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Without Reserve
What would have happened if Fitzwilliam Darcy faced a true rival for Elizabeth Bennet's affections? In a return to the world of Jane Austen, the plot of Pride & Prejudice takes a different turn when Elizabeth accepts the proposal of a childhood friend before she meets Darcy again. When their paths finally cross, Darcy must decide what he is willing to do to win the woman he loves. A heartwarming conclusion to this lively tale brings satisfaction to all of Austen's beloved characters. The Pemberley Variations by Abigail Reynolds is a series of novels exploring the roads not taken in Pride & Prejudice.
204 pages, Unknown Binding
First published June 25, 2007
92 people are currently reading
1636 people want to read
About the author
Abigail Reynolds
53 books774 followersAbigail Reynolds may be a nationally bestselling author and a physician, but she can’t follow a straight line with a ruler. Originally from upstate New York, she studied Russian and theater at Bryn Mawr College and marine biology at the Marine Biological Laboratory in Woods Hole. After a stint in performing arts administration, she decided to attend medical school, and took up writing as a way to retain her sanity during her years as a physician in private practice.
A life-long lover of Jane Austen’s novels, Abigail began writing variations on Pride & Prejudice in 2001, then expanded her repertoire to include a series of novels set on her beloved Cape Cod.Her most recent releases are A Matter of Honor, Mr. Darcy's Enchantment, and Conceit & Concealment. Her books have been translated into six languages. A lifetime member of JASNA, she lives on Cape Cod with her husband, her son and a menagerie of animals. Her hobbies do not include sleeping or cleaning her house.
A life-long lover of Jane Austen’s novels, Abigail began writing variations on Pride & Prejudice in 2001, then expanded her repertoire to include a series of novels set on her beloved Cape Cod.Her most recent releases are A Matter of Honor, Mr. Darcy's Enchantment, and Conceit & Concealment. Her books have been translated into six languages. A lifetime member of JASNA, she lives on Cape Cod with her husband, her son and a menagerie of animals. Her hobbies do not include sleeping or cleaning her house.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 163 reviews
December 19, 2017
Having read all the other reviews I read such different opinions. But we are all entitled to our own. I purchased and read this book as Without Reserve. I love all of Abigail Reynolds's books and I think this one may be one of my favorites, if not number 1. I have read it many times in part or in whole. I can take or leave sex scenes but am not offended by such nor do I read Abigail's as porn. I have posted several other reviews in which I do describe the stories as smut or porn, but Abigail builds the sexual tension and the relationship between two people with the bedroom scenes as natural results of such. I LOVE the angst, the anxiety, the confusion, etc. described and built upon in this tale. My reasoning for finding the bedroom scenes, etc. as a natural progression come from the thoughts in Darcy's head, "He determined that his best strategy lay in wearing down her resistance, and realized one of his strongest weapons lay in the pleasure he could give her by touching her...He could not change her mind, but perhaps with enough time and enough familiarity with him, she would change it for herself...Having determined there was no reason to deny himself, especially since he had every intention of marrying her, he seized every opportunity to steal kisses from her, and when this was not possible, at least to find a way to unobtrusively touch the back of her hand." The conversations and their journey to accepting where they are and how they feel about each other portray two very independent and passionate people, which is what Jane Austen gave us and Abigail builds on in modern times.
Darcy, in going back to Meryton to once again court Elizabeth and finding her engaged decides to stay b/c of social conventions (He can't just run off after only being there for a day or two) and also to assess the relationship between Elizabeth and James Covington; are they in love? He detected no such feelings on display. The scenes with the tigers and unicorns, the poetry, are so romantic! And then apologizing - what for? He then kisses her!!!! And that kiss stirs the embers in Elizabeth's heart. Now she knows what chemistry can mean. I loved the scene after the wedding rehearsal for Jane's wedding during which Darcy discovers Elizabeth is not "Mrs. Covington". Oh how my heart warmed.
It is so endearing to read their discourse. First one, then the other explaining why they can't feel guilty or why they must or must not marry, etc. kept me turning pages every time I read this book. I really appreciate Ms. Reynolds' ability in this department. She develops the thoughts in depth and takes us on such a love trip. Thank you.
Darcy, in going back to Meryton to once again court Elizabeth and finding her engaged decides to stay b/c of social conventions (He can't just run off after only being there for a day or two) and also to assess the relationship between Elizabeth and James Covington; are they in love? He detected no such feelings on display. The scenes with the tigers and unicorns, the poetry, are so romantic! And then apologizing - what for? He then kisses her!!!! And that kiss stirs the embers in Elizabeth's heart. Now she knows what chemistry can mean. I loved the scene after the wedding rehearsal for Jane's wedding during which Darcy discovers Elizabeth is not "Mrs. Covington". Oh how my heart warmed.
It is so endearing to read their discourse. First one, then the other explaining why they can't feel guilty or why they must or must not marry, etc. kept me turning pages every time I read this book. I really appreciate Ms. Reynolds' ability in this department. She develops the thoughts in depth and takes us on such a love trip. Thank you.
February 8, 2008
More smut than I would like.
*spoiler alert*
The concept of the book was interesting - what if another man proposed to Elizabeth after she'd turned down Darcy's proposal (and she accepted)? Unfortunately, that only lasts for about 1/4 of the book. I don't care for the interpretation of Darcy as written by Reynolds, and while I can accept the scene where Darcy kisses Elizabeth (even though she's engaged to another guy), I can't fathom them having premarital sex, at Netherfield, with Georgiana in the next room - and even if I could, I don't want such graphic detail about it.
