Mr Darcy's Refuge - Abigail Reynolds

Kindle Edition, 238 pages

Published August 22nd 2012 by White Soup Press (first published August 1st 2012)

Pride and Prejudice variation

Own

I finally Dled the kindle app on my phone, cos hell, nope I do not ever read them when I dl on my computer and then I can not find them. Though this did take me 2 months, ooops. Note to self, if you start one then do finish too.

To read it this long was not a good idea. I totally forgot how they fell in love *hangs head in shame* But hey, still fun!

They have to interact during a flood. Darcy is quite the hero, and Lizzy has to agree.

They will fall in love, have to struggle for their love. Mr Bennet is quite the d*ck. Wickham is up to his old tricks, and omg Jane has quite the love story of her own and I applauded that at the end. Well done, well done!

variations that mix things up are always fun

Trapped for three days by a flood, and trapped forever by society because of it….
The river isn't the only thing overflowing in Hunsford when a natural disaster forces Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy to work together. The residents of flood-stricken Hunsford, seeking refuge in the parsonage atop the hill, are unaware they are interrupting Darcy's disastrous proposal. Even worse, the flood has washed out the only bride to Rosings Park, stranding Darcy with the woman who has just refused his offer of marriage. But it may already be too late to redeem Elizabeth’s reputation…. 

Mr Darcy's Journey - Abigail Reynolds

Mr. Darcy is at his wits’ end. Elizabeth Bennet, the woman he can’t live without, overhears him insulting her family. Now she won’t even listen to his apologies. Then his old friend Sir Anthony Duxbury tells him two of their friends are in terrible danger. If Darcy wants to help them, they have to leave for Yorkshire immediately.

But something doesn’t add up. Elizabeth claims to know Sir Anthony, too – but by a different name. What game is his old friend playing? And is it dangerous?

Even Sir Anthony says the trip is dangerous. The Luddite rebels are on the verge of armed revolt – and he should know, because he’s one of them. Darcy’s cousin Lady Frederica decides she’s going with them anyway, and insists on bringing Elizabeth. Could this be Darcy’s chance to earn Elizabeth’s forgiveness and her love?

Elizabeth would rather face a squad of Napoleon’s soldiers than spend three days trapped in a carriage with Darcy and his headstrong cousin, but she has her own reason for agreeing to come. If she can just manage to keep her temper, she may be able to rescue her uncle from financial ruin.

But when a Luddite riot erupts around them, it’s Darcy and Elizabeth who need rescuing – from each other. 

My thoughts:

I listened to an audio version narrated by Elizabeth Klett. I felt she did an amazing job. It kept me entertained, I liked her voice and she kept a good pace. One thing though was Darcy's voice at times. He had a drawl and sounded so proud. Which he is of course, and it did seem to go away as the book progressed and he learned his ways.

In this one Lizzy is swept away by events. Straight into the boisterous Fitzwilliam family, and it was great seeing them. The colonel of course, a sister with opinions, and one brother is is a bit, oh he is fun too. And Lady Matlock sure has her way. A great family.

Lizzy's journey brings her straight into the luddite rebellion. Straight into contact with Darcy. They annoy each other, they liked each other. And they live happily ever after.

This was even more fun than reading! :D

Conclusion;
A good story with many twists and turns.

Audiobook, 11 hours
Published Sep 21st 2016 by Abigail Reynolds
Pride and prejudice variation
In exchange for an honest review

Alone with Mr Darcy - Abigail Reynolds and A winter Wrong - Elizabeth Ann West

Elizabeth Bennet can’t imagine anything worse than being stranded by a blizzard in a tiny cottage with proud and unpleasant Mr. Darcy. But being trapped there for days – and nights - with an injured and confused Mr. Darcy who keeps saying the oddest things about her is even worse. At least he possesses the useful ability of lighting a fire to keep them from freezing to death. But when he puts his arms around her, she discovers the hearth isn't the only place he knows how to build a fire. And the little half-frozen kitten he finds in a woodpile isn't proving to be much of a chaperone. 

She doesn’t really believe his promises to marry her if anyone finds out they spent two nights alone together, especially after learning he was betrayed by another woman in the past. When her worst fears are realized and her reputation is in tatters, she isn’t surprised to discover Mr. Darcy has vanished into thin air, leaving her no choice but to find a husband as soon as possible before her whole family is ruined. Any husband will have to do, no matter how much she dislikes him. Even if she can’t stop thinking of Mr. Darcy…. 

My thoughts:

I was actually really worried in this book, and even resented Darcy for a while (foolish me!).

Lizzy and Darcy gets stranded together in a cottage during a snowstorm. Awww he was so sweet, they really started to like each other. That cottage was awesome for them, BUT, Lizzy knows she is ruined. Ok break, seriously people of that time! They did nothing wrong, but she would be cast out. So unfair! Anyway, Darcy says they should marry. She says no, no one will find out.

