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A Most Excellent Understanding: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
The first time I rejected a proposal of marriage, my suitor would not take ‘no’ for an answer, so I have resolved to be more forceful in any future ones.
ELIZABETH BENNET IS A LADY of decided opinions—especially about a certain Mr Darcy. When Colonel Fitzwilliam reveals that gentleman as the cause of her sister’s romantic woes, Elizabeth does not become angry or distraught. Instead, the news offers some relief, because it allows her to finally understand everything that happened in Hertfordshire the previous autumn. With this new knowledge, she acts to remove herself from the disagreeable company at Rosings.
FITZWILLIAM DARCY FINDS HIMSELF thoroughly confused by Elizabeth’s abrupt departure on the very day he thought to propose. Surprisingly, his cousin is reluctant to offer enlightenment as Darcy pursues Elizabeth to London, where he encounters a less than forgiving pair of Bennet sisters. Darcy must overcome his own reserve to explain himself, which is not easy as others require their share of conversation—especially as it concerns the Bingleys and any future alliance between Darcy and Elizabeth.
IN THIS HARD-FOUGHT BATTLE of wits, can Darcy find the words to prove himself worthy of Elizabeth’s good opinion and win her heart, or will she remain firm in her most decided opinion of the master of Pemberley?
ELIZABETH BENNET IS A LADY of decided opinions—especially about a certain Mr Darcy. When Colonel Fitzwilliam reveals that gentleman as the cause of her sister’s romantic woes, Elizabeth does not become angry or distraught. Instead, the news offers some relief, because it allows her to finally understand everything that happened in Hertfordshire the previous autumn. With this new knowledge, she acts to remove herself from the disagreeable company at Rosings.
FITZWILLIAM DARCY FINDS HIMSELF thoroughly confused by Elizabeth’s abrupt departure on the very day he thought to propose. Surprisingly, his cousin is reluctant to offer enlightenment as Darcy pursues Elizabeth to London, where he encounters a less than forgiving pair of Bennet sisters. Darcy must overcome his own reserve to explain himself, which is not easy as others require their share of conversation—especially as it concerns the Bingleys and any future alliance between Darcy and Elizabeth.
IN THIS HARD-FOUGHT BATTLE of wits, can Darcy find the words to prove himself worthy of Elizabeth’s good opinion and win her heart, or will she remain firm in her most decided opinion of the master of Pemberley?
250 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 6, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
May 22, 2022
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***
>>Rating: clean >>Angst Level: slightly stressful as we waited for the stubborn, headstrong, Lizzy to get over herself and her disdain for a certain man from Derbyshire. She seemed a bit young but soon came around. >>Source: I received an ARC via BookSprout [5-2-22]. The views and opinions expressed are my own. >>Timeline: Kent: The infamous conversation between Elizabeth and Colonel Fitzwilliam regarding Bingley and her sister. Elizabeth calmly asked the Colonel for a favor. Oh, dear. >>Trope: Jane has a backbone, stands her ground, and determines her own future. A Funny Lady Catherine leads the charge to Longbourn. Oh, my. A HEA for our Colonel. Yay!
“Understanding is the first step to acceptance, and only with acceptance can there be recovery.” –J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
I first read this in installments when our author Wade was posting on the forums. It was originally titled “That Explains Everything.” This was hilarious. Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam enjoyed a delightful conversation and stroll with Miss Elizabeth until he suddenly found himself between a rock and a hard place. On one side was his extremely confused cousin, Darcy. And on the other, was a recalcitrant and very determined Elizabeth Bennet. Oh, dear.
“Everything that irritates us about others can lead us to an understanding of ourselves.” –Carl Gustav Jung
Lady Catherine had an interesting interview with Elizabeth and determined that she liked her. Whut? I love a story that has a surprise twist where Lady Catherine is very different but oh so funny. This was one of those stories.
“I could easily forgive his pride if he had not mortified mine.” –Jane Austen, Pride and Prejudice
We were immediately caught up in Elizabeth trying to distance herself from Mr. Darcy and his not wanting her to do that. She was frustrated to the point of being obstinate and demanding of her own way. I’m glad Wade didn’t leave the reader in that state for very long. I hate when authors have a character holding tightly to any and all grudges for the entire story. Wade carefully led the reader, along with Elizabeth, through her feelings for Mr. Darcy. In the beginning, Elizabeth loathed, hated, and despised Darcy. She then slowly came to the point where she finally forgave his offenses and began to fall in love with him. It was a rocky road for sure fraught with obstacles at every turn. However, they were steady on a course toward their HEA. Darcy was one determined man. His declarations were so swoon-worthy. Heavy sigh.
“Any fool knows men and women think differently at times, but the biggest difference is this. Men forget, but never forgive; women forgive, but never forget.” –Robert Jordan
Thank goodness we didn’t have a lot of dealings with Longbourn. They were mostly off-the-page, thank you, Wade. Lady Catherine made her presence known to all she considered within her purview. Her arrival at Longbourn put the inhabitants on their ears. She took no prisoners. I just loved her and Anne de Bourgh. What fun. This was a twist you don’t normally see. This was just an amazing story.
Jane Bennet came into her own in this story. The blinders were off and she saw the world for what it was. She demonstrated her backbone and tackled the Bingley siblings head-on and put paid to any aspirations in that quarter. She was amazing. I highly recommend this as an exciting variation on our P&P story. I am looking forward to more of Wade’s stories finding their way to print.
>>Rating: clean >>Angst Level: slightly stressful as we waited for the stubborn, headstrong, Lizzy to get over herself and her disdain for a certain man from Derbyshire. She seemed a bit young but soon came around. >>Source: I received an ARC via BookSprout [5-2-22]. The views and opinions expressed are my own. >>Timeline: Kent: The infamous conversation between Elizabeth and Colonel Fitzwilliam regarding Bingley and her sister. Elizabeth calmly asked the Colonel for a favor. Oh, dear. >>Trope: Jane has a backbone, stands her ground, and determines her own future. A Funny Lady Catherine leads the charge to Longbourn. Oh, my. A HEA for our Colonel. Yay!
“Understanding is the first step to acceptance, and only with acceptance can there be recovery.” –J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
I first read this in installments when our author Wade was posting on the forums. It was originally titled “That Explains Everything.” This was hilarious. Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam enjoyed a delightful conversation and stroll with Miss Elizabeth until he suddenly found himself between a rock and a hard place. On one side was his extremely confused cousin, Darcy. And on the other, was a recalcitrant and very determined Elizabeth Bennet. Oh, dear.
“Everything that irritates us about others can lead us to an understanding of ourselves.” –Carl Gustav Jung
Lady Catherine had an interesting interview with Elizabeth and determined that she liked her. Whut? I love a story that has a surprise twist where Lady Catherine is very different but oh so funny. This was one of those stories.
“I could easily forgive his pride if he had not mortified mine.” –Jane Austen, Pride and Prejudice
We were immediately caught up in Elizabeth trying to distance herself from Mr. Darcy and his not wanting her to do that. She was frustrated to the point of being obstinate and demanding of her own way. I’m glad Wade didn’t leave the reader in that state for very long. I hate when authors have a character holding tightly to any and all grudges for the entire story. Wade carefully led the reader, along with Elizabeth, through her feelings for Mr. Darcy. In the beginning, Elizabeth loathed, hated, and despised Darcy. She then slowly came to the point where she finally forgave his offenses and began to fall in love with him. It was a rocky road for sure fraught with obstacles at every turn. However, they were steady on a course toward their HEA. Darcy was one determined man. His declarations were so swoon-worthy. Heavy sigh.
“Any fool knows men and women think differently at times, but the biggest difference is this. Men forget, but never forgive; women forgive, but never forget.” –Robert Jordan
Thank goodness we didn’t have a lot of dealings with Longbourn. They were mostly off-the-page, thank you, Wade. Lady Catherine made her presence known to all she considered within her purview. Her arrival at Longbourn put the inhabitants on their ears. She took no prisoners. I just loved her and Anne de Bourgh. What fun. This was a twist you don’t normally see. This was just an amazing story.
Jane Bennet came into her own in this story. The blinders were off and she saw the world for what it was. She demonstrated her backbone and tackled the Bingley siblings head-on and put paid to any aspirations in that quarter. She was amazing. I highly recommend this as an exciting variation on our P&P story. I am looking forward to more of Wade’s stories finding their way to print.
August 19, 2024
A fun, fast paced read, with sweet moments.
When Elizabeth, while visiting Hunsford, learns from Col. F what Darcy did to "save" Bingley, she thinks it is all her fault Darcy created the separation. She teased him so much he for sure despises her! Going on the offensive she requests assistance from both the Colonel and Lady C, taking her and the P&P love story in a completely different direction from canon.
Darcy, is appalled to find Elizabeth not only dislikes him so, but that she thinks he disparages her, when it is in fact quite the opposite. He resolves to make amends for Jane's sake, for the great wrong he did her. Also hoping to change E's feelings as part of the process.
The scene in which he thoroughly lays himself bare before Jane and Elizabeth in Gracechurch street is quite poignant. Jane is forgiving, however her eyes have also been open to the realities of the world she lives in. Elizabeth needs more of - everything - to get to a warmer frame of mind.
