Austenesque Lovers TBR Pile Challenge 2024 discussion

J. W. wrote: "Racing ahead, Sam. Excellent. I need to post soon. I am behind."

Snuck up on me too.
Seems like slower going this year. Guess life has gotten busier.

Sam wrote: "Books 101-150:

101 Brother Dearest (Beta) 4.2.24

102 Deception and retribution - FF, WIP

103 Drawn To Love: A Pride and Prejudice Novella Variation - KU 2.5
big holes in the st..."

Wow, Sam! You whizzed through a huge stack. Quite an assortment there. I'm interested in the mysteries in my latest reading mood.

Thanks Sophia,
May March challenge one was good and Kelly Miller's new one is very good.

Sam wrote: "Craftyhj wrote: "Boom! Why a blast you have had reading. Your #108 has sat on my TBR for a long time. I must give it a whirl."

I hope you enjoy it more than I did. I couldn't even rate it."

I shall go into it with eyes wide open ...

Sam wrote: "Books 101-150:

101 Brother Dearest (Beta) 4.2.24

102 Deception and retribution - FF, WIP

103 Drawn To Love: A Pride and Prejudice Novella Variation - KU 2.5
big holes in the st..."
Excellent!!!

Kirk wrote: "Sam wrote: "Books 101-150:

101 Brother Dearest (Beta) 4.2.24

102 Deception and retribution - FF, WIP

103 Drawn To Love: A Pride and Prejudice Novella Variation - KU 2.5
big hol..."

Thank you!

finishing msg 42... am I cheating by splitting up anthologies?

127 Not So Easily Persuaded: A Sweet Short variation on Persuasion by Aaliya Bishop 3* meh ... my first meh for Pesuasion

128 Mary's Song: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Amanda Orneck 3.5* https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

129 Without Vanity or Pride: A Pride and Prejudice Variation Duology: No Improper Pride by Amy D'Orazio [ARC] 5 * https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

130 Without Vanity or Pride: A Pride and Prejudice Variation Duology: : Insufficient Vanity by LM Romano [ARC] 5* https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

131 A Memory Aflame: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Anja Katz 3* Meh – I noticed I didn't put down some of the others in the series... again... meh

132 Tolerable: Steamy Pride and Prejudice Variation by Darcy Fitzwilliam [ARC] 3.5* https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

133 To Marry a Man For His Library by Elaine Burkett 3.5*

134 Mr. Darcy's Christmas Bride by Elizabeth Goodrich 3* saccharine... eye roll

135 Sidlotte Drabbles (https://archiveofourown.org/works/500...) by GirlInGreen23 - 3.5* it's all in the title

136 Mr. Darcy and the Bennets of Longbourn: A Pride and Prejudice Love Story by Jennifer Thompson DNF ... painful

137 His Beautiful Bea: A Touches of Austen Novella by Leenie Brown MP inspired 4* as part of the 1-3 ARC https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

138 His Darling Friend: A Touches of Austen Novellaby Leenie Brown emma inspired 4.5* as part of the 1-3 ARC https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

139 Loving Longest: Jane Austen's "Persuasion" Meets the Modern World by Lisa Van Gemert 5* https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

140 Mr Darcy's Devotion: A 'Pride and Prejudice' Novella Variation by Lyr Newton 4* https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

141 The Final Scene (https://archiveofourown.org/works/537...) by MiamiGal 3* that was unsatisfying. I want more #sidlotte

142 For All Those Whom We Love and Value:Persuasion Variation by Natasja Rose 4.5* https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

143 Too Generous A Soul: A P&P Austen Variation by Natasja Rose 4.5* https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

144Decisions by Ola Wegner 3.5* reread. A more detached novel than I remember her others. There's potential here with a Mercenary Lizzy (and Darcy knows it, but doesn't quite know the depth of it) and bit of a floundering Darcy – I've seen reviews that has describes him as douchey... I didn't see it that way. He's doing his best, with very little help from Lizzy who is.. well Lizzy – immature and stubbornly prejudiced. Dary's not without fault, but he is only human afterall and for the times, 1812, he's pretty progressive I think.

145 Her Voice of Reason by Ola Wegner 4* reread. A Mercenary and rather immature Lizzy. What does Darcy see in her (of course he doesn't know that she's mercenary for quite a while)? She is a lying liar who lies and quite frankly quite self centered and self absorbed. I know, naive, ill informed (because you know 1800\s) and young (by our standards she is maybe a 14 yo in a 20/21 ish yo body?). Why in the world would Darcy fall at your feet when you finally tell him that you love him after all the accusations, deceit and lies? Why? Why would he trust you? I am jaded I suppose.

