Gill M
Review also posted on my blog
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Jane Bennet becomes unwell whilst visiting Netherfield Park.
Surprisingly, Mrs Bennet is delighted! Why worry about a trifling cold? After all, more time in the house of the amiable and wealthy, Mr Bingley must lead to a proposal.
Elizabeth Bennet is worried for her sister, so she walks to Netherfield Park to check on her.
Unfortunately, the trifling cold, turns out to be smallpox. Elizabeth has been exposed, so enters quarantine with Jane.
Smallpox spreads through the area, so many households are quarantined.
Mr Bingley and Mr Darcy have both been inoculated against smallpox, so undertake to assist the apothecary in monitoring the outbreak.
As Jane grows worse, Elizabeth feels very alone. Support comes from an unexpected person.
Elizabeth had thought Mr Darcy unpleasant and haughty, but he shows himself to be kind and the best of men.
Whilst Elizabeth struggles at Netherfield, Longbourn has five people sick. Mary, though healthy is burdened with caring for several patients, while trying to keep the house running.
When the outbreak is over, sixty eight souls have been lost.
The families gradually emerge from their isolation, to mourn, to reconnect and to slowly move on. The survivors face devastating changes.
Such exceptional times, yield profound changes in character and some unexpected romances.
The strange experience of COVID and lockdowns, makes it all too easy to imagine such a frightening situation.
Frances Reynolds has captured the fear, grief and gritty reality of smallpox, together with the green shoots of hope and burgeoning love.
Definitely not to be missed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review also posted on my blog
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Lydia has long been in love with her childhood friend Jacob Lewis.
They grow up and take their places in the world.
Lydia runs the household for her widower father, a vicar and tutors local children.
Jacob accepts a commission in the army, embracing the perils and pleasures of the world.
At four and twenty, Lydia is a confirmed spinster, having turned down suitors as she waited for Jacob to finally notice her.
A week after her father's sudden death, Jacob returns and offers marriage. Saddened that Jacob seems to offer his protection but not love, Lydia accepts, as the alternative is a life in service.
They have only hours together before Jacob returns to his barracks. There he receives orders to the continent and ultimately, to Waterloo.
Settled at the Lewis family estate, Lydia faces a traumatic event, causing her to flee and hide under an assumed name until Jacob returns.
Jacob never receives her letter explaining how to find her.
When Jacob returns from Waterloo, it is three years before he can track her down.
When they meet angst, regret and passion ensue.
Excellent little novella.
I received a free copy of this book via StoryOrigin and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own.
Merged review:
Review also posted on my blog
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/2022/06/the-captains-wife-by-nina-jarrett.html
Lydia has long been in love with her childhood friend Jacob Lewis.
They grow up and take their places in the world.
Lydia runs the household for her widower father, a vicar and tutors local children.
Jacob accepts a commission in the army, embracing the perils and pleasures of the world.
At four and twenty, Lydia is a confirmed spinster, having turned down suitors as she waited for Jacob to finally notice her.
A week after her father's sudden death, Jacob returns and offers marriage. Saddened that Jacob seems to offer his protection but not love, Lydia accepts, as the alternative is a life in service.
They have only hours together before Jacob returns to his barracks. There he receives orders to the continent and ultimately, to Waterloo.
Settled at the Lewis family estate, Lydia faces a traumatic event, causing her to flee and hide under an assumed name until Jacob returns.
Jacob never receives her letter explaining how to find her.
When Jacob returns from Waterloo, it is three years before he can track her down.
When they meet angst, regret and passion ensue.
Excellent little novella.
I received a free copy of this book via StoryOrigin and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own.
Review also posted on my blog
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/2023/05/as-autumn-arrives-in-meryton-revel.html
As autumn arrives in Meryton, the Revel comes with it.
A mix of carnival and fairground, it is welcomed by the tradesmen, farmers and servants.
It is deemed unseemly for daughters of the gentry, so of course, Lydia Bennet decides to sneak out to join the throng.
Lydia is the youngest and silliest of the five Bennet sisters, with as little decorum as sense. When elder sister Elizabeth hears her sneaking out after midnight, she feels duty bound to follow her and bring her back.
Lydia is meeting the handsome, charming Mr Wickham.
When Elizabeth finds Lydia and tries to take her home, Wickham is less than helpful.
Elizabeth is mortified to be spotted by the haughty Mr Darcy, but he surprises her by his kind assistance in returning Elizabeth and Lydia, safely home.