The development of love between several people (no spoilers) was charmingly written. This is no high-drama, angst filled epic. It is an enjoyable story that flows effortlessly from scene to scene, with a great set-down for Caroline at Rosings to boot!
I imagine reading this again on a lazy summer afternoon and smiling the whole read thru.
A very talented writer, I congratulate Wade H. Mann's first foray into the world of professional publication and applaud Q&Q for giving him that boost.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When Elizabeth, while visiting Hunsford, learns from Col. F what Darcy did to "save" Bingley, she thinks it is all her fault Darcy created the separation. She teased him so much he for sure despises her! Going on the offensive she requests assistance from both the Colonel and Lady C, taking her and the P&P love story in a completely different direction from canon.
Darcy, is appalled to find Elizabeth not only dislikes him so, but that she thinks he disparages her, when it is in fact quite the opposite. He resolves to make amends for Jane's sake, for the great wrong he did her. Also hoping to change E's feelings as part of the process.
The scene in which he thoroughly lays himself bare before Jane and Elizabeth in Gracechurch street is quite poignant. Jane is forgiving, however her eyes have also been open to the realities of the world she lives in. Elizabeth needs more of - everything - to get to a warmer frame of mind.
The development of love between several people (no spoilers) was charmingly written. This is no high-drama, angst filled epic. It is an enjoyable story that flows effortlessly from scene to scene, with a great set-down for Caroline at Rosings to boot!
I imagine reading this again on a lazy summer afternoon and smiling the whole read thru.
A very talented writer, I congratulate Wade H. Mann's first foray into the world of professional publication and applaud Q&Q for giving him that boost.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 10, 2022
4.5 stars rounded up to 5 stars
I don't read much fanfiction as I have a subscription to Kindle Unlimited and that keeps me well supplied with more stories than I find time to read. Thus, I have read only one of Wade's stories although I have been aware of his prolific amount of unpublished works.
We begin in Kent where Elizabeth, while walking with Colonel Fitzwilliam, learns of Darcy's interference in the relationship between her sister and Bingley. However in this version, Elizabeth enlightens the Colonel as to whom the lady was and gains a promise from him that he will not inform Darcy of their conversation until she is no longer in the same shire. Then, Elizabeth goes to Lady Catherine and asks a favor. I was pleasantly surprised to read of a different reaction from Lady C. than I expected.
That favor gains the attention of Darcy, inadvertently, but Elizabeth is vehement in her refusal of his help.
Soon Darcy learns the reason and, here again, I was happy to read how he travels to Cheapside and has an all-revealing conversation with both Elizabeth and Jane...yes, Jane.
Jane's reactions had me applauding. She now knows who to blame and it isn't all Darcy! And as we read on I found it interesting as to whom her attentions were drawn.
THEN we have Lady C. coming to Longbourn. Here again I was really happy as to how that turned out. Lady Catherine takes charge of educating and guiding ???. Now I won't SPOIL that for you. Lydia also is educated about what a future would look like with one of those men-in-red-coats of whom she is so fond. That was handled very creatively.
Through all of this Darcy builds a friendship with both Bennet sisters at the Gardiners' house and brings Georgiana into that relationship. And, of course, ODC begins to really know each other. I liked the time-line set up between them - even before love was a factor for Elizabeth.
I thoroughly enjoyed this first venture into publication by Wade and look forward to more. I highly recommend this variation on P&P.
I don't read much fanfiction as I have a subscription to Kindle Unlimited and that keeps me well supplied with more stories than I find time to read. Thus, I have read only one of Wade's stories although I have been aware of his prolific amount of unpublished works.
We begin in Kent where Elizabeth, while walking with Colonel Fitzwilliam, learns of Darcy's interference in the relationship between her sister and Bingley. However in this version, Elizabeth enlightens the Colonel as to whom the lady was and gains a promise from him that he will not inform Darcy of their conversation until she is no longer in the same shire. Then, Elizabeth goes to Lady Catherine and asks a favor. I was pleasantly surprised to read of a different reaction from Lady C. than I expected.
That favor gains the attention of Darcy, inadvertently, but Elizabeth is vehement in her refusal of his help.
Soon Darcy learns the reason and, here again, I was happy to read how he travels to Cheapside and has an all-revealing conversation with both Elizabeth and Jane...yes, Jane.
Jane's reactions had me applauding. She now knows who to blame and it isn't all Darcy! And as we read on I found it interesting as to whom her attentions were drawn.
THEN we have Lady C. coming to Longbourn. Here again I was really happy as to how that turned out. Lady Catherine takes charge of educating and guiding ???. Now I won't SPOIL that for you. Lydia also is educated about what a future would look like with one of those men-in-red-coats of whom she is so fond. That was handled very creatively.
Through all of this Darcy builds a friendship with both Bennet sisters at the Gardiners' house and brings Georgiana into that relationship. And, of course, ODC begins to really know each other. I liked the time-line set up between them - even before love was a factor for Elizabeth.
I thoroughly enjoyed this first venture into publication by Wade and look forward to more. I highly recommend this variation on P&P.
June 6, 2022
"Without that initial insult at the assembly, how would she have seen Mr. Darcy? (quote from the book)
When Colonel Fitzwilliam reveals Mr. Darcy's part in separating Mr. Bingley from her beloved sister, Jane, Elizabeth feels she is responsible for his actions along with the rest of her family. I was completely taken by surprise by Elizabeth extracting a promise from Colonel Fiztwilliam and her request immediately after.
"It was a revelation to Darcy, gaining insight through his sister into the mind of a lady such as Elizabeth Bennet. He had no idea how it felt to be powerless, to have an entail hanging over your head, to have a critical mother, or to have to wait for a man to make a declaration." (quote from the book)
With help of his sister, Georgiana, along with Mr. Gardiner, Mr. Darcy embarks on a quest for forgiveness that completely captured my heart. I thoroughly enjoyed this dialogue driven rendering that gave new insight into the hearts and minds of Elizabeth and Jane Bennet...an angry Jane was a sight to behold!
"Allow me to save you from yourself...just this once." (quote from the book)
There is much to enjoy in this well written debut novel. Mr. Wade has been writing fan fiction for sometime, and I am thrilled to finally read it in its polished state. Bravo!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When Colonel Fitzwilliam reveals Mr. Darcy's part in separating Mr. Bingley from her beloved sister, Jane, Elizabeth feels she is responsible for his actions along with the rest of her family. I was completely taken by surprise by Elizabeth extracting a promise from Colonel Fiztwilliam and her request immediately after.
"It was a revelation to Darcy, gaining insight through his sister into the mind of a lady such as Elizabeth Bennet. He had no idea how it felt to be powerless, to have an entail hanging over your head, to have a critical mother, or to have to wait for a man to make a declaration." (quote from the book)
With help of his sister, Georgiana, along with Mr. Gardiner, Mr. Darcy embarks on a quest for forgiveness that completely captured my heart. I thoroughly enjoyed this dialogue driven rendering that gave new insight into the hearts and minds of Elizabeth and Jane Bennet...an angry Jane was a sight to behold!
"Allow me to save you from yourself...just this once." (quote from the book)
There is much to enjoy in this well written debut novel. Mr. Wade has been writing fan fiction for sometime, and I am thrilled to finally read it in its polished state. Bravo!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 10, 2025
Wonderfully witty and charmingly romantic - the whole package
This is an absolute treat for the Pride and Prejudice connoisseur. Elizabeth Bennet is at her wittiest and makes very sure that Mr Darcy realises exactly how far he transgressed in his behaviour in Hertfordshire. Once the poor man has realised how far he truly fell he is given the opportunity to find his way back and make a place for himself in her affections.
Colonel Fitzwilliam does not escape his well-deserved ticking off for his shocking gossiping either - the matrons of Meryton would be proud to gossip with such skill. The biggest revelation however is Jane Bennet. The author has written a most delightful Jane who is not afraid to speak her mind. All those years growing up with Elizabeth have clearly made their mark.
This book is rich with dialogue which is used to move the story forward effortlessly. Much of the story hangs on a handful of conversations which transform the extended Bennet, Fitzwilliam, De Bourgh and Darcy families.
The Bingleys receive the most glorious comeuppance for their behaviour in Hertfordshire - I almost felt sorry for Caroline.
This author is well known in the world of fan fiction but this first foray into the published world is masterful. The editing is tight, the language is delightful and filled with humour. I shall definitely return to his author again.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is an absolute treat for the Pride and Prejudice connoisseur. Elizabeth Bennet is at her wittiest and makes very sure that Mr Darcy realises exactly how far he transgressed in his behaviour in Hertfordshire. Once the poor man has realised how far he truly fell he is given the opportunity to find his way back and make a place for himself in her affections.
Colonel Fitzwilliam does not escape his well-deserved ticking off for his shocking gossiping either - the matrons of Meryton would be proud to gossip with such skill. The biggest revelation however is Jane Bennet. The author has written a most delightful Jane who is not afraid to speak her mind. All those years growing up with Elizabeth have clearly made their mark.
This book is rich with dialogue which is used to move the story forward effortlessly. Much of the story hangs on a handful of conversations which transform the extended Bennet, Fitzwilliam, De Bourgh and Darcy families.