146 Besieged Heiresses by Renata McMann 3.5* https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

147 Confessions and Claustrophobia (https://archiveofourown.org/works/548...) by StoryTilly 4*

148 The Colonel Interferes ( https://archiveofourown.org/works/547...) by StoryTilly 4.5* good Col? Bad Col? Apparently it runs in the family, but he is less honourable than Darcy... Darcy dealt directly with Bingley, more or less openly. I won't say more that would give it fully away.

149 Her Secret Beau: A Touches of Austen Novel by Leenie Brown mashup 4.5* as part of the 1-3 ARC https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
150 Touches of Austen by Leenie Brown [ARC] 4.5* https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

Jen wrote: "finishing msg 42... am I cheating by splitting up anthologies?

127 Not So Easily Persuaded: A Sweet Short variation on Persuasion by Aaliya Bishop 3* meh ... my first meh for Pesu..."

Wow, way to go, Jen!

And, no, not cheating to break up anthologies to individual stories if you want. After all, it would be the same if you read them as standalone novellas. :)

Jen wrote: "finishing msg 42... am I cheating by splitting up anthologies?

127 Not So Easily Persuaded: A Sweet Short variation on Persuasion by Aaliya Bishop 3* meh ... my first meh for Pesu..."
Great!

Jen wrote: "finishing msg 42... am I cheating by splitting up anthologies?

127 Not So Easily Persuaded: A Sweet Short variation on Persuasion by Aaliya Bishop 3* meh ... my first meh for Pesu..."

Well done, great progress!

Busy reading Jen, Well done.

Jen wrote: "finishing msg 42... am I cheating by splitting up anthologies?

127 Not So Easily Persuaded: A Sweet Short variation on Persuasion by Aaliya Bishop 3* meh ... my first meh for Pesu..."

Awesome!

Woohoo! 👏 That is supposed to be a clapping hands emoji. However, it looks like a sprouting potato instead. Sorry.

J. W. wrote: "Woohoo! 👏 That is supposed to be a clapping hands emoji. However, it looks like a sprouting potato instead. Sorry."
oh - that. made. me. Laaaaauuuuggggh!
Thank you!

I wonder what scenario would be appropriate for a sprouting potato emoji? Something Collinsesque?

😆That was hilarious. I don't think there is enough room to see what he was doing. 🥔🤢🤮
😇

ROFLOL!!!

Thank you Col and Marianne Brandon!!!

101)New Understandings and a game of chess reread
New Understandings and a Good Game of Chess
.
102)A Fall at Winthrop
A Fall at Winthrop

103)Ode to Jane, Cassandra, and Jane Austen's House Museum reread
Ode to Jane, Cassandra, and Jane Austen's House Museum

104) Lizzy and the three ghost reread
Lizzy and the Three Ghost

105)Henry and Eliza reread

106)The Adventures of Mr Harley reread

107)Surprise at Kellynch Hall reread
Surprise at Kellynch Hall

108)The Uses of Austen 4.5
Uses of Austen: Jane's Afterlives

109)A careful Interrogation reread
A Careful Interrogation

110)The last pages of Emma 4.5


111)Spring Jane Ball reread


112)Miss Austen Investigates 3.5


113)Discovery reread
Discovery

114)The Duties of my station reread
The Duties of my Station; Not So Silent Service

115)Hurst Impressions 4
Fanfiction dot net

116)Birdsplaining 4.25
Fanfiction dot net

117)Fancy Meeting YOU here. reread
Fancy Meeting YOU Here

118)Never Expected reread
Never Expected; a Pride & Prejudice Sequel

119) Repentance 5++++
Repentance

120)Molly reread
Molly

121)Her Innermost Thoughts reread
Her Innermost Thoughts

122)In sickness and in health reread
In Sickness and In Health

123)Extremes in Dating 2.75
"By: snafsnaf
At the end of a bad week, at the end of a horrible day, Ed Ferrars wants to go home and wall himself off from the world. Lucy, on the other hand, wants to go out. Modern S&S AU, companion piece to Drynuary For Hookups but set a few years earlier."
https://www.fanfiction.net/s/14328546...

