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Encounters with Elizabeth

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Darcy fled Netherfield to escape her fine eyes, but fate conspires against him as he encounters Elizabeth in the most unlikely places.

Fitzwilliam Darcy takes great pride in having rescued his friend, Charles Bingley, from the inconvenience of a most imprudent marriage to Jane Bennet, the eldest daughter of a country gentleman. He refuses to acknowledge that his own foolish attraction for Miss Elizabeth, Jane’s younger sister, fueled his desire to flee Hertfordshire.

Darcy’s views become less certain when he and Bingley unexpectedly meet Elizabeth and her sister in a Library. Miss Elizabeth is charming, intelligent, and handsome, but hardly a worthy bride for a Darcy.

As if fate conspires to bring them together, Darcy’s pride crumbles more with each encounter with Elizabeth, and he realizes he cannot live without this most unique woman ... but can she live without him?

213 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 8, 2022

144 people are currently reading
49 people want to read

About the author

Laraba Kendig

40 books102 followers
I 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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5 stars
188 (35%)
4 stars
204 (38%)
3 stars
125 (23%)
2 stars
14 (2%)
1 star
5 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
Profile Image for Sheila Majczan.
2,654 reviews198 followers
December 14, 2022
3.5 stars rounded up to 4 stars

This story ended at 82%, page 150, on my Kindle. I was not satisfied with the ending, expecting more romance after Elizabeth finally accepts an engagement skipping over a formal courtship, having courted without any formal arrangement or announcement about such.

The story begins with Elizabeth and Jane in London, visiting with the Gardiners and their children. Jane is recovering from the heartbreak of Bingley abandoning Netherfield after his ball without even a "goodbye" communicated in person with Jane. As in canon Jane has visited the Bingley sisters and realized that they are not true friends.

The first "encounter" Darcy and Bingley have with Elizabeth and Jane is as they visit a circulating library with their aunt. And so it comes about that Darcy has to confess his part in separating Charles from Jane.

We soon read of visits at the Gardiners' residence and Jane and Bingley quickly picking up where they left off. Darcy is fighting his own feelings and losing the battle. He does admit his feeling for E. to the Colonel and gets some very good advice about how to propose even a courtship with Elizabeth.

Caroline Bingley does come to realize she has lost out in her attempts to lure Darcy into her net but she has a man soon show interest in her, which is a different tale for that lady. It does not come to a conclusion in this story, however.

This was a short, sweet romance with no angst. There is an epilogue. Then we are given several chapters as a Sneak Peek into Peacocks of Pemberley.
Profile Image for Rosava Doshchyk.
410 reviews72 followers
February 1, 2023
Навіть не знаю, радіти чи плакати, що тепер можу відмічати прочитані фанфіки на Goodreads ))
3,225 reviews41 followers
December 9, 2022
Okay

After Bingley left Netherfield, Darcy and Elizabeth meet in London. Then they meet again, in Meryton. And then they meet again, in Kent. And again, in London. Wickham is revealed to be a scoundrel before the militia leaves Meryton and the Colonel gives Darcy a hint how not to propose.
This story was all right, a nice quick read, about mostly reasonable people courting. There's not a lot of conflict and adding some suspense, heartache, humor or fluff could have made it more memorable. Recommended for readers who want a low-angst variation.

The courtship felt a little rushed as after they agreed to court, there was a lot of rain that prevented them from talking privately. There's one short conversation and one outing that is observed from a third party perspective and we know nothing of what they spoke of. Then Elizabeth informs him that she's changed her mind and they are engaged. Apart from finding out that Darcy is kind to the servants I don't know what changed it for her.
Profile Image for James S.
1,415 reviews
December 8, 2022
an okay romance

3.5 stars rounded up. Story suffers from uneven pacing. The fist 2/3 of the story goes into much minutiae descriptions and the story is more about Jane and Bingley with Darcy and Lizzy hovering around the edges. Lizzy dislikes Darcy and I began to think the story might not have a HEA.

The last third the coming together of Lizzy and Darcy kind of quickly and it’s hard to see why Lizzy is madly in love. In general we aren’t given much reason to like anyone in the book. Darcy stumbles around on whether to love and marry Lizzy and really…acts more like Someone who questions his decisions and need external cajoling to make up his mind. Lizzy says she is in love but doesn’t act in love.

All in all just a so so romance. I might have given it a 3 star rating but at least Wickham lands in prison. No one seems to covers the debt he incurs in Meryton leaving the entire town unpaid debts. Darcy is shamed by Lizzy for not warning everyone then that story line ends. Wickham knows Darcy is the person who let his past out of the bag and never tries to take revenge and destroy the Darcys reputations.
455 reviews5 followers
December 25, 2022
I usually enjoy Ms. Kendig's books much more.

