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Equal Affection: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
"Equal Affection" is a full length Regency novel, clean, witty and romantic, with moderate angst. It tells the old beloved story of Elizabeth and Darcy with new, original, unexpected twists. It speaks about the depth of feelings versus shallow infatuation, about appearances and truth, about regrets and redemption.
The story focuses on Elizabeth and Darcy's interactions, the development of their characters and their slowly building affection that grows into a deep, everlasting love. Alongside them, there are Jane Bennet and Mr. Bingley, with their own tale that appears similar and yet proves to be quite different.
The book starts in London, in April 1812. Elizabeth has returned from Kent after Darcy’s disastrous proposal and stays in London, at the Gardiners, together with Jane. Both sisters try to overcome the distress caused by the gentlemen that had once lived at Netherfield.
The plot pushes Elizabeth and Darcy into each other's path, inducing them to struggle with pride, prejudice, flaws and misunderstandings, along their journey towards the point of equal affection.
Among well-known classic characters, a new one claims her share of conversation: Mrs. Welford, Mrs. Gardiner's aunt, a lady who spent her youth in Lambton and her adulthood living an adventurous life.
Married and widowed three times, Mrs. Edwina Welford possesses a large fortune, manners on the edge of decorum, a passion for life, and genuine affection for her relatives. She interferes in the story bringing mockery, fighting, tears and laughter, spicing up the tale and adding more surprising turns of events between the main characters.
"Equal Affection" is the author's second JAFF book. It comes after the readers' wonderful reactions that turned the first one - "Locked in the Netherfield Library" into a bestselling novella.
The story focuses on Elizabeth and Darcy's interactions, the development of their characters and their slowly building affection that grows into a deep, everlasting love. Alongside them, there are Jane Bennet and Mr. Bingley, with their own tale that appears similar and yet proves to be quite different.
The book starts in London, in April 1812. Elizabeth has returned from Kent after Darcy’s disastrous proposal and stays in London, at the Gardiners, together with Jane. Both sisters try to overcome the distress caused by the gentlemen that had once lived at Netherfield.
The plot pushes Elizabeth and Darcy into each other's path, inducing them to struggle with pride, prejudice, flaws and misunderstandings, along their journey towards the point of equal affection.
Among well-known classic characters, a new one claims her share of conversation: Mrs. Welford, Mrs. Gardiner's aunt, a lady who spent her youth in Lambton and her adulthood living an adventurous life.
Married and widowed three times, Mrs. Edwina Welford possesses a large fortune, manners on the edge of decorum, a passion for life, and genuine affection for her relatives. She interferes in the story bringing mockery, fighting, tears and laughter, spicing up the tale and adding more surprising turns of events between the main characters.
"Equal Affection" is the author's second JAFF book. It comes after the readers' wonderful reactions that turned the first one - "Locked in the Netherfield Library" into a bestselling novella.
167 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 24, 2021
82 people are currently reading
50 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
February 16, 2023
one of the good HEAs
The story of Lizzie and Darcy is not the standard HEA where Darcy is forced to change and Lizzie emotionally whips him until he comes up to snuff. Both Darcy and Lizzie recognize flaws in themselves and try to fix their own compatibility weaknesses. There are characters around them to help point out areas that could be looked to as being areas of concern.
Pleasant story.
The story of Lizzie and Darcy is not the standard HEA where Darcy is forced to change and Lizzie emotionally whips him until he comes up to snuff. Both Darcy and Lizzie recognize flaws in themselves and try to fix their own compatibility weaknesses. There are characters around them to help point out areas that could be looked to as being areas of concern.
Pleasant story.
April 12, 2021
Rating: clean with perhaps a [ -> PG13] as our couple experienced the emotions and yearnings of new love. ODG [our-dear-girl] especially didn’t understand what those new feelings were. So, a bit of caution for younger readers. Angst Level: low, mostly lovers’ angst: no real villains, things were hinted at but didn’t develop. Source: borrowed KU 4-8-21: This review may contain *** Spoilers ***
ODC [our-dear-couple]: “The heart is like a woman, and the head is like a man, and although man is the head of [the] woman, [a] woman is the heart of man, and she turns man’s head because she turns his heart.” –Peter Kreeft, Jesus-Shock
We are post-Kent with ODC recovering from Darcy’s disastrous proposal and Elizabeth’s scathing rejection. This was their first meeting since that momentous day and we were regaled with their regrets, guilt, embarrassment, and shame. Sometimes self-reflection and introspection can get tedious. There should be a healthy balance between the rest of the story and our lovers’ differences. This was heavy on the side where the reader is stuck in the heads of ODC and their feelings. LA! Spare me lovers’ angst that goes on and on.
This story reminded me of the time our family went panning for gold in Colorado. You had to trudge into cold mountain water, scoop up a panful of sandy mud, and wash out the debris in order to find the golden nuggets. This story had many golden nuggets and it was delightful when I encountered them. However, I had to trudge through a lot of debris in order to get to them. I think it could have been trimmed a bit to get rid of the excess and would have been fine.
Bingley: “… no woman can love a weak man hard enough to make him strong.” –Pearl Cleage, Just Wanna Testify
What a flake. What a cad. Bingley was like a butterfly flitting from one beautiful flower to another. OMG! Seriously?? I wanted to kick this pubescent puppy to the curb. Poor Jane should run, run fast, and run far. She has never suffered as she did in this story. Did she really want him, like forever want him? Good grief. He was horrid and it wasn’t entirely because of his supercilious sisters, not that I’m letting them off the hook. They were as officious and opinionated as ever and certainly did their part in contributing to their brother’s crisis. However, instead of being his own man, Bingley was a spineless, wishy-washy, flirt of the worst kind. GRRR! I wanted to shake him silly, the snot.
