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By Force of Instinct
In Jane Austen's classic Pride & Prejudice, Elizabeth Bennet never expects to see Mr. Darcy again after his disastrous proposal in Hunsford. But what if family business required him to stay at Rosings after giving her his letter? Coming face to face with Mr. Darcy only days later could give Elizabeth a new chance to understand him...or chance for even more misunderstandings...
250 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2007
About the author
Abigail Reynolds
47 books758 followersAbigail Reynolds may be a nationally bestselling author and a physician, but she can’t follow a straight line with a ruler. Originally from upstate New York, she studied Russian and theater at Bryn Mawr College and marine biology at the Marine Biological Laboratory in Woods Hole. After a stint in performing arts administration, she decided to attend medical school, and took up writing as a way to retain her sanity during her years as a physician in private practice.
A life-long lover of Jane Austen’s novels, Abigail began writing variations on Pride & Prejudice in 2001, then expanded her repertoire to include a series of novels set on her beloved Cape Cod.Her most recent releases are A Matter of Honor, Mr. Darcy's Enchantment, and Conceit & Concealment. Her books have been translated into six languages. A lifetime member of JASNA, she lives on Cape Cod with her husband, her son and a menagerie of animals. Her hobbies do not include sleeping or cleaning her house.
A life-long lover of Jane Austen’s novels, Abigail began writing variations on Pride & Prejudice in 2001, then expanded her repertoire to include a series of novels set on her beloved Cape Cod.Her most recent releases are A Matter of Honor, Mr. Darcy's Enchantment, and Conceit & Concealment. Her books have been translated into six languages. A lifetime member of JASNA, she lives on Cape Cod with her husband, her son and a menagerie of animals. Her hobbies do not include sleeping or cleaning her house.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 148 reviews
December 19, 2017
I bought this paperback book when it was first published and now, also, own it on my kindle. I have read it at least three times, the most recent, very carefully, not skimming, so as to have it fresh in my mind in order to post this review. I also read all the other reviews, some twice, in order to digest their input.
I have this to say. First, it is a variation - don't complain how the characters or their actions change from the canon. Second, yes, there is sex. But in thinking about why the author put this in I can only say that from my viewpoint it is a direct outcome of all the struggles Elizabeth and Darcy are having in their relationship. Both had to consider their family, society and its rules, and all the miscommunications and feelings they experienced and/or developed. And I am of the generation of women who fell on and devoured the new genre [historical romance] created in the 70's when Kathleen Woodiwiss took us into the bedroom of her characters (Always one man, one woman and they ended up married). So this follows that path and I love it! We are talking about a 20-year-old woman and a (what was he) 27-year-old man. Is he a eunuch? Does she have no sex drive? Are they to be considered cold and indifferent in this aspect of their characters? Or are we just not supposed to talk about such?
In the beginning of the story, I found the angst so strong; it just took my breath away. The poetry Darcy noted for Elizabeth brought tears to my eyes. Some of what I consider in this relationship is explained by Aunt Gardiner's words as to Lizzy's parents' role and/or lack of it and how she always had to rely on herself ("her parents have not always been people Lizzy could depend upon in times of need. Lizzy has learned as a result to keep a great deal to herself, and it has been a concern of mine for some time that it might prove difficult for a man to earn her trust.") At times in this plot E. doesn't even have Jane with whom to discuss events and circumstances. Yes, we see what some describe as a vastly changed Mr. Bennet but I will maintain that his personality was always such but here we just read those traits manifesting in stronger terms. I always read Mr. Bennet as a lazy father who didn't want his bookroom invaded. He would not even take the time to hear "his favorite daughter" out, both in the warning about allowing Lydia to go to Brighton and when Elizabeth wanted to explain her change in opinion and feelings about Darcy. He always took the path of least resistance, in allowing Lydia to go to Brighton and in not putting down his foot on the behaviors of his daughters, even allowing the younger ones to "be out" and, lastly, in not having a heart-to-heart talk with his wife about curbing her tongue. A true ostrich with his head in the sand! I can't even address his actions in not protecting Elizabeth from Lady C.'s verbal assault - at this point he lost the right to call himself her father!
And then I consider the role of Darcy's parents in his life. I am especially reminded of the scene he describes in going to his father, who is playing cards with Wickham, to relate how he mastered a certain skill in horsemanship, and is told by his father never to interrupt him while at cards again as it will put him off his game. "It was at that moment that I realized I was little more than a pawn to him, and...resolving I would never allow Georgiana to feel so uncared for as I felt at that moment."
Then there are the years of pressure from Lady Catherine for Darcy to marry Anne, the weight of managing an estate with money matters, investments, servants, etc. and the stress of rearing a sister, basically alone. Yes, we see a side of Georgiana that we do not read of in the canon. But I think about the age of this teen and of her isolation from a sister, an aunt, a mother, a female friend, etc. with whom she could discuss her budding sexuality and her attraction to or her acceptance of Wickham. Darcy rarely saw Col. Fitzwilliam, due to the latter's military career and his other close ally, Charles Bingley, is not one who could discern that 1.) Darcy is troubled or 2.) Offer up good advice about any number of situations Darcy had to deal with, much less, his love life.
There are so many times that D&E misunderstood what the other meant and just in thinking about what their position was, i.e., Lizzy - thinking about what Darcy's position was in society and how he would turn away from her after Lydia's elopement, Darcy - thinking when he sees her in church shortly after his refused proposal, "Remember, she thinks you devoid of every proper feeling and completely lacking in honour." How many times he had thoughts that she thought little of him. Quite a reversal from thoughts about women, i.e., Caroline B. who fawned over him. And then to make matters worse we have persons such as Georgiana who deliberately throw tripwires into the events.