For some reason this one didn't grab my attention. Perhaps because it was entirely focused on the romance, with no other issues involved, and there was no angst. Altogether it was a very calm read.
Profile Image for Teresita.
1,169 reviews12 followers
March 22, 2023
Lovely!

Very romantic and charming. Great read for a quiet afternoon. They keep meeting each other in different places and begin to view the person that their pride and prejudice had obcured.
Profile Image for Browntigerdog's Papermoon.
84 reviews8 followers
September 8, 2025
Kudos to the Colonel for giving Darcy the most excellent advice ever …before his proposal to Elizabeth .
Delicious:)
Profile Image for Michelle David.
2,509 reviews15 followers
June 5, 2023
Light

A rather light and easy little variation inspired by Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Laraba Kendig. I liked it.
444 reviews4 followers
January 28, 2023
Delightfully light and low angst variation

This author has a deliberate and painstaking manner of giving attention to thorough detail which makes this variation a must-read for those who aspire to write JAFF. It is because of that attention to detail that made this reader, one who is usually in a rush and pressed for time, skip many paragraphs although she knows how beautifully worded those sections are; perhaps to return to at another time.

Instead of the ill-fated proposal, the beloved couple together with Jane Bennet and Charles Bingley meet a popular bookstore in town. It is then that Bingley becomes resolved in pursuing the eldest Bennet daughter, which he succeeds. It is during these encounters, three to be precise, that Fitzwilliam Darcy realizes that his life will not be worth living without the second Bennet daughter by his side as wife and partner for life.

Another noteworthy significant change from Canon is the events that transpired in Rosings. Darcy actually confided in his cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam, and took his advice as to how to go about expressing his feelings to the singular lady. Hence, the terrible set down of Canon does not happen. But Mr. Darcy is no less contrite and desperate for Elizabeth to look favorably towards him.

There isn’t much angst in this offering except for some heated exchanges between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy, proving Elizabeth to be more of an impetuous and confrontational woman who surprising becomes mellow towards the end. The same goes for Mr. Darcy who is a pompous and judgmental fellow at the start who becomes a reflective love-sick gentleman eager to please the object of his affections after his conversation with his cousin. Hence, there is an unevenness in the characterization of our main characters. But who’s to say that love cannot alter a person’s actions, character and/or perspectives in life.

All in all, a good and highly recommended read.
Profile Image for Allison Ripley-Duggan.
1,666 reviews13 followers
January 28, 2024
I loved it!

This author has a deliberate and painstaking manner of giving attention to thorough detail which makes this variation a must-read for those who aspire to write JAFF. It is because of that attention to detail that made this reader, one who is usually in a rush and pressed for time, skip many paragraphs although she knows how beautifully worded those sections are; perhaps to return to at another time. Instead of the ill-fated proposal, the beloved couple together with Jane Bennet and Charles Bingley meet a popular bookstore in town. It is then that Bingley becomes resolved in pursuing the eldest Bennet daughter, which he succeeds. It is during these encounters, three to be precise, that Fitzwilliam Darcy realizes that his life will not be worth living without the second Bennet daughter by his side as wife and partner for life. Another noteworthy significant change from Canon is the events that transpired in Rosings. Darcy actually confided in his cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam, and took his advice as to how to go about expressing his feelings to the singular lady. Hence, the terrible set down of Canon does not happen. But Mr. Darcy is no less contrite and desperate for Elizabeth to look favorably towards him. There isn’t much angst in this offering except for some heated exchanges between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy, proving Elizabeth to be more of an impetuous and confrontational woman who surprising becomes mellow towards the end. The same goes for Mr. Darcy who is a pompous and judgmental fellow at the start who becomes a reflective love-sick gentleman eager to please the object of his affections after his conversation with his cousin. Hence, there is an unevenness in the characterization of our main characters. But who’s to say that love cannot alter a person’s actions, character and/or perspectives in life. All in all, a good and highly recommended read.
1,148 reviews29 followers
December 24, 2022
Entertaining

This author has become an automatic purchase for me. Good writing, and although it's a Christian perspective, it's not too preachy and the Bible quotes are kept to a minimum. The story begins after Darcy and Bingley abandon Netherfield for London, and Jane and Elizabeth are visiting the Gardiners, also in London. Darcy and Bingley encounter Jane and Elizabeth at a bookstore, and Bingley learns the truth about Jane's stay in London, how Bingley's sisters have offended her, and eventually, how Darcy has conspired with Bingley's sisters to keep him away from Jane. Bingley has an epiphany, grows a backbone, and tells both Darcy and his sisters that he intends to pursue Jane until she agrees to marry him.