What I didn’t like: Unfortunately, instead of this story running hot and cold, it was rather warm and tepid. There was just this note that was off. Probability was an issue as I kept asking the question, why?? There were many new characters that I would have… could have liked, but they weren’t developed. They were just sort of there or in the background. There were several opportunities for drama from the resident villain. The SBRB presented himself and then was gone. WTH [what-the-heck]? I liked the story, OK. I just didn’t love it.
ODC [our-dear-couple]: “The heart is like a woman, and the head is like a man, and although man is the head of [the] woman, [a] woman is the heart of man, and she turns man’s head because she turns his heart.” –Peter Kreeft, Jesus-Shock
We are post-Kent with ODC recovering from Darcy’s disastrous proposal and Elizabeth’s scathing rejection. This was their first meeting since that momentous day and we were regaled with their regrets, guilt, embarrassment, and shame. Sometimes self-reflection and introspection can get tedious. There should be a healthy balance between the rest of the story and our lovers’ differences. This was heavy on the side where the reader is stuck in the heads of ODC and their feelings. LA! Spare me lovers’ angst that goes on and on.
This story reminded me of the time our family went panning for gold in Colorado. You had to trudge into cold mountain water, scoop up a panful of sandy mud, and wash out the debris in order to find the golden nuggets. This story had many golden nuggets and it was delightful when I encountered them. However, I had to trudge through a lot of debris in order to get to them. I think it could have been trimmed a bit to get rid of the excess and would have been fine.
Bingley: “… no woman can love a weak man hard enough to make him strong.” –Pearl Cleage, Just Wanna Testify
What a flake. What a cad. Bingley was like a butterfly flitting from one beautiful flower to another. OMG! Seriously?? I wanted to kick this pubescent puppy to the curb. Poor Jane should run, run fast, and run far. She has never suffered as she did in this story. Did she really want him, like forever want him? Good grief. He was horrid and it wasn’t entirely because of his supercilious sisters, not that I’m letting them off the hook. They were as officious and opinionated as ever and certainly did their part in contributing to their brother’s crisis. However, instead of being his own man, Bingley was a spineless, wishy-washy, flirt of the worst kind. GRRR! I wanted to shake him silly, the snot.
What I didn’t like: Unfortunately, instead of this story running hot and cold, it was rather warm and tepid. There was just this note that was off. Probability was an issue as I kept asking the question, why?? There were many new characters that I would have… could have liked, but they weren’t developed. They were just sort of there or in the background. There were several opportunities for drama from the resident villain. The SBRB presented himself and then was gone. WTH [what-the-heck]? I liked the story, OK. I just didn’t love it.
April 21, 2021
As in many JAFF stories we begin after the Hunsford proposal. Jane and Elizabeth are in London and meet Aunt Gardiner's aunt, a Mrs. Welford, who has been married and widowed three times. She has just returned from India where she had lived with her last husband. This woman is very active in the social scene and at one point has all the Bennet sisters living with her as the Gardiner home cannot accommodate all five. The lady plans teas, dinners and a ball besides outings to local points of interest. She is very intuitive and makes some good observations. She even picks up on Elizabeth whispering "ardently" to herself near the beginning. (Of course, the readers knows what Elizabeth is being reminded of.)
Darcy is hesitant to hope too much about Elizabeth's slow changes in attitudes towards him. Whereas while Elizabeth is warming up in her attachment to him she is sure he will not propose a second time. The most she hopes for is friendship.
Bingley has even less backbone in this novel. Frankly I was half expecting Jane totally rejecting any overtures when and if he ever got around to it. He was a real wimp! Wickham shows up but it is more of a cameo appearance. Caroline also is present but does not add much to the story.
We spend a lot of time reading of both Darcy's and Elizabeth's feelings and observations. Comments are made many times about glances which do or do not last long or linger for a while. For me there was little angst in this story. It was a pleasant read if you simply want to reread of their romance without bumps and obstacles.
Darcy is hesitant to hope too much about Elizabeth's slow changes in attitudes towards him. Whereas while Elizabeth is warming up in her attachment to him she is sure he will not propose a second time. The most she hopes for is friendship.
Bingley has even less backbone in this novel. Frankly I was half expecting Jane totally rejecting any overtures when and if he ever got around to it. He was a real wimp! Wickham shows up but it is more of a cameo appearance. Caroline also is present but does not add much to the story.
We spend a lot of time reading of both Darcy's and Elizabeth's feelings and observations. Comments are made many times about glances which do or do not last long or linger for a while. For me there was little angst in this story. It was a pleasant read if you simply want to reread of their romance without bumps and obstacles.
March 26, 2021
Very Nice Novella
This story takes place mostly in London, following the events at Hunsford. A wealthy aunt of Mrs. Gardiner, Mrs. Welford, takes an interest in Elizabeth and Jane, giving them her her attention and introducing them to her family and acquaintances, some of whom are titled. She is familiar with the Darcy family, especially the late grandfather and father of Fitzwilliam.
Elizabeth and Darcy eventually meet again. Darcy confesses his past interference to Bingley concerning Jane, and Bingley struggles with not knowing what to do about her. A touch of angst may set you on edge when the younger Bennet sisters and Wickham also come to London.
I very much enjoyed this story, and look forward to this author’s next book.