For me, all the events in the narrative are very important to allowing Darcy and Elizabeth to understand that one person only is in this immediate relationship. No matter what family or society say or do they must look to each other and in giving themselves to each other they make that very clear. I like how Darcy says it, "I shall never forget, Elizabeth, that you came to me of your own choice, rather than as a duty of our marriage."
I highly recommend this and all of Abigail Reynolds' books.
I have this to say. First, it is a variation - don't complain how the characters or their actions change from the canon. Second, yes, there is sex. But in thinking about why the author put this in I can only say that from my viewpoint it is a direct outcome of all the struggles Elizabeth and Darcy are having in their relationship. Both had to consider their family, society and its rules, and all the miscommunications and feelings they experienced and/or developed. And I am of the generation of women who fell on and devoured the new genre [historical romance] created in the 70's when Kathleen Woodiwiss took us into the bedroom of her characters (Always one man, one woman and they ended up married). So this follows that path and I love it! We are talking about a 20-year-old woman and a (what was he) 27-year-old man. Is he a eunuch? Does she have no sex drive? Are they to be considered cold and indifferent in this aspect of their characters? Or are we just not supposed to talk about such?
In the beginning of the story, I found the angst so strong; it just took my breath away. The poetry Darcy noted for Elizabeth brought tears to my eyes. Some of what I consider in this relationship is explained by Aunt Gardiner's words as to Lizzy's parents' role and/or lack of it and how she always had to rely on herself ("her parents have not always been people Lizzy could depend upon in times of need. Lizzy has learned as a result to keep a great deal to herself, and it has been a concern of mine for some time that it might prove difficult for a man to earn her trust.") At times in this plot E. doesn't even have Jane with whom to discuss events and circumstances. Yes, we see what some describe as a vastly changed Mr. Bennet but I will maintain that his personality was always such but here we just read those traits manifesting in stronger terms. I always read Mr. Bennet as a lazy father who didn't want his bookroom invaded. He would not even take the time to hear "his favorite daughter" out, both in the warning about allowing Lydia to go to Brighton and when Elizabeth wanted to explain her change in opinion and feelings about Darcy. He always took the path of least resistance, in allowing Lydia to go to Brighton and in not putting down his foot on the behaviors of his daughters, even allowing the younger ones to "be out" and, lastly, in not having a heart-to-heart talk with his wife about curbing her tongue. A true ostrich with his head in the sand! I can't even address his actions in not protecting Elizabeth from Lady C.'s verbal assault - at this point he lost the right to call himself her father!
And then I consider the role of Darcy's parents in his life. I am especially reminded of the scene he describes in going to his father, who is playing cards with Wickham, to relate how he mastered a certain skill in horsemanship, and is told by his father never to interrupt him while at cards again as it will put him off his game. "It was at that moment that I realized I was little more than a pawn to him, and...resolving I would never allow Georgiana to feel so uncared for as I felt at that moment."
Then there are the years of pressure from Lady Catherine for Darcy to marry Anne, the weight of managing an estate with money matters, investments, servants, etc. and the stress of rearing a sister, basically alone. Yes, we see a side of Georgiana that we do not read of in the canon. But I think about the age of this teen and of her isolation from a sister, an aunt, a mother, a female friend, etc. with whom she could discuss her budding sexuality and her attraction to or her acceptance of Wickham. Darcy rarely saw Col. Fitzwilliam, due to the latter's military career and his other close ally, Charles Bingley, is not one who could discern that 1.) Darcy is troubled or 2.) Offer up good advice about any number of situations Darcy had to deal with, much less, his love life.
There are so many times that D&E misunderstood what the other meant and just in thinking about what their position was, i.e., Lizzy - thinking about what Darcy's position was in society and how he would turn away from her after Lydia's elopement, Darcy - thinking when he sees her in church shortly after his refused proposal, "Remember, she thinks you devoid of every proper feeling and completely lacking in honour." How many times he had thoughts that she thought little of him. Quite a reversal from thoughts about women, i.e., Caroline B. who fawned over him. And then to make matters worse we have persons such as Georgiana who deliberately throw tripwires into the events.
For me, all the events in the narrative are very important to allowing Darcy and Elizabeth to understand that one person only is in this immediate relationship. No matter what family or society say or do they must look to each other and in giving themselves to each other they make that very clear. I like how Darcy says it, "I shall never forget, Elizabeth, that you came to me of your own choice, rather than as a duty of our marriage."
I highly recommend this and all of Abigail Reynolds' books.
August 14, 2023
Respect, love and trust
The most powerful, gripping part of this book for me was Elizabeth’s internal journey of finding respect, love and most difficult, trust in Darcy.
Everyone around them seems to be upset with their engagement. Her father, uncle, his sister, aunt, his social group, the ton and perhaps most of his friends. As a girl Elizabeth wants to make her family happy and his family also. This is a huge emotional conflict with seemingly no happy ending. Elizabeth never had been able to depend on either of her parents. She thought she could depend on the Gardiners but it seemed conditional now. The rest of the world could not be trusted at all. She came to see that through Darcy’s love, he could be trusted.
We see, and even more importantly feel her transition from childhood into adulthood as she determines that she will trust Darcy and give her allegiance totally to him and the rest of the world can just go pound sand.
It was a very moving and very well written section of the book. Some of the author’s best writing, imho.
I loved this book.
The most powerful, gripping part of this book for me was Elizabeth’s internal journey of finding respect, love and most difficult, trust in Darcy.
Everyone around them seems to be upset with their engagement. Her father, uncle, his sister, aunt, his social group, the ton and perhaps most of his friends. As a girl Elizabeth wants to make her family happy and his family also. This is a huge emotional conflict with seemingly no happy ending. Elizabeth never had been able to depend on either of her parents. She thought she could depend on the Gardiners but it seemed conditional now. The rest of the world could not be trusted at all. She came to see that through Darcy’s love, he could be trusted.
