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A Lie Universally Hidden
The engagement between them is of a peculiar kind. From their infancy, they have been intended for each other. It was the favorite wish of his mother… —Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen
Fitzwilliam Darcy was raised to never stray from the path set before him: ensure the continued prosperity of his estate, Pemberley, protect and educate his sister to become an accomplished woman, and marry the woman his mother chose for him—his cousin Anne de Bourgh. With a letter bearing his late mother’s signature, Darcy presumes his fate is sealed and prepares to wed one he does not love. However, his destiny begins to unravel when he glimpses a pair of fine eyes on a quiet, country road.
Elizabeth Bennet is the second daughter of a respectable though insignificant gentleman. She is flattered to have captured the attention of a local squire, a childhood friend, and everyone believes her path is secure—until a handsome, rich gentleman arrives at a neighboring estate. Happenstance begets the unlikely pair together, bridging a forbidden love long past a mere friendship.
In A Lie Universally Hidden, two of literature’s most beloved romance characters are destined to marry for fortune and obligation rather than love. How will Darcy and Elizabeth fulfill their true destiny under such circumstances? Shall honor, decorum, prudence—nay, a signed letter from the grave—forbid it?
A Lie Universally Hidden is a Regency Romance suitable for most audiences, teen and up.
Fitzwilliam Darcy was raised to never stray from the path set before him: ensure the continued prosperity of his estate, Pemberley, protect and educate his sister to become an accomplished woman, and marry the woman his mother chose for him—his cousin Anne de Bourgh. With a letter bearing his late mother’s signature, Darcy presumes his fate is sealed and prepares to wed one he does not love. However, his destiny begins to unravel when he glimpses a pair of fine eyes on a quiet, country road.
Elizabeth Bennet is the second daughter of a respectable though insignificant gentleman. She is flattered to have captured the attention of a local squire, a childhood friend, and everyone believes her path is secure—until a handsome, rich gentleman arrives at a neighboring estate. Happenstance begets the unlikely pair together, bridging a forbidden love long past a mere friendship.
In A Lie Universally Hidden, two of literature’s most beloved romance characters are destined to marry for fortune and obligation rather than love. How will Darcy and Elizabeth fulfill their true destiny under such circumstances? Shall honor, decorum, prudence—nay, a signed letter from the grave—forbid it?
A Lie Universally Hidden is a Regency Romance suitable for most audiences, teen and up.
305 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 11, 2017
67 people are currently reading
156 people want to read
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January 5, 2017
In most kindle JAFF variations you can expect things to begin wrapping up at about 85%. However, this author keeps you on pins and needles until almost the very end. Does she then leave you to your own imagination? NO. I loved the epilogue so much and have to say I had tears over how that was presented and even the fates chosen for various members of our cast. Witty, really!
As the book description tells us: in this tale it is not a matter of insult nor a bungled proposal or even interference with a dear sister and the love of her life. No, within these pages it is Fitzwilliam's honor at stake. He has lost his dear mother: the woman he loved above all others, with the exception of his sister. And from her deathbed in a letter Aunt Catherine holds, Anne Darcy has asked Fitzwilliam to honor her desire that he and his cousin, Anne de Bourgh, unite in marriage.
Shortly before the couple's engagement ball, he finds a woman above all others, Elizabeth Bennet, and now has to resign himself to only meeting her in his dreams. He will do as his mother wished.
Elizabeth's friend and childhood playmate, Mr. Hamilton, has come into an estate worth £3,000 to £4000 per year. He is fond of Elizabeth and has expressed his intentions...but he has not yet put that into words...he has not asked her formally nor approached Mr. Bennet. But all of Meryton takes it for granted.
When Darcy visits Bingley at Netherfield he also brings along Georgiana and she becomes good friends with Catherine...indeed, Kitty makes some changes in her behavior due to the Darcys' influence. And as Georgiana invites Kitty to come to stay with her at Darcy House and then Pemberley circumstances demand that Elizabeth also spend time with the young ladies and thus with Mr. Darcy.
Nail biting tension for the readers in this story as both hide feelings and others begin to suspect what they are attempting to hide. There are even suggestions that...well, his honor would not allow that. I am hard pressed not to reveal all the details but know that this is not an easy path for ODC and you may find this book hard to put down as I did.
I received an ARC of this book...with only my opinion requested.
As the book description tells us: in this tale it is not a matter of insult nor a bungled proposal or even interference with a dear sister and the love of her life. No, within these pages it is Fitzwilliam's honor at stake. He has lost his dear mother: the woman he loved above all others, with the exception of his sister. And from her deathbed in a letter Aunt Catherine holds, Anne Darcy has asked Fitzwilliam to honor her desire that he and his cousin, Anne de Bourgh, unite in marriage.
Shortly before the couple's engagement ball, he finds a woman above all others, Elizabeth Bennet, and now has to resign himself to only meeting her in his dreams. He will do as his mother wished.
Elizabeth's friend and childhood playmate, Mr. Hamilton, has come into an estate worth £3,000 to £4000 per year. He is fond of Elizabeth and has expressed his intentions...but he has not yet put that into words...he has not asked her formally nor approached Mr. Bennet. But all of Meryton takes it for granted.
When Darcy visits Bingley at Netherfield he also brings along Georgiana and she becomes good friends with Catherine...indeed, Kitty makes some changes in her behavior due to the Darcys' influence. And as Georgiana invites Kitty to come to stay with her at Darcy House and then Pemberley circumstances demand that Elizabeth also spend time with the young ladies and thus with Mr. Darcy.
Nail biting tension for the readers in this story as both hide feelings and others begin to suspect what they are attempting to hide. There are even suggestions that...well, his honor would not allow that. I am hard pressed not to reveal all the details but know that this is not an easy path for ODC and you may find this book hard to put down as I did.
I received an ARC of this book...with only my opinion requested.
December 31, 2023
Truth, like gold, is to be obtained not by its growth, but by washing away from it all that is not gold. ~Leo Tolstoy
The trouble about man is twofold. He cannot learn truths which are too complicated; he forgets truths which are too simple. ~Rebecca West
And the simple truth which Darcy forgets? That his Mother loved him!
SPOILERS:
His wicked Aunt Catherine has destroyed Lady Anne’s dying communication to her adolescent son (to marry for love) and has tricked a signature on a letter instructing Darcy to marry his cousin Anne.
Darcy sometimes seems almost simple-minded: he knows he doesn’t love Anne; he knows Anne doesn’t love him; he knows Richard loves Anne; and he even knows Anne loves Richard! Furthermore, he knows he loves Elizabeth and he suspects Elizabeth loves him!
Despite ALL THIS, he persists in believing he should marry Anne because it was what his Mother wanted.
A person is still alive who has first-hand knowledge of Lady Anne’s deathbed letter. Elizabeth and Darcy are pro-active enough to quickly visit this person although they are unable to find the answers they seek.
Elizabeth is embroiled in an “engagement” of her own. Her dear Mama pushes her toward this marriage. The only redeeming factor is that Mama Bennet doesn’t see Mr. Collins as husband for Elizabeth!
Elizabeth recognizes the lack of respect her intended shows her. She sees his attempted manipulations to change her. Certainly he lacks respect for her family! He is little different than the canon Darcy in this aspect. Still she feels compelled to accept the marriage.
Kitty has an expanded role in this story – she becomes a close friend to Georgiana and a heroine! I’m a “Kitty fan” and always like to see that girl receive some appreciation.
Surprise endings for Mr. Bennet, Mr. Collins and even Lydia!
HEA for ODC, of course!
And a new Watch!