*spoiler alert*
The concept of the book was interesting - what if another man proposed to Elizabeth after she'd turned down Darcy's proposal (and she accepted)? Unfortunately, that only lasts for about 1/4 of the book. I don't care for the interpretation of Darcy as written by Reynolds, and while I can accept the scene where Darcy kisses Elizabeth (even though she's engaged to another guy), I can't fathom them having premarital sex, at Netherfield, with Georgiana in the next room - and even if I could, I don't want such graphic detail about it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 21, 2011
2.5 stars though I would have given this novel a higher rating if the love was kept in clean taste (even a 4 perhaps). I loved the story line - Darcy returns to Netherfield shortly after his visit in Kent. He wants to know if Elizabeth has forgiven him after his letter and hopes to re-unite Bingley with Jane. He wants to prove himself to be the man Elizabeth would want him to be but is utterly shocked and grieved when he learns she is engaged. Lizzy becomes engaged to a lifelong friend Mr. Covington that she never thought about romantically but considered an amiable man and could not find fault with him when her proposed(though she possessed no passionate feelings for him). You learn in the novel WHY she thought she needed to accept him though she clearly rejected 2 marriage proposals prior to this. When Darcy returns, he makes her heart race and she begins to enjoys a friendship with him when he accompanies Bingley on his visits to Jane. One of the funniest scenes is when Elizabeth's fiance comes to vist on one such an occasion. Darcy instead of going walking with Jane and Bingley as invited to do, chooses to enjoy refreshments with Elizabeth and Mr. Covington. Fist he just wants to observe them and see what Elizabeth sees in this man, jealous overwhelms him - he doesn't want another man looking at his Elizabeth and he certainly doesn't want to leave them alone and then.. he mocks him to Elizabeth. One of the most heart-pulling scenes is when Darcy comes to comfort Elizabeth when he hears the news of Lydia though Bingley. He wants to put his arms around her and console her but knows he doesn't have the right as she is promised to another. But when Mr. Covington arrives to comfort Lizzy and take her into his arms and Elizabeth finally loses all emotion and starts shobbing uncontrollable, Darcy realizes that he should not there and leaves. He thinks he has lost her to him and doesn't know the real reason Elizabeth is crying. When Darcy is away in London Elizabeth realizes how much she misses him and that she is about to marry a man she can never love because she loves another. One of my favorite scenes is when Darcy returns just for one day to say goodbye to Elizabeth. SPOILERS ALERT: He begs her forgiveness for what he's about to do and kisses her softly just to feel her lips one time in his life. Then he wishes her happiness for her future marriage and leaves. WOW! Talk about emotional!! Then the novel fast-forwards to 5 months later when Darcy returns for Bingleys wedding to Jane. He assumes that Elizabeth is now Mrs. Covington but when he learns she is still a Miss Bennett he must learn what happend and WHY she's decided to be single for life. Now he wants her and will do whatever it takes to have her. This is where the novel gets spoiled for me. He tries to win her over with his many kisses (fine I get that) but many times it goes way too far. Would Elizabeth allow a man she will not accept to kiss her that way? Would Darcy really dishonor her so? And if they do come to an understanding of sorts, would Darcy really compromise her? Unlikely and yet that is what Abigal Reynolds did in this novel. I hated that Darcy could not have maintained enough self control to wait. So if you want to read a P&P style clean-romance story of Darcy & Elizabeth, this isn't it. So halfway through the novel I became to disappointed. If only Abigail Reynolds gave Darcy more self-control I would have loved this novel as their conversations were so passionate. There was such love in Darcys words to Elizabeth as he wanted to win her over and such an inner struggle for Elizabeth with her feelings for Darcy that it would have been enough to make it a great novel. However, it was ruined with immorral passion that would never have taken place among these 2 great characters.
December 4, 2024
Lots of Passion
Loved the storyline. Competition usually gives me angst, but this was done well. Poor Darcy. He FINALLY gets what he wants in more ways than one. Well written with good grammar and lack of typos appreciated.
December 23, 2020 - Audiobook
Loved the storyline. Competition usually gives me angst, but this was done well. Poor Darcy. He FINALLY gets what he wants in more ways than one. Well written with good grammar and lack of typos appreciated.
December 23, 2020 - Audiobook
August 17, 2015
This story had a sweet premise-how would Darcy react when he discovered Lizzy was engaged to another and how would he persuade her otherwise. The first half of the book was really touching,very romantic-with Darcy determined he was happy for her to be married to another man as long as she, herself was truly happy. He returns for Bingley's wedding only to happily discover that she is unwed and sets out to make her his and is not willing to take no for an answer.
I wanted to love this book but I found the fact that Darcy and Lizzy slept together before they were married just didn't sit well with me. I realise it's a variation and characters' personalities can change but Austen's Darcy and Lizzy would not ignore society's rules by engaging in such behaviour. Neither would Darcy act in ANY way that would reflect badly on Elizabeth. So while I liked it, I didn't enjoy it as much as I thought I would.
I wanted to love this book but I found the fact that Darcy and Lizzy slept together before they were married just didn't sit well with me. I realise it's a variation and characters' personalities can change but Austen's Darcy and Lizzy would not ignore society's rules by engaging in such behaviour. Neither would Darcy act in ANY way that would reflect badly on Elizabeth. So while I liked it, I didn't enjoy it as much as I thought I would.
October 29, 2024
Medium amount of angst, great story
I love Abigail’s stories and though this is one of her old books, it’s one of my favorites. It has medium angst, which is just perfect. Zero angst reads as sappy and not realistic. And to much angst is somewhat of a chore to read.
My only complaint, I would have enjoyed 4 or 5 chapters about the Matlocks smoothing ODC couples transitioning into the ton and getting to know and like Lizzy.
I love Abigail’s stories and though this is one of her old books, it’s one of my favorites. It has medium angst, which is just perfect. Zero angst reads as sappy and not realistic. And to much angst is somewhat of a chore to read.
My only complaint, I would have enjoyed 4 or 5 chapters about the Matlocks smoothing ODC couples transitioning into the ton and getting to know and like Lizzy.
March 24, 2015
I bought this in paperback but that format is not showing up.
Having read all the other reviews I read such different opinions. But we are all entitled to our own. I purchased and read this book as Without Reserve. I love all of Abigail Reynolds's books and I think this one may be one of my favorites, if not number 1. I have read it many times in part or in whole. I can take or leave sex scenes but am not offended by such nor do I read Abigail's as porn. I have posted several other reviews in which I do describe the stories as smut or porn, but Abigail builds the sexual tension and the relationship between two people with the bedroom scenes as natural results of such. I LOVE the angst, the anxiety, the confusion, etc. described and built upon in this tale. My reasoning for finding the bedroom scenes, etc. as a natural progression come from the thoughts in Darcy's head, "He determined that his best strategy lay in wearing down her resistance, and realized one of his strongest weapons lay in the pleasure he could give her by touching her...He could not change her mind, but perhaps with enough time and enough familiarity with him, she would change it for herself...Having determined there was no reason to deny himself, especially since he had every intention of marrying her, he seized every opportunity to steal kisses from her, and when this was not possible, at least to find a way to unobtrusively touch the back of her hand." The conversations and their journey to accepting where they are and how they feel about each other portray two very independent and passionate people, which is what Jane Austen gave us and Abigail builds on in modern times.
