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Austen Addicts #1
A Weekend with Mr. Darcy
Of course she's obsessed with Jane Austen...
Surrounded by appalling exes and fawning students, the only thing keeping professor Katherine Roberts sane is Jane Austen and her personal secret love for racy Regency romance novels. She thinks the Jane Austen Addicts conference in the English countryside is the perfect opportunity to escape her chaotic life and finally relax...
But then she encounters a devilishly handsome man at the conference who seems determined to sweep her off her feet. Is he more fiction than fact? Or could he be the hero she didn't know she was looking for?
Surrounded by appalling exes and fawning students, the only thing keeping professor Katherine Roberts sane is Jane Austen and her personal secret love for racy Regency romance novels. She thinks the Jane Austen Addicts conference in the English countryside is the perfect opportunity to escape her chaotic life and finally relax...
But then she encounters a devilishly handsome man at the conference who seems determined to sweep her off her feet. Is he more fiction than fact? Or could he be the hero she didn't know she was looking for?
352 pages, Paperback
First published September 16, 2010
121 people are currently reading
4050 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Connelly
67 books507 followersVictoria Connelly grew up in Norfolk before attending Worcester College where she studied English Literature. After graduating, she worked her way through a number of jobs before becoming a teacher in North Yorkshire.
In 2000, she got married in a medieval castle in the Yorkshire Dales and moved to London. Five weeks after their wedding, her husband, a television news cameraman, was sent to Israel. Convinced something terrible would happen to him, she came up with the idea for a novel about a young widow who starts seeing angels on her desk at work, but was scared to write it in case she tempted fate. It was only years later that her husband admitted to having a bullet graze his shirt sleeve whilst filming in Israel!
Although having had articles and short stories published, it was only when Flights of Angels was published that Victoria was able to realise the dream of becoming a professional writer. Published as Unter deinem Stern in Germany, the novel was made into a film for television by award-winning Ziegler Film. Her second novel, The Unmasking of Elena Montella (Wenn es dich gibt), was published in 2007 and her third, Three Graces (Wohin mit der Liebe), was published in 2009. All three magical romantic comedies are now available as ebooks.
Her first novel to be published in the UK – Molly’s Millions – came out in 2009. This was followed by a trilogy about Jane Austen addicts: A Weekend with Mr Darcy, The Perfect Hero (US title: Dreaming of Mr Darcy) and Mr Darcy Forever.
The Runaway Actress was published in April 2012 and she is currently working on another romantic comedy, Wish You Were Here.
In 2000, she got married in a medieval castle in the Yorkshire Dales and moved to London. Five weeks after their wedding, her husband, a television news cameraman, was sent to Israel. Convinced something terrible would happen to him, she came up with the idea for a novel about a young widow who starts seeing angels on her desk at work, but was scared to write it in case she tempted fate. It was only years later that her husband admitted to having a bullet graze his shirt sleeve whilst filming in Israel!
Although having had articles and short stories published, it was only when Flights of Angels was published that Victoria was able to realise the dream of becoming a professional writer. Published as Unter deinem Stern in Germany, the novel was made into a film for television by award-winning Ziegler Film. Her second novel, The Unmasking of Elena Montella (Wenn es dich gibt), was published in 2007 and her third, Three Graces (Wohin mit der Liebe), was published in 2009. All three magical romantic comedies are now available as ebooks.
Her first novel to be published in the UK – Molly’s Millions – came out in 2009. This was followed by a trilogy about Jane Austen addicts: A Weekend with Mr Darcy, The Perfect Hero (US title: Dreaming of Mr Darcy) and Mr Darcy Forever.
The Runaway Actress was published in April 2012 and she is currently working on another romantic comedy, Wish You Were Here.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 652 reviews
January 19, 2012
I loved the idea of this book but was disappointed. It's neither awful, or great. It's simply flat! The characters were very uninteresting and boring and there really were no "twists and turns" throughout the story. The author tried to squeeze too many events into a short space of time (a weekend). Couldn't wait to finish!
September 10, 2012
It started out quite promising, as the author was capable of good writing...but unfortunately not great plot-building. The characters' actions feel contrived and forced, as though they were doing what they were told b/c it was in the storyline, not because of how it would otherwise go with them. There was also no need for the instantaneous hatred of Lorna (Darcy) by the professor (Elizabeth) just because he happened to accidentally ram into her with his suitcase. Seriously, is there a worse reason for hating someone?? That first interaction was contrived and does not give enough credence to the pride/prejudice first impression problem of Darcy/Elizabeth. Lorna shows up at the conference already head over heels in love with the professor anyway, so nothing she does can put him off.
But that wasn't the bad part of the book. The really incredibly bad part was Robyn, whose story seemed to have been plucked out of nowhere for the purpose of adding to the "multiple main characters" trend (or craze) in British chicklit. Whether I like this trend is another issue, but Robyn was written so stupid that you try to skip over the parts where she appears in the book. She is tied down by a boyfriend who doesn't understand her passion for Jane Austen, which is normal in these sorts of books, but worse than that, the boyfriend is a downright loser. There is absolutely nothing about this guy that makes me sympathize with Robyn AT ALL. Not only does he not "get" Robyn (although there's not much to get, as she's rather airheaded), he's even dumber than she is, being content to just drink his weekends away, but he's also just basically a pushy, annoying, oblivious redneck. It was sort of as though the author brainstormed about all the undesirable traits possible in a man and stuffed it all in him. Which made me really look down on Robyn for not shaking him free, just because they had known each other for a long time. For her to have put up with such a loser for that long of a time, she really had to have been a colossal airhead. Additionally, when she starts to like the stablehand (who actually seems attractive and decent), it doesn't redeem her, but makes her seem even more dumb, because it just seems that she liked the first guy on the scene when her redneck boyfriend wasn't around.
I read a lot of Austen spinoffs. Most are pretty terrible, as though people just wrote a romance book and then changed the characters' names to Austen character names. But some (very, very few) actually make it through as an actual book, since Austen had an actual idea and moral she was trying to evince when she wrote the books, and subsequent authors are only trying to copy her idea. This was initially entertaining, and the author is not a bad writer. But the plot and character building was terrible. It would have been better if she had just stuck with Katherine and Lorna.