This story takes place mostly in London, following the events at Hunsford. A wealthy aunt of Mrs. Gardiner, Mrs. Welford, takes an interest in Elizabeth and Jane, giving them her her attention and introducing them to her family and acquaintances, some of whom are titled. She is familiar with the Darcy family, especially the late grandfather and father of Fitzwilliam.
Elizabeth and Darcy eventually meet again. Darcy confesses his past interference to Bingley concerning Jane, and Bingley struggles with not knowing what to do about her. A touch of angst may set you on edge when the younger Bennet sisters and Wickham also come to London.
I very much enjoyed this story, and look forward to this author’s next book.
April 3, 2021
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars
November 13, 2022
Post Hunsford
The Bennet sisters stay with Mrs Gardiner's wealthy aunt and Darcy has an opportunity to demonstrate his civility in London. Bingley is suffering from indecision. This was quite nice.
The Bennet sisters stay with Mrs Gardiner's wealthy aunt and Darcy has an opportunity to demonstrate his civility in London. Bingley is suffering from indecision. This was quite nice.
October 7, 2023
This review, though somehow dated 2023, was written in 2021 on my first read of this book. I no longer review JAFF.
What a nice welcome to Layla Johnson's books! A friend recommended this book--Thanks, Lory Lilian! Equal Affection is a well-developed romance with enough mild dramatic tension to satisfy the angst lover in me and enough action to keep the story moving throughout and the reader wanting more at each turn of the page.
I won't summarize the book, that will be the job of the other reviewers. As is my wont, I'll comment on technical issues.
The story arc is complete and satisfying, lending enough excitement through some clever twists that are appropriate to the main story to keep up the reader's interest without deviating from the main theme too much. The story ended neatly, which is more than I can say for all JAFF. The epilogue was almost unnecessary except for one or two loose ends that could have been tied up in the chapters.
Characterizations are accomplished in a believable and consistent manner, including new characters. The major new character of Mrs. Welford wasn't merely a kind old lady, she was a no-nonsense breath of fresh air. The only characterization I have a beef with is Bingley, who was a bit of a caricature of a spineless loser, and his wishy-washy whining grated on me. As such (spoiler alert) I don't think he deserved to get the girl in the end. I liked the inclusion of a South Asian family as minor characters in the book, and I'd like this author to stretch her wings and write more to characters that are from under-represented groups, perhaps even as major characters.
Scene-setting was accomplished with a light yet clever hand. Descriptions were used only as much as needed, without making them the centre of the story. I especially like how the author shared Pemberley without treading on the reader's imaginations too much, including the paraphrasing of Austen.
The author used a little head hopping by having the opinion of the secondary character interspersed with that of the primary character. Those lines should be twisted and put in as "He must have"or "He appeared to be." One problem that resurfaced quite a lot was another type of head-hopping. The author had her primary point of view character "seeing" her own face colour, tears sparkle in her own eyes, "eyes shining with tears and mirth," and her crimson cheeks. A POV character can't see themselves, so this is a switch to an omniscient narrator--a big no-no. The author must use alternate means to "show" how the character is experiencing those sparkles in her eyes. That ecstatic feeling might show itself in the tightness of the chest, breathing quickening, etc. Sadness could be tears pricking her eyes or running down her face--sensations without filter words that "tell." A warm face is a blush--of course, the prose can be improved.
The language used was readable and for the most part, sounded as if we were in the Regency. There were almost no non-Regency words in comparison to other JAFF novels. Only staff, foyer, bored/boring, headed/heading, and foyer. There was an instance of present tense that threw me off. The word "discretely" was used in place of "discreetly." The word "intermission" was used when the British would say "interval," and "I will" is used for "I shall."
The cover is lovely, if a bit too gentle to POP when compared to other covers. At least it's not the ubiquitous blow-dried models cover! I especially like the title font that tells me it's going to be a fun read. And it was.
The author avoided one big trope in this book that I must commend her for: she didn't make the character of Mrs. Welford give dowries to the Bennet girls. For one thing, it would take away from that lady's needs for her own welfare, secondly, (spoiler alert) that lady had her own squabbles on inheritance, and thirdly, it's a trope that's too easy--make the Bennet ladies a better catch by having their well-connected friend give them enough money to make them no longer objectionable. Instead, the well-connected friend still has her (spoiler alert) humble beginnings and the Bennet sisters still have theirs. Bravo on writing this book without going the easy way out.
As far as romance goes, this one is one of the more well-written ones in terms of the time taken for Elizabeth's depth of attraction and the perfect timing of the second proposal. We see his changes at the same time as she does, as well as her changes at the same time, and that is the essence of the title--moving towards the point of Equal Affections. This romance is at the heart of the novel, and its careful development is key to the believability of this couple's eventual triumph. Great writing, Layla Johnson!
I highly recommend this book.
Disclaimer: I am a JAFF writer and therefore, my review may be considered a conflict of interest. However, I was a reader first, and my reviews are honest and impartial. I write them for readers and authors.
What a nice welcome to Layla Johnson's books! A friend recommended this book--Thanks, Lory Lilian! Equal Affection is a well-developed romance with enough mild dramatic tension to satisfy the angst lover in me and enough action to keep the story moving throughout and the reader wanting more at each turn of the page.
I won't summarize the book, that will be the job of the other reviewers. As is my wont, I'll comment on technical issues.
The story arc is complete and satisfying, lending enough excitement through some clever twists that are appropriate to the main story to keep up the reader's interest without deviating from the main theme too much. The story ended neatly, which is more than I can say for all JAFF. The epilogue was almost unnecessary except for one or two loose ends that could have been tied up in the chapters.