Darcy, in going back to Meryton to once again court Elizabeth and finding her engaged decides to stay b/c of social conventions (He can't just run off after only being there for a day or two) and also to assess the relationship between Elizabeth and James Covington; are they in love? He detected no such feelings on display. The scenes with the tigers and unicorns, the poetry, are so romantic! And then apologizing - what for? He then kisses her!!!! And that kiss stirs the embers in Elizabeth's heart. Now she knows what chemistry can mean. I loved the scene after the wedding rehearsal for Jane's wedding during which Darcy discovers Elizabeth is not "Mrs. Covington". Oh how my heart warmed.
It is so endearing to read their discourse. First one, then the other explaining why they can't feel guilty or why they must or must not marry, etc. kept me turning pages every time I read this book. I really appreciate Ms. Reynolds' ability in this department. She develops the thoughts in depth and takes us on such a love trip. Thank you.
Having read all the other reviews I read such different opinions. But we are all entitled to our own. I purchased and read this book as Without Reserve. I love all of Abigail Reynolds's books and I think this one may be one of my favorites, if not number 1. I have read it many times in part or in whole. I can take or leave sex scenes but am not offended by such nor do I read Abigail's as porn. I have posted several other reviews in which I do describe the stories as smut or porn, but Abigail builds the sexual tension and the relationship between two people with the bedroom scenes as natural results of such. I LOVE the angst, the anxiety, the confusion, etc. described and built upon in this tale. My reasoning for finding the bedroom scenes, etc. as a natural progression come from the thoughts in Darcy's head, "He determined that his best strategy lay in wearing down her resistance, and realized one of his strongest weapons lay in the pleasure he could give her by touching her...He could not change her mind, but perhaps with enough time and enough familiarity with him, she would change it for herself...Having determined there was no reason to deny himself, especially since he had every intention of marrying her, he seized every opportunity to steal kisses from her, and when this was not possible, at least to find a way to unobtrusively touch the back of her hand." The conversations and their journey to accepting where they are and how they feel about each other portray two very independent and passionate people, which is what Jane Austen gave us and Abigail builds on in modern times.
Darcy, in going back to Meryton to once again court Elizabeth and finding her engaged decides to stay b/c of social conventions (He can't just run off after only being there for a day or two) and also to assess the relationship between Elizabeth and James Covington; are they in love? He detected no such feelings on display. The scenes with the tigers and unicorns, the poetry, are so romantic! And then apologizing - what for? He then kisses her!!!! And that kiss stirs the embers in Elizabeth's heart. Now she knows what chemistry can mean. I loved the scene after the wedding rehearsal for Jane's wedding during which Darcy discovers Elizabeth is not "Mrs. Covington". Oh how my heart warmed.
It is so endearing to read their discourse. First one, then the other explaining why they can't feel guilty or why they must or must not marry, etc. kept me turning pages every time I read this book. I really appreciate Ms. Reynolds' ability in this department. She develops the thoughts in depth and takes us on such a love trip. Thank you.
July 2, 2008
This was an okay book (I love anything with Elizabeth & Darcy in it) but I was disappointed with how many pages I had to skip. By the end it seemed more like a sordid novel and less of a continuation of Jane Austen's character. What story line there was, was not done very well. The premise behind the book had promise but it disappeared quickly. Will not be reading any of her other books.
May 29, 2019
there were so many arch comments and arched eyebrows on Elizabeth's part I can only imagine her eyebrows had actually migrated off her face. they're hovering even now a foot above her head. This book was a pretty big 'mehn' with okay characterizations.
December 11, 2022
Actually I did not think this was a perfect book but there was a lot of lovely dialogue, I was invested enough to have finished this in one sitting and would not mind reading it again one day, hence the five star rating. In this story, it's after Hunsford. Darcy has stayed away long enough for Elizabeth to get engaged to someone else. It's Mr. Covington, a neighbor who is rather like Mr. Bingley. Nice enough, wealthy enough, but doesn't stir her blood. However, it doesn't seem likely that the heartbroken Jane will marry well, or marry anyone, so Elizabeth accepts for reasons of prudence, hoping she will learn to love Covington once they're married. But then Darcy returns with Bingley and it becomes evident that her hopes are in vain as long as she's in love with someone else. When Lydia does Lydia Darcy leaves Meryton suddenly. Elizabeth is left to decide what to do about Mr. Covington as she would be in some disgrace if she broke her engagement. In the latter part of the book she is in some disgrace and has decided that she cannot marry Darcy in order to protect his reputation, although he sees it differently. He spends a lot of time convincing her, and my favorite part was Darcy's strategy with Mr. Bennet.
The reason it wasn't a perfect book in my mind was that Elizabeth holds on rather too long after it's clear that Darcy loves her to distraction and she's inventing excuses. She thinks that Darcy would be hurt by the damage to his reputation but in the meantime he's hurt because she keeps on refusing him. Badly done, Lizzy! Nobody is happier because she keeps falling on her sword, not Darcy, not her, not her family.
Steam level: For mature readers. When the plot doesn't allow them to have sex yet Darcy has rather detailed dreams... This is one of those books in which he can't control his ungentlemanly urges until the wedding repeatedly, and then beats himself up about it repeatedly. I dunno dude, just make up your mind will you? Elizabeth is a lot less missish about it.
The reason it wasn't a perfect book in my mind was that Elizabeth holds on rather too long after it's clear that Darcy loves her to distraction and she's inventing excuses. She thinks that Darcy would be hurt by the damage to his reputation but in the meantime he's hurt because she keeps on refusing him. Badly done, Lizzy! Nobody is happier because she keeps falling on her sword, not Darcy, not her, not her family.
Steam level: For mature readers. When the plot doesn't allow them to have sex yet Darcy has rather detailed dreams... This is one of those books in which he can't control his ungentlemanly urges until the wedding repeatedly, and then beats himself up about it repeatedly. I dunno dude, just make up your mind will you? Elizabeth is a lot less missish about it.
March 14, 2015
Definitely not the worst of the lot in these P&P variations but I wonder at this author's portrayal of Darcy as a man who can't control his desires. I agree he was a passionate man underneath all that starch (there was no doubt of that after his first proposal) but I'm sure that Darcy would have been able to keep himself in check in most other circumstances. I guess this was the author's solution for having Darcy mauling poor Elizabeth every time he had the chance.
Anyhow, the plot is as follows: After Darcy's proposal and letter, Miss Bennet returns to Longbourn and soon after receives a proposal she accepts. Mr. Covington (this is a new character) is an amiable man she's known for years with a decent fortune so given Jane's situation, she realizes that she cannot let pass this opportunity to secure her family's future. But then Darcy returns, changed after her reproof, and after meeting him again, she falls in love with him.