But that wasn't the bad part of the book. The really incredibly bad part was Robyn, whose story seemed to have been plucked out of nowhere for the purpose of adding to the "multiple main characters" trend (or craze) in British chicklit. Whether I like this trend is another issue, but Robyn was written so stupid that you try to skip over the parts where she appears in the book. She is tied down by a boyfriend who doesn't understand her passion for Jane Austen, which is normal in these sorts of books, but worse than that, the boyfriend is a downright loser. There is absolutely nothing about this guy that makes me sympathize with Robyn AT ALL. Not only does he not "get" Robyn (although there's not much to get, as she's rather airheaded), he's even dumber than she is, being content to just drink his weekends away, but he's also just basically a pushy, annoying, oblivious redneck. It was sort of as though the author brainstormed about all the undesirable traits possible in a man and stuffed it all in him. Which made me really look down on Robyn for not shaking him free, just because they had known each other for a long time. For her to have put up with such a loser for that long of a time, she really had to have been a colossal airhead. Additionally, when she starts to like the stablehand (who actually seems attractive and decent), it doesn't redeem her, but makes her seem even more dumb, because it just seems that she liked the first guy on the scene when her redneck boyfriend wasn't around.
I read a lot of Austen spinoffs. Most are pretty terrible, as though people just wrote a romance book and then changed the characters' names to Austen character names. But some (very, very few) actually make it through as an actual book, since Austen had an actual idea and moral she was trying to evince when she wrote the books, and subsequent authors are only trying to copy her idea. This was initially entertaining, and the author is not a bad writer. But the plot and character building was terrible. It would have been better if she had just stuck with Katherine and Lorna.
February 3, 2012
I enjoy Jane Austen as much as the next girl, but this book just hit you over the head and knocked you out with all the Jane Austen. Yes, I think it'd be pretty fun to go to a weekend conference on Jane Austen, but I never realized how many people form their world views based off of her literature.
The story line of the two couples was quite predictable, but honestly you're looking for the happy ending when you read a book like this. I enjoyed reading about their personal doubts, struggles and how they were going to move on with their lives. What became tedious for me, though, was the constant referencing to Austen. Yes, I understand that this is an Austen-centric book, but why can't these people live their own lives for awhile? Why does every little thing have to be compared back to a character or situation in an Austen novel?
I think if the story had been a little less "All Jane, All the time" I would have enjoyed it a bit more. Even still, it was a very cute book with some really adorable characters. Definitely a fun read.
The story line of the two couples was quite predictable, but honestly you're looking for the happy ending when you read a book like this. I enjoyed reading about their personal doubts, struggles and how they were going to move on with their lives. What became tedious for me, though, was the constant referencing to Austen. Yes, I understand that this is an Austen-centric book, but why can't these people live their own lives for awhile? Why does every little thing have to be compared back to a character or situation in an Austen novel?
I think if the story had been a little less "All Jane, All the time" I would have enjoyed it a bit more. Even still, it was a very cute book with some really adorable characters. Definitely a fun read.
April 16, 2012
This was terrible. I didn't want to spend an hour with this book, let alone a whole weekend or more. My own sentiments mirror those of some of the other reviewers, believing this author to be in firm need of an editor among other things. From the overpowering and somewhat overworked language, to the very unlikeable characters and contrived plot, I found myself wanting to give up on this book after page five. The main character is ridiculous and feels oddly like a Mary Sue -- something very par for the course when it comes to Austen adaptations and rewrites. The plot twist (which wasn't much of a twist) felt like an M. Night Shyamalan film. By page four I had a very strong inkling of exactly what the twist was, and by page eleven I knew without a doubt and was very very disappointed that the author had gone that route. I put up a good fight and struggled through the next fifty pages or so before skimming over the rest and declaring the book unreadable.
I like a good Austen adaptation as much as the next fan. I've done the fanfiction circuit. I've spent my fair share of time drooling over a sideburn bedecked Colin Firth emerging from a pond, soaking wet and delicious as can be, wishing it were me he was staring at while he called me his dearest and loveliest. But for the few truly good adaptations/rewrites/modern takes -- whatever you want to call them -- it seems there are at least half a dozen absolutely ridiculous ones. This is one such ridiculous one. The one dimensional characters, overwrought writing style, and transparent plot all make for a bad combination. Had it been possible to give this book 0 stars, I would have.
Ms. Connelly may be a great author. And honestly, I have to give her kudos for writing and publishing a book. I have more than a few unpublished, some unfinished, manuscripts lying around my hard drive collecting cyber dust. _A Weekend with Mr. Darcy_ was just not a good example of Ms. Connelly's talent, but I wish her all the best in future endeavors.
I like a good Austen adaptation as much as the next fan. I've done the fanfiction circuit. I've spent my fair share of time drooling over a sideburn bedecked Colin Firth emerging from a pond, soaking wet and delicious as can be, wishing it were me he was staring at while he called me his dearest and loveliest. But for the few truly good adaptations/rewrites/modern takes -- whatever you want to call them -- it seems there are at least half a dozen absolutely ridiculous ones. This is one such ridiculous one. The one dimensional characters, overwrought writing style, and transparent plot all make for a bad combination. Had it been possible to give this book 0 stars, I would have.
Ms. Connelly may be a great author. And honestly, I have to give her kudos for writing and publishing a book. I have more than a few unpublished, some unfinished, manuscripts lying around my hard drive collecting cyber dust. _A Weekend with Mr. Darcy_ was just not a good example of Ms. Connelly's talent, but I wish her all the best in future endeavors.
February 6, 2016
Katherine is a lecturer of literature at Oxford. She likes to read steamy, regency romances in her spare time, and has been corresponding with one of her favorite authors Lorna Warwick. She has been burned by relationships too much, and has decided to give up on love. A little stressed, and over worked she is looking forward to the Jane Austen Conference at Purely Hall where she has been invited to be a speaker.
