Austenesque Lovers TBR Pile Challenge 2024 discussion

40 views
Challenge Levels > Colonel Brandon 101-150 Books

Comments Showing 101-149 of 149 (149 new)    post a comment »
1 3 next »
dateUp arrow    newest »

message 101: by Nina (new)

Nina | 55 comments abmom wrote: "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 Grievin..."


Great inspirations, there were some good 5 stars Among your bunch :-)


message 102: by Sophia (new)

Sophia (sophiarose) | 612 comments Mod
abmom wrote: "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 Grievin..."


You sure had a great reading experience in the Colonel's library, abmom. I'm glad to see your high marks on a few I still need to get to.


message 103: by Sam (new)

Sam H. | 434 comments abmom wrote: "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 Grievin..."


Nice progress!
I see a few were not so nice tho. Shame about those.


message 104: by Kirk (new)

Kirk (goodreadscomkirkc) | 265 comments abmom wrote: "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 Grievin..."

Excellent!!!


message 105: by Linda (new)

Linda | 135 comments abmom wrote: "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 Grievin..."


Great progress!


message 106: by Craftyhj (new)

Craftyhj | 348 comments My August reading has been a little mixed but that's fine. A few literary frogs make that literary prince even more rewarding!

117) Infatuation and Independence: A Modern Austen Short Story by Jennifer Becton - 5*.

This was great fun - everything a short story should be. A very limited cast, humour, a touch of romance and a feisty young woman.

There is a delightful, gentle nudge at the JAFF world's obsession with the Colonel's name - Excellent.

118) What Happened After Lambton, updated: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Melissa Anne - 3.5*.

There have been a number of newer published writers in this genre recently and I think Melissa Anne is among the better of these authors. She has interesting plot ideas and her writing is easy to read. Unfortunately there is a tendency to disappear down too many rabbit-holes in the form of side plots.

The original idea was great here - what if Darcy and Elizabeth resolve their differences at Pemberley/Lambton. How might everything roll on from there? This was handled well.

Unfortunately what started as something which rounded out the plot in the form of Jane's response turned into something rather too weird for my tastes.

119) Battle of the Dragons: A Regency Romp inspired by P&P by Sydney Salier - 3.5*.

Not great literature but lots of fun.

The title says it all - a glorious romp by the beloved P&P characters plus a key new one. I haven't been quite sure about the last few books by this author but this one was a definite hit. There are errors in language and period compliance but bot enough to take away from the fun.

120) Cursing Mr. Darcy by Amy D'Orazio - 5*

Grabs the reader on the first page and just doesn’t let go

A thrilling read from start to finish - I loved it! This book has it all with romance, mystery, tension and adventure, all packed in without compromising on quality.

This was a really original plot in the tradition of the very best of true fairy tales, with a complex and mysterious twist and no reliance on commercial fluff. It is also ultimately a story of redemption and of drawing a line under past sins, choosing instead to move forward in peace.

121) Longbourn Library: A Novel of Pride, Prejudice, and Books by Trudy Wallis - 3.5*.

I liked this book but I really couldn't claim to love it. I liked the characters and the matching up of the beloved characters in a modern setting. The characters if Mr and Mrs Bennet were charmingly sympathetic and I liked the Kitty character too. I was perhaps not quite so keen on the main characters.

I did feel like the author was trying too hard to "catch" all of the main plot points from the original and also trying too too hard to be amusing. Not all facets of the original book translate well into a modern setting and I found the Mary character rather cringeworthy as indeed was Charlotte's attitude to marriage.

As the daughter of a librarian, libraries are in my DNA but I did feel that the author dropped too many books into the story.

122) An Interrupted Journey by leavesfallingup - 3*.

This is an interesting story with an unusual plot but, as with many books slowly released on a FF site, it is rather disjointed in places and has errors in timing/ages etc.

The language is rather too modern at times but I tend to be rather more lenient when the work is unpublished and free to read.

123) Sanctuary: A Modern Pride and Prejudice Variation: Volume 1 by Cat Andrews - 5*.

An excellent start to a three part series.

Both Darcy and Elizabeth have experienced trauma in thier previous relationships and need to be bold to step out of their comfort zones to find out whether there is something new for them.

This story is definitely “off-canon” but that does not in any way detract from an excellent story. The writing is tight and the plot flows easily.

124) Sanctuary: Volume 2 by Cat Andrews - 4.5*.

A solid sequel exploring the growing relationships and also the collapsing ones. A little too long perhaps.

125) Sanctuary: Volume 3 - 4.5*.

This final part of the series has a little more angst as Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s past lives intrude in their new life together.

I have enjoyed this series and would definitely recommend it although it is perhaps a little longer than it needs to be.

126) Family Secrets: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Karen Kate Rowley - 1*.

I read a lot of books and I very rarely fail to finish but I just could not torture myself any more and gave up around the 20% mark. I am not sufficiently interested in the secret to read on.

