and "we will" instead of "I shall" and "we shall." Non-Regency words and phrases included bored/boring, attitude (for mindset), "how come" (for why), and "taken aback." This is a low count for a JAFF book, which means the author and editor did well by catching the non-Regency words elsewhere.
Too many times, fancy alternate words were used instead of "said." This draws attention to the dialogue tag, when it's the dialogue that we want the audience to notice. Usually the dialogue already shows the gist of the fancy dialogue tag and it's not needed. If not, freshen up the dialogue itself, and simply use said. Better yet, use a sentence without a dialogue tag at all.
Most characterizations were fairly good and consistent per this novella. Bingley had more of a spine, but he was still careful to be kind. Darcy was more romantic than in canon, which is typical of fanon.
Elizabeth was more fiesty, a canon attribute that was selected by the author and continuous through the book rather than a diversion from her Austen character. Readers so often want her to be a Mary Sue and forget she had a rainbow of attributes in canon. So she wasn't exactly fanon. I liked her spunk.
The development of the romance was very well done. It wasn't the work of a minute, so it was believable and we as readers could see each step as feelings deepened. There was obvious passion in the relationship that held through the ups and downs of the building up of the true final romance to HEA. This is where the dramatic tension resided, so the angst was not that high, and I love angst. Even so, I admire the way this drama and romance was done.
A couple of items were non-Regency: engagements weren't announced in the papers, and militia didn't pay for commissions. These are simple assumptions made from reading the error in other Regency romances that get it wrong. Just like compromise. Don't use compromise in your books, authors, please.
I'm not so keen on the title, particularly because it uses the "...or Not?" at the end. I find that such titles don't sound as professional to me. Now that could just be me. The title does describe the story well, though.
The cover is good at describing the story, and it's different than many of those out there, but the balance of the fonts is off so it looks home-made. For that reason, people may not snag it as quickly as they might another book that may have a more enticing cover.
This review this far sounds like a lot of nit-picking, but it's mostly objective. I could gush on and on about how I got a great deal of enjoyment out of reading this novella and look forward to more books from Michelle D'Arcy. What a gift for a debut book!
Disclaimer: I'm a JAFF author, and some might claim my review is a conflict of interest. However, I was a reader first, and my reviews are honest and impartial. I write them for the benefit of the reader and the author.
November 27, 2021
An interesting plot twist
A sweet, low-angst variation where Bingley has an accident just before the Netherfield Ball, which changes everything for our cast of characters. Creative plotting and nicely edited.
A sweet, low-angst variation where Bingley has an accident just before the Netherfield Ball, which changes everything for our cast of characters. Creative plotting and nicely edited.
May 28, 2022
I enjoyed this light hearted variation. Well written although a few Regency rules are broken. I don’t think Elizabeth would ride in a carriage alone with Mr Darcy.
November 28, 2021
P&P with more accidents but less drama
January 16, 2022
Cheezy and sweet
… but I was in the mood for that.
I’m coming to appreciate the novella - I will always love a good thick novel with deep, rich character development. But the internet has burdened this early Gen-Xer with attention-deficit challenges.
This story is pretty shallow, but you know, it’s a novella. The only thing I disliked was the epilogue, which was just over the top cheeze balls. But not the good kind, the dollar-store kind.
… but I was in the mood for that.
I’m coming to appreciate the novella - I will always love a good thick novel with deep, rich character development. But the internet has burdened this early Gen-Xer with attention-deficit challenges.
This story is pretty shallow, but you know, it’s a novella. The only thing I disliked was the epilogue, which was just over the top cheeze balls. But not the good kind, the dollar-store kind.
December 29, 2023
Happy by Accident….. or Not?