Robyn lives in Yorkshire, and has a job and boyfriend she doesn't particularly like. She is looking forward to her Jane Austen conference to get away from it all.
Both women are just looking for a relaxing weekend with other Jane Austen fans. However, when they arrive it seems fate has something else in store for them.
The book was entertaining, but I had a hard time relating to the characters. I am a fan of Jane Austen, but it doesn't completely rule my life. I have read all the novels, but I don't carry one with me everywhere, I don't read ONLY Jane Austen and JAFF, and I don't find myself wondering what Jane would think. This book is more for people who are totally obsessed with Jane. I found the love stories predictable, and fairly unoriginal. All in all it was okay.
Robyn lives in Yorkshire, and has a job and boyfriend she doesn't particularly like. She is looking forward to her Jane Austen conference to get away from it all.
Both women are just looking for a relaxing weekend with other Jane Austen fans. However, when they arrive it seems fate has something else in store for them.
The book was entertaining, but I had a hard time relating to the characters. I am a fan of Jane Austen, but it doesn't completely rule my life. I have read all the novels, but I don't carry one with me everywhere, I don't read ONLY Jane Austen and JAFF, and I don't find myself wondering what Jane would think. This book is more for people who are totally obsessed with Jane. I found the love stories predictable, and fairly unoriginal. All in all it was okay.
July 27, 2011
In this enchanting Austen-Inspired novel, three devoted Janeites travel to a Jane Austen Conference that takes place in Purley Hall, a picturesque and historic Georgian mansion in Hampshire, England. The conference is hosted by none other than Dame Pamela Harcourt, a famous and distinguished British actress who has played famous roles such as Elizabeth Bennet, Marianne Dashwood in her youth and Lady Catherine de Bourgh and Fanny Dashwood in recent years. Our two heroines, Katherine Roberts, an Oxford professor, and Robyn Love, a receptionist at a college, and our Austenesque hero, Warwick Lawton, a writer, are all eagerly looking forward to enjoying their long Janeite weekend!
Katherine, who has been to this particular conference several times before, is hoping to finally meet her favorite Regency Romance author/pen-pal whose rumored to attend. Robyn plans to enjoy some time away from her selfish and immature boyfriend, but disaster strikes when Jace announces that he is tagging along on her precious Jane Austen weekend. Warwick Lawton travels to Hampshire with the intent of meeting the woman he has fallen in love with and possibly revealing to her his big secret. Wonder what's in store for Katherine, Robyn, and Warwick this weekend? Curious to see if everything goes according to plan?
To continue reading, got to: http://janeaustenreviews.blogspot.com...
Katherine, who has been to this particular conference several times before, is hoping to finally meet her favorite Regency Romance author/pen-pal whose rumored to attend. Robyn plans to enjoy some time away from her selfish and immature boyfriend, but disaster strikes when Jace announces that he is tagging along on her precious Jane Austen weekend. Warwick Lawton travels to Hampshire with the intent of meeting the woman he has fallen in love with and possibly revealing to her his big secret. Wonder what's in store for Katherine, Robyn, and Warwick this weekend? Curious to see if everything goes according to plan?
To continue reading, got to: http://janeaustenreviews.blogspot.com...
July 22, 2013
Well I was bought this as a present so felt I ought to read it even though I hadn't like the other one by this author that I'd bought. I was given hope by the comments from Fiona Walker - on the back and Lisa Jewell on the front but I actually wonder if they read the book.
If you like safe, slow, sweet little stories then fine - you'll like this but I'm afraid I didn't. The contrivance with the suitcase drove me crazy. I can't believe she'd have acted like that.
I do appreciate that much of what happens was paralleling Austen but I don't know her stories in such detail that I'd remember every little thing. I didn't like the main characters which is never a good sign. I did like Dan - he was good but the others - no. I didn't like the style of writing either. Not sure i can put my finger on why but it didn't seem very natural. The use of 'dear' for example - okay maybe from an older character but....I'm sorry, because I don't like giving 1 star reviews but this is just not the type of book for me. It should be - I like romantic comedies but this didn't do it for me.
If you like safe, slow, sweet little stories then fine - you'll like this but I'm afraid I didn't. The contrivance with the suitcase drove me crazy. I can't believe she'd have acted like that.
I do appreciate that much of what happens was paralleling Austen but I don't know her stories in such detail that I'd remember every little thing. I didn't like the main characters which is never a good sign. I did like Dan - he was good but the others - no. I didn't like the style of writing either. Not sure i can put my finger on why but it didn't seem very natural. The use of 'dear' for example - okay maybe from an older character but....I'm sorry, because I don't like giving 1 star reviews but this is just not the type of book for me. It should be - I like romantic comedies but this didn't do it for me.
January 3, 2012
This book is truly horrendous. I can't believe it has a decent review average. It's so trite and boring. The most obnoxious thing about this book: the author is heavy-handed with the Austen references. Hey, I love a good inside Austen joke but even I would be rolling my eyes at the way these women talk- the characters always make the most obvious Austen reference ever. It's like Jane Austen for Dummies, or people who've only seen the movie adaptations. And the Dan-Robyn relationship was completely unbelievable. I had high hopes for this book but I think it's the worst Austen fan fic type book I have ever read, and I've read a few doozies.
January 29, 2012
Wow, this was really a great book.
I expected a Jane Austen romantic tie-in but got more than I expected.
At the start and for the first 1/4 of the book I felt like things were progressing predictably but also how I wanted them to progress. It's a weird feeling, guessing what you want to happen and having that happen. but Victoria Connelly did this well and though I say that events were predictable, the reading wassenior able--I liked what was happening. I was a little disappointed that things progressed so quickly at the start.
In the first day or reading, I was ready to mark it 4 stars for a well written and enjoyable read. By the second day and through until the end, I began to be really impressed by the author's writing style. It wasn't showy and distracting, but the author consistently illustrated that she knew her subject. The book began to have a bit of a feel of a non-fiction book, in that the author, through her characters, told the reader quite a bit about Jane Austen fan (Austenites) and about the Jane Austen herself.