The author has sought to use period appropriate language but this just does not work. Every single noun has some sort of flowery adjective attached to it as do most of the verbs. That does not constitute period appropriate language. Even the lad working the fields starts his sentences with "Pray tell..."! The effect of all of these unnecessary words is that the sentences frequently make no sense at all.

I realise this seems harsh but this is not a cheap book to buy (I read it through KU) and it is not fit for purpose.

127) Tea with Austen: A Historical Romance Collection for Charity Inspired by Jane Austen - 3*.

An anthology of very mixed quality (somewhat like the little curl with the curl ...). When Bennet or Pemberley are not spelled correctly it is time to put a book down.

128) An Unexpected Legacy by Don H. Miller - 3*.

An easy low angst read - pure escapism.

129) A Hopeless Business: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Jan Ashton - 4*.

I always know I will enjoy books by this author with her smooth flowing writing style and uncluttered plot lines. This new book definitely continues in the same vein, showing the author's writing skills to great effect. The editing is strong and I did not detect any editing errors. The plot is clearly laid out at the start of the book and the reader is gently guided along to a very satisfactory ending. I wish more authors had this skill.

I loved the quote that was chosen for the title and to define the plot. It is one of those lines I have read many times in the original Pride and Prejudice but had not taken it fully on board. This was such a clever idea as indeed was the whole plot of the book.

However, I have to be honest and say that whilst I liked the book very much, I didn't love it. I thought the plot idea was very clever and extremely well written but I found it less than fully pleasing as an idea. If ever a man needed a kick in a tender place it was this Mr Bennet. His behaviour was not overtly cruel but was very insidious.

130) Drawing Mr. Darcy: Sketching His Character by Melanie Rachel - 5*.

What a superbly written story. The additional characters are endearing and the classic characters are portrayed in a sympathetic and engaging fashion.

131) Drawing Mr. Darcy: A Faithful Portrait by Melanie Rachel - 5*.

A beautiful, sympathetically written story. Very romantic but not at all soft. The characterisation is excellent. A few tears which doesn't happen very often!

132) Charlotte by Helen Moffett - 4* (Audiobook)

Charlotte Collins nee Lucas is the central character throughout this book with smaller appearances from her husband and expended family, Elizabeth Darcy nee Bennet and Anne de Bourgh. There are original characters also.

This story starts with a very sad occurrence and much of the book is about grief and its effect on people in general, Charlotte, Mr Collins and Elizabeth in particular. This is authentically written and there is minimal sugar coating which I very much appreciated. Many writers in this genre are too quick to gloss over difficulties and despite the fact that losses were more common than in our healthcare enhanced 21st century I am sure that did not make them any less painful. The losses would be considered trigger warnings so I do make that clear for those who might be susceptible.

This is not however all doom and gloom. There is much joy and humour and the deep bonds of friendship between women which is beautifully described.

There is a surprising scene of mature intimacy which felt unnecessary to me.

133) My Dear Friend: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Heather Moll - 5*.

Such a cunning twist - Who knew dating apps were so retro?!

I loved the premise of this book from one of my favourite authors, and the writing lived up to the expectations. I am fascinated by how candid we often are when we are writing words rather than saying them out loud and this book explored this concept in a very interesting way. Letter writing is the perfect way for Mr Darcy to shine, 4 syllable words included, and that is exactly what he did. Elizabeth Bennet, also a lover of the written word, was no slouch either and kept pace with him perfectly and indeed pertly.

134) Mr. Darcy & Elizabeth: Pemberley's New Mistress by Alyssa Jefferson - 3.5*.

An enjoyable story with a very different scenario - I don’t believe I have ever read one even slightly like it.

The overarching theme seems to be a mystery but underpinning it is the burgeoning love story between Elizabeth and Darcy. There are rather more errors of language/period compliance than is ideal as well as some errors in timings/plot which jar a little. Nonetheless I did enjoy this book.

135) Unconventional Ladies: Book 2: Unconventional - A Regency novel inspired by P&P by Sydney Salier - 2*.

I find I didn't enjoy this on the second reading as I did the first time. The rapid and relentless self-imposed justice by a bunch of self important people left me a bit cold.

I also read The Maid by Jessie Lewis and Amy D'Orazio 5* and Murder on Black Swan Lane by Andrea Penrose 4* which I am are would both appeal to members of this group.


message 107: by Sophia (new)

Sophia (sophiarose) | 612 comments Mod
Craftyhj wrote: "My August reading has been a little mixed but that's fine. A few literary frogs make that literary prince even more rewarding!

117) [book:Infatuation and Independence: A Modern Austen Short Story..."


As always, Heather! You do fabulous recaps and I love seeing you plunk down a nice large stack to add to your challenge numbers. :)


message 108: by Craftyhj (new)

Craftyhj | 348 comments Thanks Sophia. The real find for me was Charlotte by Helen Moffett. I had never come across it before but I picked it up in a £2.99 Audible sale. It had a depth of plot which doesn't come along all that often.


message 109: by Sophia (new)

Sophia (sophiarose) | 612 comments Mod
Craftyhj wrote: "Thanks Sophia. The real find for me was Charlotte by Helen Moffett. I had never come across it before but I picked it up in a £2.99 Audible sale. It had a depth of ..."