The trouble about man is twofold. He cannot learn truths which are too complicated; he forgets truths which are too simple. ~Rebecca West
And the simple truth which Darcy forgets? That his Mother loved him!
SPOILERS:
His wicked Aunt Catherine has destroyed Lady Anne’s dying communication to her adolescent son (to marry for love) and has tricked a signature on a letter instructing Darcy to marry his cousin Anne.
Darcy sometimes seems almost simple-minded: he knows he doesn’t love Anne; he knows Anne doesn’t love him; he knows Richard loves Anne; and he even knows Anne loves Richard! Furthermore, he knows he loves Elizabeth and he suspects Elizabeth loves him!
Despite ALL THIS, he persists in believing he should marry Anne because it was what his Mother wanted.
A person is still alive who has first-hand knowledge of Lady Anne’s deathbed letter. Elizabeth and Darcy are pro-active enough to quickly visit this person although they are unable to find the answers they seek.
Elizabeth is embroiled in an “engagement” of her own. Her dear Mama pushes her toward this marriage. The only redeeming factor is that Mama Bennet doesn’t see Mr. Collins as husband for Elizabeth!
Elizabeth recognizes the lack of respect her intended shows her. She sees his attempted manipulations to change her. Certainly he lacks respect for her family! He is little different than the canon Darcy in this aspect. Still she feels compelled to accept the marriage.
Kitty has an expanded role in this story – she becomes a close friend to Georgiana and a heroine! I’m a “Kitty fan” and always like to see that girl receive some appreciation.
Surprise endings for Mr. Bennet, Mr. Collins and even Lydia!
HEA for ODC, of course!
And a new Watch!
February 5, 2017
4.5 rounded up to 5 stars
If you thought you disliked Lady Catherine de Bourgh in other Pride and Prejudice tales, you will REALLY despise her in this story. She is absolute swine, manipulating and lying to her closest family members for revenge on someone who will never even know about it.
But I digress. The basic story is that Mr. Darcy has received a letter signed by his mother on her deathbed stating her wish for him to marry his cousin Anne when they are old enough. He fully intends to do so because of his devotion to his mother as well as the sense of honor and duty that has been drummed into him by his father and, later, by his Aunt Catherine. Meanwhile, Elizabeth Bennet, her family and friends all are certain that her childhood playmate, Mr. James Hamilton, will propose to her in due time. He unexpectedly has inherited Ashby Park, an estate in Hertfordshire not too distant from Longbourn.
Both Mr. Darcy and Mr. Hamilton have been putting off making their intentions official. In Mr. Darcy's case it's reluctance to actually follow through despite accepting its inevitability; in Mr. Hamilton's case, it's because he is a meticulous planner who wants all his ducks neatly arranged in a row with regards to finalizing the legal details of his recent inheritance as well as preparing his estate for a new mistress before entering into a formal courtship with Elizabeth.
With that firmly established, Elizabeth and Darcy meet. It's not long before they feel a mutual attraction which, of course, they are unable to acknowledge even to themselves at first, much less each other. The rest of the book thrusts them together under various circumstances, causing both to feel increasing discontent with the futures planned for them and the impossibility of breaking free. Mr. Hamilton is a good sort of man, but his strict code of proper behavior chafes Elizabeth and incenses Darcy when he realizes the man intends to "break" her of what he considers her wild ways.
The author teases the reader with several episodes where the contents of another letter by Mrs. Darcy might emerge, only to be frustrated when the information gleaned seems to confirm what is already known. Darcy's internal struggle between choosing love rather than obligation in marriage is gut-wrenching, especially when it becomes evident that Colonel Fitzwilliam has a stake in this choice, as well.
Other parallel storylines are nicely woven into the plot. Kitty decides she wishes to emulate her oldest sisters rather than Lydia's behavior. As a result, she becomes Georgiana's close friend and confidante which, in turn, furthers Elizabeth's relationship with Darcy.
The writing style is quite good, and characters are well-drawn. My only criticism is the ultimate resolution to the dilemma was not as well thought out as the rest of the story.
If you thought you disliked Lady Catherine de Bourgh in other Pride and Prejudice tales, you will REALLY despise her in this story. She is absolute swine, manipulating and lying to her closest family members for revenge on someone who will never even know about it.
But I digress. The basic story is that Mr. Darcy has received a letter signed by his mother on her deathbed stating her wish for him to marry his cousin Anne when they are old enough. He fully intends to do so because of his devotion to his mother as well as the sense of honor and duty that has been drummed into him by his father and, later, by his Aunt Catherine. Meanwhile, Elizabeth Bennet, her family and friends all are certain that her childhood playmate, Mr. James Hamilton, will propose to her in due time. He unexpectedly has inherited Ashby Park, an estate in Hertfordshire not too distant from Longbourn.
Both Mr. Darcy and Mr. Hamilton have been putting off making their intentions official. In Mr. Darcy's case it's reluctance to actually follow through despite accepting its inevitability; in Mr. Hamilton's case, it's because he is a meticulous planner who wants all his ducks neatly arranged in a row with regards to finalizing the legal details of his recent inheritance as well as preparing his estate for a new mistress before entering into a formal courtship with Elizabeth.
With that firmly established, Elizabeth and Darcy meet. It's not long before they feel a mutual attraction which, of course, they are unable to acknowledge even to themselves at first, much less each other. The rest of the book thrusts them together under various circumstances, causing both to feel increasing discontent with the futures planned for them and the impossibility of breaking free. Mr. Hamilton is a good sort of man, but his strict code of proper behavior chafes Elizabeth and incenses Darcy when he realizes the man intends to "break" her of what he considers her wild ways.
The author teases the reader with several episodes where the contents of another letter by Mrs. Darcy might emerge, only to be frustrated when the information gleaned seems to confirm what is already known. Darcy's internal struggle between choosing love rather than obligation in marriage is gut-wrenching, especially when it becomes evident that Colonel Fitzwilliam has a stake in this choice, as well.
Other parallel storylines are nicely woven into the plot. Kitty decides she wishes to emulate her oldest sisters rather than Lydia's behavior. As a result, she becomes Georgiana's close friend and confidante which, in turn, furthers Elizabeth's relationship with Darcy.
The writing style is quite good, and characters are well-drawn. My only criticism is the ultimate resolution to the dilemma was not as well thought out as the rest of the story.
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January 3, 2017The blog tour starts on January 16 at My Jane Austen Book Club http://thesecretunderstandingofthehea...
The book is available for preorder and will be available through KindleUnlimited.
Thank you to everyone who supported this cover reveal. I hope you love the tour too!
The book is available for preorder and will be available through KindleUnlimited.
Thank you to everyone who supported this cover reveal. I hope you love the tour too!
October 9, 2024
Status: Read February 12-14, 2017
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Edition Read:
A Lie Universally Hidden
by Anngela Schroeder
Kindle Edition, First Edition, 305 pages
Published January 11, 2017
ASIN: B01NBQHOL6
[ kindle unlimited ]
The engagement between them is of a peculiar kind. From their infancy, they have been intended for each other. It was the favorite wish of his mother… —Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen
Fitzwilliam Darcy was raised to never stray from the path set before him: ensure the continued prosperity of his estate, Pemberley, protect and educate his sister to become an accomplished woman, and marry the woman his mother chose for him—his cousin Anne de Bourgh. With a letter bearing his late mother’s signature, Darcy presumes his fate is sealed and prepares to wed one he does not love. However, his destiny begins to unravel when he glimpses a pair of fine eyes on a quiet, country road.