I want to be clear, the non-fiction feel is wholly a complement. Victoria Connelly combined the best bits of non-fiction history (interesting subject, entertaining telling, focus on details that make the history come alive), the best bits of memoir (Interesting subject, enjoyable and stylish writing and subtlety) with Jane Austen riffs.
Ms Connelly, I have one serious complaint: This book wasn't long enough. I understand that you are writing two more in this series. if you plan to write the next two as well as you wrote this one, I would be grateful if you doubled the length. I simply wanted to spend more time with your characters and I would be happy to spend that time learning more about them or simply hanging out with them.
For everyone else, come to the book expecting a pleasantly romantic story interspersed with skillfully written lifelike detail, a dynamic portrayal of Jane Austen fans and an entertaining and insightful--and light and interesting--discussion of Jane Austen's writing and influence.
I expected a Jane Austen romantic tie-in but got more than I expected.
At the start and for the first 1/4 of the book I felt like things were progressing predictably but also how I wanted them to progress. It's a weird feeling, guessing what you want to happen and having that happen. but Victoria Connelly did this well and though I say that events were predictable, the reading wassenior able--I liked what was happening. I was a little disappointed that things progressed so quickly at the start.
In the first day or reading, I was ready to mark it 4 stars for a well written and enjoyable read. By the second day and through until the end, I began to be really impressed by the author's writing style. It wasn't showy and distracting, but the author consistently illustrated that she knew her subject. The book began to have a bit of a feel of a non-fiction book, in that the author, through her characters, told the reader quite a bit about Jane Austen fan (Austenites) and about the Jane Austen herself.
I want to be clear, the non-fiction feel is wholly a complement. Victoria Connelly combined the best bits of non-fiction history (interesting subject, entertaining telling, focus on details that make the history come alive), the best bits of memoir (Interesting subject, enjoyable and stylish writing and subtlety) with Jane Austen riffs.
Ms Connelly, I have one serious complaint: This book wasn't long enough. I understand that you are writing two more in this series. if you plan to write the next two as well as you wrote this one, I would be grateful if you doubled the length. I simply wanted to spend more time with your characters and I would be happy to spend that time learning more about them or simply hanging out with them.
For everyone else, come to the book expecting a pleasantly romantic story interspersed with skillfully written lifelike detail, a dynamic portrayal of Jane Austen fans and an entertaining and insightful--and light and interesting--discussion of Jane Austen's writing and influence.
February 2, 2019
I think this book made me hate Jane Austen, just a tiny bit. The premise intrigued me because so many Jane Austen fangirl novels create heroines who act like they wouldn't know a Harlequin if it bit them on the bottom. But the heroine of this story loves Austen and trashy Regency novels, so I figured, worth a shot.
And, to give this book its due, I did appreciate that the characters (for the most part) liked Jane Austen's novels. And they liked Collin Firth in breaches. But they seemed smart enough to differentiate between the two. Far too often chick flicks conflate them.
But mostly I hated this book. I hated the insufferable characters, the over-the-top quotations, the ridiculous plot. I hated the predictability of it all. It just left me very, very underwhelmed.
Save yourself the bother and go watch Austenland (or read the book but the movie is better). Similar plot but...better.
And, to give this book its due, I did appreciate that the characters (for the most part) liked Jane Austen's novels. And they liked Collin Firth in breaches. But they seemed smart enough to differentiate between the two. Far too often chick flicks conflate them.
But mostly I hated this book. I hated the insufferable characters, the over-the-top quotations, the ridiculous plot. I hated the predictability of it all. It just left me very, very underwhelmed.
Save yourself the bother and go watch Austenland (or read the book but the movie is better). Similar plot but...better.
November 10, 2015
LOVE LOVE LOVEEEED IT!! ♥ :D Jane Austen's weekend. Quotes about Jane Austen. Appreciating Jane Austen's books, films, TV series, sequels. And just.. so MUCH of our dear darling Jane Austen. Enough said. ♥
Two hot guys. Two girls. Lots of Janeites. This was a really funny book. huge page turner and if you're an Austen fan totally relate-able.
Two hot guys. Two girls. Lots of Janeites. This was a really funny book. huge page turner and if you're an Austen fan totally relate-able.
May 18, 2015
3.5 stars
At 5% into my kindle edition the fact of Lorna Warwick's true identity was verified to readers. It was not that difficult to figure out. The plot was very predictable for me. There were no surprises and the one twist was uncovered, as I said, very early in the book. I especially found the men in this book to be very shallow, too predictable and with little appeal to one who loves to read about "Mr. Darcy”. Even the friendship between Robyn and Katherine had little connection for me. Don't pin "prejudiced" on me...my mother and my sister worked as secretaries and my opinion is that "administrative assistants" run most offices. But Robyn and Katherine seemed to just “check-in” with each other and there was not depth described to any conversations between these two women. They did give each other histories of events but not any depth of feelings and questioning of choices or even asking for each other’s advice or guidance.
I found Robyn's story had more draw for me in reading the two female protagonists’ situations. Maybe it was that her "man" came galloping onto the scene and loved animals or maybe it was that all the difficulties were clear to both parties, even if one of Robyn's choices clearly disappointed Dan. Maybe it was the almost “Mr. Darcy with a wet T-shirt” type scene as she watched him labor in the stables with the horses. Jace's place in Robyn's life is not presented correctly in some of the reviews...he was the shoulder she cried on when her brother died while she was a teenager. And he played that sympathy card so well. But he was also lazy, selfish and totally inconsiderate. Really, placing a wet coffee cup on one of Robyn's Jane Austen books? Lock him up! I do understand her reaction to his “big” question while on horseback at the JA convention...he played that whole "do it in public so she doesn't dare say, "No" card to the nth.
