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Darcy in Distress: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Mr. Darcy is rich, well-connected and handsome, but he is also exhausted, broken-hearted and afraid. Can Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet find happiness together?
Fitzwilliam Darcy’s father was an unreliable rake who brought their family much trouble before his death. Darcy’s fears are potent, but his resolve to care for his sister and mother is strong.
Darcy’s Uncle, the Earl of Matlock, has gone into debt and may lose his estate. He plans to force Georgiana Darcy to marry his son to gain access to her dowry, and Lady Catherine may ally with him due to Darcy’s reluctance to marry her daughter Anne.
Elizabeth finds herself drawn into the struggles with Darcy’s relatives and threats to his beloved mother and sister. Darcy is mesmerized by Miss Elizabeth of Longbourn, even as she becomes enamored with his gallant heart. Can love overcome their circumstances?
Fitzwilliam Darcy’s father was an unreliable rake who brought their family much trouble before his death. Darcy’s fears are potent, but his resolve to care for his sister and mother is strong.
Darcy’s Uncle, the Earl of Matlock, has gone into debt and may lose his estate. He plans to force Georgiana Darcy to marry his son to gain access to her dowry, and Lady Catherine may ally with him due to Darcy’s reluctance to marry her daughter Anne.
Elizabeth finds herself drawn into the struggles with Darcy’s relatives and threats to his beloved mother and sister. Darcy is mesmerized by Miss Elizabeth of Longbourn, even as she becomes enamored with his gallant heart. Can love overcome their circumstances?
387 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 28, 2022
184 people are currently reading
66 people want to read
About the author
Laraba Kendig
40 books102 followersI am a scientist by training, but a writer at heart. I have always loved reading with a passion and turned my hand to fanfiction a few years ago. I write stories similar to the ones I enjoy reading. They are interesting but light, romantic but not steamy. I am a super fan of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, and have been having a wonderful time writing P&P variations, exploring how new circumstances affect the beloved characters. So far I have published two novel-length Pride and Prejudice variations plus one short story via Amazon. My books include ‘I am Jael’ and ‘The Blind Will See’.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
July 30, 2022
This author has many of the same characters as in canon, but she certainly writes their roles very different. The story description tells us of how Darcy is struggling not only with the legacy left by his father but also to resist efforts (bordering on blackmail) by his uncle, Lord Matlock, and his aunt, Lady Catherine. Both want to get their hands on Darcy's estate and/or his money. Matlock and two of his sons have run up debts and Lord Matlock sees marrying Georgiana to one of his sons as a way to pay off those.
Rumors circulating in London have Lady Anne (Yes, she is still alive.) as insane. Talk is that she should not be allowed to live with and influence her daughter, Georgiana. This story has her drugged much of the time, sadly.
This Wickham is the opposite of the one in canon. He, the Colonel and Darcy are best of friends and work together to solve more than one problem in this story.
Darcy is most likely suffering from what modern times label as PTSD. He is overwhelmed. And, as usual, doesn't want to dance nor even socialize when he goes to that first Assembly in Meryton. He does dance with Elizabeth and at the end of the evening realizes that she is different from any other lady he has met. Their friendship builds and she befriends both his mother and his sister.
There are several marriages arranged with the help of Special Licenses which the bearer just happens to have in his/her pocket. In the planning they seem to be more marriages of convenience but by the time of the ceremony one couple realizes that there is love, actually. The second couple also develops a marriage of caring for and respecting each other.
Collins is more of a problem than in canon and ends up with a bruised face at one point. He does not marry Charlotte, who has a happier fate.... revealed in the epilogue.
This story kept my attention. I have read just about every story this author has written and enjoyed them. I do have to add, though, that there are not a lot of romantic moments between Darcy and Elizabeth. Despite that I do recommend this tale.
Rumors circulating in London have Lady Anne (Yes, she is still alive.) as insane. Talk is that she should not be allowed to live with and influence her daughter, Georgiana. This story has her drugged much of the time, sadly.
This Wickham is the opposite of the one in canon. He, the Colonel and Darcy are best of friends and work together to solve more than one problem in this story.
Darcy is most likely suffering from what modern times label as PTSD. He is overwhelmed. And, as usual, doesn't want to dance nor even socialize when he goes to that first Assembly in Meryton. He does dance with Elizabeth and at the end of the evening realizes that she is different from any other lady he has met. Their friendship builds and she befriends both his mother and his sister.
There are several marriages arranged with the help of Special Licenses which the bearer just happens to have in his/her pocket. In the planning they seem to be more marriages of convenience but by the time of the ceremony one couple realizes that there is love, actually. The second couple also develops a marriage of caring for and respecting each other.
Collins is more of a problem than in canon and ends up with a bruised face at one point. He does not marry Charlotte, who has a happier fate.... revealed in the epilogue.