The Bingleys receive the most glorious comeuppance for their behaviour in Hertfordshire - I almost felt sorry for Caroline.
This author is well known in the world of fan fiction but this first foray into the published world is masterful. The editing is tight, the language is delightful and filled with humour. I shall definitely return to his author again.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 7, 2022
nearly angst free
New author I believe and a very nice short novel. Not much angst here. Darcy voluntarily goes through a personality change voluntarily. Sheds his pride and arrogance with nary a hiccup. He then apologizes to Jane and Lizzy. The rest of the story is about Lizzy and Darcy courting and a new beau for Jane.
Very calm and pleasant read. Thumbs up for a first story.
New author I believe and a very nice short novel. Not much angst here. Darcy voluntarily goes through a personality change voluntarily. Sheds his pride and arrogance with nary a hiccup. He then apologizes to Jane and Lizzy. The rest of the story is about Lizzy and Darcy courting and a new beau for Jane.
Very calm and pleasant read. Thumbs up for a first story.
June 8, 2022
Dialogue Rich
Congrats to WadeH’s debut publication! As I love dialogue, I was delighted to read the many exchanges among the characters in this entertaining story. I thought the portrayals were excellent and I especially enjoyed this Jane, who displayed quite a backbone. Honorable mention to Georgiana for standing up to Miss Bingley too!
I hope to see more published work from this popular fan fiction writer in the future. Well done!
Congrats to WadeH’s debut publication! As I love dialogue, I was delighted to read the many exchanges among the characters in this entertaining story. I thought the portrayals were excellent and I especially enjoyed this Jane, who displayed quite a backbone. Honorable mention to Georgiana for standing up to Miss Bingley too!
I hope to see more published work from this popular fan fiction writer in the future. Well done!
July 20, 2022
Have you ever wondered how the story would have went if the romance pair had simply sat down and talked out their difficulties? New to me author, Wade H Mann, explores that very idea in his charming, gentle Pride and Prejudice variation tale.
What if wealthy, connected, very eligible and somewhat proud gentleman Fitzwilliam Darcy discovered his true love’s feelings about him were quite the opposite before he ever approached her with a marriage proposal? What if he immediately follows up the bad impression he has made with a sincere apology and makes restitution? Mr. Darcy gets a reset and a new chance at romance with the spirited Miss Elizabeth Bennet.
A Most Excellent Understanding is an apropos title for this story. For all of us who have ever hated upon the ‘miscommunication’ trope for romantic conflict, this book is the antidote. The romance pair actually sit down and talk and hash out their mistaken impressions, their mistakes, and their feelings. I was all agape and enjoyed it thoroughly as a refreshing change and, as a result, quite the lowest angst romance I’ve read in some time.
And, it wasn’t just the romance pair setting things right. I loved seeing Elizabeth’s gentle, kind oldest sister show that Miss Jane Bennet is more than a pretty face and expects to be respected as such. Whew, this gal took it to Darcy, to her sister, and most certainly to the man who broke her heart and thought a smile and charm would win back her good graces.
The book is full of dialogue and short on action, but the fun way the characters develop and get through their issues kept it from being bland or lagging. I enjoyed seeing the ripple effect of Darcy approaching Elizabeth and Jane to resolve their issues to this leading to further past people and issues that were dealt with in similar manner. I cheered when that slimy villain Wickham and the snide Miss Bingley got their comeuppance and crossed my fingers that a certain secondary romance would happen and it did.
All in all, it was entertaining and charming. I had a good time with where this easy going, quick-read story went. For those who love an abundance of communication, sassy gals, and sweet romancing of classic Austen characters, I recommend you come to A Most Excellent Understanding.
I rec'd a finished copy from Quills and Quartos to read in exchange for an honest review.
My review will post at Caffeinated Reviewer TBA.
What if wealthy, connected, very eligible and somewhat proud gentleman Fitzwilliam Darcy discovered his true love’s feelings about him were quite the opposite before he ever approached her with a marriage proposal? What if he immediately follows up the bad impression he has made with a sincere apology and makes restitution? Mr. Darcy gets a reset and a new chance at romance with the spirited Miss Elizabeth Bennet.
A Most Excellent Understanding is an apropos title for this story. For all of us who have ever hated upon the ‘miscommunication’ trope for romantic conflict, this book is the antidote. The romance pair actually sit down and talk and hash out their mistaken impressions, their mistakes, and their feelings. I was all agape and enjoyed it thoroughly as a refreshing change and, as a result, quite the lowest angst romance I’ve read in some time.
And, it wasn’t just the romance pair setting things right. I loved seeing Elizabeth’s gentle, kind oldest sister show that Miss Jane Bennet is more than a pretty face and expects to be respected as such. Whew, this gal took it to Darcy, to her sister, and most certainly to the man who broke her heart and thought a smile and charm would win back her good graces.
The book is full of dialogue and short on action, but the fun way the characters develop and get through their issues kept it from being bland or lagging. I enjoyed seeing the ripple effect of Darcy approaching Elizabeth and Jane to resolve their issues to this leading to further past people and issues that were dealt with in similar manner. I cheered when that slimy villain Wickham and the snide Miss Bingley got their comeuppance and crossed my fingers that a certain secondary romance would happen and it did.
All in all, it was entertaining and charming. I had a good time with where this easy going, quick-read story went. For those who love an abundance of communication, sassy gals, and sweet romancing of classic Austen characters, I recommend you come to A Most Excellent Understanding.
I rec'd a finished copy from Quills and Quartos to read in exchange for an honest review.
My review will post at Caffeinated Reviewer TBA.
May 20, 2022
This is a well written P&P variation where after a misunderstanding at Rosings, Darcy follows Elizabeth to the Gardiner’s house in London. There Darcy must apologize and make amends not only to Elizabeth, but to Jane as well. His intentions are made clear and there is a lot of discussion about, well, everything. The characters themselves admit to speaking more freely than they normally would, and it makes for an interesting story. Everything takes place in either London, Kent or Hertfordshire; and there is a small cast with no new characters except the butler at Rosings. It’s heavy on dialogue and light on action, but there are some fun new twists and turns to the story, and practically no angst. Lady Catherine and Anne take on new roles and Caroline gets a marvelous set down. There was mention in the beginning of Darcy throwing Jane into the path of other rich men, but that becomes quite unnecessary by the end (though I would have liked to have seen that). This was a very pleasant way to spend a few hours with my favorite characters.
I received an ebook via Booksprout and voluntarily leave this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received an ebook via Booksprout and voluntarily leave this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 6, 2022
Miss Judge, with a mind warped by the strongest prejudices, this lady exalts herself to pronounce sentence upon people's words and actions. She is closely related to Miss Construe and Miss Conception, to whom she is warmly attached, and greatly influenced by their counsel. ~ Angeline E. Alexander, "A Sisterhood of Spinsters," 1885
“A Most Excellent Understanding” begins with Elizabeth Bennet’s walk with Colonel Fitzwilliam when he gossips about Fitzwilliam Darcy’s success in saving a man he assumes to be Charles Bingley from a most imprudent marriage.
Elizabeth’s reaction varies from canon: “You see, Mr. Darcy separated his friend from my sister Jane because of her family. More specifically, he separated them because of me.”
Colonel Fitzwilliam does not follow Elizabeth’s logic. In fact, he must attempt to change the course of the non-courtship without any solid evidence.
Quote from the book: He could only rely on the evidence of the two principals' interactions at Rosings and second-hand reports of their time in Hertfordshire. He felt as though he had to commit his troops to battle with no intelligence but three scouts, all drunk, delivering contradictory reports.
I've learned this about judging people — you can have all the facts and not know the true story. ~ Robert Brault
The story continues in London where Darcy visits the Bennet sisters at the Gardiners’ home. He begins at the beginning with apologies to both Jane and Elizabeth. Will his apology be accepted? How about this for the sisters’ reactions:
Jane protested angrily and vigorously. “I had no idea that you too were judging me, sir. Every hour of every day, I must try to please and pay heed to my mother, my father, my suitor, the neighbourhood gossips, and the rules of propriety — all while being completely unaware that I had to please you as well! Show too much affection and I am forward. Show too little and I am mercenary. You really do take on too much, sir. The path is not narrow. It is non-existent!”
Elizabeth wanted to scream… or to throw something... or worst of all, agree.
Morality is simply the attitude we adopt towards people whom we personally dislike. ~ Oscar Wilde
The best parts of this story involve the secondary characters.
Colonel Fitzwilliam deals with George Wickham, once and for all. He also has a clever way with coins to explain the financial facts of life to Lydia Bennet. Loved it!
Lady Catherine accepts a decision from Anne and puts her talents to better use. Charles Bingley and the younger Bennet sisters are the benefactors.
Georgiana deals with the Bingley shrew — uh, the lovely Miss Caroline.
And Jane has a Brain! I loved her!
We are each burdened with prejudice; against the poor or the rich, the smart or the slow, the gaunt or the obese. It is natural to develop prejudices. It is noble to rise above them. ~ Author unknown
I have been a fan of this author since his first stories appeared on FF-net. I even read to the end of the story about Math! Congratulations to Wade for taking that giant step into publication. I recommended his stories to friends at GoodReads when they were non-published. I will now recommend them to everyone!