I'll have to mark that one. I do love stories that dig deeper when it comes to Charlotte.


message 110: by Sam (new)

Sam H. | 434 comments Craftyhj wrote: "My August reading has been a little mixed but that's fine. A few literary frogs make that literary prince even more rewarding!

117) [book:Infatuation and Independence: A Modern Austen Short Story..."


Very nice!
I am looking forward to reading Heather Moll's new one.


message 111: by Linda (new)

Linda | 135 comments I've been reading a lot of non-JAFF, but here are my first 15 for this level.

101. Thwarted 5* A totally different story, unlike any I’ve read before. I can’t believe it, but I actually felt bad for Caroline
102. A Baby for Mr. Darcy: A Pride & Prejudice Variation 4* Evil lord Matlock and a bad Mr. Bennet
103. Gone to Visit His Uncle https://meryton.com/aha/index.php?/to... 4* Breakfast at Longbourn the day after Lydia’s wedding.
104. Thank You Mr. Collins https://meryton.com/aha/index.php?/to... 5*
105. The Many Lives of Fitzwilliam Darcy 3.5* a ground hog day story, with Darcy living the day of the Hunsford proposal over and over
106. Georgiana's Savior, A Pride and Prejudice Variation 3* Like all this author’s stories, an editor would have made it more readable.
107. Fitzwilliam Darcy Elopes: A Pride and Prejudice Variation 4* To divert attention from Lydia running away, D&E go to Scotland to elope
108. Deception & Retribution: A Pride and Prejudice Variation 3.5* Poor Jane. Warning – there are several scenes of rape, but they are not described in detail other than that they happened and are necessary to the story
109. Summers at Pemberley: A Pride and Prejudice Retelling 4.5* I liked this even more the second reading
110. Kitty Comes Into Her Own https://www.fanfiction.net/s/13773697... 4.5* after Mrs. B allows Lydia to come out at the same time as Kitty, she decides to learn accomplishments and travel away from Longbourn
111. The Letter of the Law: A Pride & Prejudice Variation 3.5* Darcy or Col. F must marry before Georgiana turns 16
112. Interior of a Family 4* Lizzy is not a Bennet
113. Hope is the Thing https://meryton.com/aha/index.php?/to... 4* a very sweet one shot
114. Even More Consequences from a Call https://meryton.com/aha/index.php?/to... 3.5* Overly long. Mrs. Hurst dies at the beginning and Hurst and Darcy become BFFs. The Bennets have money and connections. A LOT of new to P&P characters
115. Darcy's Pursuit 3* a good chase story, but propriety was ignored completely. No maiden would get into a carriage with only a single man as a companion


message 112: by Sam (new)

Sam H. | 434 comments Well done, Linda!


message 113: by Sophia (new)

Sophia (sophiarose) | 612 comments Mod
Linda wrote: "I've been reading a lot of non-JAFF, but here are my first 15 for this level.

101. Thwarted 5* A totally different story, unlike any I’ve read before. I can’t believe it, but I ac..."


Yay for a huge stack completed for your visit to Colonel Brandon, Linda.

I've enjoyed a few of those, but glad to get your thoughts and ratings on a couple others that are new to me.


message 114: by Craftyhj (new)

Craftyhj | 348 comments A lovely mix Linda - well done!


message 116: by Craftyhj (new)

Craftyhj | 348 comments And yet more lovely reads Sheila. As we are in the same library at the moment perhaps you can leave some of these on a convenient side table for me to pick up and read, rather than playing cards in the evening with the Bingleys.


message 117: by Sheila (new)

Sheila Majczan (sheilalmajczan) | 136 comments Laughing. Thanks.


message 118: by Craftyhj (new)

Craftyhj | 348 comments My September list is a little shorter than usual as I have spent a glorious two weeks walking the Pembrokeshire coast in South Wales. For those of you who don't know the coastline there it is similar to Cornwall (think Poldark) but quieter.

It made me realise that very few books in this genre are set in Wales ...

136) It's Always Been Us by L.L. Diamond - 4*.

Another well written book in this modern series. This one picks up from the first in the series although it would not be essential to have read the first one - although I would highly recommend it.

The story has charming links to Pride and Prejudice as well as to Sense and Sensibility. It is time for Jena Barrett to step into the spotlight and find romance for herself.

137)A Trifling Cold: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Lory Lilian - 3.25*

I enjoyed the plot which was interesting and well formed. This was a big plus for me. Unfortunately there were far too many unnecessary pages which do not progress the story at all. Pruning away at least a third of this book would elevate it considerably.

138) It's Always Been You and Me by L.L. Diamond - 3.75*.