This story kept my attention. I have read just about every story this author has written and enjoyed them. I do have to add, though, that there are not a lot of romantic moments between Darcy and Elizabeth. Despite that I do recommend this tale.
August 6, 2022
“If you are distressed by anything external, the pain is not due to the thing itself, but to your estimate of it; and this you have the power to revoke at any moment.” –Marcus Aurelius, Meditations
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***
>>Rating: clean
>>Angst Level: high drama: it was certainly stressful as we watched the families crash and burn. Humor was inserted periodically to temper the stress and drama. That was well done.
>>Source: Borrowed from KU [8-1-22] with no expectations of a review. The opinions and views expressed are my own. I first read this as installments when the author was posting online. I loved it then and this improved version was even better.
>>Trope: Lady Anne was still alive. AU [Alternate Universe] as situations and canon were altered.
“We are sometimes dragged into a pit of unhappiness by someone else’s opinion that we do not look happy.” –Mokokoma Mokhonoana
A very different Darcy arrived at Netherfield and he was not the haughty douche Darcy we read about in most fanfiction stories. No. Our Darcy had no pride left. His family had completely destroyed his name, his reputation, and perhaps even questioned his sanity.
He arrived at Netherfield, his friend’s leased estate, to help him navigate and learn estate management. Mrs. Hurst was her brother’s hostess. Their sister Caroline had lately married. Darcy decided she abandoned her quest to be mistress of Pemberley as she didn’t want to be associated with his family. What? In fact, invitations quickly dried up as the family scandal made its way through the gossip grapevine of the ton.
Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam arrived from the continent after receiving scathing letters from his father. Once he was home and refreshed, his father gave him a shocking rendition of what had happened in the family while he was gone. Richard could hardly believe what his father was telling him. The earl wanted to take control of an insane Lady Anne, Georgiana should marry his younger brother, and they needed to manage Darcy as the earl questioned his sanity. Richard was incredulous.
Richard stalled for time by telling his father he had military appointments and would need several days to complete his obligations. He needed time to think and he needed to talk to Darcy. Only, no one knew where Darcy was hiding. A secret communique was delivered to Richard at Headquarters. He read the note and instantly requested leave. He then headed for Hertfordshire. There he found out the true story and the motivations behind his father’s actions and demands. It was shocking, disturbing, and disappointing.
What a story. OMG! High action and drama. I was scared spitless half the time and laughing the other half. This was fantastical, farcical, and downright OOC for most of the characters. However, the author brought all the points together to make it work.
“I don’t damsel well. Distress, I can do. Damseling? Not so much.” –James Patterson, Saving the World and Other Extreme Sports
Lady Anne was adorable. Georgiana was so sweet. Elizabeth was my hero. Wickham was such a great guy. What?!? Yep, he was a good guy. I still think the author missed a plot point with him. I thought it in the unpublished work and I still think there was more to him than meets the eye. I really liked him. I don’t usually like a Wickham character but he was awesome. I suppose it would take too much time and it was not necessary. Mr. Bennet was a hoot. Mrs. Bennet did her duty to the family. That was fun. Collins showed up and showed out. Soon, Lady Catherine arrived and topped him for being obnoxious. That was hilarious. Anne de Bourgh was amazing. Way to go, Anne. She stood up to her mother and her outcome was so much fun. I loved this story. It will be one I read again.
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***
>>Rating: clean
>>Angst Level: high drama: it was certainly stressful as we watched the families crash and burn. Humor was inserted periodically to temper the stress and drama. That was well done.
>>Source: Borrowed from KU [8-1-22] with no expectations of a review. The opinions and views expressed are my own. I first read this as installments when the author was posting online. I loved it then and this improved version was even better.
>>Trope: Lady Anne was still alive. AU [Alternate Universe] as situations and canon were altered.
“We are sometimes dragged into a pit of unhappiness by someone else’s opinion that we do not look happy.” –Mokokoma Mokhonoana
A very different Darcy arrived at Netherfield and he was not the haughty douche Darcy we read about in most fanfiction stories. No. Our Darcy had no pride left. His family had completely destroyed his name, his reputation, and perhaps even questioned his sanity.
He arrived at Netherfield, his friend’s leased estate, to help him navigate and learn estate management. Mrs. Hurst was her brother’s hostess. Their sister Caroline had lately married. Darcy decided she abandoned her quest to be mistress of Pemberley as she didn’t want to be associated with his family. What? In fact, invitations quickly dried up as the family scandal made its way through the gossip grapevine of the ton.
Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam arrived from the continent after receiving scathing letters from his father. Once he was home and refreshed, his father gave him a shocking rendition of what had happened in the family while he was gone. Richard could hardly believe what his father was telling him. The earl wanted to take control of an insane Lady Anne, Georgiana should marry his younger brother, and they needed to manage Darcy as the earl questioned his sanity. Richard was incredulous.