124)What Is Love? 4
"By: Ultrawoman
One-Shot. 'Is love a fancy, or a feeling' After all she has been through with Willoughby and her illness, Marianne reflects on the true nature of love as she grows closer to Colonel Brandon. (An alternate/expanded ending, based on the 1995 film adaptation)."
https://www.fanfiction.net/s/14293992...

125)Silence and sadness 4
"By: Claire.CZ
It's Margaret's wedding. Elinor, Marianne, Colonel Brandon are overjoyed. And so thankful for the love they are experiencing... or not? Inner thoughts, character study, stream of consciousness [crossposted from AO3]"
https://www.fanfiction.net/s/14161976...

126)Righteousness and Respectability 4.25
"By: Beatrice Otter
The Dashwood ladies are mixed race. Some things change, but others do not."
https://www.fanfiction.net/s/14181028...

127)Pride and Preston Lin 5


128)A Series of Fortunate Events reread
A Series of Fortunate Events

129) Seeking Advice. reread
Seeking Advice

130)New Discoveries reread
New Discoveries

131)Miss Austen 3.75

Listened to the audio book in 2020. Blah!!!
Enjoyed the book much more than the audio.

132)A Chance Meeting reread
A Chance Meeting

133)A Groom's Tale reread

134)The Second One reread
The Second One

135) Fair Fight reread
Fair Fight

136)The Jane Austen Handbook reread


137)Dawn at Netherfield reread
Dawn at Netherfield

138)Netherfield Math...upgraded to 4.5
Netherfield Math

139)The Killer Instinct reread
The Killer Instinct

140)Holidays with Jane: Spring Fever reread


141)The Watsons

142)The Captain's Cabin
Fanfiction dot net

143)Jane Austen Illustrated reread


144) Fair Fight reread
Fair Fight

145) Very Artful People reread
Very Artful People

146)The Story of Jane Austen's Life 3.75-4


147)Jane Austen sex and Romance 3.5-3.75


148) Making Her Sentiments Known. Reread
Making Her Sentiments Known

149)An Offer of Prudence reread
An Offer of Prudence

150) Until Tomorrow reread
Until Tomorrow

Woohoo! Enjoy moving on ;)

Sam wrote: "Woohoo! Enjoy moving on ;)"

Thanks!!!

Good going!

well done !

Kirk wrote: "Thank you Col and Marianne Brandon!!!

101)New Understandings and a game of chess reread
New Understandings and a Good Game of Chess
.
102)A Fall at Winthrop
[book:A Fall at Winthro..."

Flying high, Kirk! Fab reading stack read. Miss Emma awaits!

Excellent progress, Kirk. Next level, please.

Katja wrote: "Good going!"

Thank you!!!

Craftyhj wrote: "well done !"

Thanks!!!!

Sophia wrote: "Kirk wrote: "Thank you Col and Marianne Brandon!!!

101)New Understandings and a game of chess reread
New Understandings and a Good Game of Chess
.
102)A Fall at Winthrop
[book:A Fa..."

Thanks!!! Lol, I should have saved the Watsons for her.