It is never too late to give up our prejudices. ~ Henry David Thoreau
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
“A Most Excellent Understanding” begins with Elizabeth Bennet’s walk with Colonel Fitzwilliam when he gossips about Fitzwilliam Darcy’s success in saving a man he assumes to be Charles Bingley from a most imprudent marriage.
Elizabeth’s reaction varies from canon: “You see, Mr. Darcy separated his friend from my sister Jane because of her family. More specifically, he separated them because of me.”
Colonel Fitzwilliam does not follow Elizabeth’s logic. In fact, he must attempt to change the course of the non-courtship without any solid evidence.
Quote from the book: He could only rely on the evidence of the two principals' interactions at Rosings and second-hand reports of their time in Hertfordshire. He felt as though he had to commit his troops to battle with no intelligence but three scouts, all drunk, delivering contradictory reports.
I've learned this about judging people — you can have all the facts and not know the true story. ~ Robert Brault
The story continues in London where Darcy visits the Bennet sisters at the Gardiners’ home. He begins at the beginning with apologies to both Jane and Elizabeth. Will his apology be accepted? How about this for the sisters’ reactions:
Jane protested angrily and vigorously. “I had no idea that you too were judging me, sir. Every hour of every day, I must try to please and pay heed to my mother, my father, my suitor, the neighbourhood gossips, and the rules of propriety — all while being completely unaware that I had to please you as well! Show too much affection and I am forward. Show too little and I am mercenary. You really do take on too much, sir. The path is not narrow. It is non-existent!”
Elizabeth wanted to scream… or to throw something... or worst of all, agree.
Morality is simply the attitude we adopt towards people whom we personally dislike. ~ Oscar Wilde
The best parts of this story involve the secondary characters.
Colonel Fitzwilliam deals with George Wickham, once and for all. He also has a clever way with coins to explain the financial facts of life to Lydia Bennet. Loved it!
Lady Catherine accepts a decision from Anne and puts her talents to better use. Charles Bingley and the younger Bennet sisters are the benefactors.
Georgiana deals with the Bingley shrew — uh, the lovely Miss Caroline.
And Jane has a Brain! I loved her!
We are each burdened with prejudice; against the poor or the rich, the smart or the slow, the gaunt or the obese. It is natural to develop prejudices. It is noble to rise above them. ~ Author unknown
I have been a fan of this author since his first stories appeared on FF-net. I even read to the end of the story about Math! Congratulations to Wade for taking that giant step into publication. I recommended his stories to friends at GoodReads when they were non-published. I will now recommend them to everyone!
It is never too late to give up our prejudices. ~ Henry David Thoreau
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 12, 2022
Was excited to read this book, but was unfortunately disappointed :( I know my rating is in the minority as most reviews were highly rated, but I could not get past how OOC Darcy, Jane and Elizabeth were nor how frank/blunt their conversations were. Where is Elizabeth who knew how to put someone in their place with subtlety? Or Jane who is so kind she thought Wickham could not really be that bad when Elizabeth told her the tale Darcy shared about his sister in canon? Too much conversations without enough actions. Lots of “telling” and not much of any “showing” too. I simply couldn’t get past all this so I DNF at 30%. Didn’t see any misspellings from what I read so gave an extra star for that.
June 15, 2022
I loved following this author on fanfiction! I can't wait to read the edited version of this story. It was my least favorite of his stories but it was definitely still a winner. I like that he tends to write a strong Elizabeth.
September 11, 2022
This author always presents the best conversations. This story starts when Colonel Fitzwilliam tells Elizabeth Bennet about what Darcy did for Bingley. The very thorough and honest conversations from that point lead our dear couple to their happily ever after.
May 12, 2022
When Colonel Fitzwilliam tells Elizabeth about Darcy's interference with Bingley she doesn't understand how anybody could have anything against sweet Jane so she concludes that Darcy must have objected to Jane's family mostly because he hates Elizabeth so much. When this comes to Darcy's attention he presents himself at the Gardiners' in order to apologize and explain himself to both Jane and Lizzy. Darcy and Lizzy enter a courtship, which they limit to two months, agreeing to either marry or part forever after that period of time. I thought Darcy would be more apprehensive about this but apparently he is quite confident about his ability to charm Elizabeth in that time as he is happy to go along with it. The plan is to court quietly in London for some weeks before any public outings that could result in gossip, and return to Meryton for the last month of courting. However, it doesn't take much time before everyone starts speaking of the eventual engagement as a foregone conclusion, and these plans become moot.
This story is quite dialogue-heavy and so Darcy's lengthy, enlightening conversation that results in the courtship lasts for several chapters. There is not a great deal of action otherwise, just more talking. Darcy , Elizabeth et al. visit Lady Catherine and Anne in Kent, for more conversations. This Lady Catherine is pretty benign and forgiving and eventually turns out quite useful for the Bennet family (she loves to be useful so this works out well for everyone.) Jane planned to give the Bingleys the cold shoulder quietly but when the sisters attempt to meddle (I'm not sure how they found out about Darcy courting Elizabeth) this results in more conversations and setdowns.
A Most Excellent Understanding is the author's debut novel, in the sense that it's the first professional publication, but he's been a prolific writer on the fan fiction scene for years. His stories tend to be humorous, and the author would never let period language get in the way of a good joke. I have enjoyed a WIP draft version of this before (it was titled That Explains Everything) and I am glad to see a published version that benefits from thorough proofreading and professional polish. It's not a perfect book but I gave it five stars because it has lasted several rereads and still amuses me. The pace may feel a little unbalanced as Darcy's explanations and apologies during a single conversation at the Gardiners take up nearly a fifth of the pages. Steam level: Not really.
I received a free copy of this book and this is a voluntary review.
This story is quite dialogue-heavy and so Darcy's lengthy, enlightening conversation that results in the courtship lasts for several chapters. There is not a great deal of action otherwise, just more talking. Darcy , Elizabeth et al. visit Lady Catherine and Anne in Kent, for more conversations. This Lady Catherine is pretty benign and forgiving and eventually turns out quite useful for the Bennet family (she loves to be useful so this works out well for everyone.) Jane planned to give the Bingleys the cold shoulder quietly but when the sisters attempt to meddle (I'm not sure how they found out about Darcy courting Elizabeth) this results in more conversations and setdowns.
A Most Excellent Understanding is the author's debut novel, in the sense that it's the first professional publication, but he's been a prolific writer on the fan fiction scene for years. His stories tend to be humorous, and the author would never let period language get in the way of a good joke. I have enjoyed a WIP draft version of this before (it was titled That Explains Everything) and I am glad to see a published version that benefits from thorough proofreading and professional polish. It's not a perfect book but I gave it five stars because it has lasted several rereads and still amuses me. The pace may feel a little unbalanced as Darcy's explanations and apologies during a single conversation at the Gardiners take up nearly a fifth of the pages. Steam level: Not really.
I received a free copy of this book and this is a voluntary review.
July 17, 2023
An amusing story written in a unique style. This is the first published work I've read by this author and I enjoyed every word.
June 8, 2022
If well written conversations are your jam you’ll love this book.
June 12, 2022
This is an excellent book. I want to say how happy I was to find that a publisher found Wade Mann worthy of publishing one of his stories and I hope they will take many of his others and publish them. I have been a fan of Wade’s work for a long time now.
What I loved about this book was just inventive and creative Wade chose to take the story. It starts out with Elizabeth’s visit to hunsford and her conversation with colonel Fitzwiliam. From there it takes a turn and brings in a lot of sense. Colonel Fitzwilliam has promised not to tell Darcy anything as to why Elizabeth Bennet is leaving Kent and does not want his assistance. From there the story takes on a new life but still has the main characters as they begin to understand the reasons and why”s of what has happened.
I would say if you want an intelligent book with reason and not so much fluff and nonsense this is the book for you. This is an actual book, not some short story or partitioned off story. I love that!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
What I loved about this book was just inventive and creative Wade chose to take the story. It starts out with Elizabeth’s visit to hunsford and her conversation with colonel Fitzwiliam. From there it takes a turn and brings in a lot of sense. Colonel Fitzwilliam has promised not to tell Darcy anything as to why Elizabeth Bennet is leaving Kent and does not want his assistance. From there the story takes on a new life but still has the main characters as they begin to understand the reasons and why”s of what has happened.
I would say if you want an intelligent book with reason and not so much fluff and nonsense this is the book for you. This is an actual book, not some short story or partitioned off story. I love that!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 18, 2022
The story begins in Rosings, when Colonel Fitzwilliam ends up informing Elizabeth Bennet of Mr. Darcy on the separation of her beloved sister Jane from Mr. Bingley.
Not being able to see flaws in her sister, that justify such an action, she concluded, that the reason would be the contempt that Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy feels for her, evidencing from the first interactions between the two.
To spare Mr. Darcy from her presence, Elizabeth returns early to London, where she shares the information she has received and her conclusions with her sister.
Shortly after, Mr. Darcy is informed of the conversation that took place in Kent and tells his cousin his true feelings for Elizabeth.