When Darcy spots Elizabeth, she is dancing alone and he has never seen anything more enchanting!
The author perfectly captures the allure of the fair. The lights, music and atmosphere, produce a sensuous “other worldly” space. The dirt, squalor and debauchery provide a frisson of fear and a thrill of danger.
The steamy content is well written and believable.
If you don't mind mature content and a complete absence of propriety, this is well worth reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review also posted on my blog
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/2023/05/after-misunderstandings-and.html
After misunderstandings and tribulations, Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy are betrothed.
Just when felicity is assured, Darcy is informed of madness running through the Darcy line.
Elizabeth must be informed before marriage but Darcy is terrified that she will break off the engagement.
Fortunately, Elizabeth is devoted to Darcy, so the wedding goes ahead.
After the honeymoon, a letter arrives which casts a shadow on Georgiana Darcy's character and even her sanity.
This is an excellent romantic, suspense novel.
Little snippets of Georgiana's odd behaviour fuel our suspicions. It feels like waves upon the shore. Suspicion rises, but then diminishes, only to rise again.
Excellently written and gripping.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksirens and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own.
Review also posted on my blog
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/2023/05/elizabeth-bennet-overhears-haughty.html
Elizabeth Bennet overhears the haughty Fitzwilliam Darcy talking with his friend, Charles Bingley.
Charles is in love with Jane Bennet, but Darcy disparages Jane, her family and lack of wealth or connections.
Elizabeth is furious, but instead of taking Darcy to task, she plans to humiliate him.
Her aim is for Darcy to fall in love with her, so that she can reject him.
As Darcy and Elizabeth get to know each other, a bond develops.
This is when I struggled with this novella.
Elizabeth is attracted to Darcy and starts to fall in love. However, instead of abandoning her goal of revenge, she tells herself that she must stick to the plan.
What rational creature would behave like that?
Darcy's proposal is the typical Hunsford disaster, but Elizabeth is spiteful and nonsensical in her refusal.
Darcy flees to London, while Elizabeth realises how much she loves him and regrets her behaviour.
She goes to London, hoping to see Darcy. Eventually, in a serious breach of propriety, she writes to Darcy to arrange a meeting.
Frankly, I have known 13 year olds, who were more mature than this Elizabeth.
Darcy deserved better.
I received a free copy of this book via StoryOrigin and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own.
Review also posted on my blog
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/2023/05/elizabeth-bennet-rejects-proposal-from.html
Elizabeth Bennet rejects the proposal from Mr Collins, her father's heir. Mr Bennet supports her decision.
Mrs Bennet views the match as essential to keeping a roof over her family, after the death of Mr Bennet.
Both Elizabeth and Mr Bennet think Mr Collins is a slimy, sanctimonious fool.
Unfortunately, the following day Mr Bennet changes his mind, having discovered his heart is rapidly failing.
Elizabeth is horrified at the prospect of marrying a man she could not respect and grief stricken at the imminent loss of her beloved Papa.
She hopes someone will rescue her, but eventually resigns herself to her fate.
Fitzwilliam Darcy is in love with Elizabeth but has a duty to his family. Only a well connected and/or rich wife will do.
However, on hearing of Elizabeth's betrothal, he decides he would rather be happy than dutiful.
Arriving minutes before Elizabeth enters the church, Darcy makes a passionate proposal, to a rather stunned Elizabeth.
While Elizabeth has never liked Mr Darcy, he is handsome, intelligent and seemingly enamoured. She quickly accepts.
Everyone is delighted, except of course Mr Collins.
Obstacles start being presented, so Jane Bennet encourages Elizabeth and the very proper Mr Darcy to elope!
The journey to Gretna Green is long and slow, but it does give our dear couple time to really get to know each other, in more ways than one.
Mr Collins is in pursuit with Darcy's aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh.
Collins only wants Elizabeth so that he can mistreat her and break her spirit. All for the crime of rejecting his first proposal.
You will be pleased to know that his comeuppance is very appropriate.
The characters of Darcy and Elizabeth are well drawn. You do have to overcome the speed of Elizabeth's volte-face and the impropriety of the couple anticipating their vows!
However, it is done in a tasteful manner.
I really enjoyed this book and read it in one sitting. I heartily recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review also posted on my blog
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/2023/05/elizabeth-bennets-much-anticipated-trip.html
Elizabeth Bennet's much anticipated trip to Kent, gets only as far as London, when one of the party becomes unwell.