J. W. wrote: "Excellent progress, Kirk. Next level, please."

Thanks!!! I'll think 🤔 about, I suppose! Oh wait... already working out it 😁

Finally made it to Coronel Brandon :-D
My favorite: The golden thimble by Martin Hunnicot
101) Far from the tree - Jeannie Peneaux - 4.5 stars - 29.mar audio version
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
My review https://www.goodreads.com/review/edit...
102) “Darcy and Elizabeth’s Dreams of Redemption” - Melissa Anne- 4 stars - Betareader copy - 30.mar
103) Handsome, clever and Rich - Jayne Bamber - 4 stars - 31.mar - Re-listen
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/7...
104) Rainy days - Lory Lilian - 4 stars - 1.apr
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/7...
105) Louisa get slapped - Darcy de Firth - 4 stars - 1.apr
https://www.fanfiction.net/s/2953095/1/
106) A timely elopement - Joana Starnes - 4 stars 4,apr - relistening
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
107) Accusing Mr Darcy - Kelly Miller - 4 stars - 5.apr - audio
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
108) More than a pretty face - Frances Reynolds- 4 stars - relistening
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6...
109) Plethora of peers - Sydney Salier - 3.5 stars - 7.apr
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
110) A chance encounter - S. Neha - 4 stars - 7.apr - Listen to audio for the first time
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
111) The unthinkable triangle - Joana Starnes - 4,5 stars - re-listening
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
112) The trouble with friends- Kelly Miller - 4 stars - re-listen
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
113) Taken - Mary Anne Musshat - 3.5 stars 12.apr - audio
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
114) Love unsought - Kay Bea - 3.5 stars - audio version not impressed by the narrator…
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
115) The warmth of her affection - Elsie Fulbrook - 4 stars - 14.apr - audio
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6...
116) The colonels cousin - Melissa Halcomb- 3.5 stars - 16.apr
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6...
117) Blinded by prejudice - KaraLynne Mackrory - 4.5 stars - 17.apr - audio
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
118) Elizabeth Bennets inheritance - Laraba Kendig - 4 stars - re-listen
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
119) There you were - Michelle Ray - 3.5 stars - audio
My review https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
120) An accidental meeting - Melanie Rachel - 4 stars
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
121) The long road to Longbourn - 4 stars - Renata McMann & Summer Hanford 23.apr - audio
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4...
122) Bitter Mournings - Linda Gonschior - 4 stars
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6...
123) A stronger impulse - Julie Cooper - 3.5 stars - audio
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6...
124) The reintroduction of Fitzwilliam Darcy - Christine Combe - 4 stars 24.apr - audio
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
125) Dearest friends - Pamela Lynne 3.5 stars - 26.apr - re=listen
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
126) A case of some delicacy- K C Kahler - 4 stars - 27.apr - audio version
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
127) Rogue’s widow - Nicole Clarkston - 4 stars 27.apr audio version
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
128) His secret bethrothal - Renee McKenzie - 4 stars - 27.apr - audio version
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
129) Doubt not cousin - Barry S Richman - 3 stars - 30.apr - audio version
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
130) The child - Jan Hahn - 3 stars - 1.may - audio version
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
131) The Bennet chit - Jeannie Peneaux- 4 stars - 3.may
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6...
132) Determination - C P Odom -4 stars - 3.maj - audio version
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
133) An accidental scandal - Melanie Rachel - 4 stars- 4.maj
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
134) Fool me once - Elizabeth Adams - 4 stars- 4.may part of first impressions free compilation of 5 meet cute stories
135] An introduction by post - Sarah Courtney - 4.5 stars - 4.may - part of first impressions free compilation of 5 meet cute stories
136) Hidden treasures - Leigh Dryer - 4.5 stars - 4.may - part of first impressions free compilation of 5 meet cute stories
137) The wedding guest - Heather Moll - 4.5 stars - 4.may - part of first impressions free compilation of 5 meet cute stories
138) Pig in the poke - Melanie Rachel - 3.5 stars - 4.may - part of first impressions free compilation of 5 meet cute stories
139) Pemberley by moonlight. Stephen Ord - 4 stars - 4.may
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
140) Fortune and felicity = Monica Fairview - 4.5 stars, link to my review below.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
141) The golden thimble - Martin Hunnicut - 5 stars - 05.may - It kept me up reading way to late. Link to my review below
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
142) Silver buckles - Grace Gibson - 4 stars - 6.May audio version
143) A lie universally hidden - Anngela Schroeder - 4 stars - 8.may - audio version
A little to much angst for me, but good nonetheless
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
144) Madness in Meryton - Jayne Bamber - 4.5 stars - 9.maj - audio version
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
145) Agony and hope - L L Diamond - 3.5 stars - 11.maj - Audio version. Link both to book and my review on goodreads
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
146) Unequal affections - Lara S Orniston - 3.5 stars - re-listen. Link to my review below
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
147) Bethrothals and betrayals - Cinnamon Worth - 3.5 stars - 14.may
My review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4...
148) The banished uncle - Laraba Kending - 4 big stars - 16.may - audio version by Harry Frost
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/7...
My short review
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
149) To conquer pride - Jennifer Altman - 4 stars - 19.may - audio version
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4...
150) All hallows eve - Wendi Sotis - 4 stars - 19.maj
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...

Well done!

Nina wrote: "Finally made it to Coronel Brandon :-D
My favorite: The golden thimble by Martin Hunnicot
101) Far from the tree - Jeannie Peneaux - 4.5 stars - 29.mar audio version
https://www.goodreads.com/book/..."

Wow, Nina! Amazing reading and yay for finishing your visit with Colonel Brandon. :)

Nina wrote: "Finally made it to Coronel Brandon :-D
My favorite: The golden thimble by Martin Hunnicot
101) Far from the tree - Jeannie Peneaux - 4.5 stars - 29.mar audio version
https://www.goodreads.com/book/..."