But we will know gossip builds for the smallest thing. And here is where I started to worry. Would they find each other again! Would they marry! What if this is an evil re-telling?! *scared*

Conclusion;
So it is quite different. Things happen. Other things are left untold. I liked how things worked out. I enjoyed it, but it sure had me worried.

Kindle Edition, 378 pages
Published April 15th 2015 by White Soup Press
Pride and Prejudice variation
Own

When Jane Bennet's illness at Netherfield ends up not being just a trifling cold, but an epidemic that sweeps through Hertfordshire, the lives at Longbourn are turned upside down. Elizabeth Bennet finds herself lost without a cherished loved one and the interferences of one Fitzwilliam Darcy most aggravating. Combating the bombastic behavior of Mr. Collins, Elizabeth runs to London for the protection of her aunt and uncle. But acquaintances and introductions bring Mr. Darcy back into her life and Elizabeth discovers he might just mend her broken heart. 

My thoughts:

Oh Mr Collins, I am gonna kick you in a very special place. Arghh, the nerve of that man!

Illness takes the life of many, including Mr Bennet. So you can see why I hate Mr Collins more than usual. An arrogant little idiot. *kicks him* She did well there, making me loathe him more than usual.

This all takes place when Jane falls ill at Netherfield, so lots of things change. I liked how Darcy and Lizzy came together. I liked what happened later on. I liked how Miss Bingley was cut, I giggled then.

But this was a novella. So it was short, and it's a series so there is actually no wedding a all. Lizzy and Darcy will fall in love, duh. But there are 3 more novellas, so that was kind of sad. I would have liked some conclusion to it all.

Kindle Edition, 177 pages
Published July 22nd 2014 by Pemberley Possibilities
Seasons of Serendipity #1
Pride and Prejudice variation
Own

Book Blog Walkers: Weekly Check-in Nov 21 2014 and Pride and Prejudice re-tellings x3

This challenge is organized by Felicia over at the Geeky Blogger's Book Blog

Saturday 1 hour walk

Sunday 1.15 hour walk

Monday 10 km bike and 45 min zumba toning

Tuesday 5 km bike

Wednesday 5 km bike and 1 hour zumba

Thursday 10 km bike and 1 hour zumba

Friday 5 km bike 

Good week, even though I took a free day on Tuesday cos I had the flu, and on Friday no time for anything cos of xmas party :)

Sunday

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A lady's reputation is a fragile thing. If anyone ever discovered that Miss Elizabeth Bennet had received a letter from a single gentleman, she could be ruined... or forced to marry a man she detests. In this Pride & Prejudice variation, Elizabeth takes the safer course and refuses to read Mr. Darcy's letter of explanation. Returning home unaware of Wickham's true nature, Elizabeth confesses everything to him, putting both Mr. Darcy and herself in grave danger from Wickham's schemes. 

My thoughts:

You all know I love these. They are my weakness, I can't get enough and if they are done right then yay. This one begins from the LETTER. She does not read it and does not realize that Darcy is good and Wickham is bad.

But Darcy loves her and longs for her. Some things are the same and some not. I can not go into detail but I really liked one thing that changed. It was hopeful. Another thing I did not like. Lizzy would not behave a certain way, not after the incident. She is no fool. But hey I can live with it.

I have read most of Reynold's variations and they are all fun. I really should read them all. 

Kindle Edition, 264 pages
Published November 28th 2011 by Intertidal Press
Pride and prejudice variation
Own

Spring 1944 - Britain is now in its fourth year of war. In order to defeat Adolph Hitler and his Nazis, everyone in the country must do his or her bit. While a young Elizabeth Bennet makes her contribution by driving a lorry, Fitzwilliam Darcy flies Lancaster bombers over Germany. Because of the war, both are wary of falling in love, but when the two meet near an airbase in Hertfordshire, all bets are off. 

Set against the background of World War II, in Darcy Goes to War, Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy battle something more than class differences. The greatest evil of the 20th Century is trying to bring Britain to its knees. In order to be together, they must survive the war. 

My thoughts:

There was not a lot left of the original story. 5 sisters, two fall in love, 1 make a bad decision. That's it. Darcy and Lizzy meet, they fall for each other. No drama, no heartache. Except the heartache that a war is going on and he might be dead the next day.

I like what happened to Lydia, and her sisters. Jane got her HEA as always too.

I actually think I would have preferred this one to not be a re-telling. Instead it would have showed the work women did for their country, and what men did. And how fast people can fall in love (with that I mean all the girls in the village who was preggers by soldiers).

Interesting story. 

Kindle Edition, 260 pages
Published September 4th 2012 by Quail Creek Publishing LLC
Pride and prejudice re-telling
Own

Did you know that Mr. Darcy had an American cousin?!

My thoughts:

The title says it all...Mr Darcy has an American cousin! He is hot too and has money.