Characterizations are accomplished in a believable and consistent manner, including new characters. The major new character of Mrs. Welford wasn't merely a kind old lady, she was a no-nonsense breath of fresh air. The only characterization I have a beef with is Bingley, who was a bit of a caricature of a spineless loser, and his wishy-washy whining grated on me. As such (spoiler alert) I don't think he deserved to get the girl in the end. I liked the inclusion of a South Asian family as minor characters in the book, and I'd like this author to stretch her wings and write more to characters that are from under-represented groups, perhaps even as major characters.
Scene-setting was accomplished with a light yet clever hand. Descriptions were used only as much as needed, without making them the centre of the story. I especially like how the author shared Pemberley without treading on the reader's imaginations too much, including the paraphrasing of Austen.
The author used a little head hopping by having the opinion of the secondary character interspersed with that of the primary character. Those lines should be twisted and put in as "He must have"or "He appeared to be." One problem that resurfaced quite a lot was another type of head-hopping. The author had her primary point of view character "seeing" her own face colour, tears sparkle in her own eyes, "eyes shining with tears and mirth," and her crimson cheeks. A POV character can't see themselves, so this is a switch to an omniscient narrator--a big no-no. The author must use alternate means to "show" how the character is experiencing those sparkles in her eyes. That ecstatic feeling might show itself in the tightness of the chest, breathing quickening, etc. Sadness could be tears pricking her eyes or running down her face--sensations without filter words that "tell." A warm face is a blush--of course, the prose can be improved.
The language used was readable and for the most part, sounded as if we were in the Regency. There were almost no non-Regency words in comparison to other JAFF novels. Only staff, foyer, bored/boring, headed/heading, and foyer. There was an instance of present tense that threw me off. The word "discretely" was used in place of "discreetly." The word "intermission" was used when the British would say "interval," and "I will" is used for "I shall."
The cover is lovely, if a bit too gentle to POP when compared to other covers. At least it's not the ubiquitous blow-dried models cover! I especially like the title font that tells me it's going to be a fun read. And it was.
The author avoided one big trope in this book that I must commend her for: she didn't make the character of Mrs. Welford give dowries to the Bennet girls. For one thing, it would take away from that lady's needs for her own welfare, secondly, (spoiler alert) that lady had her own squabbles on inheritance, and thirdly, it's a trope that's too easy--make the Bennet ladies a better catch by having their well-connected friend give them enough money to make them no longer objectionable. Instead, the well-connected friend still has her (spoiler alert) humble beginnings and the Bennet sisters still have theirs. Bravo on writing this book without going the easy way out.
As far as romance goes, this one is one of the more well-written ones in terms of the time taken for Elizabeth's depth of attraction and the perfect timing of the second proposal. We see his changes at the same time as she does, as well as her changes at the same time, and that is the essence of the title--moving towards the point of Equal Affections. This romance is at the heart of the novel, and its careful development is key to the believability of this couple's eventual triumph. Great writing, Layla Johnson!
I highly recommend this book.
Disclaimer: I am a JAFF writer and therefore, my review may be considered a conflict of interest. However, I was a reader first, and my reviews are honest and impartial. I write them for readers and authors.
April 18, 2021
To echo my contemporaries: tis adequate, but dull
A threadbare story in result of it’s insubstantial plot.
Synopsis:
We open with an introduction to the rich 'deus ex machina' who becomes enthralled by Lizzy: Mrs Welford.
We all love a good Lizzy gets fairy godmother trope!
She is Mrs Gardiner's aunt, and has just returned from dumping her third husbands body abroad-I jest, but it is all very suspect; she is once, twice, three times conveniently widowed- and is hosting a dinner party, likely to ferret out her next victim.
She walked, so Carol Baskin could run!
Mrs Welford's second husband was an earl, who came with two kids to whom she became mother, Lord James Marlowe & Lady Julia Harville. Mrs Welford however is now a lonely empty nester and thus decides to take all the Bennet daughters under her wing, three of them sight unseen- she calls to town Mary, Kitty & Lydia- and houses them in her fashionable town house, buys them gowns, parades them around town and throws a ball in their honor.
Elizabeth runs into Darcy & co. often as a result, and she is as on edge as a druggie undergoing withdrawal, and while these anxious feelings may be natural, they are beat to death! I wanted my fierce Lizzy to rear her head. I don't think there was one character to admire or root for; Darcy is meh, Jane- who is even at her best is dull- is even duller and depressed, though with good reason to be, as Bingley flees at the sight of her!
Bingley has already set his sights on a new angel when Darcy confesses his deception, and now Bingley has two ladies to consider, and this is all to much for his mind to wrap around. There are many new characters mentioned and none are relevant or distinguished enough to merit their inclusion.
In terms of conflict, events, or plot there is none. What you get is a whole lot of calling on others, taking tea, a ball, a trip to the theatre, and a house party at Pemberley.
That Which Sparked Joy:
♡I find it cathartic whenever events conspires in such a manner that leads to Lydia being unable to go to Brighton
♡Exploiting Bingley’s indecisive folly, his crisis I found humorous.
That Which Courted Disdain:
✗I’m not convinced of anything avowed; someone's dialogue declared witty- I don't see it. I call that a 'Laugh Track.'
✗The pacing has all the speed and fluidity of legs running in a nightmare, by which I mean it buffers like a sloth learning to walk. There are a whole lot of pleasantries, like taking tea and greetings where the mundane is discussed with pals, when these should be used to introduce conflict. Take Austen, she might include drawing room conversation, but she always has tension present in undercurrents, through surreptitious verbal sparring and sexual tension/ courting.