Elizabeth joins her sister Jane, at the house of their Aunt and Uncle Gardner.
They are thrown into the company of acquaintances, Mr Bingley, who Jane admires and Mr Darcy, who Elizabeth despises.
They also meet Darcy's sister Georgiana, who becomes a cherished friend.
A bizarre treasure hunt for paste jewellery and the machinations of a blackguard, result in poor Georgiana being publicly accused of theft.
Although the accusation is quickly withdrawn, gossip continues.
Darcy and Elizabeth join forces to smoke out the true villain.
Along the way, Elizabeth and Darcy get to know each other better, argue frequently and fall in love.
Lyndsay Constable's latest novella, her third book, is equally delightful as her previous works.
Lyndsay Constable has become an author whose works I consider essential reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review also posted on my blog
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/2023/05/on-visit-to-her-uncle-gardner-in-london.html
On a visit to her Uncle Gardner in London, the 16 year old Elizabeth Bennet and a friend are excited to be invited to a ball. They fib to her uncle so that they can attend.
It does not strike them as odd that the invitation is from a stranger in Hyde Park!
The ball is being held for mistresses to find new protectors, but Elizabeth is too naive to realise.
She rapidly finds herself the target of some unwanted attention.
Fitzwilliam Darcy followed his erstwhile friend, George Wickham to the ball.
He rapidly recognises what is going on and is preparing to leave when he spots Elizabeth.
The only way to deflect unwanted attention is to “claim” her for himself.
A dance and a thorough kiss do the job.
It is at this point that an apoplectic Mr Gardner rushes in to rescue Elizabeth.
Darcy is accused of compromise but refuses to marry Elizabeth. After a lot of wrangling it seems they are betrothed – sort of!
Over several years, Darcy refuses to marry Elizabeth but Mr Bennet won't release him, even with financial compensation. (Accepting money is too close to admitting that Elizabeth was Darcy's mistress).
As Elizabeth approaches her majority, Darcy asks Elizabeth her opinion.
She doesn't want him, but her father persists.
Darcy and Elizabeth agree that if he can find her a decent suitor among his friends, that would be an acceptable alternative.
Elizabeth travels to Bath with her married sister Jane. Darcy is there with several family members.
Darcy spends time with Elizabeth introducing possible suitors. He discovers that he likes her and had no idea that since her mistake in London, her family have secluded her to protect the Bennet name.
While there are sad elements to the story, there are delightful episodes, particularly the irrepressible Lord Saye and his trusty Pomeranian, Florizel.
A HEA is of course guaranteed, but before that there is a shocking denouement.
Amy D'Orazio pulls yet another stunning rabbit out of the hat!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review also posted on my blog
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/2023/05/during-heatwave-in-hertfordshire.html
3.5 rounded up to 4
During a heatwave in Hertfordshire, Elizabeth Bennet is desperate to cool off.
A skinny dip in a secluded pond is too enticing to resist.
Unfortunately, the haughty, handsome Fitzwilliam Darcy has the same idea.
Darcy hears splashing and a giggle. Despite seeing a woman's clothes on the shore, he doesn't leave.
His eyes move to the water and he is entranced by the sight of Elizabeth, who has haunted his fevered dreams for some time.
He knows that a gentleman would walk away, but he is transfixed, right up until he is spotted by Elizabeth, who screams.
Elizabeth is mortified to have Mr Darcy, of all people witness such a sight. However, over the next few days she is drawn back to the memory of the desire and passion in his eyes.
After two days, the heat drives Elizabeth back to the pond. Darcy finds her again and declares that in witnessing her déshabillé, he has compromised her and as a gentleman he is duty bound to marry her.
Darcy is distinctly put out when Elizabeth declines his offer.
The couple continue to meet at social functions, with both feeling a magnetic connection.
The author captures perfectly, their simmering fire of mutual desire.
The story progresses as those with the appearance of goodness, are revealed to be villains and the haughty, proud Darcy shows himself to be the best of men.
An enjoyable debut novella. There are a few failures of editing but they are not too jarring.
Worth reading.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review also posted on my blog
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/2023/04/irresistibly-alone-by-julie-cooper.html
Elizabeth Bennet and her sister Jane, swore to marry only for the deepest love.
Always her father's favourite, she felt secure in his love and respect. Many happy hours were spent together in his book room, reading, debating and sharing the quiet peace.