What follows is the search for Mr. Darcy to reverse Elizabeth's image of him and obtain her hand in marriage.
He has as allies, his sister Georgiana, his cousin Colonel Fitzwilliam, always fun and a determined and more mature Jane Bennett.
An agile and witty text that flows easily and holds attention until the end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Not being able to see flaws in her sister, that justify such an action, she concluded, that the reason would be the contempt that Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy feels for her, evidencing from the first interactions between the two.
To spare Mr. Darcy from her presence, Elizabeth returns early to London, where she shares the information she has received and her conclusions with her sister.
Shortly after, Mr. Darcy is informed of the conversation that took place in Kent and tells his cousin his true feelings for Elizabeth.
What follows is the search for Mr. Darcy to reverse Elizabeth's image of him and obtain her hand in marriage.
He has as allies, his sister Georgiana, his cousin Colonel Fitzwilliam, always fun and a determined and more mature Jane Bennett.
An agile and witty text that flows easily and holds attention until the end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 11, 2022
I feel that I read this or at least some of this as a FF
And also let me say I have been a HUGE Wade H fan for a long time (June of 2017 which is like a decade in P&P Years) So I was absolutely thrilled to learn that he was now part of Quills and Quartos
This book is glorious if you are in the mood for uplifting.
In this story Darcy doesn't mess up the Hunsford proposal as he doesn't make it and he is told that Lizzy doesn't like him and he sets about to resolve that issue like an adult by talking and Jane - oh my - Jane is revealed to be anything but a spineless doormat. and Lizzy is reasonable and thoughtful and Lady Catherine is consulted until she thinks Lizzy and Darcy was practically her idea and she tames Mrs. Bennet and the younger girls
And even Anne deBourgh speaks as she finds.
Also this book is laugh aloud funny.
I loved it I can't wait for more
And also let me say I have been a HUGE Wade H fan for a long time (June of 2017 which is like a decade in P&P Years) So I was absolutely thrilled to learn that he was now part of Quills and Quartos
This book is glorious if you are in the mood for uplifting.
In this story Darcy doesn't mess up the Hunsford proposal as he doesn't make it and he is told that Lizzy doesn't like him and he sets about to resolve that issue like an adult by talking and Jane - oh my - Jane is revealed to be anything but a spineless doormat. and Lizzy is reasonable and thoughtful and Lady Catherine is consulted until she thinks Lizzy and Darcy was practically her idea and she tames Mrs. Bennet and the younger girls
And even Anne deBourgh speaks as she finds.
Also this book is laugh aloud funny.
I loved it I can't wait for more
June 6, 2022
Review also posted on my blog
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/...
In most Pride and prejudice variations, when Elizabeth Bennet discovers that Fitzwilliam Darcy separated her beloved sister from his friend Bingley, the result is usually fury and fireworks.
Here, Elizabeth decides that Darcy has done this because he despises her.
Her response is to remove herself from his presence.
Given that Darcy is actually in love with her, this baffles him.
When he follows Elizabeth to London, Darcy finds himself having a very awkward conversation with both Elizabeth and Jane Bennet, explaining himself and giving heartfelt apologies.
After this, Darcy works hard to make amends and prove himself worthy of Elizabeth.
This is an enjoyable read and is very funny in places. It is interesting to see canon characters presented in a different way. Jane with a temper and steely resolve is great. Lady Catherine has a unique role at Longbourn.
Colonel Fitzwilliam does some blunt speaking and Wickham joins the Navy!
I especially appreciated the Bingley’s getting a massive set down.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/...
In most Pride and prejudice variations, when Elizabeth Bennet discovers that Fitzwilliam Darcy separated her beloved sister from his friend Bingley, the result is usually fury and fireworks.
Here, Elizabeth decides that Darcy has done this because he despises her.
Her response is to remove herself from his presence.
Given that Darcy is actually in love with her, this baffles him.
When he follows Elizabeth to London, Darcy finds himself having a very awkward conversation with both Elizabeth and Jane Bennet, explaining himself and giving heartfelt apologies.
After this, Darcy works hard to make amends and prove himself worthy of Elizabeth.
This is an enjoyable read and is very funny in places. It is interesting to see canon characters presented in a different way. Jane with a temper and steely resolve is great. Lady Catherine has a unique role at Longbourn.
Colonel Fitzwilliam does some blunt speaking and Wickham joins the Navy!
I especially appreciated the Bingley’s getting a massive set down.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 8, 2022
I’m sorry but this book was filled with an excess of self righteousness and contrition for my taste. I couldn’t bring myself to finish it and can never see Elizabeth being attracted to a Darcy she could wipe the floor with. All that grovelling for forgiveness! Taking turns to deliver set downs to the Bingley trio while they all look on in enjoyment. And to crown it all Anne marries Bingley?!? Sorry - this book was not for my tastes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 28, 2022
Review Published at:
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
In A Most Excellent Understanding Elizabeth learns while she is in Kent that it was Darcy who separated Jane from Bingley, so she decides to return earlier to London. When Mr. Darcy learns why she departed, he decides to follow her and ask both her and Jane for forgiveness. After a most sincere conversation between the three of them, the story continues with Elizabeth and Darcy in a much closer relationship then they had prior to his admissions, so readers who like it when this couple get together earlier in the story will certainly enjoy this plotline.
I found the premise of a Most Excellent Understanding interesting, and I particularly liked the initial chapters in which Elizabeth is able to create several humorous situations with her heated reactions to what she has just discovered. It is visible from the start that this book has a fresh style that is appealing and invites readers to continue reading the story.
However, even though I enjoyed the freshness of the writing style, I also had a hard time adjusting to everyone’s bluntness. It appeared that everybody said exactly what was on their mind to everybody else. I didn’t see the usual restrain people living in this era would have in social interactions and that was a quibble for me. Even Georgiana lectures Mr. Bingley for being persuaded to leave Netherfield in front of Jane, Anne and Colonel Fitzwilliam, that was something I found not only out of character, but also not in accordance with the behaviour ladies would have in the 1810’s.
Jane Bennet is an important character in this book, and she is much stronger and less forgiving than what we are used to, which is something I personally like, but the changes in her character also seemed a bit too much for me, especially as she found it very easy to forgive Mr. Darcy, but not Mr. Bingley who was treated very harshly. Her different reactions to both gentlemen was something I couldn’t understand in her character, but maybe it is simply a personal preference and other people will not be bothered by this inconsistency. Readers who can focus solely on her backbone when it comes to Mr. Bingley will certainly enjoy their interactions.
A relationship I enjoyed in this book was that of Elizabeth and Lady Catherine, I think the author made a very interesting choice, and something I would like to see more often in books. I also liked Lady Catherine’s character, I think her actions were quite in line with her character, even if I also found it hard to accept that someone arriving at a household of people she did not know and started giving specific orders of how the girls would be raised et cetera, would be considered proper behaver at the time. I can imagine Lady Catherine doing something like that, what I cannot imagine is everyone condoling such behaviour.
I didn’t consider this story overly romantic, but there are several intense and strong romantic sentences proffered by Mr. Darcy. Some of the sentences I read were swoon worthy and the type of line that we want to quote all the time. However, despite these beautiful sentences, I also found it hard to believe that Elizabeth would go from hating and despising Mr. Darcy to accepting his courtship after only one simple conversation, and to love him deeply in a matter of days.
I liked the way Colonel Fitzwilliam made Lydia understand she would need to change, it was quite fun an creative, but again doing it in front of everyone and upon meeting her for the first time didn’t seem believable to me.
Summing up, there are many different details that are interesting and entertaining in A Most Excellent Understanding, and the author did a great job when it comes to adding small fascinating aspects in the book, but I also found the behaviours of the characters more in line with what we would expect in our own century then in 1800’s, so it was difficult for me to truly enjoy the story as a regency one. I believe that readers who are willing to accept 21rst century behaviours in a regency novel may enjoy this book much more then me.
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
In A Most Excellent Understanding Elizabeth learns while she is in Kent that it was Darcy who separated Jane from Bingley, so she decides to return earlier to London. When Mr. Darcy learns why she departed, he decides to follow her and ask both her and Jane for forgiveness. After a most sincere conversation between the three of them, the story continues with Elizabeth and Darcy in a much closer relationship then they had prior to his admissions, so readers who like it when this couple get together earlier in the story will certainly enjoy this plotline.
I found the premise of a Most Excellent Understanding interesting, and I particularly liked the initial chapters in which Elizabeth is able to create several humorous situations with her heated reactions to what she has just discovered. It is visible from the start that this book has a fresh style that is appealing and invites readers to continue reading the story.
However, even though I enjoyed the freshness of the writing style, I also had a hard time adjusting to everyone’s bluntness. It appeared that everybody said exactly what was on their mind to everybody else. I didn’t see the usual restrain people living in this era would have in social interactions and that was a quibble for me. Even Georgiana lectures Mr. Bingley for being persuaded to leave Netherfield in front of Jane, Anne and Colonel Fitzwilliam, that was something I found not only out of character, but also not in accordance with the behaviour ladies would have in the 1810’s.