An enjoyable addition to this series of modern variations with hints of Austen. The first has Pride and Prejudice vibes and the second leans towards Sense and Sensibility. This one definitely leans to Persuasion. I found I didn't really warm to the male lead in Jenson Worth who seemed far too full of himself for a lot of the time.

139) Unwilling: A Pride and Prejudice Vagary by Elizabeth Adams - 4*.

This is well written and well edited. The characters are authentic and endearing and the plot is well constructed. Elizabeth’s uncertainty is understandable and portrayed well. There are some uses of language which is not period compliant but not many.

The mild disappointment I had, especially on a second reading, is the lack of "oomph". There is a steady path through the book but no clear turning point for me.

140) Fanny, A Mansfield Park Story by Amelia Marie Logan - 5*.

One of the most authentically written variations I have read, this book is a clear cut above the overwhelming majority of the books in this genre, with a writing style and language which honours Jane Austen.

The author allows one key change to create ripples through the lives of the characters in Mansfield Park and we see the character of Fanny Price grew into a woman of greater depth as a result of disappointments and disillusionment.

I heartily recommend this book. The author clearly acknowledges at the beginning that the reader needs to be familiar with Austen's Mansfield Park.

141) Finding Love at Loch Ness by Melissa Anne - 3*.

I liked this book which was a very easy read without any angst. I generally enjoy this author's work.

There are a few niggles which took the star rating down a little. I found the use of quote marks around each British/Scottish English word incredibly frustrating (e.g. 'fry-up'). if this isn't done in a regency version then why should it be necessary in this modern version. It was very distracting. There was also rather too much touristy information for my tastes.

As a Brit I did find the behaviour of Lady Catherine unrealistic.

142) Discretion and Decorum: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Darcy Quinne Alexander - 2.5*.

This is an interesting book written from Darcy's POV throughout. I enjoyed this writing style despite some editing errors. The plot was also very interesting, if a little off-canon, which I also appreciated. Some reviewers have commented on the characters being too OOC but I didn't mind that. I am not a member of the "Colonel Fitzwilliam has to be Mr Nice Guy" club so a bit more grit to his character is fine by me. Darcy seemed rather baffled most of the time but I suspect Austen's Darcy was baffled a lot of the time too. We only see that in this book because it is from his perspective.

Why 2.5*? It does sound like I enjoyed it more than that.

Firstly I felt that having made a decision to have a darker and risqué plot they should have focused on this plot but instead other little bits were dropped in which detracted from the plot rather than building on it.

Secondly, The plot was just too scattered. People kept popping up all over the place out of the blue and there was no clear flow to the book. I don't want to put spoilers in here but the final 20% descended into complete farce for me.

A good editor could turn this into a very good book.

143) Pemberley by Mary Smythe - 5*.

There is a charming lightness of spirit to this book which I found very pleasing. The writing flows easily and I was readily caught up in the plot, the humour and the character development.

The supernatural element is very well handled with just the right amount of intrigue to add a little extra to the plot.

144) Only Exceedingly Shy by Jann Rowland - 4* for narration; 2* for book.

It is really rather difficult to review this book as there really is very little to review. The narration by Harry Frost is good as always but not enough to elevate the book above a low average.

145) A Change of Heart: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by E.A. Batten - 3.5*.

A well edited, well structured read with minimal angst. This story had a delightful epilogue linking back to an apparently inconsequential action earlier in the story.

146) Darcy and Elizabeth: The Faces of Love by Arthel Cake - 4*.

A very good book with an interesting and unusual plot.

These characters have an authenticity to them which is not often found in this genre. There is often a temptation to make Darcy something of a 'new man' which des not ring true but in this book the author has portrayed the character well, emotionally deep but not too soft.

The main plot is good but is diluted at times by some side plots which do not necessarily add enough to merit their inclusion.

A lovely month of reading (and listening) with the standout book for me being Fanny, A Mansfield Park Story by Amelia Marie Logan.


message 120: by Craftyhj (new)

Craftyhj | 348 comments Well done Sheila - another lovely mix. Happy reading for the next batch.


message 121: by Sophia (new)

Sophia (sophiarose) | 612 comments Mod
Sheila wrote: "Updating:

115.) Her Whole Heart: A Pride and Prejudice Variation 4.5 stars
116.) Mr. Darcy's Impulsive Moment: A Pride & Prejudice Novel Variation 4 stars
117.) [..."


Wow, Sheila! Looking good!