Richard stalled for time by telling his father he had military appointments and would need several days to complete his obligations. He needed time to think and he needed to talk to Darcy. Only, no one knew where Darcy was hiding. A secret communique was delivered to Richard at Headquarters. He read the note and instantly requested leave. He then headed for Hertfordshire. There he found out the true story and the motivations behind his father’s actions and demands. It was shocking, disturbing, and disappointing.
What a story. OMG! High action and drama. I was scared spitless half the time and laughing the other half. This was fantastical, farcical, and downright OOC for most of the characters. However, the author brought all the points together to make it work.
“I don’t damsel well. Distress, I can do. Damseling? Not so much.” –James Patterson, Saving the World and Other Extreme Sports
Lady Anne was adorable. Georgiana was so sweet. Elizabeth was my hero. Wickham was such a great guy. What?!? Yep, he was a good guy. I still think the author missed a plot point with him. I thought it in the unpublished work and I still think there was more to him than meets the eye. I really liked him. I don’t usually like a Wickham character but he was awesome. I suppose it would take too much time and it was not necessary. Mr. Bennet was a hoot. Mrs. Bennet did her duty to the family. That was fun. Collins showed up and showed out. Soon, Lady Catherine arrived and topped him for being obnoxious. That was hilarious. Anne de Bourgh was amazing. Way to go, Anne. She stood up to her mother and her outcome was so much fun. I loved this story. It will be one I read again.
August 2, 2022
Certainly Different
A good off-canon read with Wickham as a good man and friend to Darcy from the outset. With this being the case, Darcy finds much support among his friends as he deals with the consequences of a now deceased reprobate father and an evil, practically bankrupt Lord Matlock trying to get his hands on the Darcy fortune.
Mr. Bennet doubles as master of Longbourn and as an author writing with a female nom de plume. I found that the excerpts of the story he was writing pulled me out of the real story. I found myself speed reading through them.
I always enjoy a story with a Darcy parent living; in this instance, it is Lady Anne. I enjoyed the fast-moving plot, but with couples getting matched up pretty quickly there isn’t much romance. Clean and sweet, but a bit too neat.
A good off-canon read with Wickham as a good man and friend to Darcy from the outset. With this being the case, Darcy finds much support among his friends as he deals with the consequences of a now deceased reprobate father and an evil, practically bankrupt Lord Matlock trying to get his hands on the Darcy fortune.
Mr. Bennet doubles as master of Longbourn and as an author writing with a female nom de plume. I found that the excerpts of the story he was writing pulled me out of the real story. I found myself speed reading through them.
I always enjoy a story with a Darcy parent living; in this instance, it is Lady Anne. I enjoyed the fast-moving plot, but with couples getting matched up pretty quickly there isn’t much romance. Clean and sweet, but a bit too neat.
February 5, 2024
short and sweet
I love a Darcy who is not so full of himself. He and E come to an earlier and easier understanding. Wickham is a good guy in this version and Caroline is no where to be seen. There is an over the top Lord Matlock and Lady dB as villains which makes for some great adventures.
I love a Darcy who is not so full of himself. He and E come to an earlier and easier understanding. Wickham is a good guy in this version and Caroline is no where to be seen. There is an over the top Lord Matlock and Lady dB as villains which makes for some great adventures.
July 24, 2022
I read this as a WIP.
Darcy visits Bingley under the shadow of rumors and threats. His father was a bad man who did various bad man things, including subduing his wife with laudanum. This had an unfortunate effect on her health. Darcy senior is dead now and Lady Anne has been weaned off the drug but Darcy's uncle is putting out rumors that Anne and Darcy are both mad, in the hopes that he could get control of the Darcy fortunes to replenish his own coffers or get one of his sons to marry Georgiana's dowry.
Darcy and Elizabeth get to know each other in a less conflicted mode as he does not feel so high and mighty with the scandal floating around him. Wickham and Darcy are also friendly. Lady Anne and Georgiana learn to know the Bennet ladies. Mr. Bennet is an author, penning a story about princesses in danger. It's largely Lady Anne's ingenuity that saves the day, our dear couple stands by and watches.
As reading experiences, this author's stories tend to be plot-driven to me. D&E do find themselves in love but it's not really about that. It's more about seeing what happens next and how the characters get themselves out of the various predicaments, less about emotions, romance, humor and that sort of thing. As such, this story was a pleasant one-time read but not something I would return to.
Steam level: I guess the characters may have been drinking some tea while it was still hot.