On the day of the Netherfield ball, Mr Bennet summons her.
One brief conversation destroys all of her plans for the future, her faith in her father and her equanimity.
He has arranged a marriage for her, to Mr Goulding, a man older than her father, a man she thinks of as an uncle.
Goulding needs an heir, after the recent death of his son and Bennet owes him a debt.
Unfortunately, Elizabeth is to pay that debt.
The only concession is a small delay to allow Elizabeth to come to terms with the match.
Elizabeth is grief stricken at her loss of choice, of hope, of all she had planned.
Although forced to attend the ball, Elizabeth rapidly seeks sanctuary in the dark, frosty garden.
When Fitzwilliam Darcy entered Hertfordshire Society, he presented himself as proud and haughty, declaring Elizabeth not handsome enough to tempt him when they first met.
Unfortunately, Elizabeth heard the insult and was determined to despise him.
Time has shown him that Elizabeth is indeed tempting and he believes himself to be infatuated with her.
Darcy follows Elizabeth into the garden, concerned that she seems distressed. Elizabeth reveals the news of her forced betrothal and breaks down in tears.
Darcy is remarkably kind and comforting.
So begins an unlikely friendship.
They meet while out walking on a snowy day and Darcy leads Elizabeth to a folly for shelter.
He has arranged for fires to be lit and food provided. Then he presents her with the key.
Elizabeth tries to come to terms with her fate, but has no appetite and isn't sleeping.
She visits the folly regularly, finding sanctuary from her sorrows. Each time Darcy has added another refinement, a comfortable chair, cushions, delicacies to tempt her appetite.
Eventually, Elizabeth realises that she has fallen in love with Darcy and determines that she should no longer go to the folly.
She leaves a note for Darcy.
“I spent this leisurely morning of reading wrapped in the loveliest, softest shawl in the world, and pretended—just this once, I promise—that it was your embrace keeping me warm and secure.”
Darcy has realised that infatuation was a massive understatement!
“Watching over you while you slept, realising it was the first and last time I would ever have that privilege... the thought was abhorrent.”
Every time I read a new Julie Cooper book, I think that she can't possibly do even better.
This is her finest yet.
Her portrayal of Elizabeth's feelings of grief and betrayal are devastating.
This Darcy is such an excellent man. Kind, thoughtful, compassionate and generous.
I would give this ten stars if I could!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own.
Review also posted on my blog
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/2023/04/as-one-would-expect-of-novella-there-is.html
As one would expect of a novella, there is not time for deep character development.
This Darcy is much less the proud, stiff “Hunsford” Mr Darcy, more the playful, pleasing “Pemberley” Darcy.
The man Elizabeth Bennet encounters in the gardens of Rosings, is engaging and willing to share recollections that show his vulnerability.
All rather unsettling for Elizabeth, who still views him with disapprobation, following his insult to her at the Meryton assembly.
Playing the outdoor equivalent of a parlour game, they search through the gardens for various blossoms.
Elation at finding the winning bloom, rapidly evolves into a passionate embrace and several searing kisses.
Alas, they are seen by Mr Collins, who can't resist shouting compromise, to most of Lady Catherine's staff and guests.
To save their reputations, Darcy declares their betrothal and Elizabeth must concur. A rapid wedding is arranged.
Passion continues, but will love prove elusive?
An enjoyable read, with engaging characters and a few pleasingly steamy encounters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review also posted on my blog
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/2023/04/a.html
A Pride and prejudice variation which starts from a meeting at Pemberley.
Elizabeth and Jane Bennet, on holiday with their Uncle and Aunt Gardiner.
While touring Pemberley, a chance meeting with the owner, Mr Darcy leads to an invitation to stay for a house party.
Jane is reunited with Mr Bingley, their amiable neighbour from Hertfordshire.
While Elizabeth makes a favourable impression on Mr Darcy.
Darcy follows Elizabeth to Hertfordshire, his heart very soon engaged.
Unfortunately, meeting the Bennet family is less than pleasant for the fastidious Darcy.
Darcy struggles between his feelings for Elizabeth and his revulsion for her family's behaviour.
Sadly, Darcy gives Elizabeth the classic “Hunsford” proposal. Elizabeth is humiliated and feels she must refuse, despite being in love with the man, she thought she knew.
Time passes and Elizabeth finds herself in London for the Season. (Mrs Bennet finally persuaded her husband to agree to a Season for all her girls).