Yay to see the high ratings on ones I want to try.


message 122: by Linda (new)

Linda | 135 comments My next batch:
116. Honour, Decorum & Prudence: A Pride and Prejudice Variation 3* Mr. B and Earl of Matlock are old school friends with a secret
117. In Sickness and in Health 5* I really enjoy Francis Reynolds’ stories
118. The Misfortunes of Rev. William Collins https://meryton.com/aha/index.php?/to... 4* Tells how Lady C was moved to accost Elizabeth about Mr. Darcy. Charlotte is a delight in this
119. Sisters of the Heart 3.5* an editor would have been helpful. As with all this author’s books, it was no-angst and sweet
120. Darcy the Hero https://meryton.com/aha/index.php?/to... 2.5* A teenaged Darcy saves Lizzy and Mary from child snatchers
121. These Recollections https://archiveofourown.org/works/509... 3.5* Darcy either gets to relive the past or is having a fever dream.
122. Don't flatter yourself: A Pride and Prejudice Variation 4* The Bennets have more connections and money than in cannon
123. The Other Bennet Sister 4* I really liked this, but there reached a point around 2/3 of the book, where it kind of dragged. It was nice to see Mary get her chance at a happy ending
124. Third Night at Netherfield https://www.fanfiction.net/s/14313488... 3.5* D & E commit improprieties on E’s third night tending to Jane (still clean, and not THAT impropriety)
125. A Covenant of Marriage 4.5* The Gardiners go to the lakes as planned, they return to find Lydia eloped with Wickham. Four years later, Darcy goes to Mr. Bennet to arrange a marriage with Elizabeth.
126. Something in her Eyes https://meryton.com/aha/index.php?/to... 3* alternate to the second proposal
127. The Bennet Inheritance 3.5* Due to chicanery, Bennet doesn’t inherit Longbourn until much later. There are only three daughters, Jane, Elizabeth and Mary, and Mrs. B is dead. The Bennet and Darcy families have a generational friendship
128. Desserts https://meryton.com/aha/index.php?/to... 5* a short modern where Bingley tries to pick up Jane at a bar
129. Lost Lovers Glen https://www.fanfiction.net/s/12595681... 4* a secret lovers glen at Netherfield helps E & D understand each other
130. Mistress of Longbourn https://meryton.com/aha/index.php?/to... 4.5* with Mr. Bennet dead, Mrs. B sets her sights on Mr. Collins


message 123: by Craftyhj (new)

Craftyhj | 348 comments Well done Linda. I agree with you - Frances Reynolds writes very well indeed.


message 124: by Sophia (new)

Sophia (sophiarose) | 612 comments Mod
Linda wrote: "My next batch:
116. Honour, Decorum & Prudence: A Pride and Prejudice Variation 3* Mr. B and Earl of Matlock are old school friends with a secret
117. [book:In Sickness and in Heal..."


Wowsers, Linda! This is fabulous reading.


message 125: by Craftyhj (new)

Craftyhj | 348 comments My last few books in the the Colonel's library,

147) Strokes of Inelegance by Christina Moreland published on Austen Variations - 5*.

An excellent and very authentic modern variation, The characters have a reality to them which can be missing when trying to modernise a 200 year old book.

148) Traces of Magic: A Pride and Prejudice Fantasy Variation by Monica Fairview - 3.75*.

This was an enjoyable addition to the series although it took rather too long to get going and didn't feel quite as sharp in its editing as I have come to expect from this author.

One other little request to the author - with a year between books in the series, perhaps at the beginning of the book it would be good to provide a short precise of the previous books.

The narration does not do the book any favours, the narrator being rather too stodgy in delivery.

149) The Darcy Files by Cat Gardiner - 5*.

Cat Gardiner writes modern Austenesque authentically and realistically and this collection is up to her high standards. The language and behaviour of the characters is appropriate to the period and is real.

Each of the four stories was well constructed and engaging - I loved them all. If you really pushed me to pick a favourite it would have to be the last, "Writer's Block".

150) By Order of Their Birth, First by desertrat68 - 3*.

This is the only book I have read in which Georgiana is the older sibling and this little wrinkle made for a very interesting variation. It is generally not badly edited for an unpublished book. Like most unpublished work it is rather too long and would need editing before publishing. Nonetheless it was an enjoyable read.

I have had lots of fun in the Colonel's library - on to Miss Watson's library.


message 126: by Sophia (new)

Sophia (sophiarose) | 612 comments Mod
Craftyhj wrote: "My last few books in the the Colonel's library,

147) Strokes of Inelegance by Christina Moreland published on Austen Variations - 5*.

An excellent and very authentic modern variation, The charact..."


I've enjoyed some of those, too. Way to go, Heather!


message 128: by Craftyhj (new)

Craftyhj | 348 comments A lovely mix there Sheila. The Colonel has clearly been treating you well.


message 129: by Adele (new)

Adele (delbert59) | 10 comments Well its mid December and i think ill probably be staying here with Col Brandon.

Here is my list of 2024 JAFf reads:

https://www.goodreads.com/review/list...


message 130: by Craftyhj (new)

Craftyhj | 348 comments lots of lovely reading there Adele.


message 131: by Sophia (new)

Sophia (sophiarose) | 612 comments Mod
Sheila wrote: "Updating:

128.) Imagining Mr. Darcy: A Pride and Prejudice Variation 3.5 stars
129.) Just Between Us: A Pride & Prejudice Variation 4.5 stars
130.) [book:The Lizzy..."