My history quibble:
Did special licences really work anonymously like that? This story made it seem like once somebody in the house had a special licence in their pocket, anybody could marry any random person. But I thought you had to name the specific parties to apply for the licence, and it wasn't just a fill-in-the-blank sort of thing
Darcy visits Bingley under the shadow of rumors and threats. His father was a bad man who did various bad man things, including subduing his wife with laudanum. This had an unfortunate effect on her health. Darcy senior is dead now and Lady Anne has been weaned off the drug but Darcy's uncle is putting out rumors that Anne and Darcy are both mad, in the hopes that he could get control of the Darcy fortunes to replenish his own coffers or get one of his sons to marry Georgiana's dowry.
Darcy and Elizabeth get to know each other in a less conflicted mode as he does not feel so high and mighty with the scandal floating around him. Wickham and Darcy are also friendly. Lady Anne and Georgiana learn to know the Bennet ladies. Mr. Bennet is an author, penning a story about princesses in danger. It's largely Lady Anne's ingenuity that saves the day, our dear couple stands by and watches.
As reading experiences, this author's stories tend to be plot-driven to me. D&E do find themselves in love but it's not really about that. It's more about seeing what happens next and how the characters get themselves out of the various predicaments, less about emotions, romance, humor and that sort of thing. As such, this story was a pleasant one-time read but not something I would return to.
Steam level: I guess the characters may have been drinking some tea while it was still hot.
My history quibble:
Did special licences really work anonymously like that? This story made it seem like once somebody in the house had a special licence in their pocket, anybody could marry any random person. But I thought you had to name the specific parties to apply for the licence, and it wasn't just a fill-in-the-blank sort of thing
August 9, 2023
Fitzwilliam Darcy, his mother, and sister are all visiting Netherfield to escape from his uncle, the Earl of Matlock, and his evil plans. They meet the welcome neighbors, the Bennet’s of Longbourn, and learn to enjoy the company of Mr Bennet, Jane and Elizabeth. As the Darcy’s work to diffuse the earl, the Bennet’s offer assistance. A few romances and special license marriages occur while fending off awful relatives.
The story has a few epilogue chapters and let’s the reader know where almost everyone ends up. I liked the story but it doesn’t have any canon to it at all.
The story has a few epilogue chapters and let’s the reader know where almost everyone ends up. I liked the story but it doesn’t have any canon to it at all.
July 30, 2022
"Darcy in Distress" is an unusual plot that I enjoyed reading. Villainy still abounds but the villains are not the usual. Mr. Collins receives his just deserts.
Wickham's story had a unique ending.
Wickham's story had a unique ending.
July 28, 2022
Lovely
Another wonderfully done and very enjoyable variation inspired by author Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Laraba Kendig.
Another wonderfully done and very enjoyable variation inspired by author Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Laraba Kendig.
August 21, 2023
Darcy in Distress
I have to admit, I do enjoy a story where Darcy and Wickham are still friends. In this particular instance, Mr. George Darcy was not the loving husband to Lady Anne Darcy and was a many times over an adulterous evil man. Not only did he has numerous affairs, but confined his wife to her bed chambers doused with laudanum and claimed she was insane. When confronted by Fitzwilliam, he has an apoplexy and died two days later. Now Lord Matlock deeply in debt, wants to take over Lady Anne and Georgiana’s care for monetary reasons. He is demanding his younger son Cecil marry Georgiana and Darcy marry his daughter, Emma. Darcy, Lady Anne, Georgiana, and Wickham are at Netherfield visiting Bingley. Georgiana takes a liking to Elizabeth and the two become deep friends. Lord Matlock converges on Netherfield and abducts Lady Anne. Georgiana is hidden by Elizabeth in an old storage room and not found. When confronted with marrying Emma and Lady Catherine on her way with Anne de Bourgh, Georgiana suggests that he marry Elizabeth. They are married the next morning. When Lady Catherine shows up, Anne marries Wickham with the special license she has in her reticle while Lady Catherine confronts Mr. Bennet. Both she and Collins are thrown out of Longbourn. When she returns to Netherfield imagine her distress in finding her daughter married to a mere son of a steward now a solicitor. She is carried out and shoved into her carriage by Darcy and Richard. Meanwhile, Lady Anne escapes from her captors with the help of Cecil Fitzwilliam and returns to Netherfield. Wonderful story with many HEA couples none of which married Georgiana to a Fitzwilliam. Mrs. Bennet was ill through much of this story because she was pregnant for a sixth time.