Meanwhile, Darcy is coming to grips with his continued infatuation with Elizabeth, and it takes only a little nudge from his cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam, to persuade him that he should pursue Elizabeth for a wife. Darcy learns that Elizabeth doesn't like him much, and that he must court her and earn her respect and love.

Usually this author includes more drama in her stories, but this one is pretty "vanilla" in that nothing much really happens. Darcy pursues Elizabeth in London, in Kent, and later In London again , before Elizabeth capitulates without much fanfare, and all is settled. The usual villains, Caroline Bingley, Lady Catherine, and Wickham, all appear, but never have any effect on anything. This is a quiet, low angst story, and I almost wish there had been more struggle, just to spice things up a bit. It's a little bland.

The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it as a pleasant way to pass some time.
211 reviews2 followers
December 24, 2023
Encounters with Elizabeth

This story takes place after the Netherfield party has left Meryton. Jane and Elizabeth are in London visiting their Aunt and Uncle Gardiners. Today they are going to visit Hookham’s Library; Jane to the Reading Room and Lizzy to the Gothic Novels section of this lending library. Low and behold who should appear? Yes, Bingley to the Reading Room and Darcy to the Gothic Novel section to find new books for Georgiana. Needless to say, Darcy got more than an ear full that afternoon; whereas, Bingley heard mostly silence. Darcy confesses all on the way back from the library and apologizes for his interference into Bingley’s love affair. Jane accepts Bingley’s proposal after some groveling. Meanwhile, Darcy fights his feelings for Elizabeth until he cannot fight anymore after accompanying Bingley to the Gardiners also daily. By the time Elizabeth is ready to visit the Collins in Hunsford, Darcy’s mind is made up that he will propose. They decide on a courtship to get to know one another better. While at Vauxhall Gardens, when Darcy mentions asking Mr. Bennet’s permission for their courtship, Elizabeth suggests their betrothal instead. With Darcy engaged to Elizabeth, Colonel Fitzwilliam proposes to Anne and is accepted. Pull off a double wedding in Meryton without Lady Catherine none the wiser simply because she wasn’t told. Good story.
Profile Image for Elizabeth S.
709 reviews16 followers
February 4, 2023
Darcy and Bingley enter a London library only to find Elizabeth and Jane within. Bingley quickly learns that Jane has been in town for months, and that Caroline has lied to him about it. Things progress rapidly, and Jane and Bingley marry. All the while, Darcy fights his attraction to Elizabeth, as he tells himself over and over how unsuitable she is.

The annual trip to Rosings happens as usual, except for the disastrous proposal at Hunsford, because Colonel Fitzwilliam advised Darcy beforehand on his wording. He also convinces the rather dull-witted and helpless Darcy that marrying Elizabeth would be a fine thing to do. The rest is just filler, with no angst and no action.

I've read several of Laraba Kendig's variations and enjoyed them, but this one seems as though she started with a plot outline, got bored with it, added uninteresting filler, and quickly finished it off without any refinement. Somehow, she has managed to make Darcy...gasp!...unlikable, more haughty, and even a little stupid.

Overused phrase: "for all that", which is a lazy way to say since, because, in spite of, despite, etc. Overused word: remarkable.
325 reviews
January 19, 2023
Enjoyable story for a relaxing afternoon, 4.5 stars

I certainly enjoyed this book, but it did not have the depth I, personally, desire and expect for a book to earn 5 stars. The introduction of unexpected encounters at times and places different from canon is an interesting idea with many possibilities. Likewise the inclusion of POV from both Darcy and Elizabeth highlights their different environments. Unfortunately, the author did not explore those differences in any depth or describe their thought processes as they changed their views of each other.
There was very little conflict among the characters.

All in all, it seems more superficial than I prefer. Nonetheless I enjoy the author’s style and will read again in the future to see if I just didn’t read carefully enough. Recommended for JAFF readers to evaluate for themselves.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
Author 7 books12 followers
March 4, 2023
This was a sweet JAFF story which picks up after Bingley has left Netherfield and Jane has been visiting relations in London. Lizzy joins her sister for some time in London and both end up meeting Bingley and Darcy in a London library. Craziness ensures for a while, mainly with Darcy fighting his feelings for a woman who he feels would not meet the family and society's expectations. Lizzy, meanwhile, still views Darcy with questions about his character, and it isn't until an unexpected meeting with Wickham and Darcy that Lizzy learns the truth earlier than in the original story. Will this change her mind towards Darcy? What will happen when they meet surprisingly at Rosings?
280 reviews
December 21, 2022
What better place to meet than a Bookstore. Even though such a meeting was unexpected .