✗The stage is cluttered and with all the names flying around with very little in personality or idiosyncrasies in dialogue to distinguish them, it became a trial to keep the story straight. Not to mention they often were introduced all at once, i.e. at the theatre like 6 characters were introduced simultaneously. In writing you should try to use the first impression/ meeting as a way to properly distinguish a new addition and not character dump.
➳ I’m sorry, I cannot get over this: Darcy says he is going to have a talking to with Wicky, for being in London and sniffing around the Bennets, and then- in the same visit, not half an hour later, mind you- Darcy finds the fiend himself on the door step of the ladies house and just tips his hat at the villain, leaving them to fend him off? WHAT! I was shook, doubting and displeased. What a waste of an exciting scene and a chance for Darcy to be a man of action.
The Brass Tacks:
This was a slow read for me, it took more than a week for me to finish and I am a speedster. It lacked conflict, characters that interested, and compelling scenes. The plot itself I had to wrack my brain to recall for this review, even with the aid of my notes, it is one of those stories that evaporates as soon as you set it down.
The writing in terms of syntax is well enough done, though no phrase intrigued me or inspired a chuckle. It is in short fine, though I do not recommend it if you are looking to be entertained, moved, or if your JAFF allotted time is valuable. For JAFF serial readers looking for another notch on their belt this may do.
A threadbare story in result of it’s insubstantial plot.
Synopsis:
We open with an introduction to the rich 'deus ex machina' who becomes enthralled by Lizzy: Mrs Welford.
We all love a good Lizzy gets fairy godmother trope!
She is Mrs Gardiner's aunt, and has just returned from dumping her third husbands body abroad-I jest, but it is all very suspect; she is once, twice, three times conveniently widowed- and is hosting a dinner party, likely to ferret out her next victim.
She walked, so Carol Baskin could run!
Mrs Welford's second husband was an earl, who came with two kids to whom she became mother, Lord James Marlowe & Lady Julia Harville. Mrs Welford however is now a lonely empty nester and thus decides to take all the Bennet daughters under her wing, three of them sight unseen- she calls to town Mary, Kitty & Lydia- and houses them in her fashionable town house, buys them gowns, parades them around town and throws a ball in their honor.
Elizabeth runs into Darcy & co. often as a result, and she is as on edge as a druggie undergoing withdrawal, and while these anxious feelings may be natural, they are beat to death! I wanted my fierce Lizzy to rear her head. I don't think there was one character to admire or root for; Darcy is meh, Jane- who is even at her best is dull- is even duller and depressed, though with good reason to be, as Bingley flees at the sight of her!
Bingley has already set his sights on a new angel when Darcy confesses his deception, and now Bingley has two ladies to consider, and this is all to much for his mind to wrap around. There are many new characters mentioned and none are relevant or distinguished enough to merit their inclusion.
In terms of conflict, events, or plot there is none. What you get is a whole lot of calling on others, taking tea, a ball, a trip to the theatre, and a house party at Pemberley.
That Which Sparked Joy:
♡I find it cathartic whenever events conspires in such a manner that leads to Lydia being unable to go to Brighton
♡Exploiting Bingley’s indecisive folly, his crisis I found humorous.
That Which Courted Disdain:
✗I’m not convinced of anything avowed; someone's dialogue declared witty- I don't see it. I call that a 'Laugh Track.'
✗The pacing has all the speed and fluidity of legs running in a nightmare, by which I mean it buffers like a sloth learning to walk. There are a whole lot of pleasantries, like taking tea and greetings where the mundane is discussed with pals, when these should be used to introduce conflict. Take Austen, she might include drawing room conversation, but she always has tension present in undercurrents, through surreptitious verbal sparring and sexual tension/ courting.
✗The stage is cluttered and with all the names flying around with very little in personality or idiosyncrasies in dialogue to distinguish them, it became a trial to keep the story straight. Not to mention they often were introduced all at once, i.e. at the theatre like 6 characters were introduced simultaneously. In writing you should try to use the first impression/ meeting as a way to properly distinguish a new addition and not character dump.
➳ I’m sorry, I cannot get over this: Darcy says he is going to have a talking to with Wicky, for being in London and sniffing around the Bennets, and then- in the same visit, not half an hour later, mind you- Darcy finds the fiend himself on the door step of the ladies house and just tips his hat at the villain, leaving them to fend him off? WHAT! I was shook, doubting and displeased. What a waste of an exciting scene and a chance for Darcy to be a man of action.
The Brass Tacks:
This was a slow read for me, it took more than a week for me to finish and I am a speedster. It lacked conflict, characters that interested, and compelling scenes. The plot itself I had to wrack my brain to recall for this review, even with the aid of my notes, it is one of those stories that evaporates as soon as you set it down.
The writing in terms of syntax is well enough done, though no phrase intrigued me or inspired a chuckle. It is in short fine, though I do not recommend it if you are looking to be entertained, moved, or if your JAFF allotted time is valuable. For JAFF serial readers looking for another notch on their belt this may do.
April 3, 2021
Equal affection, ardent affection
Tone of the novel is positive, hopeful. Light level of angst. Story starts after The Proposal. When Lizzy gets back to London a new relative appears. An aunt of aunt Gardiner is home from India.
Darcy is pigheaded and quite clueless about Lizzy. Lizzy is also stubborn and is quite clueless. The new relative wants to get to know the Gardiners and the Bennets and charts a course for Lizzy around the rocky parts of finding a man to love.