Do I like Caroline? Not so much. Did I like her in the end? Not so much, BUT she had improved greatly and we could have been friends. If I only did not hold a grudge ;) I mean come on, she is a hard woman to like in PP. Here she does learn to be kinder, and people even comment upon it. Because she was a bitch ;)

Anyway, enough with my grudge. Caroline and Mr Darcy meets and do not particularity like each other. But they keep ending up together, and in the same room. Damn that fate! Time moves along, and they become somewhat friendly.

The drama around them is Lizzy being ill :/ A houseparty with new friends. Lydia showing up (sigh Lydia). Mrs Bennet trying to marry her 2 daughters off and Caroline being nice!

Fun, even if I still do not like Caroline, ha.

ebook, 368 pages
Published October 1st 2009 by Sourcebooks Landmark
Pride and Prejudice sequel
Own

Review: A Pemberley Medley - Abigail Reynolds

A Pemberley medley
Five pathways to Pemberley! It's the best of all worlds in this collection of five short Pride & Prejudice variations by bestselling writer Abigail Reynolds. Can Mr. Darcy win Elizabeth Bennet's heart... or are they doomed to misunderstand one another forever? Can Mr. Darcy stand by and watch while Elizabeth loses everything she holds precious... including him?

My thoughts:

5 short stories.

"Intermezzo"

Bingley and Jane are getting married and Darcy and Lizzy find it hard to be near each other. Can they fall in love? That is the question in this short sweet story.

"Such Differing Reports"

Darcy is about to propose but does not and turn of events takes another road. What should she believe to be true? Charlotte a voice of reason :)

Reason's Rule

*fans herself* Oh Mr Darcy :=) he went all alpha at one point.

Anyway, they are engaged, Lydia runs away, drama. Can they manage?

The Most Natural Thing

A glimpse of Dark Darcy, just a a glimpse though. Lizzy is in trouble and asks Darcy for help. Such a gentleman. I love him

A Succession of rain

Rain and rain! The horror, will they ever find time to be alone? Cute story

Conclusion:

Good.

Cover:

Lovely

Genre: Pride and prejudice variation / sequel
Pages: (paperback 212)
Published: 2011
Source: Shelf

Review: Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy, The Last man in the world - Abigail Reynolds

Genre: JA variation
Pages: 288
Published 2010
Publisher: Sourcebooks
Source: My own

What if-The last man in the world she could be prevailed upon to marry-is her husband?In Jane Austen-s Pride and Prejudice, Elizabeth Bennet tells the proud Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy that she wouldn-t marry him if he were the last man in the world.But what if she never said the words? What if circumstances conspired to make her accept Darcy the first time he proposes?In this installment of Abigail Reynolds-s acclaimed Pride and Prejudice Variations, Elizabeth agrees to marry Darcy against her better judgment, setting off a chain of events that nearly brings disaster to them both-What readers are saying-A highly original story, immensely satisfying.--Anyone who loves the story of Darcy and Elizabeth will love this variation.--I was hooked from page one.--A refreshing new look at what might have happened if---Another good book to curl up with- I never wanted to put it down.

My thoughts:

I think I never posted this one...so it works well in a Saturday

I have a weak spot of Jane Austen sequels, variations and just about anything. I never get tired of the story, and I do love the What if’s. I have read some wonderful ones, some strange ones, and they are always witty and amusing. 

This one was actually rather heartbreaking in a way. Lizzy and Darcy got married because she never turned him down after that first awful proposal. Colonel Fitzwilliam showed up and saw Darcy kissing her, and they were married. Mr Darcy is in love with her and thinks she loves him too, but here comes the heartbreaking part, she doesn’t. She is not happy in their marriage and tries to do her duty. And to see him so in love and clueless just tugs on my heartstrings when she doesn’t share his feelings. It’s horrible to read. 

That is the beginning of this novel, but the author would never leave us with a mess like that. The truth will come out and hearts will break. But there will also be a chance for them to build something new, something lasting and fitting the love they are supposed to share. As for old characters, this is mostly Lizzy’s and Darcy’s book, but we do meet Colonel Fitzwilliam, Georgiana, Wickham, and Bingley shows up too and he wants his Jane back.

The thing I liked best about this story was actually this great twist just because it brought so many feelings into the mix. And it gave me as the reader a chance to really root for them, and hoping that they somehow could truly fall in love as equals. Because this twist meant that Darcy still was awfully pride and looked down at her family and Lizzy also had prejudices against his sister, whom she thought of as proud. And then there is the whole Wickham angle, yes she still thought of him as the good guy.

Conclusion:

There are many JA variations around and this one was one of the more interesting ones that I have read. I would happily recommend it to fans of variations, or anyone with a love for Jane Austen. If you haven’t tried one by now then take a chance on them. They are fun to read, and it does not make the original any less of a book. 