I felt a definite connection to Katherine Roberts’ love of historical romances while being, at the same time, a professor at St. Bridget’s. I have met more than a few Janeites who are not at all shy about looking down their noses at those of us who read and love JAFF or just plain old escapism historical romances. It is considered a pollution of one’s tastes to give attention to such “trash”. But I will not apologize and neither did Katherine. Why did Lorna Warwick decide to answer her fan letters over any others? That was not spelled out very clearly. But I found Katherine’s running away and not staying and having it out with Warwick verbally an act of cowardice. How she could say on one hand that she was in love and then not put her hands around his neck and shake him was beyond me. I wanted them to confront each other’s opinions and actions: Darcy and Elizabeth style. Beat him over the head with his actions and words, let him explain, and then, maybe, have that time when all things are considered.
I liked the premise of this story. It reminded me of The Jane Austen Book Club in some ways. There were many references to Jane Austen’s characters, to her own life and fate, to whether marriage would have changed her destiny as an author and then there were all the references to the historical buildings (and a cemetery) which were part of her life. This story had some vague parallels to Jane’s books but in no way in which I could say this was a modern re-telling or take-off on any one story. The characters themselves would at times state that this or that, he or she, reminded her of something from her novels.
This was a pleasant read, but not one which kept me enthralled.
At 5% into my kindle edition the fact of Lorna Warwick's true identity was verified to readers. It was not that difficult to figure out. The plot was very predictable for me. There were no surprises and the one twist was uncovered, as I said, very early in the book. I especially found the men in this book to be very shallow, too predictable and with little appeal to one who loves to read about "Mr. Darcy”. Even the friendship between Robyn and Katherine had little connection for me. Don't pin "prejudiced" on me...my mother and my sister worked as secretaries and my opinion is that "administrative assistants" run most offices. But Robyn and Katherine seemed to just “check-in” with each other and there was not depth described to any conversations between these two women. They did give each other histories of events but not any depth of feelings and questioning of choices or even asking for each other’s advice or guidance.
I found Robyn's story had more draw for me in reading the two female protagonists’ situations. Maybe it was that her "man" came galloping onto the scene and loved animals or maybe it was that all the difficulties were clear to both parties, even if one of Robyn's choices clearly disappointed Dan. Maybe it was the almost “Mr. Darcy with a wet T-shirt” type scene as she watched him labor in the stables with the horses. Jace's place in Robyn's life is not presented correctly in some of the reviews...he was the shoulder she cried on when her brother died while she was a teenager. And he played that sympathy card so well. But he was also lazy, selfish and totally inconsiderate. Really, placing a wet coffee cup on one of Robyn's Jane Austen books? Lock him up! I do understand her reaction to his “big” question while on horseback at the JA convention...he played that whole "do it in public so she doesn't dare say, "No" card to the nth.
I felt a definite connection to Katherine Roberts’ love of historical romances while being, at the same time, a professor at St. Bridget’s. I have met more than a few Janeites who are not at all shy about looking down their noses at those of us who read and love JAFF or just plain old escapism historical romances. It is considered a pollution of one’s tastes to give attention to such “trash”. But I will not apologize and neither did Katherine. Why did Lorna Warwick decide to answer her fan letters over any others? That was not spelled out very clearly. But I found Katherine’s running away and not staying and having it out with Warwick verbally an act of cowardice. How she could say on one hand that she was in love and then not put her hands around his neck and shake him was beyond me. I wanted them to confront each other’s opinions and actions: Darcy and Elizabeth style. Beat him over the head with his actions and words, let him explain, and then, maybe, have that time when all things are considered.
I liked the premise of this story. It reminded me of The Jane Austen Book Club in some ways. There were many references to Jane Austen’s characters, to her own life and fate, to whether marriage would have changed her destiny as an author and then there were all the references to the historical buildings (and a cemetery) which were part of her life. This story had some vague parallels to Jane’s books but in no way in which I could say this was a modern re-telling or take-off on any one story. The characters themselves would at times state that this or that, he or she, reminded her of something from her novels.
This was a pleasant read, but not one which kept me enthralled.
September 4, 2010
When i received this book I couldn't wait to start it. As with many women I love anything Jane Austin!!
The main character of the book is Katherine Roberts, an English Professor, who also writes books about Jane Austen. She is asked to speak at an annual Jane Austen Conference and falls for a male attendee of the course, who has a secret to conceal.
The other main character is that on Robyn who also loves Jane Austen and is attending the convention, looking forward to an weekend spent with other people who love Jane Austen just as much. She has planned the weekend away from her boyfriend, but he has other ideas.
I absolutely loved this book, and read it within two days, which is very quick for me. I enjoyed the story but also loved the insight i had into Jane Austen's novels. Throughout the book there was reference to many of Jane Austen's novels, the television adaptions and also Jane's life. I saw from the authors website that Victoria reread the books and rewatched television adaptions aswell as visiting the places in teh book and from reading the book I could see all the background work the author did, to ensure the book was factually correct.
I also enjoyed this book because when i read this book I could imagine being at the convention, Victoria's language was very descriptive and set teh scene well for the scenes. It was evident that Victoria was enjoying telling the story, aswell as ensuring that the story was a good read and factually correct.
I am looking forward to the next installment from Victoria which was previewed in this book.
I would recommend this book to Jane Austen enthusiasts as it won't disappoint, however i would also recommend it to readers who woud just like a good old love story to curl up with too!
The main character of the book is Katherine Roberts, an English Professor, who also writes books about Jane Austen. She is asked to speak at an annual Jane Austen Conference and falls for a male attendee of the course, who has a secret to conceal.
The other main character is that on Robyn who also loves Jane Austen and is attending the convention, looking forward to an weekend spent with other people who love Jane Austen just as much. She has planned the weekend away from her boyfriend, but he has other ideas.
I absolutely loved this book, and read it within two days, which is very quick for me. I enjoyed the story but also loved the insight i had into Jane Austen's novels. Throughout the book there was reference to many of Jane Austen's novels, the television adaptions and also Jane's life. I saw from the authors website that Victoria reread the books and rewatched television adaptions aswell as visiting the places in teh book and from reading the book I could see all the background work the author did, to ensure the book was factually correct.