Being thrown into company with Darcy again is a challenge.
Can they overcame their differences? Only time will tell.
Quite an enjoyable variation.
I received a free copy of this book via StoryOrigin and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own.
Review also posted on my blog
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/2023/04/locked-in-love-and-marys-to-blame-by.html
Mary Bennet is jealous of the attention that Mr Collins is paying her sister Elizabeth.
At the Netherfield ball, her solution is to lock Elizabeth out of the way in a dark room.
Unfortunately, that room was not empty.
Fitzwilliam Darcy just wanted some peace and quiet.
Elizabeth and Darcy try to escape the room by the window, but their progress is observed resulting in a compromise.
A forced marriage scenario for Elizabeth and Darcy is a common trope in Jane Austen variations.
Often these result in angst ridden efforts to find some way of making a life with a stranger.
Bella Breen paints an appealing picture of Elizabeth and Darcy finding affection for each other. However, we are told that this happens, rather than being shown by action and dialogue.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review also posted on my blog
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/2023/04/pride-prejudice-and-wicked-pleasure-by.html
Elizabeth Bennet has a sensual awakening after reading Fanny Hill.
When she travels to Hunsford to visit her newly married friend, a minor accident throws her into the path of Mrs Abby Trenwith.
Abby is an independent and liberal thinking widow, with a secret passion for the sensual arts.
She offers to provide a trustworthy, male instructor to provide lessons in pleasure and pain.
During the lessons, both are masked and disguised, to maintain their anonymity. A good thing too, as Elizabeth would be angry and distressed if she knew who he was!
Erotic bits were well done. Fitted in well with the Hunsford narrative
However, way too much of the original story, almost word for word from Austen. I found myself skipping text to find any changes from the original.
I love JAFF but this wasn't a variation or retelling, just Pride and prejudice with some fairly vanilla BDSM.
Not sure if I would recommend this to JAFF fans, but fans of erotica may enjoy it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review also posted on my blog
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/2023/04/river-of-dreams-by-j-dawn-king.html
Fitzwilliam Darcy's father was a cold and distant man who instilled in his son a sense of duty and responsibility.
Darcy was raised to believe that he must always put the needs of his family and his estate first. This burden has weighed heavily on Darcy throughout his life, and it has made him aloof and guarded.
Unfortunately, only three members of his family were loving and supportive.
Georgiana, his little sister loves him but is cowed by her haughty father.
Richard Fitzwilliam, his cousin is as close as a brother but duty to the Crown calls him away.
Lady Anne Darcy was a sweet and loving mother who drowned in a freak accident. Her death left Darcy with a long lasting fear of water.
When Darcy visits Hertfordshire, he meets Elizabeth Bennet and insults her!
Fortunately, Darcy apologies and Elizabeth accepts.
Elizabeth is burdened by revelations of just how poor a father, Mr Bennet is and what it might cost the whole family.
During a flood, Elizabeth goes to the aid of two children in trouble. When that trouble becomes life threatening, Fitzwilliam Darcy must overcome his deepest fears or all three will be swept away.
The rescue is a rousing adventure, which keeps you on the edge of your seat. The children are delightful and Darcy's extended family are awful.
Happy endings are found by the deserving and fitting retribution awaits the wicked.
Another thoroughly enjoyable book from J Dawn King.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own.
Review also posted on my blog
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/2023/03/emmas-dragon-london-and-pemberley-by-m.html
Emma's Dragon is the second book in M.Verant's award-winning Jane Austen Fantasy series. It is a sequel to Miss Bennet's Dragon.
At the end of the first book, Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy marry and bind with the formidable dragon, Yuánchi, thus thwarting Napoleon's plans for England.
In Emma's Dragon, we are introduced to Emma Woodhouse, a woman burdened by many secrets. Her own father's indiscretions, the machinations of her brother in law to steal her inheritance and most of all her mental afflictions.
Her gift should be healing but without being bound to a dragon, she lacks sufficient power. Instead her “gift” curses her with, what we would know as obsessive compulsive disorder.
Emma meets the Darcys and discovers that she should have been the one to bind with Yuánchi, the deadly dragon coveted by both Emperor Napoleon and England's Secretary of War.
The story unfolds in London, with dark forces kidnapping wyves and dosing them with Night Crawler venom. Those who survive become a weapon for a racist, misogynistic and ultimately traitorous group called Britain Awake.