In general I despise love triangles but I would have liked to see a plot where both Darcy and this other man are courting Elizabeth at the same time. As it was, the fiancé was pretty much gone by 30% of the book and after that, it was all Darcy & Elizabeth kissing in corners while she rejects his proposal of marriage because she thinks marrying her would ruin his reputation.
In this variation, we didn't have the confrontation with Lady Catherine or the visit to Pemberley and I have to say I missed both.
Anyhow, the plot is as follows: After Darcy's proposal and letter, Miss Bennet returns to Longbourn and soon after receives a proposal she accepts. Mr. Covington (this is a new character) is an amiable man she's known for years with a decent fortune so given Jane's situation, she realizes that she cannot let pass this opportunity to secure her family's future. But then Darcy returns, changed after her reproof, and after meeting him again, she falls in love with him.
In general I despise love triangles but I would have liked to see a plot where both Darcy and this other man are courting Elizabeth at the same time. As it was, the fiancé was pretty much gone by 30% of the book and after that, it was all Darcy & Elizabeth kissing in corners while she rejects his proposal of marriage because she thinks marrying her would ruin his reputation.
In this variation, we didn't have the confrontation with Lady Catherine or the visit to Pemberley and I have to say I missed both.
February 11, 2017
This was the least favorite variation of P & P by Ms. Reynolds so far. It gave me waves and waves of hopelessness throughout.
And yet I've read this twice already!
So obviously her ability to write beautifully always delighted me.
And yet I've read this twice already!
So obviously her ability to write beautifully always delighted me.
September 29, 2011
Mr. Darcy's Undoing (originally self-published as Without Reserve in 2007) is one of Abigail Reynolds' earliest novels from her incomparable Pemberley Variation Series, and just happens to be the first one I ever read! If you are unfamiliar with these riveting and romantic variations, they are retellings of Pride and Prejudice that take our beloved hero and heroine down a slightly altered path. Abigail Reynolds, one of my favorite Austenesque authors, is a skilled-story teller, an ardent admirer of Jane Austen, and quite proficient at infusing a lot of emotion, tension, and passion into her stories!
In this variation, Ms. Reynolds takes up her pen and asks: What if, after refusing Mr. Darcy's marriage proposal in Hunsford, Elizabeth accepts the marriage proposal of a childhood friend?
An interesting scenario, isn't it? Mr. Darcy has a rival – and the rival's already won! Or has he? Mr. Covington (a. k. a. Darcy's rival/Elizabeth's fiancée) is an amiable young gentleman who owns a small but well-established neighboring estate. He's affable, kind-hearted, generous, honorable, and has never insulted Elizabeth Bennet! He may have Elizabeth's hand in marriage, but does he have her heart?
To continue reading, go to: http://janeaustenreviews.blogspot.com...
In this variation, Ms. Reynolds takes up her pen and asks: What if, after refusing Mr. Darcy's marriage proposal in Hunsford, Elizabeth accepts the marriage proposal of a childhood friend?
An interesting scenario, isn't it? Mr. Darcy has a rival – and the rival's already won! Or has he? Mr. Covington (a. k. a. Darcy's rival/Elizabeth's fiancée) is an amiable young gentleman who owns a small but well-established neighboring estate. He's affable, kind-hearted, generous, honorable, and has never insulted Elizabeth Bennet! He may have Elizabeth's hand in marriage, but does he have her heart?
To continue reading, go to: http://janeaustenreviews.blogspot.com...
December 16, 2009
There comes a time every so often when I am compelled to read another Pride and Prejudice sequel/bodice ripper featuring Darcy and Elizabeth in (very) compromising positions (actually in lots of positions). That time is now and this book is one of them. Nope, don't feel a bit guilty about it...
February 22, 2017
Ok~ llegamos otra vez a ese tiempo del año en que me dan deseos de leer variaciones de Orgullo y Prejuicio (y después, vuelvo a releer el libro y a ver la serie del 95) entonces, decidí leer esta adaptación porque la sinopsis de veía interesante. Y la primera parte del libro es interesante. Después ya no tanto, porque todo gira en torno a "la tensión sexual" entre los protagonistas, que no está mal pero... sostener eso durante más de cien páginas. Me parece demasiado.
En fin, en su conjunto no es un mal libro, está bien escrito, es dinámico y fácil de leer, pero... simplemente sentí que no explotó todo el potencial que tenía (me refiero a la idea base del libro) es un buen libro para pasar el rato y ruborizar un poco las mejillas de quien lo lee. Jajaja. Ahora bien, quien quiera leerlo, advierto de inmediato que el libro está de momento solamente en inglés.
En fin, en su conjunto no es un mal libro, está bien escrito, es dinámico y fácil de leer, pero... simplemente sentí que no explotó todo el potencial que tenía (me refiero a la idea base del libro) es un buen libro para pasar el rato y ruborizar un poco las mejillas de quien lo lee. Jajaja. Ahora bien, quien quiera leerlo, advierto de inmediato que el libro está de momento solamente en inglés.
July 21, 2022
This book didn't deliver on what was advertised. I thought the whole book was supposed to be Darcy competing with Mr. Covington for
Lizzie, but she ends up breaking their engagement in the first third, and then the next third is her trying to say no to Darcy (aka she wants to marry him but feels like she can't due to specific situations). It was overall okay, but not my favorite pride and prejudice spin
Lizzie, but she ends up breaking their engagement in the first third, and then the next third is her trying to say no to Darcy (aka she wants to marry him but feels like she can't due to specific situations). It was overall okay, but not my favorite pride and prejudice spin
December 23, 2016
Post Kent, post disastrous proposal and post Darcy’s letter of enlightenment: 3.5 stars
Caveat, disclaimer: Mature Audience, sexually explicit scenes.
I read this years ago and because of it and others, put off reading Reynolds for a very long time. I decided to reread this just to see if my sensibilities had changed and if my feelings would be different. The answer is no; my sentiments and feelings have not changed and my basic instincts are holding true.
Don’t get me wrong, Reynolds is a most excellent writer and story teller. That is why I gave 3.5-stars [I liked the writing]. I simply objected to the mode [lack of respect to the characters] with which she handled the love story between Darcy and Elizabeth. I can handle heat, I can handle smoldering, and all the emotional sexual tension that Reynolds famously creates with such aplomb. However, I got whiplash from the back and forth between our dear couple. Darcy was all over the place and Elizabeth was worse. How these two got together is still a mystery.