Cover:

Eh

Guest post and giveaway: Abigail Reynolds - Mr-Darcy's Undoing

Today I have Abigail Reynolds over for a guest post and she talks about Mr Darcy ;) There is also a giveaway at the end.

Why women love Mr. Darcy 

There’s no lack of reasons to love Mr. Darcy.  He’s handsome, wealthy, generous, honest to a fault, and he owns a beautiful estate.  What’s not to like?  But that doesn’t explain why generations of women have considered Mr. Darcy the perfect romantic hero.  There are other handsome, wealthy , honest and generous men in the world.  Why does this one man in particular hold such a fascination for women? To my mind it comes down to two things: his devotion to Elizabeth and his taste in choosing her.

Mr. Darcy is devoted to Elizabeth Bennet.  Once he falls in love with her, nothing can change  his affections – not her angry refusal of his proposal, not her family’s low connections, not his family’s disapprobation.  He loves her and he’ll always love her, no matter what.  That is the essence of Mr. Darcy.

Mr. Darcy’s  loyalty and devotion aren’t limited to Elizabeth Bennet, which tells us that it is part of his character.  He’s devoted to his sister, his family, his friend Mr. Bingley’s happiness, his tenants’ well-being and his estate.  Jane Austen tells us that he gives offense wherever he goes, and there’s some evidence of that in his close friendship with Mr. Bingley whose good natured acceptance is well-known.  It’s an odd friendship from Darcy’s point of view, since Bingley wouldn’t be considered a particularly appropriate  candidate for a social connection.  Darcy is well above him in social station.  That always makes me wonder how many of Darcy’s social equals don’t care to spend time with him because of his tendency to give offense.  But what few friends Darcy makes, he keeps close to his heart, and we know the same will be true for his love for Elizabeth.  

Mr. Darcy doesn’t hold anything  back.  Disguise of every sort is his abhorrence.  Now, that can be a problem, since  his life would probably be easier if he’d learn to tell a few white lies, but in terms of his love for Elizabeth, it makes him more admirable.  We don’t worry about Darcy wondering if he could have done better for himself, or whether he has a hidden cruel streak or some grave character flaw.  If he did, he wouldn’t be able to hide it because he’s such a terrible liar.  We can trust his devotion for the same reason.  

Darcy’s choice of Elizabeth Bennet tells us a great deal about him.  In the normal course of affairs, we would expect a man of his stature to choose a fashionably languid lady with no opinions of her own.  Not Mr. Darcy, though – he chooses an unfashionably pert and energetic country girl.  Most importantly, he doesn’t fall in love with her for her beauty or her wit.   Austen tells us, “Mr. Darcy had at first scarcely allowed her to be pretty; he had looked at her without admiration at the ball; and when they next met, he looked at her only to criticise. But no sooner had he made it clear to himself and his friends that she had hardly a good feature in her face, than he began to find it was rendered uncommonly intelligent by the beautiful expression of her dark eyes.” [italics are mine].  Note that it isn’t actually her fine eyes or the beautiful expression in them, but that they render her face uncommonly intelligent.  What a dream man!  In a world where women are constantly pressured to measure up to unattainable beauty and told in many subtle ways that their appearance is the most important measure of their worth to men, here we find the exception to the rule.  Mr. Darcy loves Elizabeth because she’s smart!  It’s the fantasy of every girl who feels she doesn’t measure up in one way or another to cultural expectations – that there’s a man out there who will value her primarily for her mind.  

Mr. Darcy is a true dream man.  He loves Elizabeth for her intelligence rather than her beauty, he is truly devoted to her, and she can trust him to be honest and loyal.  It certainly doesn’t hurt that he’s rich and handsome,  but it’s in the nature of his love for Elizabeth that Mr. Darcy proves himself a most extraordinary man.  

Thank you Abigail :=)

GIVEAWAY

1 copy of Mr. Darcy's Undoing

1. Open to US and Canada

2. Ends October 27

3. Just enter :)

Or tell me why you think Mr. Darcy is so loved

OUT NOW  Mr. Darcy's Undoing

A passionate new Pride and Prejudice variation explores the unthinkable-Elizabeth accepts the proposal of a childhood friend before she meets Darcy again. When their paths cross, the devastated Mr. Darcy must decide how far he'll go to win the woman he loves. How can a man who prides himself on his honor ask the woman he loves to do something scandalous? And how can Elizabeth accept a loveless marriage when Mr. Darcy holds the key to her heart? As they confront family opposition and the ill-will of scandal-mongers, will Elizabeth prove to be Mr. Darcy's undoing?