That weapon is turned upon Elizabeth Darcy and then used to summon a terrifying behemoth with a fractured mind.
The cast of characters runs from Royalty to orphans, with a mix of races as befits a story which addresses both racial and class prejudice.
The most prominent characters are the Great Wyves, women of strength and courage, Elizabeth, Emma, Mary and Georgiana.
The survival of all will depend upon them.
Emma's Dragon is a fast-paced and exciting read, and it is sure to please fans of both Jane Austen and fantasy fiction.
I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own.
Review also posted on my blog
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/2023/03/unwanted-by-rachel-rowan.html
Laura, the artist, and Natalie, the actor, were inseparable best friends. Despite living in a shabby apartment, they supported each other through thick and thin, sharing their victories and setbacks as they fought for success in their respective fields.
Then suddenly, Natalie was gone, her life changed by success and an unexpected inheritance of both fortune and title.
Laura is left behind, still struggling and feeling bereft.
Attending Natalie's swanky birthday party, Laura is mortified to be twice mistaken as a waitress.
At least the second person to make that mistake, was stoned. Tom was also gorgeous, charming and a viscount.
The instant sexual chemistry between Laura and Tom leads to an incendiary kiss.
Laura struggles to forget the kiss, as does Tom.
Their paths cross again in Scotland. Natalie has given Laura a job as artist in residence at Deveron Castle.
Lord Tom Brewerly, had been heir to Deveron for twenty eight years.
But when the Marquess, dies the entire inheritance goes to a distant cousin, Natalie.
Tom is now in debt, with no prospects.
When Natalie offers work as guardian of Deveron, he has no choice but to accept.
Unfortunately, Deveron Castle is cold, damp and mildewed, with a hole in the roof. Mr and Mrs Greaves, the caretakers are unfriendly and the staff quarters are cramped.
Tom's job is to renovate the castle, but when no funds (including his wages) are forthcoming the job is impossible.
Bills aren't being paid, electricity is rationed and there is very little heating.
When all attempts to communicate with Natalie are ignored, Tom begins to really despise her.
When Laura arrives at the Deveron, Tom is delighted, having been unable to forget their kiss.
Tom has been quite disparaging about his employer, so is shocked and resentful when Laura reveals she is Natalie's best friend.
Laura struggles to believe her best friend has changed so much, but perhaps money and fame have gone to her head.
Can Tom and Laura rekindle their passion? Will Natalie ever answer her messages?
This is a highly engaging novella that crackles with sensuality and has a very satisfying denouement.
Recommended read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Alexander Washburn, youngest son of the Duke of Richmond, had to make his own way in the world.
His career in the army saw him rise to the rank of major, but his horrific experiences fighting Napoleon, weigh on his mind and soul.
Due to untimely deaths in his family, Alex finds himself recalled from Spain to take up the duties as Duke.
It is essential that he find a wife to secure an heir. Unfortunately, this means joining the marriage mart of Society, while struggling with a reticent temperament and what we would call PTSD.
An interesting premise for a story.
I'm a huge fan of JAFF, so the label of Pride and prejudice variation guaranteed my interest.
However, what we get is Pride and prejudice, almost word for word, with all the characters renamed (some very oddly). All is told from Alex's (Darcy) perspective, which shows his fascination with the ‘Lizzy' character, as purely self-serving. He has no insight into who she is and what she feels.
I know Fitzwilliam Darcy was the same, but it seems even worse when all we have is Alex's thoughts.
While JAFF fans expect Jane Austen quotes, this really was too much.
Regretfully, I cannot recommend.
As ever, Benjamin Fife's narration was excellent.
I received a free copy of this audiobook via StoryOrigin and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own.
Review also posted on my blog
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/2023/04/unfounded-by-jessie-lewis.html
As Elizabeth Bennet tours Pemberley, she feels anxious about running into the owner, Mr. Darcy. Having rejected his proposal of marriage, she assumes he must loathe her.
However, when they do cross paths, she is pleasantly surprised to find that he harbours no ill feelings towards her.
Unfortunately, Elizabeth is unaware that her reunion with the master of Pemberley is regarded with suspicion by one very significant member of the household.
To this person, very few are good enough for Darcy and Elizabeth is dismissed as a fortune hunter to be repelled.
Darcy is astonished to discover Miss Bennet's presence in his home, and even more surprised to learn that her opinion of him has significantly improved. He begins to contemplate resuming his efforts to win her affection, but unforeseen obstacles emerge that could jeopardize their chances of happiness.