Woohoo! Way to go...

awesome list!

Nina wrote: "Finally made it to Coronel Brandon :-D
My favorite: The golden thimble by Martin Hunnicot
101) Far from the tree - Jeannie Peneaux - 4.5 stars - 29.mar audio version
https://www.goodreads.com/book/..."

Great!!!

Hello Colonel!
101. Imprudence & Inconstancy: A Pride and Prejudice Variation https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1... 3.5 stars. A simple story that diverges during Netherfield ball.
102. A Far Better Prospect: A Pride and Prejudice Vagary https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1... 5 stars. A really good emotional story revolving around Louisa Bingley. I loved Bingley in this. ODC has their own storyline in there.
103. A Death at Rosings: A Pride and Prejudice Variation https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2... 4 stars. A good variation with great chemistry and banter between Darcy and Elizabeth.
104. Darcy, the Investigator https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5... 3 stars. If you think based on the title that there will be mystery solving and thrilling adventures, you'll be seriously disappointed. The investigation part of Darcy's lufe just serves to provide a different first meeting between ODC and nothing else. Quite disappointing but I liked this take charge Elizabeth.
105. Longbourn Inheritance: A Pride and Prejudice Variation https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5... 5 stars. Re-read.
106. Oh Brother https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4... 4 stars. What if the eldest Bennet was a son and he's friends with Darcy, Bingley and the Colonel? Too many bets and lots of HEAs.
107. A Tacit Engagement https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5... 4 stars.
108. Scandalous Falsehoods https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5... 4 stars.
109. Upstart Pretensions https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5... 4 stars.
110. Quitting the Sphere https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5... 4 stars. The four book series of Darcy and Elizabeth's courtship culminating in their union was interesting and each book had its own hurdles for ODC. I enjoyed the solution of each except for Wickham. For all the trouble he caused, the resolution felt too bland and abrupt.
111. Lost in Love: A Pride and Prejudice Variation https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3... 4 stars. A cute, short and sweet story with a quick resolution at London after Hunsford proposal.
112. The Troublesome Mr. Collins: A Pride and Prejudice Variation https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5... 3 stars. Low angst. Too many physical assaults for a story of this size.
113. Mr Darcy's Resolve https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3... 4 stars. Very solicitous Darcy. The story has many interesting deviations from the original because of Elizabeth's exposure to a different side of Darcy.
114. Before a Fall: A Pride and Prejudice Reimagining https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3... 5 stars. The story starts after Mr. Collins's proposal and takes a whole different route to HEA, including a london trip, friendship with Georgiana, early elopement and rescue, compromise and FMS, a different welcome at Pemberley and finally when Elizabeth and Darcy realise that they were blind to each other's feelings, a sweet HEA.
115. Snowbound with Mr. Darcy: A Pride and Prejudice Variation https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5... 2 stars. Though the story was sweet, the backdrop of the story was very vague and confusing.
116. Courting Elizabeth: A Pride & Prejudice Variation https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3... 4 stars. The story follows a convulted and improbable path. Though the events were interesting, lots of them were amazingly impossible.
117. The Whisky Wedding: a Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet story https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3... 3.5 stars. This book is a mixed bag. Some you'll enjoy, some you'll roll your eyes at, some will astound you with its sheer stupidity.
118. Hope & Chance: Three Pride and Prejudice Novellas https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6... 3.5 stars. Three novellas. First and third had many similarities especially in Elizabeth's thought process but the second one was quite good.
119. Deception & Debauchery https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3... 5 stars. Though the beginning will give you some heartburn, the second half is pure fun.
120. A Fortuitous Fall: A Pride and Prejudice Variation https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5... 5 stars. A very different and beautiful story. You'll really love Collins in this and his transformation actually makes ODC'S path to HEA that much easier.
121. Bitter Mournings: A Pride & Prejudice Variation https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6... 4 stars. A very nice story timed ten years after the canon. Elizabeth, Mrs.Bennet, Darcy and Bingley are widowed and Jane is a spinster. The unusual beginning does away with the usual complications of pride, prejudice but brings forth different complications because of the same. Good variation.
122. If only I had learnt https://m.fanfiction.net/s/7568583/1/... 4 stars. Very different premise. Interesting, frustrating even fascinating at times. Many instances of abuse though not graphic. The end was pretty abrupt.
123. The colors of trope https://www.fanfiction.net/s/14364584... 4 stars. The story starts at Hunsford . Instead of storming off after the rejection, Darcy and Elizabeth talk to each other and thus changes the course of the story. The author uses many of our favourite quotes liberally throughout and also brings in all kinds of possible tropes in any situation as discussion between the characters making it quite amusing.
124. Facing her demons https://www.fanfiction.net/s/14367364... 4 stars. When Elizabeth comes to Netherfield to tend to Jane, her sister's health is not the only thing on her mind. This deteriorates her health when Miss Bingley doesn't provide any comforts to the sisters. Thus Darcy finds her sick and faint in the hallway. This brings a fast understanding between them and a really short and sweet story.
125. Elizabeth's close escape https://www.fanfiction.net/s/14364854... 4 stars. When Wickham visits Darcy house to bring alarming news about Elizabeth, Darcy had to act which brings ODC faster to their HEA.