Elizabeth Bennet is the second daughter of a respectable though insignificant gentleman. She is flattered to have captured the attention of a local squire, a childhood friend, and everyone believes her path is secure—until a handsome, rich gentleman arrives at a neighboring estate. Happenstance begets the unlikely pair together, bridging a forbidden love long past a mere friendship.
In A Lie Universally Hidden, two of literature’s most beloved romance characters are destined to marry for fortune and obligation rather than love. How will Darcy and Elizabeth fulfill their true destiny under such circumstances? Shall honor, decorum, prudence—nay, a signed letter from the grave—forbid it?
A Lie Universally Hidden is a Regency Romance suitable for most audiences, teen and up.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Edition Read:
A Lie Universally Hidden
by Anngela Schroeder
Kindle Edition, First Edition, 305 pages
Published January 11, 2017
ASIN: B01NBQHOL6
[ kindle unlimited ]
The engagement between them is of a peculiar kind. From their infancy, they have been intended for each other. It was the favorite wish of his mother… —Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen
Fitzwilliam Darcy was raised to never stray from the path set before him: ensure the continued prosperity of his estate, Pemberley, protect and educate his sister to become an accomplished woman, and marry the woman his mother chose for him—his cousin Anne de Bourgh. With a letter bearing his late mother’s signature, Darcy presumes his fate is sealed and prepares to wed one he does not love. However, his destiny begins to unravel when he glimpses a pair of fine eyes on a quiet, country road.
Elizabeth Bennet is the second daughter of a respectable though insignificant gentleman. She is flattered to have captured the attention of a local squire, a childhood friend, and everyone believes her path is secure—until a handsome, rich gentleman arrives at a neighboring estate. Happenstance begets the unlikely pair together, bridging a forbidden love long past a mere friendship.
In A Lie Universally Hidden, two of literature’s most beloved romance characters are destined to marry for fortune and obligation rather than love. How will Darcy and Elizabeth fulfill their true destiny under such circumstances? Shall honor, decorum, prudence—nay, a signed letter from the grave—forbid it?
A Lie Universally Hidden is a Regency Romance suitable for most audiences, teen and up.
March 5, 2017
Honor and Peculiar Engagements
TYPE OF AUSTENESQUE NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation
TIME FRAME: Begins with Mr. Darcy’s arrival in Hertfordshire + prologue and epilogue
MAIN CHARACTERS: The Bennets, The Darcys, Lady Catherine, Anne de Bourgh, Colonel Fitzwilliam, and James Hamilton (original character)
SYNOPSIS: Throwing Pride and Prejudice and its beloved characters on their ear, Anngela Schroeder has crafted a variation where at the start of the novel both Darcy and Elizabeth are engaged (or assumed engaged) to someone else. What happens when they meet and feel some stirrings in their heart? What happens when they wish to declare their love for each other, but can’t?
WHAT I LOVED:
- Double Whammy: I’ve read stories where Elizabeth is engaged or married to someone else, and some where Darcy is engaged or married to someone else, but this story had BOTH characters engaged and bound by honor to someone else! I love how having both characters unavailable upped the ante a little. Even if one of them were to break or be released from their engagement it didn’t necessarily mean anything would change for the other person… It definitely left me anxiously wondering how Darcy and Elizabeth can be together!
- Darcy and Elizabeth are Utterly Adorable: Both characters spend a lot of time analyzing their feelings and situations in this story. It was adorable to witness both characters feel the stirrings of love and the moments of realization when they realize their heart is irrevocably lost to the other. I loved seeing all the cute moments where both Darcy and Elizabeth would voice their heart’s longings privately in a place where they didn’t think anyone would hear them. Especially when Lizzy talks to Mr. Darcy’s books and the moon.
- Romantic and Enchanting: Ms. Schroeder definitely knows how to pen some romantic and eloquent passages full of ardent yearning and devotion! *sigh* I loved witnessing the playful banter and friendship between Darcy and Elizabeth, but I loved the heart-stopping moments where there is so much tension and chemistry you are just dying for them to admit their feelings for each other!
- Different Principal Characters: This premise travels a good deal away from canon and with that different characters come into the spotlight. Georgiana, Kitty, and the de Bourghs are much more present in this variation, and while it was lovely to see more of Anne, Kitty, and Georgiana, Lady Catherine is truly corrupt and malicious! I also enjoyed Ms. Schroeder’s original characters, especially James Hamilton, Elizabeth’s childhood friend turned suitor. He was an interesting mix – added some tension, inspired some jealousy, and caused a misunderstanding or two! However, he was absent a lot and I sometimes found myself wishing he received more page time.
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
- Some Small Quibbles: I loved the endearing and tender scenes between Elizabeth and Darcy when they were alone together, although sometimes I did find some of their actions and situations a little too open or surprising given the propriety dictates of the day. SLIGHT SPOILER ALERT!: In addition, while I understand Darcy staunchly wanting to honor his dear mother’s wishes, I kind of feel he would have been at more of a crossroads about following through with the engagement when he realizes the possibility of Anne’s affections lying elsewhere. However, these small matters did not mar my enjoyment of this beautiful romance.
CONCLUSION:
Tender, poignant, and beautifully romantic – A Lie Universally Hidden is a wonderful choice for readers who love to see Darcy and Elizabeth become friends first, the younger Bennet sisters redirected onto more favorable paths, and Lady C receiving her just desserts! I cannot wait to see what Anngela Schroeder writes next!
TYPE OF AUSTENESQUE NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation
TIME FRAME: Begins with Mr. Darcy’s arrival in Hertfordshire + prologue and epilogue
MAIN CHARACTERS: The Bennets, The Darcys, Lady Catherine, Anne de Bourgh, Colonel Fitzwilliam, and James Hamilton (original character)
SYNOPSIS: Throwing Pride and Prejudice and its beloved characters on their ear, Anngela Schroeder has crafted a variation where at the start of the novel both Darcy and Elizabeth are engaged (or assumed engaged) to someone else. What happens when they meet and feel some stirrings in their heart? What happens when they wish to declare their love for each other, but can’t?
WHAT I LOVED:
- Double Whammy: I’ve read stories where Elizabeth is engaged or married to someone else, and some where Darcy is engaged or married to someone else, but this story had BOTH characters engaged and bound by honor to someone else! I love how having both characters unavailable upped the ante a little. Even if one of them were to break or be released from their engagement it didn’t necessarily mean anything would change for the other person… It definitely left me anxiously wondering how Darcy and Elizabeth can be together!
- Darcy and Elizabeth are Utterly Adorable: Both characters spend a lot of time analyzing their feelings and situations in this story. It was adorable to witness both characters feel the stirrings of love and the moments of realization when they realize their heart is irrevocably lost to the other. I loved seeing all the cute moments where both Darcy and Elizabeth would voice their heart’s longings privately in a place where they didn’t think anyone would hear them. Especially when Lizzy talks to Mr. Darcy’s books and the moon.
- Romantic and Enchanting: Ms. Schroeder definitely knows how to pen some romantic and eloquent passages full of ardent yearning and devotion! *sigh* I loved witnessing the playful banter and friendship between Darcy and Elizabeth, but I loved the heart-stopping moments where there is so much tension and chemistry you are just dying for them to admit their feelings for each other!
- Different Principal Characters: This premise travels a good deal away from canon and with that different characters come into the spotlight. Georgiana, Kitty, and the de Bourghs are much more present in this variation, and while it was lovely to see more of Anne, Kitty, and Georgiana, Lady Catherine is truly corrupt and malicious! I also enjoyed Ms. Schroeder’s original characters, especially James Hamilton, Elizabeth’s childhood friend turned suitor. He was an interesting mix – added some tension, inspired some jealousy, and caused a misunderstanding or two! However, he was absent a lot and I sometimes found myself wishing he received more page time.