In London, to support her heartbroken sister, Elizabeth Bennet is unprepared to encounter Mr. Darcy , who she believes , had something to do with the entire thing. Confessions and apologies are made. Mr. Bingley gets a backbone much to the dismay of his sisters. Misconceptions are revealed and corrected. This story filled in a bit more of the background of the Gardiners and their love for their neices. It was a delightful story.


Profile Image for Zhora.
326 reviews2 followers
January 6, 2023
I'm confused 👁👄👁

It was all flowing smoothly and well-paced until Darcy declared. We never got the chance to see ODC courtship or engagement. But above all, I didn't understand what Elizabeth's feelings were toward Mr. Darcy and how she changed from allowing a courtship to declaring her love. All this happened -plus their wedding and a short epilogue of them being married and expecting a child- in 10-15 pages?

I think this was a major fault and the reason I lowered my rating.
93 reviews
April 30, 2025
Nel panorama delle variazioni di Orgoglio e Pregiudizio, questa non aggiunge nulla. Storia lineare e monotona, non presenta nulla di sorprendente e non coinvolge davvero perché non c'è alcun phatos, nulla che faccia rimanere col fiato sospeso. Darcy ed Elizabeth non litigano, non ci sono proposte di matrimonio non accettate, non ci sono litigi con Lady Catherine... Insomma, vige la monotonia. Davvero si poteva fare di più. Due stelle e non una solo per la scena del pattinaggio sul ghiaccio che mi sembra inedita.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
336 reviews
December 24, 2022
Creative Variation

This story begins a few months after Bingley leaves Jane. I wished it had more details ie show not tell. However the 5 stars are because of the creative writing while keeping the characters true to Jane Austin’s portrayal of them. While the usual “villains “ were in the story they were dealt with off screen.
I enjoyed the flow and rhythm of the story. That is why I gave it 5 stars.
2,317 reviews14 followers
December 4, 2024
Hookham Library Connection
This was yet another enjoyable variation. Finding new ways for beloved couples to reconnect is always interesting. I think I liked this decisive Bingley much better particularly as he dealt with his sisters interference. I also liked the dialogue between Darcy and Elizabeth-much more focussed around understanding the situation they were involved in than laying blame. Loved it!
310 reviews1 follower
December 12, 2022
Very Well Done

No automatic transitions from hate to love or vice versa. When Elizabeth learns that Mr Darcy has interfered with the courtship of Mr Bingley and her most beloved and deserving sister Jane, she is livid! It takes several encounters and some time for her to come to understand the person he truly is and she this grows to love him.

Very well done!
136 reviews1 follower
January 5, 2023
Sweet but just ok

Reasonably well written. But just ok in terms of plot. Some sections ok - library, skating, confronting Wickham at Bingley wedding. But the remainder of the story has a very shallow dramatic arc with things resolving too easily. Both Darcy and Elizabeth become too sweet and docile in 2nd half of story. It's as if they have all become Jane clones.
496 reviews2 followers
December 9, 2022
Pleasant, but not much depth.

A much lighter plot than is usually offered by this author, and a pleasant enough story. Darcy and Bingley accidentally meet Elizabeth and Jane in London after Christmas and love comes to life quickly. A light, surface romance.
Profile Image for Jeanah.
288 reviews6 followers
December 15, 2022
okay

Although nice, I would expected more. Many moments between ODC were rushed or skipped all together. Most of the writing depth appears in descriptions painting the environment or scenes of nature etc. I would have wished for more tender scene and dialogue.
120 reviews
December 25, 2022
Another good one

Laraba Kendig's Pride and Prejudice variations are delightful to read. The characters often vary from the original but add to the story. I would definitely recommend.
Profile Image for Alena (Ally) Scott .
481 reviews3 followers
January 1, 2023
Great variation

Very entertaining storyline that is well written with good character development. Turning the initial scenes slightly and introducing new elements makes an enjoyable read. Although with a Christian bent, not overdone. Highly recommended.
40 reviews1 follower
April 29, 2023
Short but so sweet!

I very much enjoyed Encounters with Elizabeth! It is a shorter story than Laraba usually writes but it contains all the essential ingredients of one of her stories. It left me with a quiet smile and a warm feeling. Very enjoyable.
517 reviews4 followers
August 1, 2023
I Would Definitely Recommend Reading This Novella

Again Laraba has knocked it out of the park. I so enjoyed reading this novella. Look forward to reading more of this author who puts such a wonderful spin on things.
Profile Image for Mariska.
638 reviews2 followers
December 9, 2022
Fantastic in every way!!

I especially loved the way that Darcy was smart enough to take the advice of Colonel Fitzwilliam while at Rosings.
114 reviews3 followers
December 10, 2022
Okay

This seemed more like a series of vignettes strung together than an actual story. I will not be purchasing it for my permanent collection.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews

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