She is everything Lizzy might be 50 years in the future. Fun story. Quite the page turner.
Tone of the novel is positive, hopeful. Light level of angst. Story starts after The Proposal. When Lizzy gets back to London a new relative appears. An aunt of aunt Gardiner is home from India.
Darcy is pigheaded and quite clueless about Lizzy. Lizzy is also stubborn and is quite clueless. The new relative wants to get to know the Gardiners and the Bennets and charts a course for Lizzy around the rocky parts of finding a man to love.
She is everything Lizzy might be 50 years in the future. Fun story. Quite the page turner.
April 30, 2021
This is a P&P what if that has a fairy godmother of sorts who keeps Lizzy in London and in Mr. Darcy's path after her return from Rosings.
Our fairy godmother is Mrs. Welford, Mrs. Gardiner's aunt, a thrice widowed woman of a certain age who has the money to rise about her roots in trade and relatives who keep her close to the first circles
This pushes Lizzy and Darcy together often enough to realize that they do love one another and we get to a HEA
Our fairy godmother is Mrs. Welford, Mrs. Gardiner's aunt, a thrice widowed woman of a certain age who has the money to rise about her roots in trade and relatives who keep her close to the first circles
This pushes Lizzy and Darcy together often enough to realize that they do love one another and we get to a HEA
April 8, 2021
Nice story, but wimpy characters
This is pretty much the same story as the original P&P, but with the addition of some new characters, most notably a wealthy aunt of Mrs Gardiner's, who takes an interest in the Bennett daughters. The story begins after the disastrous proposal at Hunsford parsonage, Elizabeth and Jane are in London staying with the Gardiners, and the wealthy aunt, Mrs Welford, returns from India a widow who can't stand to be alone, and looks to the Gardiners and their nieces to help her spend money and be entertained.
Elizabeth and Jane end up staying much longer in London, and are naturally thrown together with the Darcys and the Fitzwilliams through balls, parties, and the theatre. Mrs Welford, although she comes from humble Derbyshire family, has acquired enough wealth to move in the higher circles of society. Darcy is nursing a broken heart, but doesn't stand a chance when reunited with Elizabeth. Bingley, however, is totally messed up and indecisive, and doesn't seem to know up from down.
I didn't like many of the main characters in this version. Elizabeth is a nervous wreck about Darcy, even when someone even just talks about him. It's like she's afraid of her own shadow. This isn't our beloved brave and strong Lizzy. Jane is nothing but a puddle of depression, and she never improves throughout the story. Bingley is a blithering idiot, who can't blow his nose unless he gets Darcy's approval. I wanted his character to get a comeuppance, but I was disappointed. There was so much angst and tension between Elizabeth and Darcy, and between Jane and Bingley, that it just kind of killed the romance. Nobody seemed truly happy.
I found the storyline to be confusing when it came to the romance. Darcy is always the one who first realizes that he can't live without Elizabeth, but Elizabeth takes so long, and even towards the end it almost seemed like she was trying too hard to convince herself that she was falling in love. The moral of the story, as the title implies, is that the happiest marriages are those with equal affection on both sides. I wasn't feeling that for ODC.
The book is written well enough, and the editing is good. The characters annoyed me, but it's a pleasant story.
This is pretty much the same story as the original P&P, but with the addition of some new characters, most notably a wealthy aunt of Mrs Gardiner's, who takes an interest in the Bennett daughters. The story begins after the disastrous proposal at Hunsford parsonage, Elizabeth and Jane are in London staying with the Gardiners, and the wealthy aunt, Mrs Welford, returns from India a widow who can't stand to be alone, and looks to the Gardiners and their nieces to help her spend money and be entertained.
Elizabeth and Jane end up staying much longer in London, and are naturally thrown together with the Darcys and the Fitzwilliams through balls, parties, and the theatre. Mrs Welford, although she comes from humble Derbyshire family, has acquired enough wealth to move in the higher circles of society. Darcy is nursing a broken heart, but doesn't stand a chance when reunited with Elizabeth. Bingley, however, is totally messed up and indecisive, and doesn't seem to know up from down.
I didn't like many of the main characters in this version. Elizabeth is a nervous wreck about Darcy, even when someone even just talks about him. It's like she's afraid of her own shadow. This isn't our beloved brave and strong Lizzy. Jane is nothing but a puddle of depression, and she never improves throughout the story. Bingley is a blithering idiot, who can't blow his nose unless he gets Darcy's approval. I wanted his character to get a comeuppance, but I was disappointed. There was so much angst and tension between Elizabeth and Darcy, and between Jane and Bingley, that it just kind of killed the romance. Nobody seemed truly happy.
I found the storyline to be confusing when it came to the romance. Darcy is always the one who first realizes that he can't live without Elizabeth, but Elizabeth takes so long, and even towards the end it almost seemed like she was trying too hard to convince herself that she was falling in love. The moral of the story, as the title implies, is that the happiest marriages are those with equal affection on both sides. I wasn't feeling that for ODC.
The book is written well enough, and the editing is good. The characters annoyed me, but it's a pleasant story.
May 14, 2021
A long slow burn
This is a most delightful variation, one of the most satisfying this reader has ever read in a while. In this story, our beloved couple is thrown together frequently due to a new character the author introduced, a wealthy aunt of Elizabeth Bennet’s own aunt Mrs. Gardiner. Mrs. Welford proved not only the means by which Elizabeth and Darcy hastily reach their mutual realization of equal affection for one another (after a most contemptuous first proposal and rejection), but also served as a counselor/mentor to Elizabeth who is inexperienced in matters of men, marriage and love. The bonus of a valuable love advice on the need for equal affection to reach a long and lasting marriage full of contentment and love is the icing to the cake of the story, meant as a guide to readers on matters of the heart without being too preachy.