Review: Mr. Darcy's Undoing - Abigail Reynolds

Genre: Pride and Prejudice variation
Pages: 352
Published: October 1, 2011
Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark
Source: For review

A passionate new Pride and Prejudice variation explores the unthinkable-Elizabeth accepts the proposal of a childhood friend before she meets Darcy again. When their paths cross, the devastated Mr. Darcy must decide how far he'll go to win the woman he loves. How can a man who prides himself on his honor ask the woman he loves to do something scandalous? And how can Elizabeth accept a loveless marriage when Mr. Darcy holds the key to her heart? As they confront family opposition and the ill-will of scandal-mongers, will Elizabeth prove to be Mr. Darcy's undoing?

My thoughts:

It is that time again, time for a JA variation. And this one gets a bit passionate towards the end too.

Lizzie meets Darcy, he proposes and she thinks he is an ass. We all know the story. In this one she goes home and meets Mr Covingon, she knows him from before and he asks for her hand in marriage and she accepts. Darcy comes and wants her back but it is too late. Of course Mr. Darcy does not give up, and there are a few twists and turn before they can get their HEA.

Oh Mr. Darcy, you are so improper, not that I complain. It was fun to see his more passionate side, he truly wants her as his wife, he dreams about her (dirty ones ;), and he hopes to sway her with kisses. And who can say no when Mr. Darcy starts kissing you? Poor Lizzie does not stand a chance. And I, well I love that his does not want to give up, he knows she loves him too.

What we have in this story is the tale of a man pursuing that which he wants, a few passionate encounters, and that which we all love, Mr. Darcy and Lizzie being totally and madly in love with each other.

Conclusion:

If you want to read about Mr. Darcy seducing with kisses then read this book. It is another cute and passionate re-telling of the story so many of us know and love.

Rating:

Nice

Cover:

Nice

Interview and giveaway: Abigail Reynolds - What would Mr Darcy do?

Today I welcome Abigail Reynolds to my blog. And at the bottom of this interview there is a giveaway of her new book What would Mr Darcy do?

Welcome to Mur-y-Castell!

Could you briefly tell us something about yourself, so that those that missed you during your last visit can get to know you.

 I’ve written 8 books, most of them variations on Pride & Prejudice.  Variations are re-tellings of the original story with a major change in the plot, so I get to write Darcy and Elizabeth falling in love over and over again in different circumstances.  What could be better?  I’m also a part-time physician, full-time mom of a college-aged daughter and a son with Asperger Syndrome, and I wish I had time to sleep more often!  I’ve loved Jane Austen’s novels since I was a teenager.  I live in Madison, WI, but love to travel to Cape Cod which is a spiritual home for me.  

Your newest book is called What would Mr Darcy do?; can you tell me what it is about?

It’s a Pride & Prejudice variation in which Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet admit their feelings to each other instead of parting in silence and despair after their meeting at the Lambton Inn.  The failure of communication in that scene has always driven me crazy, even though it’s great for dramatic tension, so I decided to see what happened if I changed it.  There are more romantic moments, but still misunderstandings to be resolved, often with the help of Georgiana and Mrs. Gardiner.

Would you like to write other Jane Austen book variations?

Just lately Captain Wentworth has been whispering in my ear, so I expect a Persuasion variation may happen some day.  I’d love to explore what happens if he and Anne meet again but he hasn’t made such a success of his career in the Navy.  What would Anne do if he was a lower-ranked officer with less money?

Why do you think we all love Mr Darcy? 

What’s not to love – a handsome, devoted man who is willing to listen to a list of his faults and attempt to change them?  And he likes to listen more than to talk as well.  What could be better?

What is the next project you are writing on, or have in mind?

I’ve also just published A Pemberley Medley, a book of Pride & Prejudice short stories, and the next release will be Morning Light, a Persuasion-based sequel to my modern novel The Man Who Loved Pride & Prejudice.  I’m just starting work on a new full-length P&P variation in which Darcy doesn’t make it to Ramsgate in time to stop Georgiana’s elopement.  It’s been in my mind for a long time, but I insist on happy endings for my books, and it took me quite a while to figure out how to end that one happily!

Thanks so much for inviting me!

CONTEST

2 winners/What would Mr Darcy do?

1. US and Canda only

2. Ends April 18th

3. Just enter :)

But to make it more fun you can always comment on the interview, book. Or perhaps tell us why you love Jane Austen's books.

What would Mr Darcy do? by Abigail Reynolds

Out now from Sourcebooks

But what if Darcy hadn’t immediately left the inn? What if Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy had chosen to speak their feelings rather than to assume the worst about the other?