With Bingley out of the area and no assurance that he would ever return, Elizabeth accepted the proposal of a perfectly nice gentleman who had returned to the area to take care of his ailing mother. They had known each other since they were younger so it was natural to accept him as he could provide the protection that calmed the nervous Mrs. Bennet. It was the least the second daughter could do since she had refused Mr. Collins.
And then Bingley returned to Netherfield and resumed his attentions to Jane. Elizabeth was horrified to find that Mr. Darcy was also staying at Netherfield and Darcy was horrified to learn that Elizabeth was engaged.
This title should have been Darcy’s Lack of Control as it went downhill from there. I objected terribly to the following. ***spoiler alert*** to those who have not read this work.
It was just too much. ***end spoiler***The love story was confusing as Elizabeth fought her liking of him in one scene and allowed liberties in another. I had a headache by the time all was settled. The Wickham incident was handled so quickly it was nearly a nonevent. The Epilogue [4-years later] was nice, but was not enough to overcome the lack of a good love story. Sex scenes do not a romantic story make.
Caveat, disclaimer: Mature Audience, sexually explicit scenes.
I read this years ago and because of it and others, put off reading Reynolds for a very long time. I decided to reread this just to see if my sensibilities had changed and if my feelings would be different. The answer is no; my sentiments and feelings have not changed and my basic instincts are holding true.
Don’t get me wrong, Reynolds is a most excellent writer and story teller. That is why I gave 3.5-stars [I liked the writing]. I simply objected to the mode [lack of respect to the characters] with which she handled the love story between Darcy and Elizabeth. I can handle heat, I can handle smoldering, and all the emotional sexual tension that Reynolds famously creates with such aplomb. However, I got whiplash from the back and forth between our dear couple. Darcy was all over the place and Elizabeth was worse. How these two got together is still a mystery.
With Bingley out of the area and no assurance that he would ever return, Elizabeth accepted the proposal of a perfectly nice gentleman who had returned to the area to take care of his ailing mother. They had known each other since they were younger so it was natural to accept him as he could provide the protection that calmed the nervous Mrs. Bennet. It was the least the second daughter could do since she had refused Mr. Collins.
And then Bingley returned to Netherfield and resumed his attentions to Jane. Elizabeth was horrified to find that Mr. Darcy was also staying at Netherfield and Darcy was horrified to learn that Elizabeth was engaged.
This title should have been Darcy’s Lack of Control as it went downhill from there. I objected terribly to the following. ***spoiler alert*** to those who have not read this work.
It was just too much. ***end spoiler***The love story was confusing as Elizabeth fought her liking of him in one scene and allowed liberties in another. I had a headache by the time all was settled. The Wickham incident was handled so quickly it was nearly a nonevent. The Epilogue [4-years later] was nice, but was not enough to overcome the lack of a good love story. Sex scenes do not a romantic story make.
February 12, 2016
No, I'm sorry, but no.
The whole 202 pages worth was like listening to your favorite song sung in the worst possible way. On repeat.
I did read the whole book, which tempted me to give it two starts instead of one, but I just really couldn't, because I actually wish I would have stopped the book while I was ahead and recycled the paper immediately. The main reason I finished the book was because it was so thin, barely more than a novella, and the other reason I finished was because, I admit, there were some sweet scenes near the beginning that weren't horribly written that did make me smile.
However, the above is all I have good to say about this "book" that is nothing more than glorified, erotic, poorly-written fan-fiction. I mean, sure, I enjoy fan-fictions as much as the next fangirl [in fact, I probably enjoy it more than most], but those are the fluffy, silly, not-true-to-their-characters stories one might read online. NOT pay money for.
At the start of the book [as in, the first 2-3 chapters maybe] the author obviously tried her hardest to both write in a regency style, and to keep the story as close to Jane Austen's as possible. After, oh, 40, maybe 50, pages, however, she gave up, and her writing gradually changed to something definitely NOT Austen-esque.
At first, it was sweet to see Darcy's struggles and to see a more emotional side of Elizabeth as she fell in love with him. Then we got introduced to Darcy's dreams, that he apparently has every night, and suddenly, rather than being one of the greatest love stories of all time, it became one of the most shocking lust stories of all time.
I mean, really? Darcy? Lusting after Elizabeth and imagining doing all kinds of things to her in his bed? That's... NO. NO! Never, ever, ever! Darcy would never even let such a single thought enter his mind. In fact, it would be SO FAR from his mind, that nothing of the sort would ever occur to him, and it rather disgusted me in "Without Reserve," whose title is more fitting than you would believe.
As I said before, your favorite song, sung in the worst possible way, on repeat, as the impropriety only increases drastically in its meager 202 pages.
I imagined a short book with story and character and tension building throughout most of its pages, and ending with perhaps one or two kissing scenes. Instead, I have a 50-60 page kissing buildup, followed by 140-150 pages of kissing scenes.
Trying to associate the Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet in this "book" with the Darcy and Elizabeth I know, is pure torture that sends mortified shivers across my skin.
Trust me, dear review reader, if you are a fan of Jane Austen in any way, whether it be her books only, her movies only, or both, you will not enjoy this book. It will rot your mind and destroy your soul, and leave you dismayed and appalled and desperately trying to scrub yourself free of the images you have just force-fed your poor brain.
The whole 202 pages worth was like listening to your favorite song sung in the worst possible way. On repeat.
I did read the whole book, which tempted me to give it two starts instead of one, but I just really couldn't, because I actually wish I would have stopped the book while I was ahead and recycled the paper immediately. The main reason I finished the book was because it was so thin, barely more than a novella, and the other reason I finished was because, I admit, there were some sweet scenes near the beginning that weren't horribly written that did make me smile.
However, the above is all I have good to say about this "book" that is nothing more than glorified, erotic, poorly-written fan-fiction. I mean, sure, I enjoy fan-fictions as much as the next fangirl [in fact, I probably enjoy it more than most], but those are the fluffy, silly, not-true-to-their-characters stories one might read online. NOT pay money for.
At the start of the book [as in, the first 2-3 chapters maybe] the author obviously tried her hardest to both write in a regency style, and to keep the story as close to Jane Austen's as possible. After, oh, 40, maybe 50, pages, however, she gave up, and her writing gradually changed to something definitely NOT Austen-esque.