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
- Some Small Quibbles: I loved the endearing and tender scenes between Elizabeth and Darcy when they were alone together, although sometimes I did find some of their actions and situations a little too open or surprising given the propriety dictates of the day. SLIGHT SPOILER ALERT!: In addition, while I understand Darcy staunchly wanting to honor his dear mother’s wishes, I kind of feel he would have been at more of a crossroads about following through with the engagement when he realizes the possibility of Anne’s affections lying elsewhere. However, these small matters did not mar my enjoyment of this beautiful romance.
CONCLUSION:
Tender, poignant, and beautifully romantic – A Lie Universally Hidden is a wonderful choice for readers who love to see Darcy and Elizabeth become friends first, the younger Bennet sisters redirected onto more favorable paths, and Lady C receiving her just desserts! I cannot wait to see what Anngela Schroeder writes next!
January 7, 2017
First book of the year :)
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November 3, 2017Review originally posted on Diary of an Eccentric
A Lie Universally Hidden is a beautifully written variation of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice that forces Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet to face seemingly insurmountable obstacles tied to their strong sense of duty to their families. Anngela Schroeder imagines a world where Mr. Darcy is committed to honoring his dead mother’s wishes, with plans to marry his cousin, Anne de Bourgh, in a few months’ time despite the fact that he loves another. Meanwhile, Elizabeth is expected to marry her childhood friend, James Hamilton, who has inherited his aunt’s estate, but she is captivated by Darcy and his love and devotion to his younger sister.
There is no insult at the Meryton Assembly in Schroeder’s variation, and it is easy for Darcy to overlook Elizabeth’s lack of connections because he is already betrothed to another. But Schroeder does a fantastic job altering the situations of the original novel, still finding ways for them to misunderstand one another, still making it uncertain how a happily ever after can be achieved, and developing their regard for one another in a believable way. There are so many tender scenes in this novel, so many beautiful passages as Schroeder lets readers into Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s minds as they try to come to terms with their feelings for one another, the expectations placed upon them, and their desire to live for themselves.
I enjoyed how Schroeder brought to the forefront many of the secondary characters, especially Georgiana Darcy, Kitty Bennet, Colonel Fitzwilliam, and Anne de Bourgh. Her versions of Mrs. Bennet, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, and Caroline Bingley were delightfully horrid as well. Mrs. Smith, Lady Anne Darcy’s maid, was a wonderful addition, and Schroeder did a great job portraying her illness and her connection to the secret at the core of the novel. I was on the edge of my seat wondering how it would all play out, and I was not disappointed.
A Lie Universally Hidden is a fantastic retelling of Pride and Prejudice that grabbed me from the very first page. I absolutely loved Schroeder’s portrayal of Darcy and Elizabeth. I know I’ve read dozens of Pride and Prejudice variations over the years and it’s hard to choose a favorite, but A Lie Universally Hidden would definitely be a contender if I were to compose a list. I can’t wait to read more of Schroeder’s work in the future.
I received a free copy of this book for review.
A Lie Universally Hidden is a beautifully written variation of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice that forces Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet to face seemingly insurmountable obstacles tied to their strong sense of duty to their families. Anngela Schroeder imagines a world where Mr. Darcy is committed to honoring his dead mother’s wishes, with plans to marry his cousin, Anne de Bourgh, in a few months’ time despite the fact that he loves another. Meanwhile, Elizabeth is expected to marry her childhood friend, James Hamilton, who has inherited his aunt’s estate, but she is captivated by Darcy and his love and devotion to his younger sister.
There is no insult at the Meryton Assembly in Schroeder’s variation, and it is easy for Darcy to overlook Elizabeth’s lack of connections because he is already betrothed to another. But Schroeder does a fantastic job altering the situations of the original novel, still finding ways for them to misunderstand one another, still making it uncertain how a happily ever after can be achieved, and developing their regard for one another in a believable way. There are so many tender scenes in this novel, so many beautiful passages as Schroeder lets readers into Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s minds as they try to come to terms with their feelings for one another, the expectations placed upon them, and their desire to live for themselves.
I enjoyed how Schroeder brought to the forefront many of the secondary characters, especially Georgiana Darcy, Kitty Bennet, Colonel Fitzwilliam, and Anne de Bourgh. Her versions of Mrs. Bennet, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, and Caroline Bingley were delightfully horrid as well. Mrs. Smith, Lady Anne Darcy’s maid, was a wonderful addition, and Schroeder did a great job portraying her illness and her connection to the secret at the core of the novel. I was on the edge of my seat wondering how it would all play out, and I was not disappointed.
A Lie Universally Hidden is a fantastic retelling of Pride and Prejudice that grabbed me from the very first page. I absolutely loved Schroeder’s portrayal of Darcy and Elizabeth. I know I’ve read dozens of Pride and Prejudice variations over the years and it’s hard to choose a favorite, but A Lie Universally Hidden would definitely be a contender if I were to compose a list. I can’t wait to read more of Schroeder’s work in the future.
I received a free copy of this book for review.
February 6, 2017
Lady Catherine is a gorgon, a harpy, an evil greedy witch. This is a truly unique, at least in my experience, P&P What if. The What if in this case is "What if Fitzwilliam Darcy accepted that he was destined to marry Anne deBough?" and was accepting of this because of a signed letter from his dear late mother. And yes Evil Lady Catherine raced to her sister's death bed to trick her into signing a document that betrothed 12 year old Fitzwilliam.
His arrival in Meryton is quickly shrugged off since everyone except Mrs. Bennet and Caroline Bingley seem to accept the inevitable. And Miss Lizzy Bennet has something of a suitor in a Mr. James Hampton who was once the son of a tenant but was elevated when adopted by an aunt and is now an educated land owner of a nearby estate. It is assumed by all that he will offer for Lizzy now that his aunt has passed away. However James seems to be less than pleased with Lizzy's impertinence and self-assurance and plans to change her into a respectful wife.
Darcy & Lizzy become good friends, Wickham is quickly banished and LIzzy keeps finding herself in Mr. Darcy's circle. And Mr. Darcy is struggling to rationalize his attraction to Lizzy and his duty to his family.
As another reviewer noted some books resolve their drama long before the end but this truly keeps you guessing until the end. And some people may find that a little annoying.
His arrival in Meryton is quickly shrugged off since everyone except Mrs. Bennet and Caroline Bingley seem to accept the inevitable. And Miss Lizzy Bennet has something of a suitor in a Mr. James Hampton who was once the son of a tenant but was elevated when adopted by an aunt and is now an educated land owner of a nearby estate. It is assumed by all that he will offer for Lizzy now that his aunt has passed away. However James seems to be less than pleased with Lizzy's impertinence and self-assurance and plans to change her into a respectful wife.
Darcy & Lizzy become good friends, Wickham is quickly banished and LIzzy keeps finding herself in Mr. Darcy's circle. And Mr. Darcy is struggling to rationalize his attraction to Lizzy and his duty to his family.
As another reviewer noted some books resolve their drama long before the end but this truly keeps you guessing until the end. And some people may find that a little annoying.
February 6, 2017
4.5 stars rounded up for the author had me in tears at the beginning and pulled me in. I loved this storyline, the new characters and the old ones too. My only complaint was the epilogue was much too short! The author had a creative ending for Mrs. Bennett, Miss Bingley and Mr. Collins though. Thank you for writing this enjoyable variation!