I have to admit, I do enjoy a story where Darcy and Wickham are still friends. In this particular instance, Mr. George Darcy was not the loving husband to Lady Anne Darcy and was a many times over an adulterous evil man. Not only did he has numerous affairs, but confined his wife to her bed chambers doused with laudanum and claimed she was insane. When confronted by Fitzwilliam, he has an apoplexy and died two days later. Now Lord Matlock deeply in debt, wants to take over Lady Anne and Georgiana’s care for monetary reasons. He is demanding his younger son Cecil marry Georgiana and Darcy marry his daughter, Emma. Darcy, Lady Anne, Georgiana, and Wickham are at Netherfield visiting Bingley. Georgiana takes a liking to Elizabeth and the two become deep friends. Lord Matlock converges on Netherfield and abducts Lady Anne. Georgiana is hidden by Elizabeth in an old storage room and not found. When confronted with marrying Emma and Lady Catherine on her way with Anne de Bourgh, Georgiana suggests that he marry Elizabeth. They are married the next morning. When Lady Catherine shows up, Anne marries Wickham with the special license she has in her reticle while Lady Catherine confronts Mr. Bennet. Both she and Collins are thrown out of Longbourn. When she returns to Netherfield imagine her distress in finding her daughter married to a mere son of a steward now a solicitor. She is carried out and shoved into her carriage by Darcy and Richard. Meanwhile, Lady Anne escapes from her captors with the help of Cecil Fitzwilliam and returns to Netherfield. Wonderful story with many HEA couples none of which married Georgiana to a Fitzwilliam. Mrs. Bennet was ill through much of this story because she was pregnant for a sixth time.
August 2, 2022
Enjoyable experience with the Darcy family
A scandal has broken out - Lord Matlock has informed everyone that his sister Lady Anne Darcy is insane and it runs in the family with Fitzwilliam Darcy's mental health a concern! As a result of Matlock and his heir spending every shilling his estate is on the verge of bankruptcy and he needs money from Pemberley to survive. He's planning to take over both Lady Anne and Georgiana for their dowry. Darcy brings his family to Hertfordshire to hide out and then meets the Bennet family. Mr Bennet has been increasing the amount of money for his wife after his death by writing novels! In the end as A result of a few unpredictable marriages the schemes to take Pemberley are dropped. I enjoyed reading this and its light on the angst between Darcy and Elizabeth with the couple becoming friends almost from the beginning!
A scandal has broken out - Lord Matlock has informed everyone that his sister Lady Anne Darcy is insane and it runs in the family with Fitzwilliam Darcy's mental health a concern! As a result of Matlock and his heir spending every shilling his estate is on the verge of bankruptcy and he needs money from Pemberley to survive. He's planning to take over both Lady Anne and Georgiana for their dowry. Darcy brings his family to Hertfordshire to hide out and then meets the Bennet family. Mr Bennet has been increasing the amount of money for his wife after his death by writing novels! In the end as A result of a few unpredictable marriages the schemes to take Pemberley are dropped. I enjoyed reading this and its light on the angst between Darcy and Elizabeth with the couple becoming friends almost from the beginning!
August 6, 2022
Great variation
Well written story. Refreshingly different variation, without the menacing Caroline Bingley and Wickham a good honest friend to Darcy. Romance arc for Darcy and Elizabeth is very shallow and basically non-existent for other characters for their HEA. Nevertheless, enjoyable.
Well written story. Refreshingly different variation, without the menacing Caroline Bingley and Wickham a good honest friend to Darcy. Romance arc for Darcy and Elizabeth is very shallow and basically non-existent for other characters for their HEA. Nevertheless, enjoyable.
September 19, 2022
Nicely done. Characterization particularly nicely done. Diverting.
August 6, 2022
Wonderful
Definitely a re-imagining of P&P. Old Mr Darcy is a scoundrel and a rake before he dies. The Earl of Matlock is also corrupt, and in a desperate attempt to save himself from financial ruin, he kidnaps and drugs Lady Anne Darcy, who in this version is still alive, and tries to extort money from Darcy. At the same time, Lady Catherine is still pressuring Darcy to marry Anne DeBourgh. Darcy is despondent, but has the support of Colonel Fitzwilliam and Wickham, who is a good guy in this version.
Darcy comes to Netherfield Park to stay with Bingley, and he's accompanied by his mother, Georgiana, and Wickham. Darcy is hiding his mother and sister from the earl's evil machinations. However, eventually, their presence in Hertfordshire is discovered, and the Earl carries out some dastardly plots. Meanwhile, Darcy meets Elizabeth at the Meryton assembly, and his attraction to her happens pretty quickly and without much fanfare.
This is an interesting variation with a lot of alterations in the characters. Besides the evil ones, and the good Wickham, the Bennetts are not so ridiculous as in the original P&P. Caroline Bingley is not in the story. Bingley has some backbone, as does Jane. A lot of the characters are better and less annoying.
I deducted a star because the romance was missing from the story. Small references are made to Elizabeth's and Darcy's favorable feelings for each other, but because of the very sinister plot, the development of their relationship takes a back seat. Also missing was our beloved fearless and dynamic Darcy. He is so beaten down by circumstances that he's always despondent, and seems not to know what to do next. It's Wickham that seems to steer Darcy in the right direction for much of the story. Darcy just seems ineffectual.and unsure, a far cry from our beloved Darcy.