well done abmom! You have some there that I have really enjoyed and some which you liked and which I just couldn't get on with. I think that is one of the joys of this group as we see each other's points of view and maybe come to see a book in a different light.

I shall be joining you in the Colonel's library this month so do save me a nice seat well way from those nasty Steele sisters!

abmom wrote: "Hello Colonel!
101. Imprudence & Inconstancy: A Pride and Prejudice Variation https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1... 3.5 stars. A simple story that diverges during Net..."

A good batch. I might have to read some of these.

abmom wrote: "Hello Colonel!
101. Imprudence & Inconstancy: A Pride and Prejudice Variation https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1... 3.5 stars. A simple story that diverges during Net..."

Great progress!

The Jann Rowland series, is that one where Caroline walks in on ODC in their bedroom? (after they are married)
And they pretty much cut ties with the Bingley's because they had warned them there would be no room for error as far as Caroline is concerned?

No, it's not that. ODC get married only in the end and Caroline is neatly cut off in the second book itself.

Crafty, definitely with nice refreshments too!

abmom wrote: "No, it's not that. ODC get married only in the end and Caroline is neatly cut off in the second book itself."

Thanks!

Sam wrote: "abmom wrote: "Hello Colonel!
101. Imprudence & Inconstancy: A Pride and Prejudice Variation https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1... 3.5 stars. A simple story that diver..."

Jumping in here, I think the scene you describe Sam might be in Chance Encounters by Linda Wells

abmom wrote: "Hello Colonel!
101. Imprudence & Inconstancy: A Pride and Prejudice Variation https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1... 3.5 stars. A simple story that diverges during Net..."

What a stack, abmom! Way to go.

I have enjoyed my first month here with the good Colonel. I think I shall be here for a couple more months.

101) A Gentleman's Honor by Melanie Rachel - 5*.

Another cracker from Melanie Rachel.

A delightful read! This book has it all - romance, angst and mystery. The new characters are well rounded and the villains are suitably villainous without being excessive.

102) A Gentleman's Justice by Melanie Rachel - 4*.

The cunning setting of a trap to catch a scoundrel, this is a delightful epilogue short story for "A Gentleman's Honour" allowing Viscount Milton another chance to show off his skills, as well as his extensive wardrobe.

103) Affections and Wishes by Amy D'Orazio et.al. - 4*.

A very pleasing collection of stories; a blend of Regency, modern and fantasy variations gives a well balanced set of stories, each charming in their own right as well as a beautiful blend when read together.

Inevitably each reader will have their own favourites; for me it was the two modern variations plus the excellent contribution from a newer author in this field, Barry S Richman.

104) Lady Beth Fitzwilliam: Part 1 - Kidnapped: A Pride & Prejudice Variation by Shana Granderson - 2.5*

105) Lady Beth Fitzwilliam: Part 2 – Consequences: A Pride & Prejudice Variation by Shana Granderson - 2.5*.

Perhaps if these two were merged into one 350-300 page book the end product would be smoother and less rambling but at present they are not great in all honesty.

106) Spies of Our Acquaintance: A Pride & Prejudice Variation by Brigid Huey - 3*.

Not one I will return to again, I found the writing to be very basic, comprised mostly of single clause sentences and little colour. The language was too modern in a number of places and a rather bizarre combination of US and British English which made for a very discombobulating read. For example distances are quoted in meters (not period compliant or indeed correct UK spelling) and in feet in the same paragraph.

I did smile at Elizabeth declaring she would live in a monastery to avoid any family shame from the breach of propriety. I am not sure the monks would agree that having a single woman living amongst a group of devout men would achieve the desired effect!