Jane Bennet is an important character in this book, and she is much stronger and less forgiving than what we are used to, which is something I personally like, but the changes in her character also seemed a bit too much for me, especially as she found it very easy to forgive Mr. Darcy, but not Mr. Bingley who was treated very harshly. Her different reactions to both gentlemen was something I couldn’t understand in her character, but maybe it is simply a personal preference and other people will not be bothered by this inconsistency. Readers who can focus solely on her backbone when it comes to Mr. Bingley will certainly enjoy their interactions.
A relationship I enjoyed in this book was that of Elizabeth and Lady Catherine, I think the author made a very interesting choice, and something I would like to see more often in books. I also liked Lady Catherine’s character, I think her actions were quite in line with her character, even if I also found it hard to accept that someone arriving at a household of people she did not know and started giving specific orders of how the girls would be raised et cetera, would be considered proper behaver at the time. I can imagine Lady Catherine doing something like that, what I cannot imagine is everyone condoling such behaviour.
I didn’t consider this story overly romantic, but there are several intense and strong romantic sentences proffered by Mr. Darcy. Some of the sentences I read were swoon worthy and the type of line that we want to quote all the time. However, despite these beautiful sentences, I also found it hard to believe that Elizabeth would go from hating and despising Mr. Darcy to accepting his courtship after only one simple conversation, and to love him deeply in a matter of days.
I liked the way Colonel Fitzwilliam made Lydia understand she would need to change, it was quite fun an creative, but again doing it in front of everyone and upon meeting her for the first time didn’t seem believable to me.
Summing up, there are many different details that are interesting and entertaining in A Most Excellent Understanding, and the author did a great job when it comes to adding small fascinating aspects in the book, but I also found the behaviours of the characters more in line with what we would expect in our own century then in 1800’s, so it was difficult for me to truly enjoy the story as a regency one. I believe that readers who are willing to accept 21rst century behaviours in a regency novel may enjoy this book much more then me.
June 29, 2022
Entertaining
During Elizabeth's visit to Charlotte Collins at Hunsford parsonage, she walks with Colonel Fitzwilliam and learns that Darcy was responsible for separating Jane and Bingley. She already doesn't like Darcy, and she decides to leave immediately and return to London and her sister Jane at the Gardiner's home. Colonel Fitzwilliam tells Darcy, and he's shocked, as he was preparing to propose to Elizabeth on that very day. Darcy and Fitzwilliam follow her to London, and Darcy decides to embark on a quest to improve Elizabeth's opinion of him, and eventually win her hand in marriage.
I was prepared to enjoy this book, as it starts out very tongue-in-cheek and amusing, so I knew it was intended as a kind of parody, or spoof on P&P and all of the Regency era stuffiness and rigid rules. Instead of sparing Jane's feelings, Elizabeth reveals all to her and to the Gardiners. This results in a transformation in Jane, and the sweet, gentle, and serene sister suddenly becomes angry and ready to speak her mind. Meanwhile, it's Georgiana who persuades Darcy on the path he must take in order to change Elizabeth's mind, and that involves his basically prostrating himself before Elizabeth, begging her for forgiveness, and doing whatever she wants. In other words, this is a story about girl power, in an era when girls had absolutely no power at all, and what they gleefully do with this power when they finally get it.
The story went off the rails for me when the women all started resembling Lady Catherine. I would have enjoyed seeing Elizabeth and Jane dealing with their wayward men in their sweet, intelligent, and firm way, but in this version they lose their essence and become bossy, dictatorial, demanding, and arrogant. Even Georgiana and Anne DeBourgh get into the act, and they become unrecognizable. I wanted it to be amusing and satisfying, but it just became unpleasant and ludicrous. Elizabeth and Jane, especially, start acting like army generals, giving orders to the men, and dispensing advice about how to be good husbands and lovers. It got very icky.
I have to give credit to the author for very good writing, and some nice humor sprinkled throughout. It's a cute idea for a story, but it just went over the top. I recommend it with reservations.
During Elizabeth's visit to Charlotte Collins at Hunsford parsonage, she walks with Colonel Fitzwilliam and learns that Darcy was responsible for separating Jane and Bingley. She already doesn't like Darcy, and she decides to leave immediately and return to London and her sister Jane at the Gardiner's home. Colonel Fitzwilliam tells Darcy, and he's shocked, as he was preparing to propose to Elizabeth on that very day. Darcy and Fitzwilliam follow her to London, and Darcy decides to embark on a quest to improve Elizabeth's opinion of him, and eventually win her hand in marriage.
I was prepared to enjoy this book, as it starts out very tongue-in-cheek and amusing, so I knew it was intended as a kind of parody, or spoof on P&P and all of the Regency era stuffiness and rigid rules. Instead of sparing Jane's feelings, Elizabeth reveals all to her and to the Gardiners. This results in a transformation in Jane, and the sweet, gentle, and serene sister suddenly becomes angry and ready to speak her mind. Meanwhile, it's Georgiana who persuades Darcy on the path he must take in order to change Elizabeth's mind, and that involves his basically prostrating himself before Elizabeth, begging her for forgiveness, and doing whatever she wants. In other words, this is a story about girl power, in an era when girls had absolutely no power at all, and what they gleefully do with this power when they finally get it.
The story went off the rails for me when the women all started resembling Lady Catherine. I would have enjoyed seeing Elizabeth and Jane dealing with their wayward men in their sweet, intelligent, and firm way, but in this version they lose their essence and become bossy, dictatorial, demanding, and arrogant. Even Georgiana and Anne DeBourgh get into the act, and they become unrecognizable. I wanted it to be amusing and satisfying, but it just became unpleasant and ludicrous. Elizabeth and Jane, especially, start acting like army generals, giving orders to the men, and dispensing advice about how to be good husbands and lovers. It got very icky.
I have to give credit to the author for very good writing, and some nice humor sprinkled throughout. It's a cute idea for a story, but it just went over the top. I recommend it with reservations.
July 21, 2022
Avid Reader
I read the original draft of this novel on Fanfiction, and I the second reading was more enjoyable. My favorite part was the set down of Bingley and his sisters by Georgina and Jane. Bingley tried to talk back and stand up for himself, but he still ended up looking like a cad. Elizabeth and Lady Catherine actually liked each other from the very beginning, which was unusual. Jane grew up and developed a spine after realizing that she was as ignorant as Lydia when it came to people and men. Mr. Gardenier helped Darcy make amends to Elizabeth and Jane making it possible for a double wedding.
I read the original draft of this novel on Fanfiction, and I the second reading was more enjoyable. My favorite part was the set down of Bingley and his sisters by Georgina and Jane. Bingley tried to talk back and stand up for himself, but he still ended up looking like a cad. Elizabeth and Lady Catherine actually liked each other from the very beginning, which was unusual. Jane grew up and developed a spine after realizing that she was as ignorant as Lydia when it came to people and men. Mr. Gardenier helped Darcy make amends to Elizabeth and Jane making it possible for a double wedding.
June 10, 2022
Even better than his writing on FFN
I liked the well developed characters, most of whom vary somewhat from canon. There are many surprises in the plot.
I liked the well developed characters, most of whom vary somewhat from canon. There are many surprises in the plot.
October 22, 2022
Honestly my review should be titled "Tell me you didn't read Pride and Prejudice without telling me you didn't read Pride and Prejudice..." That fairly well sums up my review.
This book pretty much threw all of the character personalities out of the window, but retained the names. Everything they did and said was so completely out of character. In an effort to finish the book I decided to think of it as completely unrelated to the original. To be honest it would have been a better book if they hadn't tried to tie it to the classic.
I love regency romances and I typically love Pride and Prejudice retellings, but this was just bad. I finished it because I hate not finishing books. I am tempted to give it one star, but like I said above. It could have heen fine if it had been its own story rather than jumping off from the classic. There are no major grammatical issues, just a clear lack of understanding by the author of the original books characters.
The character who I feel was most miswritten was Lady Catherine De Bourgh. The things she said and did in this book were so out of character and off the wall, it was almost amusing.
This book pretty much threw all of the character personalities out of the window, but retained the names. Everything they did and said was so completely out of character. In an effort to finish the book I decided to think of it as completely unrelated to the original. To be honest it would have been a better book if they hadn't tried to tie it to the classic.
I love regency romances and I typically love Pride and Prejudice retellings, but this was just bad. I finished it because I hate not finishing books. I am tempted to give it one star, but like I said above. It could have heen fine if it had been its own story rather than jumping off from the classic. There are no major grammatical issues, just a clear lack of understanding by the author of the original books characters.
The character who I feel was most miswritten was Lady Catherine De Bourgh. The things she said and did in this book were so out of character and off the wall, it was almost amusing.
May 28, 2022
💔 A Most Excellent Understanding ❤️🩹
✒️ Wade H. Mann
https://www.facebook.com/quillsquartos/
Release Date 06/06/2022
Publisher Quills and Quartos
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09Z3BZNFW/...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
The first time I rejected a proposal of marriage, my suitor would not take ‘no’ for an answer, so I have resolved to be more forceful in any future ones.