Despite being too cliche in some parts, this depicts a long slow burn resulting to a flaming delight insofar as the romantic affair between Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy is concerned. All throughout the variation, there are enough exchanges between the lovers, or even merely reflections and emotions, mostly on the part of Elizabeth Bennet, that satisfyingly feeds into the need for this reader to know what they are about. After all, every Pride and Prejudice variation must have Elizabeth and Darcy in the core of it. This offering has done so well in accomplishing and maintaining that task.
Truly a delight and a highly recommended read!
This is a most delightful variation, one of the most satisfying this reader has ever read in a while. In this story, our beloved couple is thrown together frequently due to a new character the author introduced, a wealthy aunt of Elizabeth Bennet’s own aunt Mrs. Gardiner. Mrs. Welford proved not only the means by which Elizabeth and Darcy hastily reach their mutual realization of equal affection for one another (after a most contemptuous first proposal and rejection), but also served as a counselor/mentor to Elizabeth who is inexperienced in matters of men, marriage and love. The bonus of a valuable love advice on the need for equal affection to reach a long and lasting marriage full of contentment and love is the icing to the cake of the story, meant as a guide to readers on matters of the heart without being too preachy.
Despite being too cliche in some parts, this depicts a long slow burn resulting to a flaming delight insofar as the romantic affair between Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy is concerned. All throughout the variation, there are enough exchanges between the lovers, or even merely reflections and emotions, mostly on the part of Elizabeth Bennet, that satisfyingly feeds into the need for this reader to know what they are about. After all, every Pride and Prejudice variation must have Elizabeth and Darcy in the core of it. This offering has done so well in accomplishing and maintaining that task.
Truly a delight and a highly recommended read!
January 3, 2022
Okay
I found the early parts of the story to be interesting, but seemed to fall a little flat after the ball- until Darcys proposal towards the end. After the ball, I couldn't understand, nor did the author explain, why Darcy went an entire week without visiting Elizabeth even though they left the ball with a new understanding. From then on either Elizabeth was too emotional or scared to speak, or there wasn't an opportunity for them to speak, so that left me with stolen glances and blushes to satisfy me until Darcy or Elizabeth decided to be brave an hold a conversation.
I liked what the new characters added to the story. Wickham was around but didn't clog the storyline. I didn't know what to make of Bingley and could have done without his presence. On one hand, I like that the author made Bingley suffer, and he had to wait a year (instead of one day) to gain Jane's approval. However, I felt Jane could have done better than wimpy Bingley.
Overall, it was decent. I would have preferred more conversation between Darcy and Elizabeth to make it four stars.
I found the early parts of the story to be interesting, but seemed to fall a little flat after the ball- until Darcys proposal towards the end. After the ball, I couldn't understand, nor did the author explain, why Darcy went an entire week without visiting Elizabeth even though they left the ball with a new understanding. From then on either Elizabeth was too emotional or scared to speak, or there wasn't an opportunity for them to speak, so that left me with stolen glances and blushes to satisfy me until Darcy or Elizabeth decided to be brave an hold a conversation.
I liked what the new characters added to the story. Wickham was around but didn't clog the storyline. I didn't know what to make of Bingley and could have done without his presence. On one hand, I like that the author made Bingley suffer, and he had to wait a year (instead of one day) to gain Jane's approval. However, I felt Jane could have done better than wimpy Bingley.
Overall, it was decent. I would have preferred more conversation between Darcy and Elizabeth to make it four stars.
August 30, 2021
Light & Fun
I did enjoy that this work was light and easy with little angst. Everything for our main couple works out well and all crazy misunderstandings were conveniently avoided. although worth reading, I must also admit without some conflict within or outside their growing romance the story, it kind of falls a flat on the whole. Loved the newly introduced characters though and there were very nice moments between Darcy and Elizabeth. Bingley’s situation was a bit bizarre and I can’t recall anyone ever writing him so weak and confused. I also agree with another reviewer that it probably should have been titled “Ardently” or better yet “Ardently and with Equal Affection.”
I did enjoy that this work was light and easy with little angst. Everything for our main couple works out well and all crazy misunderstandings were conveniently avoided. although worth reading, I must also admit without some conflict within or outside their growing romance the story, it kind of falls a flat on the whole. Loved the newly introduced characters though and there were very nice moments between Darcy and Elizabeth. Bingley’s situation was a bit bizarre and I can’t recall anyone ever writing him so weak and confused. I also agree with another reviewer that it probably should have been titled “Ardently” or better yet “Ardently and with Equal Affection.”
August 5, 2023
4.5 stars rounded up to 5 stars
Really enjoyed this book, though some of the plot threads seemed to be left dangling. I wanted better explanation or development of Bingley’s story, how he changed/grew from his encounters with Darcy and Jane’s responses. Likewise, the Bingley sisters appeared, sneered and then essentially disappeared. Mrs. Welford’s story was sketchy with no explanation of the conflicts with the Welford heirs. Not-picking aside, this is a good story that develops the relationship of ODC in a setting other than Hereford or Kent.
Recommended as an interesting departure from the usual group of villains and obstacles.