Elizabeth returning from her early morning walk finds Bingley fallen in a ditch and hurt. She volunteers to go to Netherfield to fetch help and runs into Mr. Darcy on the way. Elizabeth stays with Bingley while he rides to Netherfield for help retrieving Bingley since Elizabeth doesn’t ride. She and Bingley have a pointed discussion about her misjudgment of Darcy. She clings to her distorted views until Mr. Bennet talks with Darcy about Wickham’s allegations. Mr. Bennet challenges her to use her wit and think how inappropriate her conversation was with Wickham and what he disclosed. Bingley decides to hold the ball anyway even though he cannot dance. Darcy dances twice with Elizabeth that starts the tongues wagging and Elizabeth’s heart pounding. Mr. Collins asks Darcy’s opinion about his offering for Elizabeth and Darcy asks him did he think that Lady Catherine would be happy with her pertinent ways? Deciding that she would not bend to Lady Catherine, he betroths himself to Charlotte Lucas. Darcy and Elizabeth grow closer, but Darcy must see to his sister in London so travels after the ball. Then Mr. Collins drops the news of his betrothal to Anne de Bourgh. Again Mr. Bennet asks her to use her wit. In the meantime, George Wickham is in jail for shooting Denny. With Wickham out of the way, Darcy returns for Christmas with Georgiana in tow as he comes across a fallen, wet and bedraggled Elizabeth on the side of the road. Warmed and given a dress by Georgiana, Darcy takes her home and while they clear up further misunderstandings, Darcy proposes. Arriving at Longbourn neither are totally aware of time and place, and as her entire family hang by the windows, Darcy and Elizabeth are sealed in a kiss. Bennet smiles and Mrs. Bennet faints. As they enjoy yet another Christmas with their Bennet and Gardiner relatives plus their two year old son, Alexander, the Darcys are very happy indeed with Bingley’s happy accident.
Elizabeth returning from her early morning walk finds Bingley fallen in a ditch and hurt. She volunteers to go to Netherfield to fetch help and runs into Mr. Darcy on the way. Elizabeth stays with Bingley while he rides to Netherfield for help retrieving Bingley since Elizabeth doesn’t ride. She and Bingley have a pointed discussion about her misjudgment of Darcy. She clings to her distorted views until Mr. Bennet talks with Darcy about Wickham’s allegations. Mr. Bennet challenges her to use her wit and think how inappropriate her conversation was with Wickham and what he disclosed. Bingley decides to hold the ball anyway even though he cannot dance. Darcy dances twice with Elizabeth that starts the tongues wagging and Elizabeth’s heart pounding. Mr. Collins asks Darcy’s opinion about his offering for Elizabeth and Darcy asks him did he think that Lady Catherine would be happy with her pertinent ways? Deciding that she would not bend to Lady Catherine, he betroths himself to Charlotte Lucas. Darcy and Elizabeth grow closer, but Darcy must see to his sister in London so travels after the ball. Then Mr. Collins drops the news of his betrothal to Anne de Bourgh. Again Mr. Bennet asks her to use her wit. In the meantime, George Wickham is in jail for shooting Denny. With Wickham out of the way, Darcy returns for Christmas with Georgiana in tow as he comes across a fallen, wet and bedraggled Elizabeth on the side of the road. Warmed and given a dress by Georgiana, Darcy takes her home and while they clear up further misunderstandings, Darcy proposes. Arriving at Longbourn neither are totally aware of time and place, and as her entire family hang by the windows, Darcy and Elizabeth are sealed in a kiss. Bennet smiles and Mrs. Bennet faints. As they enjoy yet another Christmas with their Bennet and Gardiner relatives plus their two year old son, Alexander, the Darcys are very happy indeed with Bingley’s happy accident.
February 11, 2022
Entertaining
A short and sweet little tale in which one occurrence causes a much quicker understanding between ODC. After the Meryton assembly and the infamous insult about Elizabeth, and after Elizabeth spends several days at Netherfield nursing Jane, Bingley is riding and gets thrown from his horse, and ends up injured at the bottom of a ditch. Elizabeth discovers him during her walk, goes to seek help, and Darcy shows up on horseback and offers to go himself while Elizabeth stays to keep Bingley company. While they're waiting, Bingley finds out just how bad of an impression that Darcy has made on Elizabeth, and the whole neighborhood. Bingley later informs Darcy about Elizabeth's words, and Darcy is shocked, having believed that Elizabeth was flirting with him all this time. This revelation completely changes Darcy's attitude, and he resolves to win Elizabeth's good opinion.