We see, and even more importantly feel her transition from childhood into adulthood as she determines that she will trust Darcy and give her allegiance totally to him and the rest of the world can just go pound sand.
It was a very moving and very well written section of the book. Some of the author’s best writing, imho.
I loved this book.
August 31, 2022
Well-written mature variation
Reviewed in Canada on February 23, 2019
This is a better mature variation than others I’ve read. Of the intimate scenes, I would have preferred they wait until after their marriage to consummate their love. I was grateful they weren’t written in a trashy way. Having said that, it is a good story, with well written, thoughtful passages. I especially loved the moments that featured poetry, and when Elizabeth receives Darcy’s book and reads the marked poem, it brought me to tears.
August 31, 2022 - Audiobook
Good narration by Pearl Hewitt. This wasn’t my favourite portrayal of Darcy.
Reviewed in Canada on February 23, 2019
This is a better mature variation than others I’ve read. Of the intimate scenes, I would have preferred they wait until after their marriage to consummate their love. I was grateful they weren’t written in a trashy way. Having said that, it is a good story, with well written, thoughtful passages. I especially loved the moments that featured poetry, and when Elizabeth receives Darcy’s book and reads the marked poem, it brought me to tears.
August 31, 2022 - Audiobook
Good narration by Pearl Hewitt. This wasn’t my favourite portrayal of Darcy.
September 14, 2019
This is one of my favorite JAFF authors, it's just that this particular title is not my cup of tea. The writing is every bit as good as usual. For me the story went on too long, but only because of the type of story it is, and I was warned in the blurb about the content, so I don't feel at all put out. Just meh. But again, that's just me and my personal preferences. I highly recommend this author!
April 7, 2021
I didn't feel there was an actual story here. Got bored.
Synopsis:
After the Hunsford proposal disaster, Darcy’s Fitzwilliam relatives and Georgiana arrive suddenly at Rosings abruptly extending his stay when he'd much rather run to the hills away from Lizzy and lick his wounds. Lizzy's visit is also extended as she capitulates to Lady C's invitation to stay after Darcy seconds it.
Then the rest of the story is the flippity floppity of ODCs rumination which definitely wears and tears from the regurgitation.
To be fair it is how people dwell on issues irl, but for a reader this should be edited out.
The plot hinges largely on poor communication and assumptions.
Seriously, they don't communicate, just play grab ass.
Thus even though the make out every time they stumble into each other, they always assume they will never see the other again after! If they had one bloody adult conversation they might be on the same page.
The leads stumble through the plot, they don’t actively make anything happen: If they meet it's due to others; if they are engaged it is a compromise. Others move the plot forward while they just react to it. A protagonist should seize the story- here they are reactive, bumbling, morons.
This is called Negative Motivation, which is when a character consciously decides not to do anything to solve a conflict that is entirely in their power to solve, so this is a hinderance since:
a. The conflict devolves into an artificial construct since the reader knows the character could just fix it if they wanted to, but doesn't to drag it out.
b. Inaction is a burden to the plot, makes it stale,you have to keep the ball rolling. A story is when the protagonist says 'Yes!' to adventure, not 'Hmm I better not, sounds risky'
As a result, I wan't invested in ODC getting a HEA
What Worked:
⭑ Has pulse, some emotion and heat.
⭑ The Gardiners being a hub of characters and discussion, Lizzy and Darcy do have some debates about art and politics that I enjoyed; if only they were as verbose about their feelings we'd be spared much second guessing.
⭑ I actually thought it a likely take Georgiana wanting Lizzy all for herself and resenting sharing her attention with her brother. Although it is never pleasant for our sweet Georgiana to be painted antagonistic.
⭑ Prose is well done, writing and language great. Reynolds knows her craft.
The Brass Tacks:
➭It didn't capture my focus. Force of instinct? Force of conflict is more apt; the main sin of this work is that insecurities and others move the plot and our characters just react. I just felt disconnected, you could read it and be ok, but as soon as you put it down it's hard to feel inclined to pick it back up. I didn’t realize the extent of my disinterest until I set it down and lost any inclination to resume.
Ms Reynolds is undisputedly a capable writer, her dialogue, her prose and her characterizations are all solid, and she always infuses much needed pulse; her issue lie with plot and conflict. This negative motivation just isn’t a compelling or entertaining enough ‘dragon’ to keep ODC apart; it is chiefly annoying, alienating and trite. I don’t believe this has brought anything new or worth exploring to the JAFF table.
DNF 47%
Synopsis:
After the Hunsford proposal disaster, Darcy’s Fitzwilliam relatives and Georgiana arrive suddenly at Rosings abruptly extending his stay when he'd much rather run to the hills away from Lizzy and lick his wounds. Lizzy's visit is also extended as she capitulates to Lady C's invitation to stay after Darcy seconds it.
Then the rest of the story is the flippity floppity of ODCs rumination which definitely wears and tears from the regurgitation.
To be fair it is how people dwell on issues irl, but for a reader this should be edited out.
The plot hinges largely on poor communication and assumptions.
Seriously, they don't communicate, just play grab ass.
Thus even though the make out every time they stumble into each other, they always assume they will never see the other again after! If they had one bloody adult conversation they might be on the same page.
The leads stumble through the plot, they don’t actively make anything happen: If they meet it's due to others; if they are engaged it is a compromise. Others move the plot forward while they just react to it. A protagonist should seize the story- here they are reactive, bumbling, morons.
This is called Negative Motivation, which is when a character consciously decides not to do anything to solve a conflict that is entirely in their power to solve, so this is a hinderance since:
a. The conflict devolves into an artificial construct since the reader knows the character could just fix it if they wanted to, but doesn't to drag it out.
b. Inaction is a burden to the plot, makes it stale,you have to keep the ball rolling. A story is when the protagonist says 'Yes!' to adventure, not 'Hmm I better not, sounds risky'
As a result, I wan't invested in ODC getting a HEA
What Worked:
⭑ Has pulse, some emotion and heat.