At first, it was sweet to see Darcy's struggles and to see a more emotional side of Elizabeth as she fell in love with him. Then we got introduced to Darcy's dreams, that he apparently has every night, and suddenly, rather than being one of the greatest love stories of all time, it became one of the most shocking lust stories of all time.
I mean, really? Darcy? Lusting after Elizabeth and imagining doing all kinds of things to her in his bed? That's... NO. NO! Never, ever, ever! Darcy would never even let such a single thought enter his mind. In fact, it would be SO FAR from his mind, that nothing of the sort would ever occur to him, and it rather disgusted me in "Without Reserve," whose title is more fitting than you would believe.
As I said before, your favorite song, sung in the worst possible way, on repeat, as the impropriety only increases drastically in its meager 202 pages.
I imagined a short book with story and character and tension building throughout most of its pages, and ending with perhaps one or two kissing scenes. Instead, I have a 50-60 page kissing buildup, followed by 140-150 pages of kissing scenes.
Trying to associate the Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet in this "book" with the Darcy and Elizabeth I know, is pure torture that sends mortified shivers across my skin.
Trust me, dear review reader, if you are a fan of Jane Austen in any way, whether it be her books only, her movies only, or both, you will not enjoy this book. It will rot your mind and destroy your soul, and leave you dismayed and appalled and desperately trying to scrub yourself free of the images you have just force-fed your poor brain.
Read
November 3, 2017Review originally posted on Diary of an Eccentric
Mr. Darcy’s Undoing (previously published as Without Reserve) is another retelling of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice in which Abigail Reynolds asks readers to imagine “what if?” — in this case, what if Mr. Darcy had a rival for Elizabeth Bennet’s affections? Reynolds opens the novel after Darcy’s disastrous proposal at Kent. By the time Darcy convinces Bingley to return to Netherfield and rekindle his romance with Elizabeth’s sister, Jane, Elizabeth has already accepted a marriage proposal from James Covington.
Darcy had followed Bingley in the hopes of winning Elizabeth’s love, and he is shocked and dismayed upon learning of her engagement. That doesn’t stop him from hanging around, though he tells himself that if he knows for sure that Elizabeth is in love with Covington, then he must let her go. Meanwhile, Elizabeth feels an attraction to Darcy and must force herself to consider all the reasons why her marriage to Covington makes sense for her and her family. Besides, there’s nothing she can do about the situation now — not without ruining her reputation and her family’s standing in the community, especially considering the damage already caused by Lydia after she runs away with Wickham.
In Mr. Darcy’s Undoing, Reynolds gives readers what they have come to expect from her Pride and Prejudice variations — different twists and turns as Elizabeth and Darcy navigate the same misunderstandings and plenty of heat as they skirt the bounds of propriety and often cross the line as they find they cannot keep their hands off each other. Although Reynolds briefly brings in the wit and playfulness of Mr. Bennet, most of Austen’s secondary characters sit on the sidelines in Mr. Darcy’s Undoing. Elizabeth and Darcy, their bantering, and their serious discussions about their relationship are the focus of the novel, and while I missed the tension typically supplied by Wickham, Caroline Bingley, and Lady Catherine, I enjoyed Reynolds’ take on a scandalized Elizabeth and a more emotional and seductive Darcy. There also was some amusement to be had with Darcy’s jealousy and pain, as he goes so far as to chaperone Elizabeth and her betrothed.
I am always amazed at how many ways Reynolds can re-tell the same story. She manages to keep the story fresh, throwing new obstacles in Elizabeth and Darcy’s path to happiness and making it so that readers almost wonder whether the two will live happily ever after. While Mr. Darcy’s Undoing isn’t my favorite of Reynolds’ variations, it was a page-turner that I would recommend to readers who want a spicier Pride and Prejudice retelling.
Mr. Darcy’s Undoing (previously published as Without Reserve) is another retelling of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice in which Abigail Reynolds asks readers to imagine “what if?” — in this case, what if Mr. Darcy had a rival for Elizabeth Bennet’s affections? Reynolds opens the novel after Darcy’s disastrous proposal at Kent. By the time Darcy convinces Bingley to return to Netherfield and rekindle his romance with Elizabeth’s sister, Jane, Elizabeth has already accepted a marriage proposal from James Covington.
Darcy had followed Bingley in the hopes of winning Elizabeth’s love, and he is shocked and dismayed upon learning of her engagement. That doesn’t stop him from hanging around, though he tells himself that if he knows for sure that Elizabeth is in love with Covington, then he must let her go. Meanwhile, Elizabeth feels an attraction to Darcy and must force herself to consider all the reasons why her marriage to Covington makes sense for her and her family. Besides, there’s nothing she can do about the situation now — not without ruining her reputation and her family’s standing in the community, especially considering the damage already caused by Lydia after she runs away with Wickham.
In Mr. Darcy’s Undoing, Reynolds gives readers what they have come to expect from her Pride and Prejudice variations — different twists and turns as Elizabeth and Darcy navigate the same misunderstandings and plenty of heat as they skirt the bounds of propriety and often cross the line as they find they cannot keep their hands off each other. Although Reynolds briefly brings in the wit and playfulness of Mr. Bennet, most of Austen’s secondary characters sit on the sidelines in Mr. Darcy’s Undoing. Elizabeth and Darcy, their bantering, and their serious discussions about their relationship are the focus of the novel, and while I missed the tension typically supplied by Wickham, Caroline Bingley, and Lady Catherine, I enjoyed Reynolds’ take on a scandalized Elizabeth and a more emotional and seductive Darcy. There also was some amusement to be had with Darcy’s jealousy and pain, as he goes so far as to chaperone Elizabeth and her betrothed.
I am always amazed at how many ways Reynolds can re-tell the same story. She manages to keep the story fresh, throwing new obstacles in Elizabeth and Darcy’s path to happiness and making it so that readers almost wonder whether the two will live happily ever after. While Mr. Darcy’s Undoing isn’t my favorite of Reynolds’ variations, it was a page-turner that I would recommend to readers who want a spicier Pride and Prejudice retelling.
February 23, 2008
Without Reserve was another enjoyable P&P variation from Abigail Reynolds. This variation sees Elizabeth agree to marry a childhood friend, Mr. Covington, after Darcy's first proposal. She knows that she shouldn't have accepted another man so soon after rejecting Mr. Darcy but she sees it as a benefit to her family. However, Mr. Darcy reappears shortly after the engagement and Elizabeth starts to realize her mistake. With little surprise, Elizabeth breaks off her engagement with Covington, but feels little hope that Darcy will come back for her...of course he does. It is obvious that the passion between Elizabeth and Darcy is strong, and at times it is almost like they are horny teenagers in this book. This is definitely not Jane Austen, but for those of us addicted to chick lit, that is okay.