This, of course, is what happened, in the original P&P, after the disastrous proposal at Hunsford parsonage. This book just shortens the timetable by a lot, so that we have a resolution in a couple of short months rather than a year or more. There isn't anything really new here. The author has thrown in several new characters that are friends of Bingley, but they don't have any major impact on the story. There are the usual villains, but no one is very evil, and they're not at all effective.
However, the book is well written and well edited. I recommend it for a nice, light and predictable story, and a pleasant way to pass a couple of hours.
A short and sweet little tale in which one occurrence causes a much quicker understanding between ODC. After the Meryton assembly and the infamous insult about Elizabeth, and after Elizabeth spends several days at Netherfield nursing Jane, Bingley is riding and gets thrown from his horse, and ends up injured at the bottom of a ditch. Elizabeth discovers him during her walk, goes to seek help, and Darcy shows up on horseback and offers to go himself while Elizabeth stays to keep Bingley company. While they're waiting, Bingley finds out just how bad of an impression that Darcy has made on Elizabeth, and the whole neighborhood. Bingley later informs Darcy about Elizabeth's words, and Darcy is shocked, having believed that Elizabeth was flirting with him all this time. This revelation completely changes Darcy's attitude, and he resolves to win Elizabeth's good opinion.
This, of course, is what happened, in the original P&P, after the disastrous proposal at Hunsford parsonage. This book just shortens the timetable by a lot, so that we have a resolution in a couple of short months rather than a year or more. There isn't anything really new here. The author has thrown in several new characters that are friends of Bingley, but they don't have any major impact on the story. There are the usual villains, but no one is very evil, and they're not at all effective.
However, the book is well written and well edited. I recommend it for a nice, light and predictable story, and a pleasant way to pass a couple of hours.
July 23, 2022
While an excellent start with Bingley being the catalyst for great understanding between Darcy and Elizabeth, and the growing feelings and with all the people cutting Elizabeth and Jane and the rest of the Bennet family, Darcy intervened only now and again with no effect, Bingley's words were ignored, and only the Colonel's words paused everyone else. I wonder at their lack of ability to matter to the company and to be so disregarded. Does not speak well for them, though the Colonel is an excellent man who is above the fray and pettiness which the others at Netherfield fall into, it is still hard to then see them as men who are in command of themselves or anything. While the visitors and the start were not canon, the evolution of the relationships between Jane and Bingley and Darcy and Elizabeth is much like canon though enjoyable.
December 21, 2021
Bingley has an accident before the Netherfield ball, which prevents him from leaving for London while he recovers. Elizabeth found him thrown from his horse on one of her walks. From their conversation while help was being mustered, she learns a few things about Darcy. Darcy, on the other hand, learns that Elizabeth doesn't like him, and as, per canon, begins trying to improve his behavior and prove his worth to her. Bingley's recovery time gives him time to interact with Jane and for Darcy to come to terms with his feelings for Elizabeth. Some new characters, as Bingley's relatives and guests, were introduced, but not developed personalities. They were only loosely related to the story.
January 13, 2022
Miss Elizabeth Bennet cannot abide Mr.Darcy. She feels she's justified in her opinions.
Funny thing about opinions, they can be altered, given the right circumstances and accurate information. Such is the case when Charles Bingley is injured and both Miss Elizabeth and Mr.Darcy come to his aide. This variation of pride and prejudice has some familiar characters and introduces some new one. I appreciated the interactions between Mr. Bennet , his family, especially Elizabeth and Mr.Darcy, something not fully explored before. This was such an enjoyable story I highly recommend it.
Funny thing about opinions, they can be altered, given the right circumstances and accurate information. Such is the case when Charles Bingley is injured and both Miss Elizabeth and Mr.Darcy come to his aide. This variation of pride and prejudice has some familiar characters and introduces some new one. I appreciated the interactions between Mr. Bennet , his family, especially Elizabeth and Mr.Darcy, something not fully explored before. This was such an enjoyable story I highly recommend it.