I also enjoyed this book because when i read this book I could imagine being at the convention, Victoria's language was very descriptive and set teh scene well for the scenes. It was evident that Victoria was enjoying telling the story, aswell as ensuring that the story was a good read and factually correct.
I am looking forward to the next installment from Victoria which was previewed in this book.
I would recommend this book to Jane Austen enthusiasts as it won't disappoint, however i would also recommend it to readers who woud just like a good old love story to curl up with too!
August 20, 2011
I really enjoyed this book. It was just so much fun. The plot lines and relationships were so absorbing. Both Katherine and Robyn were quite interesting characters and I think I would have died of mortification going thru what Robyn did with Jace. Thankfully we didn't have to hold on too long for issues to be rectified. Just the horse incident would have put me over the edge. Poor Katherine (after Catherine Moreland but with a K) is just wondering if she can truly find a man she can trust. It had to be so awkward. One is still unsure until the very end how Katherine and Warwick or Robyn and Dan will work things out. Keeps you hanging but in a good way. No awkwardly described sex scenes, no obscene language, not too complex but just enough tension, wit, charm, to keep you wanting to read until you're finished. Truly looking forward to more of Ms. Connelly's work.
May 6, 2013
What Janeite doesn't dream of going to a Jane Austen weekend? And then meeting the perfect partner while there? A good romance novel should tap into the reader's own dreams, and A Weekend With Mr. Darcy scores high marks there.
I also enjoyed the lovely descriptions of the English countryside in the fall. The differences between various regions of the country were subtly drawn with the eye of someone who has been there. Descriptions of Chawton, the village in which Jane Austen spent the last years of her life, were especially loving.
This isn't a modern retelling of Pride and Prejudice, which some may think from the title. However, if you're a lover of Jane Austen or England and you're looking for a sweet modern romance, this is the book for you.
I also enjoyed the lovely descriptions of the English countryside in the fall. The differences between various regions of the country were subtly drawn with the eye of someone who has been there. Descriptions of Chawton, the village in which Jane Austen spent the last years of her life, were especially loving.
This isn't a modern retelling of Pride and Prejudice, which some may think from the title. However, if you're a lover of Jane Austen or England and you're looking for a sweet modern romance, this is the book for you.
October 13, 2010
Eminently readable drivel. While I quite enjoyed reading it, I really didn't care about any of the characters and consequently wasn't too bothered how the plot resovled itself - not that there was any doubt as the plot was obvious from the beginning. It also wasn't anything like as "clean and nice" as my mother had implied when she'd handed me the book and said I had to read it. I refuse to believe that real people actually behave in such an immoral and licentious manner as those portrayed here. All quite idiotic, frankly.
July 13, 2017
A fun packed Jane Austin weekend with lots of references to all things Jane that stretched the knowledge base of any fan. The descriptions made me feel like I was in Jane country. It was a fast read and only became a traffic jam at times following the different story lines. It made me smile and for a few minutes I was in the company of people who love Jane Austin like I do. The story was paced like watching a movie in real time. It was a journal of events with the actions and feelings of the characters.
March 17, 2023
This was a really sweet and funny book. I truly enjoyed it. The writing was wonderful and the story flowed beautifully. I really loved having a few of my favorite lines quoted, specifically the letter from Persuasion. It was hard to put down once you started so don't try to read a little on your lunch hour like I did. =)
Read
January 2, 2012Read about 100 pages before I realized I couldn't tell you much about the characters and wasn't too invested in the story. I liked Warwick, the mysterious author, and the many Jane Austen references were fun. Still, I felt like the "Jane Austen Weekend" theme has been overly explored and didn't find much to keep my interest.
February 6, 2012
Having just spent a weekend with A Weekend with Mr. Darcy I am completely infatuated! An absolutely fun and romantic read!
December 5, 2015
Ok, so this was light fluffy nonsense, but it was fun fluffy nonsense, and left me feeling all warm and fuzzy inside! Love all things Austen!
March 2, 2019
This was my first book by this author and was simply brilliant I loved it all the way through the characters are brilliant and the plot to the story is so enjoyable and you get hooked straight away and makes you laugh as well as cry. Full of romance and lies and happiness and learning who you want for mr right.
Robyn loves Jane Austen but her romance isn't going well and she hasn't got the heart to say he isn't the one for her. Then there is Katherine who is a lecturer and thinks the ideal man only lives in the pages of pride and prejudice. She's been writing to an author and getting to know her well and gaining a new friend. Both of them go away for the weekend on a Jane Austen weekend and when Robyn is getting ready her partner decides to come with her but stay somewhere else's as he thinks they can have a good time together but it's the last thing she really wants. Katherine asked her writer friend if she was going and she didn't really reply but when she arrives she starts getting friendly with someone who is keeping secrets from her but they become close will she learn the truth and then realise she made a big mistake. Also Robyn starts talking to another man there and realises what she has with her boyfriend isn't what she wants but when he proposes to her in front of everyone she knows she's made a mistake does she tell him it's over and head home on her own. Once both ladies get home do they realise they have found the right man but have let them slip through their own hands can they mend that and be happy or not.
Worth far more than five stars and now want to read the rest of the books.
Robyn loves Jane Austen but her romance isn't going well and she hasn't got the heart to say he isn't the one for her. Then there is Katherine who is a lecturer and thinks the ideal man only lives in the pages of pride and prejudice. She's been writing to an author and getting to know her well and gaining a new friend. Both of them go away for the weekend on a Jane Austen weekend and when Robyn is getting ready her partner decides to come with her but stay somewhere else's as he thinks they can have a good time together but it's the last thing she really wants. Katherine asked her writer friend if she was going and she didn't really reply but when she arrives she starts getting friendly with someone who is keeping secrets from her but they become close will she learn the truth and then realise she made a big mistake. Also Robyn starts talking to another man there and realises what she has with her boyfriend isn't what she wants but when he proposes to her in front of everyone she knows she's made a mistake does she tell him it's over and head home on her own. Once both ladies get home do they realise they have found the right man but have let them slip through their own hands can they mend that and be happy or not.