107) The Curse: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Kate Speck - 2*.

I wanted to give this a higher rating but I just couldn't. The original plot idea is good but the writing is not great. Unfortunately the grammar is all over the place and the language used is not appropriate at times. The other big problem for me was the failure to stick to the plot and to end the story in a timely fashion. The author seemed to feel the need to keep adding another subplot, and another, and another etc. A good editor would be of great benefit to this author as she is clearly able to devise interesting and varied plots but needs help in executing them well.

108) Improvise by Melanie Rachel - 5*+

109) Adapt by Melanie Rachel - 5*+

110) Overcome by Melanie Rachel - 5*+

I love this modern trilogy. The author has stayed true to Austen’s characters but has seamlessly moved them into the 21st Century. This is filled with adventure, angst, humour and romance. The whole package. The younger Bennet sisters are great fun in this.

111) Vitriol and Vineyards: A Modern Pride and Prejudice Story by McKinley James - 3.5*.

Short and sweet, with a little bit of spice.

112) A Conversation Behind the Tapestries: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Beth Wood - 3.5*.

A funny little interlude with a nice balance between plot and humour. I felt it lost its way a little between about 50% and 80% before getting firmly back to the humour which seems to suit this author's style of writing.

113) Hearts Entwined by Melissa Anne - 3.5*.

This was a generally well written book but the author disappears down too many unnecessary side paths in her writing making the books a little too drawn out and muddled. I found the same issue in the previous book by the same author. Putting this problem to one side this is a good book and I do wish this author would work with a more effective editor to elevate her work to a higher level. Her plots deserve it.

114) Blessing or Burden: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Elaine Burkett - 3.5*.

An interesting and well edited story in which the meeting between Darcy and Elizabeth is delayed and as a result is less acrimonious than in canon.

I enjoyed this book although I did feel that Elizabeth's behaviour, especially with Collins, was somewhat too naive.

115) The Emma Project by Sonali Dev - 5*+

This series has been a delight from start to finish. Quality writing throughout and, like Austen's original work, this is not just about charging towards the settling of a romance or two. These books have real meat and are first and foremost about the development of the characters.

This final book in the series has a gender swap with the "Emma" character being played by the youngest of the Raje children, a son. There is real depth in this book and difficult life issues are addressed. This a mature book both in language and in content and that should be taken into account by readers although it shouldn't put people off. It would be a real pity to miss out on such a good series.

I listened to these as audiobooks and the narration is top notch.

116) You've got to Kiss the Girl by Laura Hile - 3.75*.

A quick read/listen with a restricted cast and lots of laughs. Poor Lady Catherine is not perhaps quite as well informed on everything as she thinks.

I also read The Prodigal the new Regency non-JAFF from Amy D'Orazio and Jessie Lewis - 5* start to a new series.

I enjoyed some audio renditions of Poirot, Maigret and the first 2 books from the Little House series (thanks for the reminder of my childhood literary friends Sophia).

Craftyhj wrote: "I have enjoyed my first month here with the good Colonel. I think I shall be here for a couple more months.

101) A Gentleman's Honor by Melanie Rachel - 5*.

Anot..."

Well, you did go and have a good reading time in the Colonel's library at Delaford, Heather!

Love seeing the fun Melanie Rachel binge read. That is funny about Elizabeth and the monastery- yeah, those monks sure would sit up and take notice of that.

Yay! Fun that you got back to your childhood reads, too. I had such a good time reading old favorites this past month.

Craftyhj wrote: "I have enjoyed my first month here with the good Colonel. I think I shall be here for a couple more months.

101) A Gentleman's Honor by Melanie Rachel - 5*.

Anot..."

Great!!!

Craftyhj wrote: "I have enjoyed my first month here with the good Colonel. I think I shall be here for a couple more months.

101) A Gentleman's Honor by Melanie Rachel - 5*.

Anot..."

An enjoyable list, Heather. Sorry about the dud.
I gather you like the modern retellings?

Sam wrote: "Craftyhj wrote: "I have enjoyed my first month here with the good Colonel. I think I shall be here for a couple more months.

101) A Gentleman's Honor by [author:Melanie Rachel|1555..."

I do like the modern ones. I resisted for ages and it took me a long time to try them but I find on the whole they are better than a lot of the regency era ones. Having said that I have one on the go at the moment which has lots of great reviews from this group and it is well written but I am struggling to get it finished. I have parked it for now to pick up again later.