Nonetheless, the book is well written and well edited. This author has become an automatic purchase for me. You can rely on her for a quality product. I recommend it highly.
Definitely a re-imagining of P&P. Old Mr Darcy is a scoundrel and a rake before he dies. The Earl of Matlock is also corrupt, and in a desperate attempt to save himself from financial ruin, he kidnaps and drugs Lady Anne Darcy, who in this version is still alive, and tries to extort money from Darcy. At the same time, Lady Catherine is still pressuring Darcy to marry Anne DeBourgh. Darcy is despondent, but has the support of Colonel Fitzwilliam and Wickham, who is a good guy in this version.
Darcy comes to Netherfield Park to stay with Bingley, and he's accompanied by his mother, Georgiana, and Wickham. Darcy is hiding his mother and sister from the earl's evil machinations. However, eventually, their presence in Hertfordshire is discovered, and the Earl carries out some dastardly plots. Meanwhile, Darcy meets Elizabeth at the Meryton assembly, and his attraction to her happens pretty quickly and without much fanfare.
This is an interesting variation with a lot of alterations in the characters. Besides the evil ones, and the good Wickham, the Bennetts are not so ridiculous as in the original P&P. Caroline Bingley is not in the story. Bingley has some backbone, as does Jane. A lot of the characters are better and less annoying.
I deducted a star because the romance was missing from the story. Small references are made to Elizabeth's and Darcy's favorable feelings for each other, but because of the very sinister plot, the development of their relationship takes a back seat. Also missing was our beloved fearless and dynamic Darcy. He is so beaten down by circumstances that he's always despondent, and seems not to know what to do next. It's Wickham that seems to steer Darcy in the right direction for much of the story. Darcy just seems ineffectual.and unsure, a far cry from our beloved Darcy.
Nonetheless, the book is well written and well edited. This author has become an automatic purchase for me. You can rely on her for a quality product. I recommend it highly.
January 25, 2024
I loved it!
It was surprising and interesting to read this authors version of the P&P characters. A good off-canon read with Wickham as a good man and friend to Darcy from the outset. With this being the case, Darcy finds much support among his friends as he deals with the consequences of a now deceased reprobate father and an evil, practically bankrupt Lord Matlock trying to get his hands on the Darcy fortune. always enjoy a story with a Darcy parent living; in this instance, it is Lady Anne. Mr. Bennet doubles as master of Longbourn and as an author writing with a female nom de plume. I found that the excerpts of the story he was writing pulled me out of the real story that I found myself speed reading through them (though once finished I went back and truly read them more slowly - makings of a great book in itself - maybe that should happen). I enjoyed the fast-moving plot, but with couples getting matched up pretty quickly there isn’t much romance. Clean and sweet, but a bit too neat. Overall though, I recommend this to everyone.
It was surprising and interesting to read this authors version of the P&P characters. A good off-canon read with Wickham as a good man and friend to Darcy from the outset. With this being the case, Darcy finds much support among his friends as he deals with the consequences of a now deceased reprobate father and an evil, practically bankrupt Lord Matlock trying to get his hands on the Darcy fortune. always enjoy a story with a Darcy parent living; in this instance, it is Lady Anne. Mr. Bennet doubles as master of Longbourn and as an author writing with a female nom de plume. I found that the excerpts of the story he was writing pulled me out of the real story that I found myself speed reading through them (though once finished I went back and truly read them more slowly - makings of a great book in itself - maybe that should happen). I enjoyed the fast-moving plot, but with couples getting matched up pretty quickly there isn’t much romance. Clean and sweet, but a bit too neat. Overall though, I recommend this to everyone.
August 10, 2022
There are definitely spoilers in this review… The main characters are all here, but Distress was how I felt the entire time I was reading this story! Anne Darcy is alive! All of the adult people in Fitzwilliam’s life are evil! (Except his mother thankfully) George Wickham is good! I mean truly good! This was what caused me the most distress! I kept expecting him to be behind one of the MANY evil plots happening! Everyone falls in love and gets married! (A lot too quickly at one point) In the end, I liked the story. The writing is great, I just had a very hard time believing some of the storyline. I did love the story in the story and how the author even has Elizabeth mention it is very similar to how things are happening at Longborn. I am looking forward to reading more by this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 4, 2022
Dear Reader, put away all of your expectations from reading other variations. Clear your mind and prepare to read something unique.
The Darcys -- Lady Anne, Fitzwilliam, and Georgiana -- are at war with the Earl of Matlock. The Earl is determined to have Lady Anne declared insane and ruin Darcy's reputation by reporting that has fits and is dangerous. Then he can take control of Georgiana (for her own safety, of course) and Pemberley and their riches.