Worth far more than five stars and now want to read the rest of the books.
May 8, 2018
Fajn, nečakala som žiadnu extra pecku, len fajnovú odpočinkovú knihu. A tú som dostala. Po všetkých tých thrilleroch to bolo veľmi osviežujúce. Až nápadne mi to pripomínalo Austenland, ale chápem, že tu asi niet veľmi čo nového vymyslieť. Pridala by som hviezdu za krásnu obálku (šikovná Diana), ale minimálne dve vzala za veľké množstvo chýb v texte. Zniesol by minimálne ešte jednu korektúru. Veľmi, ale vážne VEĽMI VEĽMI to pri čítani obťažuje a vyrušuje a tým pádom kazí dojem z celej knihy...
December 5, 2021
This was a lovely book, easy to read and well written. It’s a bit daft and cheesy, but it made me laugh as well and smile and feel emotional which was lovely and I really enjoyed it. Will have to read more of the series.
July 8, 2011
I am amazed at how many Austenesque novels continue to have “Mr. Darcy” worked into the title. Recently there has been: A Wife for Mr. Darcy, by Mary Lydon Simonsen, The Trouble with Mr. Darcy, by Sharon Lathan, The Truth about Mr. Darcy, by Susan Adriani, Mr. Darcy and the Secret of Becoming a Gentleman, by Maria Hamilton, Only Mr. Darcy Will Do, by Kara Louise, What Would Mr. Darcy Do?, by Abigail Reynolds and ironically, Mr. Darcy Goes Overboard, by Belinda Roberts – and that is only in the last four months!!! Gentle readers, have we indeed gone overboard over Mr. Darcy? *shudder* Can there ever be too much Mr. Darcy?
As I opened A Weekend with Mr. Darcy, yet another new novel featuring Jane Austen’s romantic icon of Nonpareil in its title, it was difficult not to feel a rush of astonishment. What could Victoria Connelly possibly offer that has not already been said several times in historical, contemporary or paranormal versions? The back blurb looked promising: “Surrounded by appalling exes and fawning students, the only think keeping professor Katherine Roberts sane is Jane Austen, and her secret love for racy Regency romance novels. She thinks the Jane Austen Addicts weekend will be the perfect getaway. Maybe she’ll even meet her own personal Mr. Darcy… Breezy and beautifully witty, internationally bestselling author Victoria Connelly’s charming modern love story will appeal to all Jane Austen fanatics… and anyone who loves a good romance.” OK. So I’m an admitted Jane Austen fanatic and also love a good romance… this was a good start.
Set in contemporary England, we are introduced to the two main characters, singletons Katherine Roberts, a young and beautiful Oxford professor, and Robyn Love, a romantic idealist North Yorkshire receptionist. They are both bound for an idyllic Jane Austen weekend retreat at Purley Hall in the countryside of Hampshire, not far from Janeite Mecca – Steventon, where she was born and raised, and Chawton Cottage, where she wrote many of her novels. Also secretly headed to the retreat is famous Regency romance novelist Lorna Warwick who has been privately corresponding with Katherine for months, building a strong friendship but remaining an enigma to her. Even though she is an international bestselling author, she has never given a personal interview, nor allowed pictures to be published of herself. Lorna is captivated by Katherine and arrives at the retreat incognito – as Warwick Lawton. (Spoiler) Yes, Lorna Warwick is a man.
Both ladies have their complicated romantic past following them to the retreat. Katherine can’t seem to connect with the right man and prefers to fall in love with Jane Austen’s fictional world of Mr. Darcy, Captain Wentworth and Henry Tilney, easily finding solace in her obsession of heroes because there are so few real ones. Robyn on the other hand is a pure romantic. “Life for her was never as good as it was in fiction.” She is in a longstanding (but unfulfilling) relationship with Jason Collins. Unfortunately she does not know why she stays with Jace. They have nothing in common and the thought of being Mrs. Collins (the same last name as Jane Austen’s odious Reverend Collins in Pride and Prejudice) is unbearable. When he insists upon tagging along on her Jane Austen weekend, staying in a nearby Inn, she is both annoyed and suspicious.
The perfect summer fantasy Austenesque novel, A Weekend with Mr. Darcy supplies all the elements on this scrutinizing Janeite’s checklist: stunning early eighteenth-century country manor house, cast of colorful & humorous secondary characters, emotional roadblocks and misunderstandings, and two heroines in need of some personal growth before they can fall in love. Connelly’s enthusiastic knowledge of Jane Austen is solid and her writing style is fresh and funny.
Will A Weekend with Mr. Darcy get lost in the sea of “Mr. Darcy” inspired novels flooding the market? Nope. It is the leader of the pack! Brava Ms. Connelly! Since this is the first in a trilogy, we are all anticipation from this very talented author.
Laurel Ann, Austenprose
As I opened A Weekend with Mr. Darcy, yet another new novel featuring Jane Austen’s romantic icon of Nonpareil in its title, it was difficult not to feel a rush of astonishment. What could Victoria Connelly possibly offer that has not already been said several times in historical, contemporary or paranormal versions? The back blurb looked promising: “Surrounded by appalling exes and fawning students, the only think keeping professor Katherine Roberts sane is Jane Austen, and her secret love for racy Regency romance novels. She thinks the Jane Austen Addicts weekend will be the perfect getaway. Maybe she’ll even meet her own personal Mr. Darcy… Breezy and beautifully witty, internationally bestselling author Victoria Connelly’s charming modern love story will appeal to all Jane Austen fanatics… and anyone who loves a good romance.” OK. So I’m an admitted Jane Austen fanatic and also love a good romance… this was a good start.
Set in contemporary England, we are introduced to the two main characters, singletons Katherine Roberts, a young and beautiful Oxford professor, and Robyn Love, a romantic idealist North Yorkshire receptionist. They are both bound for an idyllic Jane Austen weekend retreat at Purley Hall in the countryside of Hampshire, not far from Janeite Mecca – Steventon, where she was born and raised, and Chawton Cottage, where she wrote many of her novels. Also secretly headed to the retreat is famous Regency romance novelist Lorna Warwick who has been privately corresponding with Katherine for months, building a strong friendship but remaining an enigma to her. Even though she is an international bestselling author, she has never given a personal interview, nor allowed pictures to be published of herself. Lorna is captivated by Katherine and arrives at the retreat incognito – as Warwick Lawton. (Spoiler) Yes, Lorna Warwick is a man.