I'm bidding goodbye to the Colonel.

126. Entanglements of Honor: A Pride & Prejudice Variation https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2... 5 stars.
127. Mr. Darcy's Grieving Wife: A Pride and Prejudice Variation https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5... 3.5 stars.
128. The Curse: A Pride and Prejudice Variation https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5... 3 stars.
129. A Man with Faults https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3... 3 stars.
130. What Comes Between Cousins https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3... 4 stars.
131. Lady Catherine Takes Charge: A Pride & Prejudice Variation https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5... 3 stars.
132. The Truth About Family https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6... 5 stars.
133. An Unexpected Merry Gentleman https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4... 5 stars.
134. A Good Name https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4... 5++ stars.
135. Love Potion, Darcy's Mine: A Pride and Prejudice Variation https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2... 4 stars.
136. Infamous Relations: A Pride And Prejudice "What If?" Tale https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3... 5 stars. Re-read.
137. Unexpected development https://archiveofourown.org/works/566... 3 stars. Enjoyable interaction between ODC, if this happened in this century. I really can't believe a single lady can or will attend a single, unrelated gentleman, however ill he is without a chaperone.
138. The runaway bride https://archiveofourown.org/works/543... 4 stars. Elizabeth escapes marriage to Collins and rescued by Darcy trope. Though the proprieties are largely ignored at least it is acknowledged. A really cute story, par for the author.
139. Accidents at balls https://archiveofourown.org/works/574... 3.5 stars. A FMS trope with really bad Bennets.
140. The Lady drowned, sir 4.5 stars. Bingley returns to Netherfield in the winter in spite of his sisters's objections and when Darcy visits him he learns that Elizabeth has drowned while walking two days before her marriage to Collins. After 7 agonising years, Darcy rescues a maid at an inn who resembles Elizabeth and offers to marry her but she refuses to be under any man's power but offers to become his mistress. How this situation is resolved is interesting though I'm not a fan of intimacy outside of marriage or a mistress situation. But the story is very nicely resolved.
141. Elizabeth Bennet's Secret Protector: A Pride and Prejudice Variation https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4... 2 stars. A very poorly written story and bad premise. The worst combination.
142. Pemberley in Peril: A Pride and Prejudice Vagary https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3... 5 stars. A beautifully written, perfectly balanced blend of intrigue, villainy, romance, sentiments and of course, ODC.
143. Charming Mr. Darcy: A Pride & Prejudice Variation https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6... 4 stars. A fantasy variation with Elizabeth having paranormal powers of seeing and hearing, well, I'm not going to reveal it because the author doesn't for nearly half the book. Elizabeth's talent leads to some interesting situations and a nice HEA for ODC.
144. The Unforgettable Mr. Darcy: A Pride and Prejudice Variation https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4... 4 stars. Darcy rescues amnesiac Elizabeth story. I really liked that Elizabeth remains Elizabeth even after regaining her memory and doesn't fall to her knees in gratitude even though it was frustrating to read at that time. Good story!
145. After Ramsgate http://austenunderground.com/forum/in... 2 stars. A short story written more like the summary of a novel with a good premise.
146. A walk in the snow http://austenunderground.com/forum/in... 4 stars. A really cute post marriage Christmas story.
147. A Perfectly (Un)timely Proposal https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6... 5 stars. A really cute and lovely story.
148. Sampler of sweet William 3.5 stars. http://austenunderground.com/forum/in.... A very different short novella. ODC is married and Lady Anne is alive. A sampler Elizabeth peruses reminds her of her lost daughter Georgiana. This leads to many twists and turns and a bit of intrigue making for an enjoyable story.
149. Most ardently https://archiveofourown.org/works/400... 4 stars. This story is more in reference to the Keira Knightley movie. It starts with the proposal scene and instead of leaving after the refusal, Darcy kisses Elizabeth who reciprocates and thus are forced into a marriage. Their physical attraction contributes a lot to their marriage. The one thing I liked was even with a FMS, Elizabeth is more open minded towards the marriage than many other stories, which leads to a much more pleasant reading.
150. Death at Netherfield ball Jennifer Joy and Riana everly. Sorry, I don't have a link. If I remember right, this was a freebie for the author's newsletter subscribers. Elizabeth finds a dead man during the Netherfield ball, and the resulting investigation brings ODC closer together.

well done - have fun with Miss Watson.