Jane Austen’s beloved characters are given the opportunity to reach out one last time before they part. While their path forward is still filled with misadventures and misunderstandings it is rich with humor, romance, and sensuality as they learn about each other and the meaning of love. But there’s still a scandal threatening to engulf the Bennet family, and Elizabeth can’t be sure that Darcy’s love for her could withstand such a blow. Determined to give Darcy up rather than drag his name through the mud, Elizabeth will have to choose for herself between what she believes is right, and what she wants more than anything…

Review: What would Mr Darcy do? - Abigail Reynolds

Genre: Jane Austen variation
Pages: 240
Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark, April 1st 2011

But what if Darcy hadn't immediately left the inn? What if Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy had chosen to speak their feelings rather than to assume the worst about the other? Jane Austen's beloved characters are given the opportunity to reach out one last time before they part. While their path forward is still filled with misadventures and misunderstandings it is rich with humor, romance, and sensuality as they learn about each other and the meaning of love. But there's still a scandal threatening to engulf the Bennet family, and Elizabeth can't be sure that Darcy's love for her could withstand such a blow. Determined to give Darcy up rather than drag his name through the mud, Elizabeth will have to choose for herself between what she believes is right, and what she wants more than anything..

My thoughts:

This was another lovely Jane Austen variation from Abigail Reynolds. It was sweet, and it made me smile.

In this one the story takes a slight turn at that day at the Inn in Lambton. Instead of him going away at once they talk a bit, she cries a bit, and there is a promise to see each other again. What we have next is Bingely showing up to court Jane, Georgiana writing letters to Elizabeth, and Darcy pining over Lizzy. There are no big surprises or changes, but instead it's a closer look at this couple.

Mr Darcy in this one is lovely, absolutely lovely. He is violently in love as Mrs Gardiner says to Lizzy, and he is just so so, yes in love. It's great to see this passionate side of him and the only thing he wants to do is to court her. Lizzy is Lizzy, firm in her opinions but she has fallen for him, and these two together when they sneak away are such a joy to read about.

At the beginning this book was so cute, and I just had this big grin on my face. Then it became a bit more passionate (ok passionate for that age), lol, just reading about these two saying each other's given names and kissing was plenty.

Conclusion:

A lovely re-telling of a story that I just can't get enough of. I would recommend this one to my fellow JA lovers.

Rating:

Short and nice

Cover:

Good

Review copy from the publisher. All thoughts are my own.

Interview and Giveaway: Abigail Reynolds with Mr Darcy's Obsession

Today I welcome Abigail Reynolds to my blog. Her newest book, Mr Darcy's Obsession is out now, and at the end of this interview you get a chance to win it. Since I have read it I will not say anything more than there were some surprises ;)

Welcome to Mur-y-Castell!

Tell me something about yourself, so we get a better understanding about the woman behind the author.

AR:  I’m an accidental author.  I was happily pursuing a career as a doctor and a parent when I was bitten by the writing bug.  Nothing would have happened with it if it weren’t for the internet providing an audience for my early scribblings.  Writing was a fortunate discovery for me because I have poor physical stamina from lupus, and it keeps me entertained when I need to be resting.  I live in Wisconsin, but my favorite place is Cape Cod, which is where I set my modern novel, The Man Who Loved Pride & Prejudice.

Your newest book is called Mr. Darcy’s Obsession; can you tell me what it is about?

AR:  It’s a twist on Pride and Prejudice in which Mr. Bennet dies, leaving Elizabeth and her family impoverished.  Darcy tries to forget her because she is now so far beneath him, but he can’t stay away from her.  Meantime, he is disillusioned by the amoral behavior of his extended family, especially his uncle who feels he should take Elizabeth as a mistress, and he starts to recognize the suffering of the poor around him.  Combined with his distress over Elizabeth’s reduced circumstances, he realizes that much of his pride in his position is misplaced and he can’t go on without Elizabeth.

I know that you have written a couple of other books. Could you tell me about those?

AR:  Except for my modern novel, all of them are Regency era variations on Pride and Prejudice in which change one event from P&P and see how the story plays out.  In To Conquer Mr. Darcy, Darcy decides to woo Elizabeth after her first refusal rather than let her go.  In Without Reserve, Elizabeth becomes engaged to a childhood friend for the sake of her family, and Darcy must win her back.  My favorite change is in What Would Mr. Darcy Do? In that, when Darcy comes to see Elizabeth at the Lambton Inn after her discovery of Lydia’s elopement, instead of leaving her with a long, silent look, he tells her how he feels about her. 

Now to the important question: what led you to writing Austen variations?

AR:  Desperation!  I was having a great time reading Austen-related stories on line, and one day I ran out of new ones to read.  What was there to do but to write one myself?

Are you working on something new and exciting right now?

AR:  I’m putting finishing touches on a new P&P variation, and I’ve started a sequel to Mr. Darcy’s Obsession.  I’m hoping to finally get my second modern novel out there as well!

What kinds of books do you read? Any favorite authors?

AR:  I’m a very eclectic reader.  I like romance, classics, historical fiction, fantasy, science fiction – anything that captures and holds my interest.  My favorite author this week would probably Georgette Heyer.

Any advice for aspiring writers?
AR:  Write the book that is in your heart.  Don’t try to write for the market or to catch an agent’s interest.  The book that you’re passionate about will be your best.