In the alternative, he would have Georgiana married to his son Cecil (although Georgiana is only 16) or Darcy married to his daughter, Emma. Any one of these would give him access to Darcy's money.
I think you will love Mr. Bennet's new role as well as other surprises.
40
The Darcys -- Lady Anne, Fitzwilliam, and Georgiana -- are at war with the Earl of Matlock. The Earl is determined to have Lady Anne declared insane and ruin Darcy's reputation by reporting that has fits and is dangerous. Then he can take control of Georgiana (for her own safety, of course) and Pemberley and their riches.
In the alternative, he would have Georgiana married to his son Cecil (although Georgiana is only 16) or Darcy married to his daughter, Emma. Any one of these would give him access to Darcy's money.
I think you will love Mr. Bennet's new role as well as other surprises.
40
October 14, 2023
I am of the opinion that this book would deserve 5 stars for the originality even if it had nothing else to recommend it. I've read a lot of Pride & Prejudice variations and this is the first time I've seen Wickham in the role he played in this one. I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop but it didn't happen. It was rather delightful. I also enjoyed having Mrs. Darcy alive and a lovely character. And I love variations where Darcy & Elizabeth don't have the antagonism in the beginning but have some conflict outside of their relationship. Basically, I enjoyed the way all the characters were depicted. It was a fun read with some amount of angst as they worked against the villain.
Sex: no
Language: no
Violence: forcibly kidnapping and drugging
Sex: no
Language: no
Violence: forcibly kidnapping and drugging
November 16, 2022
Finally, an author does good by Wickham!
I have read too many variations to count and I have also wanted just one to involve the twist of George Wickham as a hero. Here it is and it did not disappoint!! Thank you Laraba! She always spins such lovely stories and this was wonderful. If you like cannon, this is not your book! If you can tolerate a twisting, turning, sweet, clean yet fun read, here you go. I love that she even gave enough back story that Wickham admits he would have been a "bad guy" had certain things in his life been different; it made the whole twist plausible. Well done.
I have read too many variations to count and I have also wanted just one to involve the twist of George Wickham as a hero. Here it is and it did not disappoint!! Thank you Laraba! She always spins such lovely stories and this was wonderful. If you like cannon, this is not your book! If you can tolerate a twisting, turning, sweet, clean yet fun read, here you go. I love that she even gave enough back story that Wickham admits he would have been a "bad guy" had certain things in his life been different; it made the whole twist plausible. Well done.
August 18, 2022
I always enjoy reading variations of this classic story I really like seeing so many of the very familiar characters again that presented in different ways and with different roles. Darcy being portrayed as not having total control over everything was a unique and humbling perspective. It is interesting how family perspectives/decisions and the persistent quest for money can cause so much unrest! With the relatively fast pace of so many things happening at once it was hard to put book down. In the end it was very satisfying to see so many family members achieve a HEA.
February 28, 2023
Fanciful and joyous
Excellent variation of P&P. I like the mixing up of villains and good guys this author brought to the table. The dastards were dastardly and the heroes heroic, even when you had to become your own hero. Fanciful journeys into novel writing by one character brought nice breaks to the chapters, while still tying in with the plot of the larger story. Angst between ODC and other couples was nonexistent, which rendered this a fluffy tale indeed. Even with the drama and opposition of the antagonists of the story. Well written and well done.
Excellent variation of P&P. I like the mixing up of villains and good guys this author brought to the table. The dastards were dastardly and the heroes heroic, even when you had to become your own hero. Fanciful journeys into novel writing by one character brought nice breaks to the chapters, while still tying in with the plot of the larger story. Angst between ODC and other couples was nonexistent, which rendered this a fluffy tale indeed. Even with the drama and opposition of the antagonists of the story. Well written and well done.
July 31, 2022
Interesting twist
This book contains a story within a story, which I found very enjoyable. I like the low angst relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth. The way couples get together so quickly is almost funny. But there is serious treachery in this story, rather scary and so sad. I like that there is a backup source of financing for Longbourn and the less Mrs. Bennet knows, the better. She is also a minor character, and I find I do not miss her.
This book contains a story within a story, which I found very enjoyable. I like the low angst relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth. The way couples get together so quickly is almost funny. But there is serious treachery in this story, rather scary and so sad. I like that there is a backup source of financing for Longbourn and the less Mrs. Bennet knows, the better. She is also a minor character, and I find I do not miss her.
November 5, 2022
What if Darcy's father was a rake and his mother was alive?
What if George Wickham was a good man and Mr Bennet was a popular novelist?
If you want to know the answers, then this book is for you. With plenty of abductions, a lot of drugging, deranged relatives, and a slew of swift weddings at the end, the one thing this novel can not be accused of is being slow.