March 24, 2017
My Rating: 4.5* rounded up to 5*
Hell hath no fury like Lady Catherine de Bourgh. Her plan worked and Darcy is engaged to her daughter, Anne. Believing that marrying Anne de Bourgh is what his mother wanted on her deathbed and due to his love for her, he honors it. Therefore, we have a variation that takes us on a different path than what we are expecting. And what an emotional path it is. The shackles of duty and honor are twisted tightly by Lady Catherine on Darcy.
In his attempt to give himself some space, along with Georgiana, they head to Hertfordshire to visit Charles Bingley at Netherfield Hall. While driving through Meryton, he sees a lovely young woman with 'deep brown eyes with their thick lashes which arrested attention and held his gaze'. We all know who she is, Elizabeth Bennet. Elizabeth is said to be intended for a Mr. Hamilton of Ashby Park; a lifelong friend. He garnered little sympathy from me.
I found this to be such a compelling read, I finished it in one day. I could not put it down and walk away. The relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth is so different. They start out more like friends until the chemistry between them starts to sizzle and spark. The scene at the theatre quoting Shakespeare and Byron was so intense.
'She walks in beauty like the night, of cloudless climes and starry skies; and all that's best of dark and light, meet in the aspect of her eyes...' Lord Byron
I enjoyed Georgiana and her friendship with Kitty (Katherine). This is an enlightened Kitty who wishes to be more than just Lydia's sidekick and a flirt after seeing Mr. Darcy's disdain for her mother and sister. I loved her character. Wickham does makes himself known in this story, but how he is dealt with is refreshing to say the least. Anne de Bourgh is a sympathetic character that I would have liked to have seen more of! Colonel Fitzwilliam was delightful as ever. Miss Bingley was her usual self but with a twist that I wasn't expecting! I also liked how certain quotes from the original Pride & Prejudice are used by others in different ways. I found that well done. Then there was the pocketwatch...
The only real quibble for me were the transitions. At times they were a bit too abrupt. Now I do love an epilogue and I was thrilled to see one. My only quibble there is what happened to Kitty...she deserved better...but that may be my own preference for her character in general.
This was a deeply satisfying read that I highly recommend!
Hell hath no fury like Lady Catherine de Bourgh. Her plan worked and Darcy is engaged to her daughter, Anne. Believing that marrying Anne de Bourgh is what his mother wanted on her deathbed and due to his love for her, he honors it. Therefore, we have a variation that takes us on a different path than what we are expecting. And what an emotional path it is. The shackles of duty and honor are twisted tightly by Lady Catherine on Darcy.
In his attempt to give himself some space, along with Georgiana, they head to Hertfordshire to visit Charles Bingley at Netherfield Hall. While driving through Meryton, he sees a lovely young woman with 'deep brown eyes with their thick lashes which arrested attention and held his gaze'. We all know who she is, Elizabeth Bennet. Elizabeth is said to be intended for a Mr. Hamilton of Ashby Park; a lifelong friend. He garnered little sympathy from me.
I found this to be such a compelling read, I finished it in one day. I could not put it down and walk away. The relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth is so different. They start out more like friends until the chemistry between them starts to sizzle and spark. The scene at the theatre quoting Shakespeare and Byron was so intense.
'She walks in beauty like the night, of cloudless climes and starry skies; and all that's best of dark and light, meet in the aspect of her eyes...' Lord Byron
I enjoyed Georgiana and her friendship with Kitty (Katherine). This is an enlightened Kitty who wishes to be more than just Lydia's sidekick and a flirt after seeing Mr. Darcy's disdain for her mother and sister. I loved her character. Wickham does makes himself known in this story, but how he is dealt with is refreshing to say the least. Anne de Bourgh is a sympathetic character that I would have liked to have seen more of! Colonel Fitzwilliam was delightful as ever. Miss Bingley was her usual self but with a twist that I wasn't expecting! I also liked how certain quotes from the original Pride & Prejudice are used by others in different ways. I found that well done. Then there was the pocketwatch...
The only real quibble for me were the transitions. At times they were a bit too abrupt. Now I do love an epilogue and I was thrilled to see one. My only quibble there is what happened to Kitty...she deserved better...but that may be my own preference for her character in general.
This was a deeply satisfying read that I highly recommend!
December 25, 2021
Very enjoyable read
Reviewed in Canada on January 24, 2019
The friendship of E&D that was developed was such a nice change from much of the angst that happens between them in not just the original, but many variations. I just enjoyed it so much. Kitty was great in this book, and even Lydia comes through it nicely, without her or Wickham ever really taking over the story. Well written. I’m off to see if this author has more to entertain me. If not, I hope she’ll write more.
Reviewed in Canada on January 24, 2019
The friendship of E&D that was developed was such a nice change from much of the angst that happens between them in not just the original, but many variations. I just enjoyed it so much. Kitty was great in this book, and even Lydia comes through it nicely, without her or Wickham ever really taking over the story. Well written. I’m off to see if this author has more to entertain me. If not, I hope she’ll write more.
January 31, 2021
4.5 stars
Darcy goes to Netherfield with his sister Georgiana just after his sister spent a short holiday in Ramsgate. They are a happy pair who meet the Bennet family but separately. Darcy goes with Bingley to Longbourn and has the “pleasure” of meeting Mr. and Mrs. Bennet as well as their three younger sisters. He is shocked, however this time his “haughty” manners are actually helpful, a new Catherine Bennet will appear and I must say that I really like her. On the other hand, Georgiana Darcy encounters Elizabeth Bennet when she is with Miss Bingley. Georgiana is amazed with Elizabeth’s lively manners and her ease of treating respectfully Miss Bingley when she is being slyly rude to her.
After both interactions, both Darcy and Elizabeth are thankful to each other even when they have not met.
When they met, friendship grows very quickly. We even have the appearance of the baddie per excellence: Mr. Wickham… seriously, he is very vexatious and sometimes I would prefer him not to be in some stories. However… at the end he has what he deserves after some mischief!! (just one detail: Bravo Lydia!, not as silly as usual)
Well, back to our pair of friends… both know that they are marrying someone else. Elizabeth is on the brink of being proposed and as you know, Darcy is engaged to Anne.
Nevertheless we are lucky to read beautiful moments between them where romance appears but obviously propriety is present. Their encounter at Ashby Park is very entertaining as well as their night out in Pemberley. Yes, Pemberley, Elizabeth and Kitty go with them. Kitty or Miss Catherine became best friends with Georgina Darcy and they are inseparable, going first to London and later on to Pemberley, but Elizabeth is always included. Since then Darcy and Elizabeth are a lot together and clever people like Colonel Fitzwilliam can perceive that Darcy has feelings for this interesting lady. Colonel tries to convince Darcy to forget about marrying Anne because he does not love her and Anne does not love him either. Unfortunately Darcy is just following the wishes that her mother left written on her last letter.
Spoiler alert…
HEA is coming but how??? Let me leave you with a few questions to think about: what if Wickham’s plans are ruined by a sixteen years old? What if a watch (yes, the one on the cover) can destroy any hope? What if Elizabeth does not have Darcy’s self-control? What if Lady Catherine’s doings caused her fall as mistress of Rosings? What if we do not only have one love story to enjoy? Who proposes to Elizabeth and what happens with that proposal if Elizabeth actually never rejects it?