April 30, 2008
I loved this book. It's a little off from traditional Austen but I liked that we got to see more of Darcy. I also loved that there was more passion between them like kissing and stuff. I actually imagined something like what would happen if another guy also liked Lizzie so when I heard there was a book about this I had to read it. I just wish Lizzie wasn't so close to becoming his mistress. I think the traditional Darcy and Elizabeth would have more self control.
September 9, 2017
Pretty intimate and delightful
While not near the best of Mrs. Reynolds works, this is a very good story, as usual. I find it amusing that some of her works have barely any adult scenes, while others, such as this are copious. If this isn't your thing, please don't read it and then disparage her abilities with low star ratings. This woman writes D & E with an intensity that few else can and should be lauded as a proficient in the field of P&P variations.
While not near the best of Mrs. Reynolds works, this is a very good story, as usual. I find it amusing that some of her works have barely any adult scenes, while others, such as this are copious. If this isn't your thing, please don't read it and then disparage her abilities with low star ratings. This woman writes D & E with an intensity that few else can and should be lauded as a proficient in the field of P&P variations.
October 17, 2022
What a lovely story!!
I'm sure I read it quite a while ago, but good stories are always satisfying.
This variation, while not for young readers, is very nicely done and shows a side of the main characters that is unusual but probable.
A very enjoyable tale.
I'm sure I read it quite a while ago, but good stories are always satisfying.
This variation, while not for young readers, is very nicely done and shows a side of the main characters that is unusual but probable.
A very enjoyable tale.
May 29, 2017
I found that after the initial conflict, Lizzy protested too much and was too stubborn. I did enjoy seeing a more fully-realized Darcy - especially one who had to overcome not being able to get everything he ever wanted.
April 8, 2018
3.75/5
I would have given more but by the end of the book I just wanted it to be over. In terms of the writing - this is some of the best historical Austen imitations (especially for the first half of the book) I’ve ever read and I don’t say that lightly. I am very impressed with the writing style. Although it did jar me to see some American spellings in there 😳🤦🏻♀️... that I wish weren’t.... bc it’s set in England.... anyways.
The story, first half was really good but from then on it started to lose my interest. Usually I complain about how terrible the heroines are ( in romance novels) but in this case it was actually Mr. Darcy that I was like ok enough... I can’t take anymore. Essentially he is a very insecure head case who literally cannot control himself and then constantly apologizes for it afterwards. Two things I really didn’t like: 1) that they had premarital sex like every single night and it was such a prolonged drawn out affair omggggg and they couldn’t just wait the two weeks??? Nothing in the plot really would have been that different... 2) and I can’t believe I’m saying this but it was too lovey-dovey.... it was just too much! Darcy was so emotional and lovey (constantly talking about his feelings), touchy- feely, needy, and I know this is fantasy fiction but he just did not resemble the Darcy from the original book at all. I skipped a bunch of the dialogue where they repeated the same nonsense to each other over about how much they love each other etc just bc it was boring. The book could have ended about 50 pages or so sooner. Easily.
So, whilst I am very excited to find a new well written author (for P&P) - I do hope that there will be a greater variety of personalities to her characters in the other adaptions she has written.
I would have given more but by the end of the book I just wanted it to be over. In terms of the writing - this is some of the best historical Austen imitations (especially for the first half of the book) I’ve ever read and I don’t say that lightly. I am very impressed with the writing style. Although it did jar me to see some American spellings in there 😳🤦🏻♀️... that I wish weren’t.... bc it’s set in England.... anyways.
The story, first half was really good but from then on it started to lose my interest. Usually I complain about how terrible the heroines are ( in romance novels) but in this case it was actually Mr. Darcy that I was like ok enough... I can’t take anymore. Essentially he is a very insecure head case who literally cannot control himself and then constantly apologizes for it afterwards. Two things I really didn’t like: 1) that they had premarital sex like every single night and it was such a prolonged drawn out affair omggggg and they couldn’t just wait the two weeks??? Nothing in the plot really would have been that different... 2) and I can’t believe I’m saying this but it was too lovey-dovey.... it was just too much! Darcy was so emotional and lovey (constantly talking about his feelings), touchy- feely, needy, and I know this is fantasy fiction but he just did not resemble the Darcy from the original book at all. I skipped a bunch of the dialogue where they repeated the same nonsense to each other over about how much they love each other etc just bc it was boring. The book could have ended about 50 pages or so sooner. Easily.
So, whilst I am very excited to find a new well written author (for P&P) - I do hope that there will be a greater variety of personalities to her characters in the other adaptions she has written.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 10, 2019
My favorite of all the authors books. I re-read it regularly.
March 6, 2024
Very nice comfort book
Guess what their love still triumphed!!
But really nice period drama narrative voice while easy to read
_so much spice_
Guess what their love still triumphed!!
But really nice period drama narrative voice while easy to read
_so much spice_
April 14, 2023
My rating is about half a result of personal tastes, and this is from a favorite author who is consistently good at coming up with interesting, original story lines for her Pride and Prejudice variations. But this book I both liked and disliked.
What I like is that it begins with an interesting premise, where Elizabeth thinks she'll not likely see Mr. Darcy again, so she agrees to marry a man who is an old friend, someone she knew while growing up. He has a small estate. She is even fond of his mother, just doesn't feel very strongly about him romantically. She's not in love. Then Darcy returns. That's where I begin to dislike the story. (Spoiler removed.)
But again there are parts of the story I liked, and this rating is just my opinion. The writing is as excellent as always with this author, who remains one of my favorites. My problems with the story are partly personal taste, and you might find you love it, so if you don't mind some adult content, or a hint of scandal that seems way out of character for ODC, then go for it.
What I like is that it begins with an interesting premise, where Elizabeth thinks she'll not likely see Mr. Darcy again, so she agrees to marry a man who is an old friend, someone she knew while growing up. He has a small estate. She is even fond of his mother, just doesn't feel very strongly about him romantically. She's not in love. Then Darcy returns. That's where I begin to dislike the story. (Spoiler removed.)
But again there are parts of the story I liked, and this rating is just my opinion. The writing is as excellent as always with this author, who remains one of my favorites. My problems with the story are partly personal taste, and you might find you love it, so if you don't mind some adult content, or a hint of scandal that seems way out of character for ODC, then go for it.