November 3, 2022
I’m sorry but this book is so bland. Mr Bingley is injured but then its immediately brushed aside for another plot line, the problem is that there is no other plot line. There’s this weird side plot with Denny and some OCs that is literally irrelevant. It makes no sense, about half way through I thought maybe it was building up to something, but no. Nothing happens in this book.
On the whole this read like a rough draft of multiple ideas that should’ve been abandoned because the story abandons itself anyway.
On the whole this read like a rough draft of multiple ideas that should’ve been abandoned because the story abandons itself anyway.
January 17, 2022
Bingley gets wind of Elizabeth's animosity
Bingley has an accident and while waiting for help to arrive, Elizabeth and Bingley have a conversation in which Lizzy expresses some of her opinions about Darcy. When Darcy learns of this it leads to some changes. I liked Mr Bennet in this story. There are some original characters, no explicit content.
Bingley has an accident and while waiting for help to arrive, Elizabeth and Bingley have a conversation in which Lizzy expresses some of her opinions about Darcy. When Darcy learns of this it leads to some changes. I liked Mr Bennet in this story. There are some original characters, no explicit content.
January 31, 2022
This is a sweet, fairly low-angst take where Darcy learns of Elizabeth’s bad opinion of him and works to earn her good opinion while still understanding his own feelings. As a result, their relationship is better and things come together sooner. There are still bumps in the road, but less misunderstandings. Enjoyable read.
April 29, 2022
Pleasant Surprise
There was much that I liked about this story. Things I liked:
Sweet, but realistic and not forced (no eye rolls.)
Bingley-he wasn't intimidated by Darcy.
Bennet- he behaved as a father should.
The way Mr. Bennett and Darcy convinced Elizabeth concerning Wickham.
Darcy defends Elizabeth.
Darcy and Elizabeth are adorable.
No over-the-top characters.
There was much that I liked about this story. Things I liked:
Sweet, but realistic and not forced (no eye rolls.)
Bingley-he wasn't intimidated by Darcy.
Bennet- he behaved as a father should.
The way Mr. Bennett and Darcy convinced Elizabeth concerning Wickham.
Darcy defends Elizabeth.
Darcy and Elizabeth are adorable.
No over-the-top characters.
July 26, 2024
I think that this is exactly how cannon Mr B would have dealt with Wickham's claims in company if he had only bothered to come out of the library and engage just a little bit.
Michelle D'Arcy did a very good job here (IMO) of keeping everyone in canon character with Bingley's accident the catalyst to changing the course of the story.
Michelle D'Arcy did a very good job here (IMO) of keeping everyone in canon character with Bingley's accident the catalyst to changing the course of the story.
December 16, 2021
Accident or Not?
This was particularly interesting and although the accident and immediate result were unpleasant and painful, the ensuing events between the favorite Mr. D and Miss E., were welcomed. I enjoyed the pleasant exchanges between the two.
A must read.
This was particularly interesting and although the accident and immediate result were unpleasant and painful, the ensuing events between the favorite Mr. D and Miss E., were welcomed. I enjoyed the pleasant exchanges between the two.
A must read.
March 12, 2023
Entertaining variation
An interesting storyline that is well written with enough additional characters to add variety to the story. I prefer longer stories, but this one was a good compromise in length. Enjoy.
An interesting storyline that is well written with enough additional characters to add variety to the story. I prefer longer stories, but this one was a good compromise in length. Enjoy.
July 16, 2023
Lizzy finds Mr. Bingley after a fall from his horse. While Darcy goes to get help Mr. Bingley and Lizzy talk about Mr. Darcy and he learns of her distain for him. The events allow Darcy to make changes before the Netherfield Ball.
December 13, 2025
Happy By Accident
A lovely short read for a P&P variation. It has enough angst without being boring. Though I dislike bad grammar, I refuse to correct when I find evidence of it anymore. This story has errors, but much less than other kindle unlimited books.
A lovely short read for a P&P variation. It has enough angst without being boring. Though I dislike bad grammar, I refuse to correct when I find evidence of it anymore. This story has errors, but much less than other kindle unlimited books.
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