Oh, and Darcy gives Collins a black eye.
What if George Wickham was a good man and Mr Bennet was a popular novelist?
If you want to know the answers, then this book is for you. With plenty of abductions, a lot of drugging, deranged relatives, and a slew of swift weddings at the end, the one thing this novel can not be accused of is being slow.
Oh, and Darcy gives Collins a black eye.
February 6, 2023
wonderful! just wonderful!
The pleasant connection of Elizabeth and Darcy was a delightful beginning. The continued introduction of each of the characters truly brought them to life. I was interested in each one as the story developed. It was a true delight that Wickham was a good person for a change. I enjoyed how each of the disruptive characters were well eliminated.
I recommend this book without hesitation!
The pleasant connection of Elizabeth and Darcy was a delightful beginning. The continued introduction of each of the characters truly brought them to life. I was interested in each one as the story developed. It was a true delight that Wickham was a good person for a change. I enjoyed how each of the disruptive characters were well eliminated.
I recommend this book without hesitation!
December 20, 2023
Enjoyable story
I very much appreciate a completely different approach from the original. This story has a nice twist with a very different Wickham thank goodness. I really enjoyed it and hope there will be many other books that do not keep repeating the same story over again. I liked that Elizabeth and Darcy did not have the same misunderstandings so prevalent in many variations. A breath of fresh air this time!
I very much appreciate a completely different approach from the original. This story has a nice twist with a very different Wickham thank goodness. I really enjoyed it and hope there will be many other books that do not keep repeating the same story over again. I liked that Elizabeth and Darcy did not have the same misunderstandings so prevalent in many variations. A breath of fresh air this time!
July 30, 2022
Some interesting surprises
A very different universe, where Lady Anne Darcy is still alive, but recovering from drug abuse, while her brother, Earl of Matlock, schemes against the Darcy family. Wickham is one of the good guys and most of the other usual characters are true to canon. Darcy is much more pleasant than usual. A very pleasant read, with lots of plot twists.
A very different universe, where Lady Anne Darcy is still alive, but recovering from drug abuse, while her brother, Earl of Matlock, schemes against the Darcy family. Wickham is one of the good guys and most of the other usual characters are true to canon. Darcy is much more pleasant than usual. A very pleasant read, with lots of plot twists.
July 31, 2022
Satisfying read!
I love this book from beginning to end. I immensely admire Wickham, his character is so strong and respectable. Lord Matlock on the other hand is totally abhorrent. Not much romance but a lot of intrigue. Surprisingly, Mr. Bennett is one lovable guy....highly recommend.
I love this book from beginning to end. I immensely admire Wickham, his character is so strong and respectable. Lord Matlock on the other hand is totally abhorrent. Not much romance but a lot of intrigue. Surprisingly, Mr. Bennett is one lovable guy....highly recommend.
August 3, 2022
a new spin on Darcy’s family
In this version Darcy’s mother is alive and his father had died. The distress comes from his uncle Fitzwilliam. Darcy is trying to defend his family while his uncle is spreading rumors in an effort to bring Darcy down.
I loved this story, Darcy is loves his family and will do anything to protect them. Elizabeth plays a big part and becomes the partner Darcy needs. I also felt having Darcy’s father be less than perfect made the plot more interesting.
In this version Darcy’s mother is alive and his father had died. The distress comes from his uncle Fitzwilliam. Darcy is trying to defend his family while his uncle is spreading rumors in an effort to bring Darcy down.
I loved this story, Darcy is loves his family and will do anything to protect them. Elizabeth plays a big part and becomes the partner Darcy needs. I also felt having Darcy’s father be less than perfect made the plot more interesting.
August 1, 2022
Avid Reader
I enjoyed reading this in draft and even more when it was finally published because of the extended epilogues. Lord Matlock is deep in debt and sets out to kidnap Georgina and her mother so that he can sue Darcy. He wants and needs money desperately, but nothing works out the way that he wants it to.
I enjoyed reading this in draft and even more when it was finally published because of the extended epilogues. Lord Matlock is deep in debt and sets out to kidnap Georgina and her mother so that he can sue Darcy. He wants and needs money desperately, but nothing works out the way that he wants it to.
August 23, 2022
I always enjoy this author's pride and prejudice variations. They are creative, and she takes a lot of liberties with the plot line, swapping character roles, and adding new characters when relevant. But it still nods back to the original Jane Austen story. It's a clean story with some interesting twists.
October 3, 2022
I enjoyed this one. Low angst between Elizabeth and Darcy but plenty of aggravation between Darcy and his relations. I enjoyed the relationship between Elizabeth and Darcy and her father and the characters too. It was nice to see Darcy’s mum in the tale for a change and I enjoyed Wickham being involved in a different way to usual. An enjoyable read
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