Oh wow, Sheila! You not only did great reading through a huge stack, but had some really pleasant reading, too.


message 132: by Sophia (new)

Sophia (sophiarose) | 612 comments Mod
Adele wrote: "Well its mid December and i think ill probably be staying here with Col Brandon.

Here is my list of 2024 JAFf reads:

https://www.goodreads.com/review/list......"


Yes, you've read some good ones over the past weeks, Adele! I was glad to see a couple I still need to read got 5 stars from you.


message 133: by Linda (new)

Linda | 135 comments I finished this level. I've been reading a lot of non-JAFF this year.
131. So Forced a Relinquishment https://www.dwiggie.com/derby/suzo14.htm 4* Persuasion pre-canon when Anne gives up Wentworth
132. Persuasion: Behind the Scenes 4* “the scenes Austen never wrote”
133. Pride, Prejudice, and Reconsideration : Volume 1 3* A slightly different version of P&P where the Bennet’s are secretly wealthy and connected
134. Pride, Prejudice, and Reconsideration: Volume 2 3* The Bennets become friends with the queen
135. More Than a Pretty Face: A Pride and Prejudice Variation 5* I love Frances Reynold’s writing. I also love that she made Jane a well-rounded character
136. Chosen DNF not one character acted in character, and everything was exaggerated
137. So You Were Never a Saint and I Loved in Shades of Wrong https://www.fanfiction.net/s/14410131... 3.5*
138. Betrayal https://meryton.com/aha/index.php?/to... 3.5* Col. Fitzwilliam and Earl Matlock conspire against Darcy, leading to a break with them. He’s close to Lady Catherine, who changed after Anne died
139. Fear and Fairy Tales https://archiveofourown.org/works/154... 4* Elizabeth is a changeling and Darcy knows magic against the fey
140. The Problem with Soulmates https://archiveofourown.org/works/604... 4* not a D&E pairing
141. An Ever Fixed Mark 4* Lizzy has a soul mark of Fitzwilliam, Col. F has Bennet. They fall in love and marry. As usual, the poor Col. dies. A really good story.
142. Out of the Mouths of Babes https://meryton.com/aha/index.php?/to... 4* Mr. Bennet gets a wake up call
143. One Last Glimpse https://meryton.com/aha/index.php?/to... quickie describing Darcy leaving Rosings after the proposal
144. Mr Bingley's Bride 4.5* Caroline goes crazy
145. The Hedgerows https://meryton.com/aha/index.php?/to... two different glimpses into Mrs. Bennet after the death of Mr. Bennet
146. Happily Ever After https://meryton.com/aha/index.php?/to... 4.5* description of Lydia’s life approximately 10 years after marrying Wickham
147. Agony https://meryton.com/aha/index.php?/to... 3.5* Elizabeth and Darcy work out their differences at the parsonage
148. In Spite of All: A Love Unbroken https://www.fanfiction.net/s/14395495... 4* E&D meet when she’s 16, fall in love, but others interfere
149. A Perfect Stranger: A Pride and Prejudice Variation 4* Darcy doesn’t prevent Georgiana’s elopement. He sees the goodness in E while she nurses Jane at Netherfield.
150. An Accidental Proposal 4* D is about to propose at the parsonage when his cousins interrupt, to a much better result.


message 134: by Craftyhj (new)

Craftyhj | 348 comments well done Linda!


message 135: by Sheila (last edited Dec 20, 2024 08:39AM) (new)

Sheila Majczan (sheilalmajczan) | 136 comments Updating as I have now reached my goal for the year.

144.) Sudden Awakenings: A Pride and Prejudice Variation 4.5 stars
145.) Belle Lisette 5 stars
146.) Despised & Desired: The Marquess' Passionate Wife 3.5 stars
147.) Mr. Darcy's Christmas Kiss: A Pride & Prejudice Christmas Variation 5 stars
148.) How to Get Caught Under the Mistletoe: A Lady's Guide 5 stars
149.) Snowed In: A Modern Pride and Prejudice Story 4.5 stars
150.) Pemberley: A Dog’s Tail (Offered by the author to readers of her blog.) Pippin, a bloodhound with a loss of the sense of smell, is adopted by 13-year-old Rosie, the Darcys only daughter. He creates mischief daily but redeems himself by finding wee Richard who is lost on a snowy day.


message 136: by Craftyhj (new)

Craftyhj | 348 comments A nice festive list Sheila. Well done and happy holidays.


message 137: by Sophia (new)

Sophia (sophiarose) | 612 comments Mod
Linda wrote: "I finished this level. I've been reading a lot of non-JAFF this year.
131. So Forced a Relinquishment https://www.dwiggie.com/derby/suzo14.htm 4* Persuasion pre-canon when Anne gives up Wentworth
1..."


Smashing finish, Linda!
I'll have to look up one with Caroline going crazy. :)


message 138: by Kimbelle (new)

Kimbelle Pease | 65 comments Colonel, dear Colonel, thank you for saving me a chair in your library and for setting aside a most enjoyable collection this year. I hope to visit you again to equal pleasure in the year coming...