Some shorter ones:
Your favorite Jane Austen hero?
AR:  Mr. Darcy
Jane Austen heroine?
AR:  tie between Elizabeth Bennet and Elinor Dashwood
If you had a time-machine then to which era would you go, and what would you do?
AR:  12th century Kiev.  Bet you weren’t expecting that!  I’d love to see an early medieval culture where literacy was high and women had legal rights.  Sounds like something in a novel, doesn’t it?

B: I can honestly say that I did not expect that, but it sure sounds interesting.

Now to the Contest part: CLOSED

Thanks to Sourcebooks I got 2 copies of Mr Darcy's Obsession to give away.

1. US and Canada only.
2. Not a must, but it's always more fun if you ask a question, or comment on something :)
3. Leave your email if it's not in your profile (or just email it to me)
4. Have fun.
5. Ends October 18th

MR. DARCY’S OBSESSION BY ABIGAIL REYNOLDS—IN STORES OCTOBER 2010
The more he tries to stay away from her, the more his obsession grows...
“[Reynolds] has creatively blended a classic love story with a saucy romance novel.” —Austenprose
“Developed so well that it made the age-old storyline new and fresh…Her writing gripped my attention and did not let go.”—The Romance Studio
“The style and wit of Ms. Austen are compellingly replicated…spellbinding. Kudos to Ms. Reynolds!” —A Reader’s Respite

In this Pride and Prejudice variation, Elizabeth is called away before Darcy proposes for the first time and Darcy decides to find a more suitable wife. But when Darcy encounters Elizabeth living in London after the death of her father, he can’t fight his desire to see and speak with her again…and again and again. But now that her circumstances have made her even more unsuitable, will Darcy be able to let go of all his long held pride to marry a woman who, though she is beneath his station, is the only woman capable of winning his heart?

About the Author
Abigail Reynolds is a physician and a lifelong Jane Austen enthusiast. She began writing the Pride and Prejudice Variations series in 2001, and encouragement from fellow Austen fans convinced her to continue asking “What if…?” She lives with her husband and two teenage children in Madison, Wisconsin. For more information, please visit http://www.pemberleyvariations.com/ or http://www.austenauthors.com/.


My review of the book can be found here

Review: Mr Darcy's Obsession - Abigail Reynolds

A Pride and Prejudice Variation

Genre: Historical/romance
Pages: 352
Published: October 2010 Sourcebooks Landmark

In this Pride and Prejudice variation, Elizabeth is called away before Darcy proposes for the first time and Darcy decides to find a more suitable wife. But when Darcy encounters Elizabeth living in London after the death of her father, he can't fight his desire to see and speak with her again...and again and again. But now that her circumstances have made her even more unsuitable, will Darcy be able to let go of all his long held pride to marry a woman who, though she is beneath his station, is the only woman capable of winning his heart?

I think it might be I who is obsessed with Mr Darcy, and this book is just just pure escapism.

In this one Mr Bennet died, the Collins' moved into the house, Jane married a shopkeeper to help out her family, and Elizabeth went to London to help with the Gardiner kids. Mr Darcy never proposed because Elizabeth left before he had time too. But Mr Darcy just can't her her out of his head. He sneaks around a bit and manages to meet her by "accident"  one day, and they start talking. Some women you just can't let go.

Oh this book sure held a few surprises here and there, concerning secondary characters. I loved it because I never saw them coming. Reynolds takes artistic freedom and changes things that happened and make this story hers. While keeping to the Austen vibe. Without saying to much the surprises include Lydia, Georgiana, and a new character you will meet. She manages well there.

There are also new people, Charlie, a kid living on the street, and here Darcy does show his heart later on. Aunt Augusta who says what she wants, and Lord Derby, Darcy's uncle and a jackass. And of course there is Bingley, the Gardiners, and Jane.

I liked how Darcy sneaked around in this one and wanted to see Elizabeth and making it seem like total accidents. He just couldn't let go, and he was also a gentleman. She does fall, but of course there is that big Wickham hurdle to overcome. There is romance, aww, and a lot of drama with certain characters. I am sure you can guess who will cause the biggest scandal.

What I liked the most were the surprises, I just could not guess certain things. In some variations it's pretty easy and you know who will marry who, even with all those I have read. But this one brings something new. And as a Variation obsessed woman I enjoyed this book.

Blodeuedd's Cover Corner: Sweet

Reason for reading: From the publisher

Final thoughts: I always loved that he never gives up and wants her even though society frowns upon it.