ELIZABETH BENNET IS A LADY of decided opinions—especially about a certain Mr Darcy. When Colonel Fitzwilliam reveals that gentleman as the cause of her sister’s romantic woes, Elizabeth does not become angry or distraught. Instead, the news offers some relief, because it allows her to finally understand everything that happened in Hertfordshire the previous autumn. With this new knowledge, she acts to remove herself from the disagreeable company at Rosings.
FITZWILLIAM DARCY FINDS HIMSELF thoroughly confused by Elizabeth’s abrupt departure on the very day he thought to propose. Surprisingly, his cousin is reluctant to offer enlightenment as Darcy pursues Elizabeth to London, where he encounters a less than forgiving pair of Bennet sisters. Darcy must overcome his own reserve to explain himself, which is not easy as others require their share of conversation—especially as it concerns the Bingleys and any future alliance between Darcy and Elizabeth.
IN THIS HARD-FOUGHT BATTLE of wits, can Darcy find the words to prove himself worthy of Elizabeth’s good opinion and win her heart, or will she remain firm in her most decided opinion of the master of Pemberley?
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Prevented from making a hash of thing with a wrong proposal, will he right the wrong his past behavior has done …
I longed for the moment I would be able to read this book but I did it again, I crushed myself under an other impossible stack of books to read and I am still trying to breath under the weight on them all. But it is all my fault, I am very Jane like, I do not know how to say no, and I so fear to miss a good book if I have to pass by one without stopping.
Still even if my last read was good, after two deceiving reads, I needed a bit of a comfort one, and usually a P&P variation is the right cure.
Plus the cover did intrigue me, I have assimilated this kind of graphics in my head as narratives with an humorous edge.
So I had much hope about this book.
And I was right, I loved every moment of this book, a witty full of banters romp, how Jane took the lead of her life in her own hands, Lady Catherine as still the fearsome queen of her small universe but also a very reasonable person when presented with the right inputs, Colonel Fitzwilliam, more than the classic wingman of Darcy and of course Darcy assuming his responsibilities and how his past behavior left a wrong first impression of himself to everyone in Longbourn’s vicinity and more peculiarly in Lizzie’s mind.
While the book opens on the difficult matter of Jane’s broken heart, it was fun to watch Colonel Fitzwilliam and Darcy being bested by Elizabeth’s thinking and seing them acknowledge they have been defeated by a more clever miss and then hit the bottle to drown their sorrows.
This book is a gem of wits and quips, Darcy having to show Lizzie his true self to make for his past wrong and to let her decide if he is worth her notice. Jane acknowledging she is too passive and easily forgiving, the Colonel dealing his own way with “dock rats” and the Bingley sisters reaping what they have sown.
I won’t say more because I would not want to spoil the reader’s pleasure to discover the little twists and turns the author has in his sleeves for our heroes.
Just know you will smile and laugh and get this feeling of contentment of a story well crafted with its characters getting their right reward, you will be left with the sigh of delight of a tale perfectly done.
5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 kiss
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
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✒️ Wade H. Mann
https://www.facebook.com/quillsquartos/
Release Date 06/06/2022
Publisher Quills and Quartos
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09Z3BZNFW/...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
The first time I rejected a proposal of marriage, my suitor would not take ‘no’ for an answer, so I have resolved to be more forceful in any future ones.
ELIZABETH BENNET IS A LADY of decided opinions—especially about a certain Mr Darcy. When Colonel Fitzwilliam reveals that gentleman as the cause of her sister’s romantic woes, Elizabeth does not become angry or distraught. Instead, the news offers some relief, because it allows her to finally understand everything that happened in Hertfordshire the previous autumn. With this new knowledge, she acts to remove herself from the disagreeable company at Rosings.
FITZWILLIAM DARCY FINDS HIMSELF thoroughly confused by Elizabeth’s abrupt departure on the very day he thought to propose. Surprisingly, his cousin is reluctant to offer enlightenment as Darcy pursues Elizabeth to London, where he encounters a less than forgiving pair of Bennet sisters. Darcy must overcome his own reserve to explain himself, which is not easy as others require their share of conversation—especially as it concerns the Bingleys and any future alliance between Darcy and Elizabeth.
IN THIS HARD-FOUGHT BATTLE of wits, can Darcy find the words to prove himself worthy of Elizabeth’s good opinion and win her heart, or will she remain firm in her most decided opinion of the master of Pemberley?
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Prevented from making a hash of thing with a wrong proposal, will he right the wrong his past behavior has done …
I longed for the moment I would be able to read this book but I did it again, I crushed myself under an other impossible stack of books to read and I am still trying to breath under the weight on them all. But it is all my fault, I am very Jane like, I do not know how to say no, and I so fear to miss a good book if I have to pass by one without stopping.
Still even if my last read was good, after two deceiving reads, I needed a bit of a comfort one, and usually a P&P variation is the right cure.
Plus the cover did intrigue me, I have assimilated this kind of graphics in my head as narratives with an humorous edge.
So I had much hope about this book.
And I was right, I loved every moment of this book, a witty full of banters romp, how Jane took the lead of her life in her own hands, Lady Catherine as still the fearsome queen of her small universe but also a very reasonable person when presented with the right inputs, Colonel Fitzwilliam, more than the classic wingman of Darcy and of course Darcy assuming his responsibilities and how his past behavior left a wrong first impression of himself to everyone in Longbourn’s vicinity and more peculiarly in Lizzie’s mind.
While the book opens on the difficult matter of Jane’s broken heart, it was fun to watch Colonel Fitzwilliam and Darcy being bested by Elizabeth’s thinking and seing them acknowledge they have been defeated by a more clever miss and then hit the bottle to drown their sorrows.
This book is a gem of wits and quips, Darcy having to show Lizzie his true self to make for his past wrong and to let her decide if he is worth her notice. Jane acknowledging she is too passive and easily forgiving, the Colonel dealing his own way with “dock rats” and the Bingley sisters reaping what they have sown.
I won’t say more because I would not want to spoil the reader’s pleasure to discover the little twists and turns the author has in his sleeves for our heroes.
Just know you will smile and laugh and get this feeling of contentment of a story well crafted with its characters getting their right reward, you will be left with the sigh of delight of a tale perfectly done.
5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 kiss
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
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June 6, 2022
True love requires honest conversation
Wade H has a way of writing that sucks you into a story and keeps you bouncing down the rocky road to happily ever after. Before you know it, you’re through 33% of the book, but you were "just going to read for 15 minutes." Keep that in mind before you start reading this fast-paced story. Block off a good portion of your day. If you start it in the evening as I did, you may be going to bed far later than usual.
In this story, the author constructs a detour that sends Elizabeth and Darcy down a different road to their happily ever after. What type of detour? An honest conversation—well, several of them. The pivot for Darcy comes thanks to Georgiana’s epiphany. She tells him, “I do know the right thing to do now.” “Which is?” “Honest conversation. I do believe that is the cure for a multitude of problems.”
While Colonel Fitzwilliam makes Darcy realize he has made a hash of his relationship with Elizabeth, Georgiana is the one who makes him see the truth. His honor requires he apologize and make amends to the Bennet sisters. And boy does he apologize…for everything, and we all know he has lots to repent. The author is not stingy either. Darcy’s apology is divided into 3 halves (yes, 3) and spans over five chapters.
When the honest conversation is finished, a strong bond of friendship has formed amongst the trio (Jane, Darcy, and Elizabeth). The rest of the story follows Darcy and Elizabeth as they come to know each other's true selves without his mask of superiority or hers of arched impertinence. Theirs is no whirlwind/fantasy romance built on sand, but the purposeful laying of the foundation of true friendship and love that will stand the tests to come. About 80% of the story takes place at Rosings or in London. Most of the action takes place in London, away from the people who would interfere in their courtship. Elizabeth and Darcy are allowed to float along in their courtship. In the meantime, Jane and Colonel Fitzwilliam are the current below the surface that moves the backstory along.
Things that might surprise you are:
• Jane’s strength shines forth. It explains why Elizabeth loves her so much. She has learned wisdom and is resolute. Darcy tells Elizabeth, “…that being taken to task by your sister builds character…”
• The way Jane secures her own happily ever after is a fun surprise, too. Go, Jane!
• Georgiana - she starts out strong and only gets stronger throughout the book. She and Jane become a power duo versus the Bingleys.
• Bingley and Lady Catherine’s reactions are both expected and unexpected in different parts of the same book. You will have to read the story for yourself to understand what that means.
• Caroline will surprise…. Well, maybe not. It depends on how many P&P variations you have read. She is not as horrible as some have written her, but she is bent on causing trouble. Loved how the first meeting between the Bingleys and Miss Bennet went. Applause to Jane and Georgie for knocking her down to size.
I gave this 5 stars because:
- It is a well-written, engaging story that kept my interest from beginning to end—well into the night. It will be placed in my To Be Read Again collection.
- Good editing and grammar - as expected from the Quills & Quartos group.
- There was only one continuity speed bump, but nothing that knocked me out of alignment or significantly altered my reading pace.
- The story was clean and sweet, fast-paced with intelligent, honest dialogue.
- Strong, honorable, and intelligent main characters without any made out to be superhuman.
NOTE: I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Wade H has a way of writing that sucks you into a story and keeps you bouncing down the rocky road to happily ever after. Before you know it, you’re through 33% of the book, but you were "just going to read for 15 minutes." Keep that in mind before you start reading this fast-paced story. Block off a good portion of your day. If you start it in the evening as I did, you may be going to bed far later than usual.