⭑ The Gardiners being a hub of characters and discussion, Lizzy and Darcy do have some debates about art and politics that I enjoyed; if only they were as verbose about their feelings we'd be spared much second guessing.
⭑ I actually thought it a likely take Georgiana wanting Lizzy all for herself and resenting sharing her attention with her brother. Although it is never pleasant for our sweet Georgiana to be painted antagonistic.
⭑ Prose is well done, writing and language great. Reynolds knows her craft.
The Brass Tacks:
➭It didn't capture my focus. Force of instinct? Force of conflict is more apt; the main sin of this work is that insecurities and others move the plot and our characters just react. I just felt disconnected, you could read it and be ok, but as soon as you put it down it's hard to feel inclined to pick it back up. I didn’t realize the extent of my disinterest until I set it down and lost any inclination to resume.
Ms Reynolds is undisputedly a capable writer, her dialogue, her prose and her characterizations are all solid, and she always infuses much needed pulse; her issue lie with plot and conflict. This negative motivation just isn’t a compelling or entertaining enough ‘dragon’ to keep ODC apart; it is chiefly annoying, alienating and trite. I don’t believe this has brought anything new or worth exploring to the JAFF table.
DNF 47%
November 6, 2012
Well this is a 'what if' version of P&P. What if, after Darcy's proposal and Elizabeth's stormy refusal at Hunsford Parsonage, he unexpectedly has to stay in Kent rather than go away the next day? They both have to face each other, both are mortified, him at the refusal and all the accusations flung at him, and her at the realisation that she has been far too hasty in her impressions of both Darcy and Wickham, and the realisation of what her family's behaviour has cost Jane. The times they have to meet in Kent are really well written, lots of uncomfortable emotions etc. They are brought together afterwards in London where Darcy meets the Gardiners etc. This part of the book is really good, I would rate it five star.
But then... bizarre behaviour creeps in. Lydia elopes, as per the real P&P. Lizzy throws a super strop when they come to visit Longbourne after the wedding and goes off in self-righteous indignation at how selfish Lydia has been and then goes on to hypocritically behave in practically the same way. The justification is that Mr and Mrs Bennett haven't been good parents to her, but actually any bad behaviour on her part would have affected her sisters chances. I really don't think Elizabeth would have been so monumentally selfish. She and Darcy are like a pair of randy teenagers frankly, and there is not really much romance, it's all pretty seedy. I would give this part of the book 1 star, as that is the lowest, it's really awful. If I were to re-read this book I would give up at the point where they are invited to Darcy's party in London. It's very good up until that point and after that it's not good. I don't know why the author changed Elizabeth and Darcy's characters and morals so much, it's such a waste as this could have been an excellent book. I also didn't like the way Mr Bennet's character was changed, he's quite unpleasant in this book.
But then... bizarre behaviour creeps in. Lydia elopes, as per the real P&P. Lizzy throws a super strop when they come to visit Longbourne after the wedding and goes off in self-righteous indignation at how selfish Lydia has been and then goes on to hypocritically behave in practically the same way. The justification is that Mr and Mrs Bennett haven't been good parents to her, but actually any bad behaviour on her part would have affected her sisters chances. I really don't think Elizabeth would have been so monumentally selfish. She and Darcy are like a pair of randy teenagers frankly, and there is not really much romance, it's all pretty seedy. I would give this part of the book 1 star, as that is the lowest, it's really awful. If I were to re-read this book I would give up at the point where they are invited to Darcy's party in London. It's very good up until that point and after that it's not good. I don't know why the author changed Elizabeth and Darcy's characters and morals so much, it's such a waste as this could have been an excellent book. I also didn't like the way Mr Bennet's character was changed, he's quite unpleasant in this book.
June 30, 2017
This is the third book I've read of this authors and I love her.
A lot of people have commented on the saucy content of the book but if you are going to read this kind of book then surely that's what your looking for? It makes it pretty clear on her kindle blurb that it is sexy. She also does clean P&P but this isn't one of them. You want clean and to era standards then read Jane Austen. You want a sexy romp read this.
I prefer the sexy books.
Don't like it don't read it.
So the plots good, writing excellent the stuff between Darcy and Lizzie fab. I personally think Lizzie had good reason to be irritated by Lydia, but maybe she is a little hypocritical. I didn't like the change to Mr.Bennett though I can see his points. The major thing I disliked was Georgiana's character. I can see what the author was trying to do because she is a teenager but I adore Georgiana and I don't believe she would act as such.
But overall I loved the plot, the writing and the sexy times. Next!!!
A lot of people have commented on the saucy content of the book but if you are going to read this kind of book then surely that's what your looking for? It makes it pretty clear on her kindle blurb that it is sexy. She also does clean P&P but this isn't one of them. You want clean and to era standards then read Jane Austen. You want a sexy romp read this.
I prefer the sexy books.
Don't like it don't read it.
So the plots good, writing excellent the stuff between Darcy and Lizzie fab. I personally think Lizzie had good reason to be irritated by Lydia, but maybe she is a little hypocritical. I didn't like the change to Mr.Bennett though I can see his points. The major thing I disliked was Georgiana's character. I can see what the author was trying to do because she is a teenager but I adore Georgiana and I don't believe she would act as such.
But overall I loved the plot, the writing and the sexy times. Next!!!
November 30, 2021
The first half if great, the second half is terrible. The characters do not act how they should/would have in that era.