3,25

Review: To Conquer Mr Darcy - Abigail Reynolds

Genre: Historical Romance/Jane Austen variation
Pages: 416
Published: August 2010 Sourcebooks Casablanca

In the Pride and Prejudice Variations series, Abigail Reynolds explores the roads not taken in Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, imagining lively plot twists and ecstatically happy endings. Here the story picks up from a pivotal point in Pride and Prejudice—Mr. Darcy's infamously botched proposal of marriage. What if, instead of disappearing from her life after Elizabeth Bennet refuses his awkward marriage proposal, Mr. Darcy took the initiative and tried to change her mind? In Conquering Mr. Darcy, Darcy follows Elizabeth back to her home in Hertfordshire and sets about making himself so irresistible her impulses win out over her sense of propriety until, madly in love and mutually on fire, their passion anticipates their wedding.

I have been wanting to read this book for some time, not just because I like all sorts of Jane Austen sequels and variations, but because I like the what if question. Also this book is more the To conquer Miss Bennet kind of book. Darcy is a force to be reckoned with.

This book takes another route, after Lizzy has returned from that awful proposal Mr Darcy shows up with Mr Bingley. This time he will not take no for an answer and decided to court her, gain her friendship and all of her. And that he sure gets too. 

I am weird when it comes to HR sometimes, and I end up thinking "no one buys the cow if the milk is free". Here it worked, because in the end, who wouldn't be seduced by Mr Darcy. Stolen kisses, embraces and I am seduced by it all too. But I guess the point here is that he wants her, and he is not going to tire of her just because something happened. Mr Darcy is the true gentleman. if I wasn't already in love with him I would fall for him in this book. He makes an effort to be a better man, a man she deserves, he pursues her, makes her laugh, makes her want him. And all while I am delighted and grinning. Jane Austen would be shocked for sure.

The romance is lovely to watch, she melts, and like I already wrote, Mr Darcy is worth reading this book for. I have never seen him like this, and I am loving it. We also meet Bingley and Jane of course and they get their HEA, and do not forgot Lydia's mistake. The book follows the general storyline and that is here too.

But I did miss one thing, and it had to to with Lady de Burgh, but then again who needs her.

Blodeuedd's Cover Corner: Cute

Reason for reading: From the publisher

Final thoughts: Sweet, and Mr Darcy is quite the seducer.
Grace: 3,5

Review: The Man who Loved Pride and Prejudice - Abigail Reynolds

The Man Who loved Pride and Prejudice by Abigail Reynolds

Genre: Contempory romance
Pages: 448
Published: May 2010 by Sourcebooks Casablanca (previously published as Pemberley by the Sea)

Pride and Prejudice is the quintessential women's novel but many men love it, too When marine biologist Cassie Boulton and Calder Westing III, a modern-day Mr. Darcy, share one passionate night by the sea, Cassie thinks she may have found her happy ending. But with devastating secrets from the past and Calder's family determined to keep them apart, Calder tells her about his feelings the only way she'll let him by rewriting her favorite book, featuring the two of them as Darcy and Elizabeth.

Just  mention Pride and Prejudice, be is sequel, re-make or something else and I want to have a go at it. This one I liked and it had me at the "ball" where they meet. She asks him to dance and he says no, and then she leaves with a sense of having been judged and found wanting. She got me there.

It is the story about marine biologist Cassie who every summer comes to the cape to study the sea life and sit in her lab. This year she has her friend Erin with her and Erin meets a nice guy, Scott and dances away with him. While Cassie meets a reserved man who doesn't seem to want to be where he is. It is dislike at once, but there is also something else there, a passion that takes hold of them, but Cassie walks away because a poor Elizabeth with secrets does not get her Mr Darcy.

There is a lot of passion between these two when they finally get together, even if it is for a short time. Then the book takes a turn and they go their separate ways, but he wants to win her back and he has already called her Elizabeth Bennet. And I went awww, a guy who re-writes P&P to put them in it! So where can I meet him. He is like Mr Darcy, all hidden feelings and never saying the things he may want too. But then there is that other side to him, that gentle and caring side that we do not get to see at first. When it comes out I get happy.

There was some negative aspects though, it felt at times like the book was finished, but then it picked up another thread. I mean I do not mind cos more to read, and that is never wrong, but the passages felt new when you thought the end was near (well not that near cos I could still see the pages.) But at least the resolved everything, and I haev to give her credit for that because I like endings where I know it all.

This was a sweet book, a nice re-telling of an old story. Some characters where in it, others not. It was her own version but you could still recognize some important things, but never so much that it felt like just another re-telling. Now it was her own story, with PP inspiration,and  that worked great. What was left was a rich guy meets a nice so rich girl, and his family disapproves. And then there is Bingley and Jane.

I liked Calder, I liked Cassie, I enjoyed their love story, and sweet romance.

One thing left me thinking though, how much Abigail Reynolds knows about marine biology? Cos she was not afraid to go in to that lab and explain things. And to choose a subject like that, perhaps she has studied it.

Blodeuedd's Cover Corner. I really like this one, it is so sweet and the couple looks happy.

Reason for reading: From the publisher.

Final thoughts: Sweet story, 3