In this story, the author constructs a detour that sends Elizabeth and Darcy down a different road to their happily ever after. What type of detour? An honest conversation—well, several of them. The pivot for Darcy comes thanks to Georgiana’s epiphany. She tells him, “I do know the right thing to do now.” “Which is?” “Honest conversation. I do believe that is the cure for a multitude of problems.”
While Colonel Fitzwilliam makes Darcy realize he has made a hash of his relationship with Elizabeth, Georgiana is the one who makes him see the truth. His honor requires he apologize and make amends to the Bennet sisters. And boy does he apologize…for everything, and we all know he has lots to repent. The author is not stingy either. Darcy’s apology is divided into 3 halves (yes, 3) and spans over five chapters.
When the honest conversation is finished, a strong bond of friendship has formed amongst the trio (Jane, Darcy, and Elizabeth). The rest of the story follows Darcy and Elizabeth as they come to know each other's true selves without his mask of superiority or hers of arched impertinence. Theirs is no whirlwind/fantasy romance built on sand, but the purposeful laying of the foundation of true friendship and love that will stand the tests to come. About 80% of the story takes place at Rosings or in London. Most of the action takes place in London, away from the people who would interfere in their courtship. Elizabeth and Darcy are allowed to float along in their courtship. In the meantime, Jane and Colonel Fitzwilliam are the current below the surface that moves the backstory along.
Things that might surprise you are:
• Jane’s strength shines forth. It explains why Elizabeth loves her so much. She has learned wisdom and is resolute. Darcy tells Elizabeth, “…that being taken to task by your sister builds character…”
• The way Jane secures her own happily ever after is a fun surprise, too. Go, Jane!
• Georgiana - she starts out strong and only gets stronger throughout the book. She and Jane become a power duo versus the Bingleys.
• Bingley and Lady Catherine’s reactions are both expected and unexpected in different parts of the same book. You will have to read the story for yourself to understand what that means.
• Caroline will surprise…. Well, maybe not. It depends on how many P&P variations you have read. She is not as horrible as some have written her, but she is bent on causing trouble. Loved how the first meeting between the Bingleys and Miss Bennet went. Applause to Jane and Georgie for knocking her down to size.
I gave this 5 stars because:
- It is a well-written, engaging story that kept my interest from beginning to end—well into the night. It will be placed in my To Be Read Again collection.
- Good editing and grammar - as expected from the Quills & Quartos group.
- There was only one continuity speed bump, but nothing that knocked me out of alignment or significantly altered my reading pace.
- The story was clean and sweet, fast-paced with intelligent, honest dialogue.
- Strong, honorable, and intelligent main characters without any made out to be superhuman.
NOTE: I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 21, 2025
Peeking at some of the other reviews, it was mentioned this was originally titled "That Explains Everything" ... which I think would have been fun to leave as is. I'm not a huge fan of the cartoon cover, but it does set it apart visually. With the tagline "A Humorous Pride and Prejudice Variation" I expected a little more humor? It didn't have a lot of the angst that some retellings do.
The story/presentation is pretty standard for most variations ... 3rd person, both Elizabeth and Darcy's POV. Past tense. Same(ish) setting/location&dates, characters. There were chapter headings (1. Tour of the Park 2. Proper Instruction 3. You Know Why! 4. Fresh Brandy 5. Punishment ...), and while they didn't give a ton of info, I still wish they had been included in the Table of Contents.
Listening to the audio - single narrator/female(Joanna Lee) ... her "voice" for Lizzie didn't quite work for me.
The ball at Netherfield, the slight to Lizzie, Jane riding in the rain and getting sick, Elizabeth coming, has all happened per the original ... then as Colonel Fitzwilliam divulges Darcy's actions in "saving Bingley" this story diverges in Elizabeth's response (to CF, Darcy) which results in different actions by Darcy (and others). Some of the alternatives were very interesting (Jane's choices, etc).
Point to ponder by Elizabeth in Chapter 14, as she wonders if she hadn't heard the slight, if she would have treated Darcy differently, and if it was her indifference and "prickly" personality that he was attracted to. But also (per cannon/Charlotte "There are very few of us who have heart enough to be really in love without encouragement" and Darcy most certainly did NOT have encouragement, unless (as some variations have expressed) he saw Elizabeth's actions as flirting. But does that "prove" his love as even stronger, not having encouragement along the way?
Saved quote - "I value your opinion immensely. I wish that now and in future we discuss all important matters between us, as your aunt and uncle do. There may be instances where I must make a decision and hold to it, but most of the significant ones should be shared.”
There were several words I should have stopped to note/highlight/lookup, but the only one I did so was perspicuity.
For my own memory ... SPOILERS
The story/presentation is pretty standard for most variations ... 3rd person, both Elizabeth and Darcy's POV. Past tense. Same(ish) setting/location&dates, characters. There were chapter headings (1. Tour of the Park 2. Proper Instruction 3. You Know Why! 4. Fresh Brandy 5. Punishment ...), and while they didn't give a ton of info, I still wish they had been included in the Table of Contents.
Listening to the audio - single narrator/female(Joanna Lee) ... her "voice" for Lizzie didn't quite work for me.
The ball at Netherfield, the slight to Lizzie, Jane riding in the rain and getting sick, Elizabeth coming, has all happened per the original ... then as Colonel Fitzwilliam divulges Darcy's actions in "saving Bingley" this story diverges in Elizabeth's response (to CF, Darcy) which results in different actions by Darcy (and others). Some of the alternatives were very interesting (Jane's choices, etc).
Point to ponder by Elizabeth in Chapter 14, as she wonders if she hadn't heard the slight, if she would have treated Darcy differently, and if it was her indifference and "prickly" personality that he was attracted to. But also (per cannon/Charlotte "There are very few of us who have heart enough to be really in love without encouragement" and Darcy most certainly did NOT have encouragement, unless (as some variations have expressed) he saw Elizabeth's actions as flirting. But does that "prove" his love as even stronger, not having encouragement along the way?
Saved quote - "I value your opinion immensely. I wish that now and in future we discuss all important matters between us, as your aunt and uncle do. There may be instances where I must make a decision and hold to it, but most of the significant ones should be shared.”
There were several words I should have stopped to note/highlight/lookup, but the only one I did so was perspicuity.
For my own memory ... SPOILERS
November 1, 2022
I have very mixed feelings about this book. I quite enjoyed the first 30-40%, but struggled after that. Early in the book we see a great deal of character growth from Lizzy and Darcy, as expected, but also Jane. She becomes rather assertive and a mediator between the main couple. She also stands up for her own interests, recognising Bingley's faults of character in his departure.
However, this character growth continues to the point where our main characters become almost unrecognisable. Jane and Georgiana move beyond assertive to scathing, harsh and almost vindictive as the face down the Bingley family. She practically rips them a new one! Given that this character growth only began just two or three weeks prior, this is too far, and too soon. Someone might overcome being shy and reserved, but in this case, both Georgiana and Jane were no longer who they were "in essentials".
This also happened elsewhere to a lesser extent. Lizzy went from a passionate, headstrong, stubborn woman (who also has a great deal of practicality), to the cool and calm mediator and problem solver in various difficult situations she needed not get involved in. Lady Catherine, after being impressed with Lizzy's forthrightness in the beginning, likes and respects Lizzy a great deal. This is fine, but it does mean that later on, when faced with situation she had been dreading (Darcy not marrying Anne), she backs down way too quickly just from Lizzy's calm reasoning. She almost becomes animable. If a woman with such a strong and forceful personality built over decades of being an independent woman of rank, then she is not going to change her personality or character after just two conversations with the rational Lizzy.
It is a pity that the author developed the main characters too significantly, because I quite enjoyed the early stages, with an assertive Jane and Lizzy taking the time to breath and think things through before acting. Wonderful story, just poor character writing.
However, this character growth continues to the point where our main characters become almost unrecognisable. Jane and Georgiana move beyond assertive to scathing, harsh and almost vindictive as the face down the Bingley family. She practically rips them a new one! Given that this character growth only began just two or three weeks prior, this is too far, and too soon. Someone might overcome being shy and reserved, but in this case, both Georgiana and Jane were no longer who they were "in essentials".
This also happened elsewhere to a lesser extent. Lizzy went from a passionate, headstrong, stubborn woman (who also has a great deal of practicality), to the cool and calm mediator and problem solver in various difficult situations she needed not get involved in. Lady Catherine, after being impressed with Lizzy's forthrightness in the beginning, likes and respects Lizzy a great deal. This is fine, but it does mean that later on, when faced with situation she had been dreading (Darcy not marrying Anne), she backs down way too quickly just from Lizzy's calm reasoning. She almost becomes animable. If a woman with such a strong and forceful personality built over decades of being an independent woman of rank, then she is not going to change her personality or character after just two conversations with the rational Lizzy.
It is a pity that the author developed the main characters too significantly, because I quite enjoyed the early stages, with an assertive Jane and Lizzy taking the time to breath and think things through before acting. Wonderful story, just poor character writing.
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