May 13, 2013
This is the second P&P variation I have read from Abigail Reynolds and they seem to follow a formula. Of course the whole point is that Elizabeth and Darcy come to a better understanding of one another, but so far both of the variations I have read have been very similar in outline. Basically: some detail changes, E&D go back and forth on whether they should be together/get engaged, premarital sex ensues, overwhelming passion blah blah, hurried wedding, happily ever after.
I think I would find these variations more appealing if they focused less on Darcy's uncontrollable passion for Elizabeth and how they are constantly tempted by one another. I get that these are romance novels but one thing I have always admired about both E&D is their sense of propriety and their honor. I find it hard to believe that Darcy would endanger Elizabeth by enticing her with sex, almost as much as I find it hard to believe that Elizabeth would violate societal norms so easily.
Okay, rant over. Sorry. Overall, this was a pretty good attempt to explore the what ifs of P&P. If you enjoy romance novels and/or P&P you might enjoy this one.
I think I would find these variations more appealing if they focused less on Darcy's uncontrollable passion for Elizabeth and how they are constantly tempted by one another. I get that these are romance novels but one thing I have always admired about both E&D is their sense of propriety and their honor. I find it hard to believe that Darcy would endanger Elizabeth by enticing her with sex, almost as much as I find it hard to believe that Elizabeth would violate societal norms so easily.
Okay, rant over. Sorry. Overall, this was a pretty good attempt to explore the what ifs of P&P. If you enjoy romance novels and/or P&P you might enjoy this one.
August 13, 2013
I am devouring these, one after another, so I am becoming a bit of an expert on Reynolds.
So this one: lots of Elizabeth and Darcy misunderstandings. Yowza. I prefer it when she gets them together early, and then we spend the rest of the book watching them fight off the rest of the world together.
The Mr. Bennett stuff and Georgiana stuff are bold moves. Why not?
I do really dig the psychological investigation into Lizzy's relationships with her parents and what those relationships have done to affect her being able to trust anyone with her feelings. Plus the side stuff about her education (or lack thereof).
The great steamy stuff is just bonus. However, does Darcy need to use the phrase "claim her as his own" so often? There are some wonderful feminist moments throughout, but Darcy using physicality to stake his claim all the time does get under my skin.
Reynolds is a smart writer and I feel fortunate that she is choosing to spend those smarts in this way. What if indeed.
So this one: lots of Elizabeth and Darcy misunderstandings. Yowza. I prefer it when she gets them together early, and then we spend the rest of the book watching them fight off the rest of the world together.
The Mr. Bennett stuff and Georgiana stuff are bold moves. Why not?
I do really dig the psychological investigation into Lizzy's relationships with her parents and what those relationships have done to affect her being able to trust anyone with her feelings. Plus the side stuff about her education (or lack thereof).
The great steamy stuff is just bonus. However, does Darcy need to use the phrase "claim her as his own" so often? There are some wonderful feminist moments throughout, but Darcy using physicality to stake his claim all the time does get under my skin.
Reynolds is a smart writer and I feel fortunate that she is choosing to spend those smarts in this way. What if indeed.
August 19, 2017
This must have been the worst of them all!
September 6, 2018
This is my least favorite of the P&P variations. The others made me want to run out and pick up more. After I finished this one I just took a nap.
June 6, 2021
I found myself skimming through much of the book. I’m okay reading smut and erotica but for some reason when it comes to regency books I can’t. I think it’s because for a time where it was looked down upon just for holding hands with someone of the opposite sex I think it’s completely out of character for them to have premarital sex. And while mr. Bennet was not the best parent, I never thought he would act like he did in this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 16, 2018
Very similar to other Reynolds novels - well written, but way too preoccupied with sex, so much so that it twists the characters into versions of these characters that I really did not recognise. I understand that Darcy is passionate but his sole thought and aim in this seems to be sex, which leads him to be out of character for most of the novel. After a while it gets pretty tedious. I started skim reading at 60% when it descended into full on sex scenes without plot.
January 23, 2020
Sólo debo decir que esto fue en mi época de estar demasiado loca por Jane Austen.
October 14, 2024
By force of instinct is a good variation and I have read it many times. It is very well written and Mrs Reynolds is without a doubt a talented and knowledgeable author. I give only four stars because Elizabeth's reactions sometimes (many times) grated on my nerves. Too prone to tears, too suspicious. I am not a big fan of misunderstandings and they abound in this variation. This is a sensual variation: there are warnings so that's ok. I just thought that the author gave too much importance to the physical attraction between D and E in their growing relationship. Shallow. I recommend this variation to JAFF lovers. They should enjoy it.
September 13, 2014
This book wasn't awful, but I couldn't give it 3 stars simply because I consider 3-star books to be good enough to recommend to someone who likes the genre, and this isn't one I'd particularly recommend. That said, I wouldn't warn someone away, either. It's a benign 2.5 stars for me. I skimmed a lot of it and rolled my eyes through other bits, but I did finish it, and at least 50% of it was fine, if nothing special.
Hiding the rest of this review, as I'm not going to hold back on spoilers. I had a whole list of things immediately after I read it, but I've read something else since then, and I don't care enough to try and remember everything. Still, here are a few specific things I liked and disliked:
Hiding the rest of this review, as I'm not going to hold back on spoilers. I had a whole list of things immediately after I read it, but I've read something else since then, and I don't care enough to try and remember everything. Still, here are a few specific things I liked and disliked:
February 20, 2016
And another variation bites the dust!
I haven't really loved this "series" by Mrs Reynolds as much as I had wanted when I first discovered her, so I haven't a clue what compelled me once again to choose this book among many others.
Quite frankly, I think there's no other reason that I should start seeking therapy as far as the P&P's fandom is concerned. I am such a Lizzie and Darcy wh***, it consumes me in my sleep even.