Colonel Brandon 101-150 Books
101. A Capital Whip: A Pride and Prejudice Sequel ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
102. The Darcy Monologues ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
103. A Bevy of Suitors ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
104. The Diary: A Pride and Prejudice Variation ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ but somehow my rating and review for Kate's Of The Beholder variation is tied to it.
105. Mrs Bennet's Christmas: A Pride and Prejudice Variation ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
106. True Love Never Fails... ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️sooo much redundancy many will be annoyed that there are so many repeated things like the teasing explained dozens of times, and the statement of Mr. Darcy would do something, then he would do it, and then it would be talked about at least once in detail that it was written when done, so I get why many did not rate higher, but it is original enough to warrant that 4th star!
107. Lizzie Bennet's Choice for the imagination behind the tale ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
108. Mr. Darcy, the Beast: a Pride and Prejudice variation ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Coming Together: A Compilation of Two Pride & Prejudice Series Turns out, it is 5 novellas or novels: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
109. (I Promise To...) By (author) Zoe Burton published on ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
110. Promises Kept: A Pride & Prejudice Novel Variation ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
111. Darcy's Wife Search: A Pride & Prejudice Novella ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
112. Lady Catherine Impedes: A Pride & Prejudice Novella ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
113. Caroline's Censure ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
114. One Bride & Two Grooms: A Pride & Prejudice Novella ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
115. Griefwriting (Jane Austin/P&P mentions all through book!) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
116. Desperately in Love, Darcy: A Pride and Prejudice Anthology Undone Business (novella)⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
117. Desperately in Love, Darcy: A Pride and Prejudice Anthology Sufficient Encouragement (novella) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
118. Desperately in Love, Darcy: A Pride and Prejudice Anthology The Secrets of Pemberley (novella) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
119. A Mortal Heart's Desire: A Pride and Prejudice Variation ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
120. Christmas Celebrations: Short Stories of Jane Austen Fan Fiction ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
121. First Impressions: A Tale of Less Pride & Prejudice ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
122. Kitty ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
123. Second Glances: A Tale of Less Pride and Prejudice Continues ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
124. Foolish Games: A Pride and Prejudice Vagary ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
125. Uncertain Endeavor: A Pride and Prejudice Vagary ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
126. Mr Darcy falls in Love ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️


message 139: by Craftyhj (new)

Craftyhj | 348 comments well done Kimbelle. I am glad you enjoyed your reading so much. Some of the reviews mirror mine and some are completely different but that is one of the joys of a group like this - whether we agree or not we can enjoy and experience the writing together.

Happy New Year to you and yours.


message 140: by Kimbelle (new)

Kimbelle Pease | 65 comments Craftyhj wrote: "well done Kimbelle. I am glad you enjoyed your reading so much. Some of the reviews mirror mine and some are completely different but that is one of the joys of a group like this - whether we agree..."

I could not agree more with your sentiments for we all look at different things. I am mostly excited for the author to show me something creative in their efforts, even if it is not a perfectly written tale, something unique that has a bit of courage, or, even, a bit of daring! One of the best examples was the book Mary B read this year. That one shocked me and though most rated as a 3-4, the unique and daring tale got the highest of marks as I was wholly impressed the author took the tale in the direction she did! I, too, think it is such a wonderful group Miss Sheila has set the stage for!


message 141: by Sophia (new)

Sophia (sophiarose) | 612 comments Mod
Kimbelle wrote: "Colonel, dear Colonel, thank you for saving me a chair in your library and for setting aside a most enjoyable collection this year. I hope to visit you again to equal pleasure in the year coming......"

Wowsers! Looking good with your year end finish, Kimbelle!


message 142: by Sophia (new)

Sophia (sophiarose) | 612 comments Mod
I have arrived to visit the Colonel for a very brief stay. I arrived earlier in the month to spend a few precious days in the Colonel's library.

YTD: 103/150 books

The Bennet Inheritance by Jann Rowland
4.5 stars

A Bennet Wardrobe Christmas Miracle A Pride and Prejudice Variation (The Bennet Wardrobe Series) by Don Jacobson
AUDIO Edition
4.5 stars

Mr. Darcy's Complex Courtship by Kelly Miller
4 stars

Wishing you all a Happy New Year! See you in 2025 group! :)


message 143: by Craftyhj (new)

Craftyhj | 348 comments Sophia wrote: "I have arrived to visit the Colonel for a very brief stay. I arrived earlier in the month to spend a few precious days in the Colonel's library.

YTD: 103/150 books

[bookcover:The Bennet Inheritan..."



Well done Sophia. I am sure the Colonel made you very welcome, even for a short stay.

Happy New Year to you and to those you love. Thank you for running this group so well and I look forward to reading with you in 2025.


message 144: by Kimbelle (new)

Kimbelle Pease | 65 comments Sophia wrote: "I have arrived to visit the Colonel for a very brief stay. I arrived earlier in the month to spend a few precious days in the Colonel's library..."