Really enjoyed this book, though some of the plot threads seemed to be left dangling. I wanted better explanation or development of Bingley’s story, how he changed/grew from his encounters with Darcy and Jane’s responses. Likewise, the Bingley sisters appeared, sneered and then essentially disappeared. Mrs. Welford’s story was sketchy with no explanation of the conflicts with the Welford heirs. Not-picking aside, this is a good story that develops the relationship of ODC in a setting other than Hereford or Kent.
Recommended as an interesting departure from the usual group of villains and obstacles.
March 27, 2021
Sweet wonderful story
This is a compelling story. I had a hard time putting it down.
The introduction of the new character, Lady Welford, Mrs. Gardiner's aunt, starts the changes in our beloved characters lives. The trice widowed woman has a considerable fortune, the audacity of Lady Catherine without the malice & arrogance, the wit of Mr. Bennett with more determination and a strong desire for the company of young people. She is delightful.
This is a compelling story. I had a hard time putting it down.
The introduction of the new character, Lady Welford, Mrs. Gardiner's aunt, starts the changes in our beloved characters lives. The trice widowed woman has a considerable fortune, the audacity of Lady Catherine without the malice & arrogance, the wit of Mr. Bennett with more determination and a strong desire for the company of young people. She is delightful.
May 21, 2021
Great story
A wonderful story of love and companionship! I loved Darcys love and how he didn't quit until he had won Lizzy. The Bingley Jane fiasco I am unsure of, they were totally out of character. The colonel was very true to form. The villains didn't really get their comeuppance, glad Lydia learned some sense. Good book!!!
A wonderful story of love and companionship! I loved Darcys love and how he didn't quit until he had won Lizzy. The Bingley Jane fiasco I am unsure of, they were totally out of character. The colonel was very true to form. The villains didn't really get their comeuppance, glad Lydia learned some sense. Good book!!!
July 12, 2021
Enjoyable Pride and Prejudice variation
Each variation has a twist that differs from the original story. Here, Darcy is determined to reform his ways that so displeased Elizabeth when he first proposed. He has tried to show her he is not the man she thought, though she has come to,that conclusion herself. Jane does marry Bingley, but not as smoothly as in the original book.
Each variation has a twist that differs from the original story. Here, Darcy is determined to reform his ways that so displeased Elizabeth when he first proposed. He has tried to show her he is not the man she thought, though she has come to,that conclusion herself. Jane does marry Bingley, but not as smoothly as in the original book.
July 20, 2021
Intriguing shades on favorite characters
A few weeks after the dreadful Hunsford proposal, we leave canon and begin to see changes in our favorite characters, along with a strong non-canon character. Mrs Welford is the wealthy aunt to Aunt Gardiner and her influence affects all the sisters and their suitors.
A few weeks after the dreadful Hunsford proposal, we leave canon and begin to see changes in our favorite characters, along with a strong non-canon character. Mrs Welford is the wealthy aunt to Aunt Gardiner and her influence affects all the sisters and their suitors.
September 22, 2023
Rather bland for me
This book picks the plot up after Hunsford and features a new family member in the person of Mrs Gardiner's aunt, a wealthy widow.
Bingley is a little odd, Elizabeth is a little coy and really very little happens.
I found the writing a little stilted for my taste - something of a miss for me I am afraid.
This book picks the plot up after Hunsford and features a new family member in the person of Mrs Gardiner's aunt, a wealthy widow.
Bingley is a little odd, Elizabeth is a little coy and really very little happens.
I found the writing a little stilted for my taste - something of a miss for me I am afraid.
March 28, 2021
Nice story...
This was a very nice story. Took too long, way too long to get to the point, and when it did, the story was over. Dissatisfaction for me. Sorry, It's ok to read once, if you want to waste your time but not a book I would read again.
This was a very nice story. Took too long, way too long to get to the point, and when it did, the story was over. Dissatisfaction for me. Sorry, It's ok to read once, if you want to waste your time but not a book I would read again.
April 4, 2021
Enjoyable book
Not so much angst as tenseness for our couple. Interesting storyline that thankfully doesn’t include Mr. Collins or much of Mrs. Bennett. That in itself made for good reading.
Not so much angst as tenseness for our couple. Interesting storyline that thankfully doesn’t include Mr. Collins or much of Mrs. Bennett. That in itself made for good reading.
June 13, 2021
Perfect Ending
For anyone that enjoys JAFF, this is a light easy read with new characters mixed in with the originals. I could not put this one down. I love the last sentence of the epilogue.
For anyone that enjoys JAFF, this is a light easy read with new characters mixed in with the originals. I could not put this one down. I love the last sentence of the epilogue.
April 8, 2021
Well written but lacks angst
April 16, 2021
Lovely
A nice story told well. The author has a storyline that is natural and not forced. Very enjoyable and recommended to all P&P V FANS.
A nice story told well. The author has a storyline that is natural and not forced. Very enjoyable and recommended to all P&P V FANS.
May 17, 2021
I like it - especially the more emotions shown by Bingley and I didn't mind that Wickham and a lesser role in this story.
Read
May 23, 2021Could have been titled "ardently"
I suppose it is always nice to have a rich Aunt. I liked that it took more than Elizabeth's words for Darcy to sede the error of his ways.
I suppose it is always nice to have a rich Aunt. I liked that it took more than Elizabeth's words for Darcy to sede the error of his ways.
Read
July 29, 2021Stopped at 19%. I think I'll pick this one up again when I'm into fanfic but right now I'm on the "what's a book" wave and it looks like it's going to take me quite a distance
June 19, 2025
While I must admit to enjoying most of this, the writing quality and cliche plot merit only two stars. But what can you expect from a G-rated fanfic anyway?
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