Pride and Prejudice's retellings are my ultimate favorite guilty pleasures and I can't in good conscience give them up. Like, ever. However, Abigail Reynolds's versions have been more of a miss than hit for me and this new book was no different in the sense that, while I always immensely enjoy every one of her novels' starts - the angst! the kissing - it deflates rather quickly.
There are things that I'm willing to suspend disbelief for - being perfectly aware of the fact that they can never come close to the original and besides some of the changes made can be quite interesting and entertaining - but I need the characters, well, to stay in character! This Darcy wasn't too far off the mark, but Elizabeth was too badly depicted for my tastes. She started off full of promises and then was unfortunately reduced to acting like a love sick puppy dog for most of the novel. And I'm sorry but it was just so un-lizzy like ! I love feisty and teasing Elizabeth - and she did retain some of those qualities -, but imprudent, let's-throw-to-window-my-education Lizzie, not so much.
In any case, the book did succeed to give me the warm fuzzies at times, so I'd say its mission was partly accomplished at least. Would I continue reading thoses variations, though ? Well, the jury is still out on that one.
We shall see.
I haven't really loved this "series" by Mrs Reynolds as much as I had wanted when I first discovered her, so I haven't a clue what compelled me once again to choose this book among many others.
Quite frankly, I think there's no other reason that I should start seeking therapy as far as the P&P's fandom is concerned. I am such a Lizzie and Darcy wh***, it consumes me in my sleep even.
Pride and Prejudice's retellings are my ultimate favorite guilty pleasures and I can't in good conscience give them up. Like, ever. However, Abigail Reynolds's versions have been more of a miss than hit for me and this new book was no different in the sense that, while I always immensely enjoy every one of her novels' starts - the angst! the kissing - it deflates rather quickly.
There are things that I'm willing to suspend disbelief for - being perfectly aware of the fact that they can never come close to the original and besides some of the changes made can be quite interesting and entertaining - but I need the characters, well, to stay in character! This Darcy wasn't too far off the mark, but Elizabeth was too badly depicted for my tastes. She started off full of promises and then was unfortunately reduced to acting like a love sick puppy dog for most of the novel. And I'm sorry but it was just so un-lizzy like ! I love feisty and teasing Elizabeth - and she did retain some of those qualities -, but imprudent, let's-throw-to-window-my-education Lizzie, not so much.
In any case, the book did succeed to give me the warm fuzzies at times, so I'd say its mission was partly accomplished at least. Would I continue reading thoses variations, though ? Well, the jury is still out on that one.
We shall see.
May 25, 2013
This is the worst of Abigail Reynolds's Pemberley Variations I've read so far. Just like in the previous books Reynolds is much better at starting the story than in continuing and finishing it. I wonder why the editor didn't mention to the writer that there was no point in first presenting Lady Catherine de Burg's letter and than making her arrive at Longbourne and giving the same lines that were included in the letter. It didn't bring anything new to the storyline, it's just a needless repetition.
I didn't like the changes in such characters like Mr Bennet, Miss Darcy or Mr Gardiner. Mr Bennet is shown as a disagreeable, malicious, lazy, unobservant and uncaring man. Miss Darcy is presented as a spoilt child, jealous of her brother's affections towards another female and resorting to harmful deceit. Mr Gardiner is shown first as sociable and intelligent, next as sanctimonious and threatening to throw away his niece from his house. Lizzy and Darcy are usually out of character in Reynold's writing so nothing new here, but at least Darcy is shown as caring about his sister while Lizzy doesn't even like her Longbourn family apart from Jane and is shown as self-centered and unlikable.
This is the 3rd out of 4 PV I've read so far with premarital sex scenes, this time with the least convincing scenes and reason for initiating it. I don't really understand the author's insistence in premarital sex between Lizzy and Darcy, it's so fanfiction-like. At least in Impulse & Initiative there was an accidental midnight seduction, in this book the heroine just didn't want to wait to the wedding, so she goes to the hero's house and offers herself to him ...
I didn't like the changes in such characters like Mr Bennet, Miss Darcy or Mr Gardiner. Mr Bennet is shown as a disagreeable, malicious, lazy, unobservant and uncaring man. Miss Darcy is presented as a spoilt child, jealous of her brother's affections towards another female and resorting to harmful deceit. Mr Gardiner is shown first as sociable and intelligent, next as sanctimonious and threatening to throw away his niece from his house. Lizzy and Darcy are usually out of character in Reynold's writing so nothing new here, but at least Darcy is shown as caring about his sister while Lizzy doesn't even like her Longbourn family apart from Jane and is shown as self-centered and unlikable.
This is the 3rd out of 4 PV I've read so far with premarital sex scenes, this time with the least convincing scenes and reason for initiating it. I don't really understand the author's insistence in premarital sex between Lizzy and Darcy, it's so fanfiction-like. At least in Impulse & Initiative there was an accidental midnight seduction, in this book the heroine just didn't want to wait to the wedding, so she goes to the hero's house and offers herself to him ...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 3, 2014
Regency romance with sex. This is one of the many P&P variations AR has done.
This is a reread for me, but I've only read it once. I really didn't care for it much. This variation asks, what would have happened if Darcy didn't leave after Elizabeth refuses his hand. Actually, there's a LOT of angst. For 6 chapters its, he loves me. He loves me not. She loves me, she loves me not. Oh no! she won't make eye contact, she must hate me. He's acting cold again, he hates me. Arghh! There's a BIG PROBLEM every chapter.
Georgiana acts like a brat & causes trouble for both Darcy & Elizabeth. Actually, she's not the only one acting out of character. After Lydia & Wickham do their thing, Elizabeth acts all self righteous. In the original book, this is how Elizabeth's character is. Darcy, & Elizabeth always act with the upmost moral fiber. In this book, Darcy's ready to jump her with the slightest encouragement. She encourages plenty. In fact, she sneaks over to his bachelor flat & basically they get down & do the dirty deed! Really? There's no way Darcy would disrespect the woman going to be his wife that way. There's no way Elizabeth would be so hypocritical to have sex with Darcy before marriage when she so deplored Lydia's conduct with Wickham. Darcy also curses in front of her, but she doesn't act like it's that big of a deal (it IS & Darcy wouldn't ever do that).