I am glad to have sat in the room with you and enjoyed the comforts only found in such an auspicious space :) I shall see you there again next year, I hope~


message 145: by Katie (new)

Katie (bookmouse424) | 29 comments It looks like I'm finishing the year with Colonel Brandon. Hopefully I'll make it to the next stage in 2025.

Colonel Brandon: Books 101-150

101. Quite the Opposite: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Jadie Brooks (4 stars)
102. The Red Chrysanthemum: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Linda Beutler (4 stars)
103. The Scarred Duchess: A Saga Based on the Characters of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice by Barry Richman (4 stars)
104. A More Agreeable Man: A Variation of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice by Jan Ashton (3 stars)
105. Mr. Darcy's Matchmaker by Summer Hanford (5 stars)
106. Darcy's Favorite: A Pride & Prejudice Novella Variation by Zoe Burton (4 stars)
107. Handsome Enough to Tempt Him: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Laraba Kendig (4 stars)
108. An Epic Surprise: A Pride & Prejudice Vagary by Shana Granderson (5 stars)
109. My Dear Friend: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Heather Moll (4 stars)
110. The Challenge of Entail by Jann Rowland (4 stars)
111. The Dread Mr. Darcy: a Pride and Prejudice variation by Valerie Lennox (3 stars)
112. Georgiana Darcy's Magical Meddling by Leah Page (4 stars)
113. Mark of Character: A Pride and Prejudice Soulmark Story by Sarah Courtney (3 stars)
114. A Christmas Miracle At Longbourn: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Catherine Bilson (4 stars)
115. Mr. Darcy's Refuge: A Pride & Prejudice Variation by Abigail Reynolds (3 stars)
116. In a dream: A book based on the characters of Pride and Prejudice by Miranda Flan (5 stars)
117. A Familiar Face: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by AnnaMarie Wallace (3 stars)
118. To Catch a Poisoner: A Pride and Prejudice Variation Mystery by Renata McMann (5 stars)
119. Handsome, Clever, and Rich by Jayne Bamber (3 stars)
120. The Mysterious Death of Mr. Darcy: A Pride and Prejudice Vagary by Regina Jeffers (4 stars)
121. Battle of the Dragons: A Regency Romp inspired by P&P by Sydney Salier (5 stars)
122. The Wolves of Longbourn: The Bennett Wolves a Pride and Prejudice Variation by Selene L. Garrou (4 stars)
123. A Father's Sins: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by J. Dawn King (4 stars)
124. The Bennet Inheritance by Jann Rowland (5 stars)
125. Elizabeth is not a Bennet: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Laraba Kendig (4 stars)
126.Out of Obscurity by Jann Rowland (4 stars)
127. A Most Attentive Father: A Regency Novel inspired by P&P by Sydney Salier (5 stars)
128. Darcy's Blunder: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Robert Francis (3 stars)
129. Just Between Us: A Pride & Prejudice Variation by Jayne Bamber (3 stars)
130. A Proper Form of Pride: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Jaeza Rayleigh (5 stars)
131. FOR THE SAKE OF HER HAPPINESS : A PRIDE AND PREJUDICE VARIATION by Marley Fulton (3 stars)
132. A P&P Christmas Carol: A spirited romp through P&P by Sydney Salier (5 stars)
133. A Midsummer Night's Carol: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Kate Speck (3 stars)
134. A Return at Christmas: A Pride and Prejudice Short Story by Melissa Anne (3 stars)
135. The Christmas Heiress by Melanie Rachel (5 stars)
136. Superior Connections: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Lory Lilian (4 stars)
137. The Forgiving Season: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Renata McMann (4 stars)


message 146: by Craftyhj (new)

Craftyhj | 348 comments Well done Katie. Happy reading in 2025.


message 147: by Sophia (new)

Sophia (sophiarose) | 612 comments Mod
Craftyhj wrote: "Sophia wrote: "I have arrived to visit the Colonel for a very brief stay. I arrived earlier in the month to spend a few precious days in the Colonel's library.

YTD: 103/150 books

[bookcover:The B..."


A Pleasure, Heather!


message 148: by Sophia (new)

Sophia (sophiarose) | 612 comments Mod
Kimbelle wrote: "Sophia wrote: "I have arrived to visit the Colonel for a very brief stay. I arrived earlier in the month to spend a few precious days in the Colonel's library..."

I am glad to have sat in the room..."


Yes! We must both make it to Colonel Brandon's level, Kimbelle! :)


message 149: by Sophia (new)

Sophia (sophiarose) | 612 comments Mod
Katie wrote: "It looks like I'm finishing the year with Colonel Brandon. Hopefully I'll make it to the next stage in 2025.

Colonel Brandon: Books 101-150

101. [book:Quite the Opposite: A Pride and Prejudice V..."


You finished strong, Katie! Cheering you on to making it higher in 2025!


1 3 next »
back to top