Darcy goes to Netherfield with his sister Georgiana just after his sister spent a short holiday in Ramsgate. They are a happy pair who meet the Bennet family but separately. Darcy goes with Bingley to Longbourn and has the “pleasure” of meeting Mr. and Mrs. Bennet as well as their three younger sisters. He is shocked, however this time his “haughty” manners are actually helpful, a new Catherine Bennet will appear and I must say that I really like her. On the other hand, Georgiana Darcy encounters Elizabeth Bennet when she is with Miss Bingley. Georgiana is amazed with Elizabeth’s lively manners and her ease of treating respectfully Miss Bingley when she is being slyly rude to her.
After both interactions, both Darcy and Elizabeth are thankful to each other even when they have not met.
When they met, friendship grows very quickly. We even have the appearance of the baddie per excellence: Mr. Wickham… seriously, he is very vexatious and sometimes I would prefer him not to be in some stories. However… at the end he has what he deserves after some mischief!! (just one detail: Bravo Lydia!, not as silly as usual)
Well, back to our pair of friends… both know that they are marrying someone else. Elizabeth is on the brink of being proposed and as you know, Darcy is engaged to Anne.
Nevertheless we are lucky to read beautiful moments between them where romance appears but obviously propriety is present. Their encounter at Ashby Park is very entertaining as well as their night out in Pemberley. Yes, Pemberley, Elizabeth and Kitty go with them. Kitty or Miss Catherine became best friends with Georgina Darcy and they are inseparable, going first to London and later on to Pemberley, but Elizabeth is always included. Since then Darcy and Elizabeth are a lot together and clever people like Colonel Fitzwilliam can perceive that Darcy has feelings for this interesting lady. Colonel tries to convince Darcy to forget about marrying Anne because he does not love her and Anne does not love him either. Unfortunately Darcy is just following the wishes that her mother left written on her last letter.
Spoiler alert…
HEA is coming but how??? Let me leave you with a few questions to think about: what if Wickham’s plans are ruined by a sixteen years old? What if a watch (yes, the one on the cover) can destroy any hope? What if Elizabeth does not have Darcy’s self-control? What if Lady Catherine’s doings caused her fall as mistress of Rosings? What if we do not only have one love story to enjoy? Who proposes to Elizabeth and what happens with that proposal if Elizabeth actually never rejects it?
February 6, 2017
Supremely Written Tale
Ms Schroeder has created a Ricky crafted tapestry that brings every character into high relief. Many traditional romance tropes are used, but they never come off as pedestrian. In fact, the byplay leads us to a happy conclusion for all...Except Mrs Bennet. And even than, Schroeder dispatches her at an ironic pinnacle...Mary's betrothal to a Viscount. Why not have her become so relaxed that she attracts her husband once again...And solves the Collins problem once and for all? Ah, dear reader, this is a minor complaint. A five star effort from start to finish.
Ms Schroeder has created a Ricky crafted tapestry that brings every character into high relief. Many traditional romance tropes are used, but they never come off as pedestrian. In fact, the byplay leads us to a happy conclusion for all...Except Mrs Bennet. And even than, Schroeder dispatches her at an ironic pinnacle...Mary's betrothal to a Viscount. Why not have her become so relaxed that she attracts her husband once again...And solves the Collins problem once and for all? Ah, dear reader, this is a minor complaint. A five star effort from start to finish.
January 2, 2021
This book was okay. I would say it was good but not great. It’s an interesting premise, but very slow paced and long. I got bored a lot. I agree with many other reviewers that have commented on the MANY lines pulled from the original P&P and used by different characters in different contexts. It started to annoy me and felt too often in these lines like trying to push a square peg into a round hole.
I don’t think I would read this again.
I don’t think I would read this again.
March 18, 2017
5 stars
Good story with a lot of angst, but with a HEA as well. I was sad to watch D&E pinning for each other for the most part of the book, with no hope to be together. At least the villains got their just desserts, and the couples were united.
Good story with a lot of angst, but with a HEA as well. I was sad to watch D&E pinning for each other for the most part of the book, with no hope to be together. At least the villains got their just desserts, and the couples were united.
February 5, 2017
“If you tell a big enough lie and tell it frequently enough, it will be believed.” Adolf Hitler
The title informs the reader that a lie will be involved in our story. From the prologue, we learn of treachery of the acutest kind, and from a villainess that was known to us. However, we were not given the full extent of that lie, as it would slowly unfold throughout the rest of the book.
Schroeder’s story, based on one of Austen’s most memorable works, was full of characters we know and love… and hate. We witnessed the budding relationship between several couples as they traversed the shaky ground of courtship and eventual marriage. We saw the treachery of villains and the outcomes of their actions. Our author took us on a journey of love through the budding stages of young love, unrequited love, love lost, and finally love returned.
This journey was not always smooth sailing. We traveled down roads full of ruts and potholes. We scaled the ups and downs of a roller-coaster ride that we thought would never end. The reader endured the white-knuckle boat ride through white-water rapids with the full knowledge that there was a water fall up ahead and there was nothing we could do but hang on. We felt the full gamut of emotions and feelings that ran the entire length of our story, until our hopes were dashed and we thought all was lost.
Characters:
Mr. Bennet was his usual indolent self, letting his girls down as he hid in his book-room, isolated against the world and its responsibilities and problems.
Mrs. Bennet, I simply wanted to shake her. Her character was like a low-wattage light bulb. She was so dim she couldn’t find her way out of a paper bag if she was given a road map. She simply could not see what was in front of her or she simply refused to see what was right in front of her. She constantly tried to force everyone to bend and/or conform to her notion of reality [as she saw it] and anything else was unacceptable. Her only attribute… she set a good table or dinner. At least she taught her girls that. Her notion of matchmaking [the ones she tried to pair up] was so off the wall it was comical.
Georgiana and Kitty were a good team. I loved how they worked together and helped each other. This was a good mix. These two were evenly matched and were beneficial to each other and to both Darcy and Elizabeth. I can’t mention other characters as I might spoil the reveal.
What I didn’t like:
As much as I liked the story, I think it would read better if it were trimmed back a bit. It was way too long. Also, as we approached the end, the editing started to fall apart. I saw more and more errors and problems. Saving the conclusion, or HEA, until the VERY last second was torturous and painful. It left the reader with a rushed feeling, in comparison to the rest of the book, and was rather anticlimactic. Yes, we had a very nice epilogue, but we didn’t get to spend time with our characters. There were a few points made in the epilogue that were rather bizarre, but, for me, left more questions.
The title informs the reader that a lie will be involved in our story. From the prologue, we learn of treachery of the acutest kind, and from a villainess that was known to us. However, we were not given the full extent of that lie, as it would slowly unfold throughout the rest of the book.
Schroeder’s story, based on one of Austen’s most memorable works, was full of characters we know and love… and hate. We witnessed the budding relationship between several couples as they traversed the shaky ground of courtship and eventual marriage. We saw the treachery of villains and the outcomes of their actions. Our author took us on a journey of love through the budding stages of young love, unrequited love, love lost, and finally love returned.
This journey was not always smooth sailing. We traveled down roads full of ruts and potholes. We scaled the ups and downs of a roller-coaster ride that we thought would never end. The reader endured the white-knuckle boat ride through white-water rapids with the full knowledge that there was a water fall up ahead and there was nothing we could do but hang on. We felt the full gamut of emotions and feelings that ran the entire length of our story, until our hopes were dashed and we thought all was lost.
Characters:
Mr. Bennet was his usual indolent self, letting his girls down as he hid in his book-room, isolated against the world and its responsibilities and problems.
