Mr. Darcy's Rival in Austen Variations

Jun 07, 2015 Sheila Majczan rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

I have read all of Kara Louise’s books and have re-read several of them, if not in entirety, then in parts which are favorites, again and again. Kara writes sweetly and inventively: sometimes with such wild imaginings you may, at first, think will never work. I have found they always do – pirates, ocean voyages, etc. – give me more, please.

As the book description and/or Sample inform you this tale opens with Elizabeth’s, Maria’s and Sir Lucas’ visit to Hunsford and subsequently with Darcy’s and I have read all of Kara Louise’s books and have re-read several of them, if not in entirety, then in parts which are favorites, again and again. Kara writes sweetly and inventively: sometimes with such wild imaginings you may, at first, think will never work. I have found they always do – pirates, ocean voyages, etc. – give me more, please.

As the book description and/or Sample inform you this tale opens with Elizabeth’s, Maria’s and Sir Lucas’ visit to Hunsford and subsequently with Darcy’s and Col. Fitzwilliam’s annual Easter visit to Rosings. Prior to their arrival a nephew to Lady Catherine, (from the other side of the family) a Mr. Rickland, has been visiting and has met and gained the approbation of one, Miss Elizabeth Bennet. He is not one to stare out windows nor to silently turn his unending gaze upon one. Darcy recognizes the man’s intentions but he also misinterprets (Yes, he has not changed in this aspect.) Elizabeth’s reception of both Mr. Rickland’s and his own attentions. (Really, Darcy, you think she knows your staring at her is a sign of affection and approval?) And, again, Darcy steps forward with that proposal – but this time there are interruptions…of the worst kind…with an explosion of words and revelations and accusations. Then Darcy is informed by more than one person as to how his actions and words are seen, are viewed, are taken by more than just Miss Bennet.

And here we come to a pivotal part of the story: his letter (but this time undelivered), a wind storm with rain and a fall into a ravine. This portion of the story is intense and with major results…loved dear Mrs. Beckett: hard of hearing? But then she gives such good advice.

Many parts of this book read like a mystery novel; clues and actions, missteps and reconnoitering, which can be taken in several ways or simply mistaken. Elizabeth notices Anne de Bourgh writing in her journal while observing interactions in the Rosings’ drawing room and finally is told by Anne that she writes books under a pseudonym, N. E. Berg. There is that editor, Mr. Jenkinson, and just how Anne ever came to make his acquaintance much less have him publish her works. There is a conspiracy by more than one person and you will be surprised here. I was. I do know that two of the culprits have always been written as having bad behaviors but the last person’s involvement came as a surprise. Things are just not always as they seem. The elopement: not as in canon. Or should I say it in the plural…elopements?

The author has posted several chapters from both this book and Anne de Bourgh’s journal on blogs, which I have followed with interest. The secondary story written by Anne is of great interest and insight in this story. Did you ever wonder what this silent, sickly young lady was thinking? Did you perhaps think she had no opinions unless they were reflections of her mother? You may find enlightening her part in the story.

I could not put this book down, starting it late one day and finishing it the next. It was a loan from a good friend and I do highly recommend this book. ...more

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Jun 19, 2015 Victoria Kincaid rated it it was amazing

Shelves: austen-variation, austenesque-reading-challenge

Another wonderful P&P variation from Kara Louise! This one had some wonderful plot twists I didn't see coming and made great use of many of our favorite P&P characters. Thoroughly enjoyable! ...more

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May 03, 2015 Barb rated it liked it

Shelves: books-i-own-e-book, austen-fan-fiction-read

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

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May 30, 2015 Deborah rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: ja-read, 2015-austenesque-reading-challenge

Kara Louise has written another exceptional book. There were twists and some surprises in this light-hearted story interspersed with suspense. Darcy has a rival for Elizabeth's affections and it's not Wickham. There is a deBurgh cousin who is visiting Rosings at the same time as Elizabeth and Darcy. Elizabeth finds out Darcy's true feelings for her and the explanation for her accusations against him, which softens her slightly in his favor. Darcy finds out Elizabeth is missing and, like a knight ...more

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Dec 08, 2018 Staciel rated it liked it

Shelves: jane-austen-inspired

I am rather particular when it comes to Austen fanfiction.

I did enjoy this one, but I was less taken by the addition of one more 'rival' in the story.

...more

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Jan 16, 2018 Elin Eriksen rated it it was amazing

What if lady Catherine had a third nephew from the de Bourgh side... Lovely, sweet and romantic read.

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Jun 30, 2015 Jen rated it liked it

I usually really like Kara Louise's variations on Pride & Prejudice, but in this one the plot felt too contrived. However, it was somewhat enjoyable and a fast read. ...more

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May 20, 2021 Faustine rated it it was amazing

Shelves: re-read-and-still-great, jaff

2024: re-read the first 73%.
2023, 2nd read: upgraded to 4.5 stars because the first 75% are actually great. Nevermind the last 24% which are pointless.
1st read: Enjoyable but only three stars because I wish the author knew when to stop. Instead, she added unnecessary twists that made me feel that book would never end.

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