All in all, very disappointing & I probably won't keep this book.
This is a reread for me, but I've only read it once. I really didn't care for it much. This variation asks, what would have happened if Darcy didn't leave after Elizabeth refuses his hand. Actually, there's a LOT of angst. For 6 chapters its, he loves me. He loves me not. She loves me, she loves me not. Oh no! she won't make eye contact, she must hate me. He's acting cold again, he hates me. Arghh! There's a BIG PROBLEM every chapter.
Georgiana acts like a brat & causes trouble for both Darcy & Elizabeth. Actually, she's not the only one acting out of character. After Lydia & Wickham do their thing, Elizabeth acts all self righteous. In the original book, this is how Elizabeth's character is. Darcy, & Elizabeth always act with the upmost moral fiber. In this book, Darcy's ready to jump her with the slightest encouragement. She encourages plenty. In fact, she sneaks over to his bachelor flat & basically they get down & do the dirty deed! Really? There's no way Darcy would disrespect the woman going to be his wife that way. There's no way Elizabeth would be so hypocritical to have sex with Darcy before marriage when she so deplored Lydia's conduct with Wickham. Darcy also curses in front of her, but she doesn't act like it's that big of a deal (it IS & Darcy wouldn't ever do that).
All in all, very disappointing & I probably won't keep this book.
October 5, 2011
I love this author's 'what-if' series in regard to Pride and Prejudice. Her writing style and the conversations of the characters bring to mind the original piece.
In this what if that takes off from the point of Elizabeth refusing Darcy at Hunsford, they both learn to look closely at themselves and effect change that leads to a change at how they see each other. Familiar character names take on new roles in how they effect the plot so the reader may be sure of the end result, but not how the story will get there.
There is more passion to this story than the original P&P so if that offends you might wish to look elsewhere.
Very enjoyable read as were the others from the author.
In this what if that takes off from the point of Elizabeth refusing Darcy at Hunsford, they both learn to look closely at themselves and effect change that leads to a change at how they see each other. Familiar character names take on new roles in how they effect the plot so the reader may be sure of the end result, but not how the story will get there.
There is more passion to this story than the original P&P so if that offends you might wish to look elsewhere.
Very enjoyable read as were the others from the author.
January 30, 2017
This was the first one. I enjoyed it but some the behavior of Mr Darcy and Elizabeth was just too unbelievable. I don't mind sex scenes if a logical part of the story but I did not see how the characters as written would engage in that behavior at that time in the story. I don't want to spoil anything so I am being deliberately vague.
Story highlight for me was Bingley.
Reread: Still think Bingley was the best thing and that E acted way out of character and not in the best way.
Story highlight for me was Bingley.
Reread: Still think Bingley was the best thing and that E acted way out of character and not in the best way.
January 21, 2013
I liked this book, because it showed a different evolution of Darcy & Elizabeth. But I didn't like a petty & petulant Georgiana.
Warning it is a even racier than your typical Abigail Reynolds; and in my opinion the "Romance" scenes are completely unnecessary. It is not much worse than a mid-1970's bodice ripper but it may offend some.
Warning it is a even racier than your typical Abigail Reynolds; and in my opinion the "Romance" scenes are completely unnecessary. It is not much worse than a mid-1970's bodice ripper but it may offend some.
June 16, 2013
I love P&P storylines. This one started well, and really had me feeling for the characters. Then modernism reared its head. There are just some things that I find it hard to swallow Elizabeth and Darcy doing. And with Georgiana's heartache so recent, even more so. And Georgiana was just a spoiled child. Very disappointed.
October 22, 2015
One of my least favourite variations - this Darcy, although fine in his own right just isn't Darcy enough to make it memorable. Also, reading this one so soon after reading another in the series, it's all just a bit samey.
March 31, 2024
Maybe it was the late night re-read but the heartbreak was real!
June 20, 2024
A mio avviso Abigail Reynolds ha scritto alcune fra le variazioni più belle. In questo romanzo scopriamo una rivisitazione della storia che lascia praticamente la trama inalterata. Più o meno succede tutto quello che deve succedere e ai trovano anche battute del romanzo originale, tuttavia i caratteri dei personaggi sono differenti. Troviamo una Georgiana non proprio così amabile, un mr. Bennet che abbandona la sua posizione di indolenza per mostrare aperta ostilità, ma soprattutto troviamo Elizabeth e mr. Darcy in una insolita veste di amanti focosi. I due protagonisti scoprono infatti il piacere dell'amore fisico e tutto il romanzo é costellato di episodi in cui cercano la possibilità di poter stare da soli per scambiarsi effusioni. Lizzy sorprende e Darcy, soprattutto, é quello che non ti aspetti rivelandosi un amante desideroso e molto molto esigente. Tuttavia l'abilità della scrittrice sta nel non far risultare il romanzo volgare o le scene, alcune delle quali decisamente descrittive, troppo scabrose. Chiaramente per questo aspetto il romanzo si discosta molto dall'originale e per i canoni della società ottocentesca presenta degli aspetti privati che difficilmente, benché certamente esistenti, venivano mostrati soprattutto nelle alte sfere della società a cui Darcy appartiene. Perciò, forse, la lettura non è consigliata a quei lettori puristi che non amano l'introduzione di aspetti un po' discordanti con le caratteristiche del modo di vivere del tempo ed ai lettori non avvezzi a descrizioni piuttosto esplicite, comunque mai volgari.