Both ladies have their complicated romantic past following them to the retreat. Katherine can’t seem to connect with the right man and prefers to fall in love with Jane Austen’s fictional world of Mr. Darcy, Captain Wentworth and Henry Tilney, easily finding solace in her obsession of heroes because there are so few real ones. Robyn on the other hand is a pure romantic. “Life for her was never as good as it was in fiction.” She is in a longstanding (but unfulfilling) relationship with Jason Collins. Unfortunately she does not know why she stays with Jace. They have nothing in common and the thought of being Mrs. Collins (the same last name as Jane Austen’s odious Reverend Collins in Pride and Prejudice) is unbearable. When he insists upon tagging along on her Jane Austen weekend, staying in a nearby Inn, she is both annoyed and suspicious.
The perfect summer fantasy Austenesque novel, A Weekend with Mr. Darcy supplies all the elements on this scrutinizing Janeite’s checklist: stunning early eighteenth-century country manor house, cast of colorful & humorous secondary characters, emotional roadblocks and misunderstandings, and two heroines in need of some personal growth before they can fall in love. Connelly’s enthusiastic knowledge of Jane Austen is solid and her writing style is fresh and funny.
Will A Weekend with Mr. Darcy get lost in the sea of “Mr. Darcy” inspired novels flooding the market? Nope. It is the leader of the pack! Brava Ms. Connelly! Since this is the first in a trilogy, we are all anticipation from this very talented author.
Laurel Ann, Austenprose
December 18, 2010
Do you want to spend a perfect weekend with the most charming, dashing heroes and the liveliest , loveliest heroines? Here's a story which is actually sunshine on a rainy day as someone has written in a review. Victoria Connelly created a balanced blend of modern romance and Austensian features, matter-of-fact nowadays language with Hampshire dreamy landscape, heroines troubled by modern concerns but romanticly wooed by handsome gentlemanlike heroes who seem just landed on earth from Jane Austen planet.And then a Jane Austen Conference, regency romances by a contemporary author, horse-riding and a ball, intrigue and misunderstandings, very romantic love plots. Well ... where Jane Austen is concerned, romance is never very far away...
It's such a lovely, lovely, lovely novel. You can actually read it in a weekend and even less because it is so difficult to put it down once you've started it. You want to see how the intriguing plots and the relationships in it develop. You must know how it ends. And it ends well, of course. Very well, as any good Austenesque read has to.
(I also posted my review on My Jane Austen Book Club http://bit.ly/f21wJj)
It's such a lovely, lovely, lovely novel. You can actually read it in a weekend and even less because it is so difficult to put it down once you've started it. You want to see how the intriguing plots and the relationships in it develop. You must know how it ends. And it ends well, of course. Very well, as any good Austenesque read has to.
(I also posted my review on My Jane Austen Book Club http://bit.ly/f21wJj)
May 6, 2015
I have to admit, this kind of books are my guilty pleasure. I just adore books that are about books and about people that just love my favorites authors and books.
When I first read the title I thought I was going to find Mr Darcy traveling from the pages of Pride and Prejudice to this era (wait, I wrote about that in my blog http://cuentosdejulieta.blogspot.com.ar/ and you are invited to read it if you want and if you read Spanish). But this is a book about some fans of Jane Austen that get together to celebrate her work and life, and whose life are completely touch by her marvelous pen. Love and romance, and some intrige can't be absent from a story like this one.
Funny and very romantic, I really like this story, simple and maybe predictable as it was, but it was a great reading, it was like watching a tv series where you can't wait to see what will happen next.
So there are more books after this one, and I just hope to find them all.
This book also left me with the wish to read one of Jane Austen's books again, or all of them again. I'm looking forward to meet Jane again through the magic of her words.
When I first read the title I thought I was going to find Mr Darcy traveling from the pages of Pride and Prejudice to this era (wait, I wrote about that in my blog http://cuentosdejulieta.blogspot.com.ar/ and you are invited to read it if you want and if you read Spanish). But this is a book about some fans of Jane Austen that get together to celebrate her work and life, and whose life are completely touch by her marvelous pen. Love and romance, and some intrige can't be absent from a story like this one.
Funny and very romantic, I really like this story, simple and maybe predictable as it was, but it was a great reading, it was like watching a tv series where you can't wait to see what will happen next.
So there are more books after this one, and I just hope to find them all.
This book also left me with the wish to read one of Jane Austen's books again, or all of them again. I'm looking forward to meet Jane again through the magic of her words.
January 22, 2012
This could've been a really great story. But everything happens in one weekend, which I always have a huge problem with. Too quick to really fall into and believe in...both main female characters are essentially the same--sort of boring in that respect. It's obvious from the get go how everything will end. Okay, I feel bad about ripping this book apart. I did love the concept of male author of regency romances. I can totally appreciate how much the author loves JA--that's why we all read these books! She writes really well...I was just hoping for more.
July 2, 2013
This was a cute book for any Austen fan. Being quite the Austen fan myself, I would be perfectly fine with spending most of my evenings with one of her books, an Austen-like book, or one of the many movie adaptations available (most recently "Lost in Austen"). So I really found myself stepping into Robin's character's shoes and followed as she was filled with wonder going through Chawton and all things Austen. The romance was fun but I loved just experiencing the Jane Austen weekend side of the book. I only hope one day I can experience something similar in "real" life:)
3.5 stars
3.5 stars
February 6, 2016
Siento mi querida Jane que hayas sido utilizada para esto. La sinopsis se veía interesante, al principio pensé que el libro lo sería... Luego vino la decepción, la verdad me costó mucho acabar esto y no me dejo esa sensación agradable post lectura.
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