Mrs. Bennet, I simply wanted to shake her. Her character was like a low-wattage light bulb. She was so dim she couldn’t find her way out of a paper bag if she was given a road map. She simply could not see what was in front of her or she simply refused to see what was right in front of her. She constantly tried to force everyone to bend and/or conform to her notion of reality [as she saw it] and anything else was unacceptable. Her only attribute… she set a good table or dinner. At least she taught her girls that. Her notion of matchmaking [the ones she tried to pair up] was so off the wall it was comical.
Georgiana and Kitty were a good team. I loved how they worked together and helped each other. This was a good mix. These two were evenly matched and were beneficial to each other and to both Darcy and Elizabeth. I can’t mention other characters as I might spoil the reveal.
What I didn’t like:
As much as I liked the story, I think it would read better if it were trimmed back a bit. It was way too long. Also, as we approached the end, the editing started to fall apart. I saw more and more errors and problems. Saving the conclusion, or HEA, until the VERY last second was torturous and painful. It left the reader with a rushed feeling, in comparison to the rest of the book, and was rather anticlimactic. Yes, we had a very nice epilogue, but we didn’t get to spend time with our characters. There were a few points made in the epilogue that were rather bizarre, but, for me, left more questions.
February 6, 2017
I have to read this one again. I liked the story, but for some reason the actions of Darcy and Elizabeth just did not ring true for me. I just could not see Darcy believing all this time that his mother wanted him to take the action requested. They had never discussed it. And, somehow between age 12 and when his father died, Darcy never talked to him about it? I just didn't buy it. And, it felt like Elizabeth and her beau just didn't feel right either, and I couldn't see Elizabeth acting that way.
July 30, 2017
I love this author's sweet storytelling!
January 13, 2017
Very good book!
So many authors are writing such dribble, 40 pages for $3.99. Disgraceful! They are writing stories with no thought, just make some quick cash. Such a disservice to P & P fans. This is a book worth reading. Great story, & strong characters. There was time & thought in this book. A joy to read!
So many authors are writing such dribble, 40 pages for $3.99. Disgraceful! They are writing stories with no thought, just make some quick cash. Such a disservice to P & P fans. This is a book worth reading. Great story, & strong characters. There was time & thought in this book. A joy to read!
February 7, 2021
Original story with a credible plot
Where Lady Catherine almost gets what she wants, and several important changes make a very interesting tale. But the personalities of our beloved characters stay true.
Longish but very worth the time and money.
Where Lady Catherine almost gets what she wants, and several important changes make a very interesting tale. But the personalities of our beloved characters stay true.
Longish but very worth the time and money.
November 14, 2023
Storyline doesn't follow cannon and is quite wonderfully unique.
July 11, 2022
This is an enjoyable book though with many improbable sequences. For eg. A fashionable woman propositioning a man at his own engagement ball, talks of impropriety of a young woman staying with a sister of a young man in his residence while her own sister had been staying there for days, a young woman visiting and staying at an unmarried and unrelated man's house to suggest decoration choices and many more. In spite of all this the story is made interesting by the amount of Darcy and Elizabeth time and the fact that the sole focus of the story is Darcy and Elizabeth's friendship and their prior commitments and the conflict it ensues. If you don't mind a bit of flaunting of propriety, you'll enjoy this.
January 17, 2022
3 1/2 Stars - We see Lady Catherine with her sister getting her to sign something when she's on her deathbed, so it's pretty suspect from the beginning whose wish it actually was for Mr. Darcy and Anne to marry. However, Mr. Darcy believes that it was his mother's dying wish that he marry Anne de Bourgh, even though his father never discussed this with him before he passed away. James Hamilton was the child of a tenant of Longborn's who grew up with Elizabeth. He had an aunt with a small estate who adopted him. She passed away about a year ago, and he inherited her estate. He has been spending time with the Bennets, and it seems like he's interested in marrying Elizabeth.
This is the context when Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth meet each other when he and Georgiana come to visit Mr. Bingley at Netherfield. This story starts out with Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth becoming friends rather than enemies. The tension is in the fact that Mr. Darcy is engaged, and Elizabeth has someone that she expects to propose to her.
Caroline Bingley continues her advances towards Mr. Darcy, even with knowing that he's engaged to Anne.
Things that Didn't Work:
- There were too many situations that had Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth coming into each other's company coincidentally for it to feel even close to believable. Having them both end up staying in James Hamilton's home together without him seemed highly implausible.
- Mr. Darcy just seemed way too dedicated to honoring his mother's dying wish of marrying Anne.
Things that Worked:
- I liked seeing Kitty and Georgiana becoming friends. It definitely made sense that as a follower, Kitty would benefit from being around Georgiana since she was a much better influence than Lydia. Similarly, Kitty could help to bring Georgiana out of her shell. It seemed more plausible that this friendship brought Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth into each other's company.
This is the context when Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth meet each other when he and Georgiana come to visit Mr. Bingley at Netherfield. This story starts out with Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth becoming friends rather than enemies. The tension is in the fact that Mr. Darcy is engaged, and Elizabeth has someone that she expects to propose to her.
Caroline Bingley continues her advances towards Mr. Darcy, even with knowing that he's engaged to Anne.
Things that Didn't Work:
- There were too many situations that had Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth coming into each other's company coincidentally for it to feel even close to believable. Having them both end up staying in James Hamilton's home together without him seemed highly implausible.
- Mr. Darcy just seemed way too dedicated to honoring his mother's dying wish of marrying Anne.
Things that Worked:
- I liked seeing Kitty and Georgiana becoming friends. It definitely made sense that as a follower, Kitty would benefit from being around Georgiana since she was a much better influence than Lydia. Similarly, Kitty could help to bring Georgiana out of her shell. It seemed more plausible that this friendship brought Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth into each other's company.
January 10, 2025
DNF at 70%. I liked the premise of Darcy and Elizabeth both having previous attachments but falling in love anyway. However, by the 70% mark, when Darcy says for the 10th time "She is so incredible and perfect but there can be nothing more. I can't wed her though I want to so badly," I realized the writing and plotting had been annoying me for a while. Why does what mommy wanted dictate your whole life? Darcy in this is 10x more spineless than OG Bingley when he gives up his love for his friend and sisters' opinions.
I didn't care for the dialogue. Much of it is language borrowed from the original and awkwardly compiled into a tonal disaster. Elizabeth uses the pretentious pontificating language of Lady Catherine or the putting on airs language of Caroline Bingley- not the content, but the phrasing. It would be like transplanting the ridiculous manner of speaking of Collins and having Darcy use it neutrally without the ingratiating content, like saying "My most esteemed aunt" or speaking of Elizabeth's vivacity. The original words have connotation and connection to character tone, yet that original tone is thrown out and the language used neutrally without any consideration. The effect is awkward; especially early, the diction seemed forced, overlong, and excessively complimentary.
The pacing is just too slow and torturous. They're in love like 20% in but the author insists on putting them in one another's company again and again, only for Darcy to be a fool and insist that his mother's wishes are more important than everything, including: 1. him not liking much less loving Anne as a potential spouse, 2. Anne not caring for him in that way either, 3. his distaste for Lady Catherine, 4. Colonel Fitzwilliam being in love with Anne, 5. Darcy being in love with Elizabeth, 6. there being doubt about his mother's intentions for him to marry his cousin. That a man could continue with his supposed engagement in lieu of all this honestly speaks unfavorably to his character; he would hurt others just for some apocryphal promise his mother made. There comes a point where you start to wonder if it wouldn't be more dutiful NOT to marry her, given that four people including himself would be pained forever if he married Anne. When all this is in play and he still can't summon the will power to act on his feelings, I knew it was a DNF.