Il personaggio di Elizabeth è dotato di una certa intraprendenza, ma è il personaggio di Darcy che stupisce per la sua passione, la sua gentilezza, il suo amore e la sua capacità di sopportare le avversità con un magnifico aplomb. Per chi ama Darcy in tutti i suoi aspetti, una variazione davvero interessante
Il personaggio di Elizabeth è dotato di una certa intraprendenza, ma è il personaggio di Darcy che stupisce per la sua passione, la sua gentilezza, il suo amore e la sua capacità di sopportare le avversità con un magnifico aplomb. Per chi ama Darcy in tutti i suoi aspetti, una variazione davvero interessante
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 8, 2022
A Rocky Beginning
The writing is good, but I was frustrated during the first half of the book. I thought of giving up a few times. My issue was with Darcy and Elizabeth. The MOST these two can go without some misunderstanding, cutting words, or doubt was 24 hours. Many times it took place within a visit. They will come to some form of friendliness, then the next thing you know someone is angry or over thinking someone's look, or whatever. Elizabeth responds to Darcy's kiss, then exclaims "How dare you!" They get engaged, next day drama. They kiss again...drama. I didn't get it. If it didn't happen so often the book would have been quite enjoyable.
What I did like:
-Darcy's devotion (early on I thought, why should he bother?)
-The author did a great job showing Darcy vulnerability, almost child-like.
-Elizabeth's character- once she decided to trust Darcy completely. In my opinion, Elizabeth became Darcy's protector and comforter.
-I know many people who feel like Pride and Prejudice variations has to have Elizabeth going to Pemberley. That wasn't the case in this book. Pemberley was mentioned, but the author didn't focus on that. Instead, in my opinion, she focused on Darcy and Elizabeth relationship. The need for Darcy to feel loved without Pemberley and all of his wealth. Elizabeth reassuring Darcy that all she needs is him. With that being said, Darcy and Elizabeth intimate moments on screen wasn't the fairytale, romantic, wine and dine experience. What I got instead was Darcy and Elizabeth need for the other, that all outside noise, customs, and expectations meant nothing if they didn't have each other. Of course, there's a chance Darcy and Elizabeth have rubbed off on me and I'm over thinking this, so be it.
The writing is good, but I was frustrated during the first half of the book. I thought of giving up a few times. My issue was with Darcy and Elizabeth. The MOST these two can go without some misunderstanding, cutting words, or doubt was 24 hours. Many times it took place within a visit. They will come to some form of friendliness, then the next thing you know someone is angry or over thinking someone's look, or whatever. Elizabeth responds to Darcy's kiss, then exclaims "How dare you!" They get engaged, next day drama. They kiss again...drama. I didn't get it. If it didn't happen so often the book would have been quite enjoyable.
What I did like:
-Darcy's devotion (early on I thought, why should he bother?)
-The author did a great job showing Darcy vulnerability, almost child-like.
-Elizabeth's character- once she decided to trust Darcy completely. In my opinion, Elizabeth became Darcy's protector and comforter.
-I know many people who feel like Pride and Prejudice variations has to have Elizabeth going to Pemberley. That wasn't the case in this book. Pemberley was mentioned, but the author didn't focus on that. Instead, in my opinion, she focused on Darcy and Elizabeth relationship. The need for Darcy to feel loved without Pemberley and all of his wealth. Elizabeth reassuring Darcy that all she needs is him. With that being said, Darcy and Elizabeth intimate moments on screen wasn't the fairytale, romantic, wine and dine experience. What I got instead was Darcy and Elizabeth need for the other, that all outside noise, customs, and expectations meant nothing if they didn't have each other. Of course, there's a chance Darcy and Elizabeth have rubbed off on me and I'm over thinking this, so be it.
January 5, 2019
Aunque se me hizo un poco fuera de las personalidades de Lizzie y Darcy, muy apasionados, para lo que considero que son ellos, me gusto.
Este libro empieza después de la declaración de Darcy a Lizzie en Rosings y que esta lee su carta con las explicaciones y disculpas. El cambio de la historia aquí se da, cuando Darcy tiene que quedarse, ya que su tío y Georgiana están por llegar, así que lizzie tras haber cambiado de parecer en cuanto al carácter del señor Darcy, lo empieza a tratar mas y enamorarse de el.
me gusto que aunque hubo varios malentendidos entre los protagonistas, no duraron tanto, como en otros libros suelen hacer en estos casos. punto muy bueno. las escenas de reconciliación muy buenas y algunas apasionadas.
Georgiana me callo mal, gran parte del libre, aunque es comprensible, ya cuando se explica el porque de su actitud, aunque eso no dejo que en su momento me cayera mal, como cuando insinúa algunas cosas sobre Darcy a Elizabeth, solo para que esta se enoje con el, lo bueno es que aunque Elizabeth lo cree, este malentendido le dura poco.
me gusto bastante.
Este libro empieza después de la declaración de Darcy a Lizzie en Rosings y que esta lee su carta con las explicaciones y disculpas. El cambio de la historia aquí se da, cuando Darcy tiene que quedarse, ya que su tío y Georgiana están por llegar, así que lizzie tras haber cambiado de parecer en cuanto al carácter del señor Darcy, lo empieza a tratar mas y enamorarse de el.
me gusto que aunque hubo varios malentendidos entre los protagonistas, no duraron tanto, como en otros libros suelen hacer en estos casos. punto muy bueno. las escenas de reconciliación muy buenas y algunas apasionadas.
Georgiana me callo mal, gran parte del libre, aunque es comprensible, ya cuando se explica el porque de su actitud, aunque eso no dejo que en su momento me cayera mal, como cuando insinúa algunas cosas sobre Darcy a Elizabeth, solo para que esta se enoje con el, lo bueno es que aunque Elizabeth lo cree, este malentendido le dura poco.
me gusto bastante.
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