February 8, 2021
A respectable & sweet JAFF
Synopsis
Lizzy has found herself compelled by sisterly duty to marry a local young gentlemen, Mr. Covington. While still eligible he is vanilla to the extreme.
He has an estate, but its a bit more humble than Longborn.
He is attractive, but not overly so.
He is amiable, but doesn't stir anything in Lizzy.
Lizzy grew up with him, but she never had a preference to him.
In short, he is everything plain personified.
Yet, our dear heroine Lizzy knowing that Jane is heartbroken over Bingley, Mary is a lost cause in terms of attracting any man, Kitty and Lizzy are sluts for officers, the duty of marrying with mercenary tendencies or at least fiscally sound has fallen on her shoulders.
Ironically, before Lizzy felt she could marry for love because she was confident that Jane with her overall perfection would marry a wealthy and amiable man, but heartbroken Jane leaves only Lizzy as responsible.
Darcy when he realizes his intervening with Bingley and Jane led to Lizzy feeling compelled to accept Mr Covington’s marriage to ensure the security of her family
Yet, Mr. Darcy has come to realize he can't live without Lizzy and months after the Hunsford disaster he confesses to Bingley that Jane very well may love him so as to get him back to Netherfield where he may see if Lizzy is changed in regards to the letter he wrote her.
There he realizes Lizzy is engaged to another and thus he fun begins!
When Lizzy got engaged to Mr. Covington I was thinking, ‘Oh Lizzy how you get out of this mess?’
What I liked
Darcy and Lizzy have one of the most charming repartee’s I have read in JAFF, where Lizzy is teasing Darcy about Miss Bingley's comment on Pemberley's grandeur , he begins to invent tigers and unicorns on his grounds.
It shows just why Darcy x Lizzy are so perfect together, they are intellectual equals and share the same sense of humour. I loved it! It also served as an inside joke they referenced again and again.
Darcy's dreams are an effective literary tool well used to express Darcy's deep longing for Lizzy
Mrs Bennet is hilarious!
Georgina realistic; she isn't the typical Georgiana JAFF that forgets her shyness immediately with Lizzy, she warms up to her and its gradual and perfect!
Descriptive writing, witty dialogue, & romantic!
Disliked:
Why give Darcy an uncompelling rival? It would be all the more impressive if he stole her affections, or won her with higher stakes.
Mr. Covington should have been at least handsome, charming or wealthier. He is uninspiring and boring and just makes me feel bad for him for the inevitable breaking off of his engagement, since he isn't bad at all.
He has so little and is so amiable I found myself rooting for him out of pity. PITY!
Conclusion:
I enjoyed it! A very respectable JAFF.
I measure the quality of a JAFF by three factors, as follows;
1. Did I feel the characters acted true to Austen's character framework (allowing for changed circumstance and scenario to offer some leeway)?
2. Was I engaged during the reading and not bored?
3. Was the writing compelling/ intelligent and was there sufficient interaction/dialogue between the main characters?
On all three counts, it's a resounding yes! My compliments to Ms. Reynolds. Although I was apprehensive since I didn't enjoy one of her previous works, Alone with Mr. Darcy: A Pride & Prejudice Variation, Beware IT'S GAD AWFUL, (which got a no on all the previous guidelines and I couldn't finish), this has redeemed her in my eyes.
Synopsis
Lizzy has found herself compelled by sisterly duty to marry a local young gentlemen, Mr. Covington. While still eligible he is vanilla to the extreme.
He has an estate, but its a bit more humble than Longborn.
He is attractive, but not overly so.
He is amiable, but doesn't stir anything in Lizzy.
Lizzy grew up with him, but she never had a preference to him.
In short, he is everything plain personified.
Yet, our dear heroine Lizzy knowing that Jane is heartbroken over Bingley, Mary is a lost cause in terms of attracting any man, Kitty and Lizzy are sluts for officers, the duty of marrying with mercenary tendencies or at least fiscally sound has fallen on her shoulders.
Ironically, before Lizzy felt she could marry for love because she was confident that Jane with her overall perfection would marry a wealthy and amiable man, but heartbroken Jane leaves only Lizzy as responsible.
Darcy when he realizes his intervening with Bingley and Jane led to Lizzy feeling compelled to accept Mr Covington’s marriage to ensure the security of her family
Yet, Mr. Darcy has come to realize he can't live without Lizzy and months after the Hunsford disaster he confesses to Bingley that Jane very well may love him so as to get him back to Netherfield where he may see if Lizzy is changed in regards to the letter he wrote her.
There he realizes Lizzy is engaged to another and thus he fun begins!
When Lizzy got engaged to Mr. Covington I was thinking, ‘Oh Lizzy how you get out of this mess?’
What I liked
Darcy and Lizzy have one of the most charming repartee’s I have read in JAFF, where Lizzy is teasing Darcy about Miss Bingley's comment on Pemberley's grandeur , he begins to invent tigers and unicorns on his grounds.
It shows just why Darcy x Lizzy are so perfect together, they are intellectual equals and share the same sense of humour. I loved it! It also served as an inside joke they referenced again and again.
Darcy's dreams are an effective literary tool well used to express Darcy's deep longing for Lizzy
Mrs Bennet is hilarious!
Georgina realistic; she isn't the typical Georgiana JAFF that forgets her shyness immediately with Lizzy, she warms up to her and its gradual and perfect!
Descriptive writing, witty dialogue, & romantic!
Disliked:
Why give Darcy an uncompelling rival? It would be all the more impressive if he stole her affections, or won her with higher stakes.
Mr. Covington should have been at least handsome, charming or wealthier. He is uninspiring and boring and just makes me feel bad for him for the inevitable breaking off of his engagement, since he isn't bad at all.
He has so little and is so amiable I found myself rooting for him out of pity. PITY!
Conclusion:
I enjoyed it! A very respectable JAFF.
I measure the quality of a JAFF by three factors, as follows;
1. Did I feel the characters acted true to Austen's character framework (allowing for changed circumstance and scenario to offer some leeway)?
2. Was I engaged during the reading and not bored?
3. Was the writing compelling/ intelligent and was there sufficient interaction/dialogue between the main characters?
On all three counts, it's a resounding yes! My compliments to Ms. Reynolds. Although I was apprehensive since I didn't enjoy one of her previous works, Alone with Mr. Darcy: A Pride & Prejudice Variation, Beware IT'S GAD AWFUL, (which got a no on all the previous guidelines and I couldn't finish), this has redeemed her in my eyes.
November 28, 2023
Was hard to put down. Great book!!
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