I didn't care for the dialogue. Much of it is language borrowed from the original and awkwardly compiled into a tonal disaster. Elizabeth uses the pretentious pontificating language of Lady Catherine or the putting on airs language of Caroline Bingley- not the content, but the phrasing. It would be like transplanting the ridiculous manner of speaking of Collins and having Darcy use it neutrally without the ingratiating content, like saying "My most esteemed aunt" or speaking of Elizabeth's vivacity. The original words have connotation and connection to character tone, yet that original tone is thrown out and the language used neutrally without any consideration. The effect is awkward; especially early, the diction seemed forced, overlong, and excessively complimentary.
The pacing is just too slow and torturous. They're in love like 20% in but the author insists on putting them in one another's company again and again, only for Darcy to be a fool and insist that his mother's wishes are more important than everything, including: 1. him not liking much less loving Anne as a potential spouse, 2. Anne not caring for him in that way either, 3. his distaste for Lady Catherine, 4. Colonel Fitzwilliam being in love with Anne, 5. Darcy being in love with Elizabeth, 6. there being doubt about his mother's intentions for him to marry his cousin. That a man could continue with his supposed engagement in lieu of all this honestly speaks unfavorably to his character; he would hurt others just for some apocryphal promise his mother made. There comes a point where you start to wonder if it wouldn't be more dutiful NOT to marry her, given that four people including himself would be pained forever if he married Anne. When all this is in play and he still can't summon the will power to act on his feelings, I knew it was a DNF.
April 2, 2024
Good story but I don't buy the premise.
The stolen letter could have been retrieved from Lady Catherine at anytime between Lady Anne's death and Mr. Darcy Sr's death. I don't understand why Mrs Smith wouldn't have mentioned the stolen letter to Mr. Darcy or to Mrs. Reynolds at the very least. Yet 15 years later she takes fits when Darcy or Pemberley is mentioned in conversation.
Another little niggle I have is when Colonel Fitzwilliam confessed his love for Anne and Darcy just shrugged him off. At this point in the story, Darcy is in love with Elizabeth and does not want to marry Anne; whereas Fitz is in love with Anne and wants to marry her. Why would he need a letter to do the right thing.
The stolen letter could have been retrieved from Lady Catherine at anytime between Lady Anne's death and Mr. Darcy Sr's death. I don't understand why Mrs Smith wouldn't have mentioned the stolen letter to Mr. Darcy or to Mrs. Reynolds at the very least. Yet 15 years later she takes fits when Darcy or Pemberley is mentioned in conversation.
Another little niggle I have is when Colonel Fitzwilliam confessed his love for Anne and Darcy just shrugged him off. At this point in the story, Darcy is in love with Elizabeth and does not want to marry Anne; whereas Fitz is in love with Anne and wants to marry her. Why would he need a letter to do the right thing.
May 16, 2017
I mostly loved this. But I had two major issues with it, and that lowered my rating. I would give it 3 1/2 stars if it was possible. My first issue is i hate it when an author takes quotes from a well loved book and attributes it to different characters saying it. That is one of my huge pet peeves. The second is grammatical. While there weren't too many spelling errors that I noticed, there were several times where the wrong word was used. For example, "...gathering up her damp clothes to allow them to drive in the bedroom." Yep, apparently her clothes drive instead of dry. The story was good, it just could have been better
January 31, 2017
Wonderful variation
Angella has done it again! Thoroughly enjoyable read with great characterizations of all our favorites! I especially loved the changes to Kitty and Lydia's characters!
Angella has done it again! Thoroughly enjoyable read with great characterizations of all our favorites! I especially loved the changes to Kitty and Lydia's characters!
January 21, 2017
Solid
Loved this pride and prejudice variation. Easy to read and the skillful use of symbology and subtle changes to the standard plot makes this an entertaining and diverting read.
Loved this pride and prejudice variation. Easy to read and the skillful use of symbology and subtle changes to the standard plot makes this an entertaining and diverting read.
January 29, 2017
A Lie Universally Hidden is my first read from Anngela Schroeder except her short story called Winter’s Awakening, which was my favourite from the anthology: Then Comes Winter.
You can start a book in many ways, but my favourite is when the author starts in medias res, with a character talking to another. When the characters are talking, it feels I’m part of the story immediately. The prologue of the book is spot on! It’s a dialogue between Lady Catherine de Bourgh and Anne Darcy not long before the latter’s death. Hundreds of emotions alternate while you read it. You would like to be in the same room and shout at them; you would like to prevent the premise. The fact that Lady Catherine is horrible is the icing on cake. I love it! I love all the characters. My personal favourite is Kitty Bennet’s sudden, but understandable change. Kitty has a lot of potential and I think Ms Schroeder was able to her justice. I always thought that except Lydia, Mary and Kitty are more like their father than their mother. After all, Mary reads a lot and finds comfort in books, just like Mr Bennet. It is indifferent that the book is religious or philosophical. Kitty was always following Lydia, because she was close to her in age and probably she thought that Mrs Bennet might see her too. What Anngela did with her is a very stunning twist in the plot and her friendship with Georgiana is one of the best parts of the story. By the way, for a change, in this story Lydia is more sensible than her mother, which makes her more interesting and likeable.
James Hamilton, is an interesting new character. In the beginning of the story you cannot not like him, maybe also feel pity, but for the second part of the book he has changed. Actually, I’m not convinced he has changed, but more like the author withholded some information in the first part and revealed in the second, so we think he has changed, when he hasn’t.
I can’t really explain, but in the first 20-30% of the book, I felt that Elizabeth’s words were strange, almost uncharacteristic, at the same time, my favourite dialogue is when Darcy and Lizzy talks about accomplished ladies. The author doesn’t quote or repeat the original, but comes up with her idea which is true to Austen and her characters. Tiny thing, but well done! By the time Elizabeth set Mr Hamilton straight, she is definitely herself.
A wonderful scene is when -again
You can start a book in many ways, but my favourite is when the author starts in medias res, with a character talking to another. When the characters are talking, it feels I’m part of the story immediately. The prologue of the book is spot on! It’s a dialogue between Lady Catherine de Bourgh and Anne Darcy not long before the latter’s death. Hundreds of emotions alternate while you read it. You would like to be in the same room and shout at them; you would like to prevent the premise. The fact that Lady Catherine is horrible is the icing on cake. I love it! I love all the characters. My personal favourite is Kitty Bennet’s sudden, but understandable change. Kitty has a lot of potential and I think Ms Schroeder was able to her justice. I always thought that except Lydia, Mary and Kitty are more like their father than their mother. After all, Mary reads a lot and finds comfort in books, just like Mr Bennet. It is indifferent that the book is religious or philosophical. Kitty was always following Lydia, because she was close to her in age and probably she thought that Mrs Bennet might see her too. What Anngela did with her is a very stunning twist in the plot and her friendship with Georgiana is one of the best parts of the story. By the way, for a change, in this story Lydia is more sensible than her mother, which makes her more interesting and likeable.
James Hamilton, is an interesting new character. In the beginning of the story you cannot not like him, maybe also feel pity, but for the second part of the book he has changed. Actually, I’m not convinced he has changed, but more like the author withholded some information in the first part and revealed in the second, so we think he has changed, when he hasn’t.
I can’t really explain, but in the first 20-30% of the book, I felt that Elizabeth’s words were strange, almost uncharacteristic, at the same time, my favourite dialogue is when Darcy and Lizzy talks about accomplished ladies. The author doesn’t quote or repeat the original, but comes up with her idea which is true to Austen and her characters. Tiny thing, but well done! By the time Elizabeth set Mr Hamilton straight, she is definitely herself.
A wonderful scene is when -again
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