Pemberley is under threat. What starts as a small crack, grows bigger, eventually threatening an entire wing. This also serves as a metaphor for the crumbling of the very foundation of the Pemberley household.
Darcy has always found sanctuary at Pemberley, so it's undermining is especially distressing.
At the same time Darcy and Elizabeth must find the way back to each other, despite the obstacles placed between them by a thoroughly unexpected betrayal.
Jessie Lewis has yet again, delivered a brilliant book.
A balance of yearning, betrayal, angst and profound love, this is a book that is hard to put down.
I highly recommend that you read this.
Just don't start reading it at bedtime!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review also posted on my blog
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/2023/03/mr-darcy-and-suffragette-by-maggie-mooha.html
This Pride and Prejudice variation sets the story in 1911. This allows us to see just how much has changed in one hundred years.
The high prestige department store, Selfridge's in London, is the thread that brings our characters
Fitzwilliam Darcy of Pemberley is still a great landowner, but the world is so changed, that maintaining the house is a financial struggle.
Elizabeth and Jane Bennet strike out for independence, becoming window dressers in the high prestige Selfridge's in London.
Elizabeth is inspired to join the Suffragette movement, in their fight for women's right to vote. But the more involved she becomes, the greater the risk of arrest and police brutality.
Bingley is wealthy and affable, Caroline is a snob. Wickham is a waiter by day and lothario by night.
Darcy and Elizabeth's relationship follows the classic combination of pride, prejudice and misunderstanding.
This is a good variation combining romance with some exciting, dramatic and occasionally angst ridden episodes.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review also posted on my blog
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/2023/03/dangerous-when-wet-pride-prejudice.html
Netherfield Park is let at last and the new tenant Charles Bingley, faces unseasonably hot weather for October.
Fitzwilliam Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam join the party, after riding from London in the stultifying heat.
Having spotted a very tempting stream as they rode across Netherfield's land, they suggest a swim.
On arrival they hear voices and investigate. All five Bennet daughters are swimming, as Mr Bennet sits in the shade.
Elizabeth executes a daring, acrobatic swing into the river. Darcy is initially startled, as he thinks she is drowning, then captivated by the sight of Elizabeth in a wet dress.
The heatwave lasts about ten days, with more swimming and interaction with the Bennets. Darcy ends up losing his heart to Elizabeth.
The book ends at the Meryton assembly, where Darcy and Elizabeth dance and someone gets a wet and muddy comeuppance.
This book is wonderful!
No angst, very little Darcy pride and Elizabeth at her teasing best.
As a bonus we have Jemima, a duck of great discernment. She loves Elizabeth and Darcy, but attacks Miss Bingley (or possibly her hat)!
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own.
Review also posted on my blog
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/2023/03/enduring-connexions-pride-and-prejudice.html
At three and twenty, Fitzwilliam Darcy fell in love with Miss Amesbury. Unfortunately, she betrayed him with his enemy, George Wickham.
He vows to protect his heart from any unworthy woman.
He collects advice, from those he trusts, on which qualities will make the perfect Mrs Darcy.
Unsurprisingly, such a woman is hard to find.
Four years later, he meets Elizabeth Bennet. She is beautiful, intelligent, witty and completely unsuitable to be Mrs Darcy.
However, the heart wants, what the heart wants.
Darcy courts Elizabeth but their budding romance is threatened when Darcy's lost inamorata, reappears with a scandalous connection to the Bennet family.
This is an interesting variation. A different cast of characters at Netherfield Park, allows events to play out differently.
Darcy and Elizabeth meet again at a wedding in Derbyshire. The absence of the usual obstructive characters makes a pleasing change.
Happy to recommend!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review also posted on my blog
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/2023/02/this-pride-and-prejudice-variation.html
This Pride and Prejudice variation begins when Jane Bennet becomes unwell on a visit to Netherfield Park.
Her sister Elizabeth, is called to nurse her back to health.
The residents of Netherfield have varying responses to this.
Mr Bingley is delighted as he adores Jane.
Mr Darcy is secretly happy, as he is falling in love with Elizabeth.
Bingley's sisters are horrified as they think Jane is not rich or connected enough for their brother.
They hate Elizabeth as they view her as competition, for the wealthy Darcy.
In the original story, Jane is in love with Bingley but too shy to let him know. She also believes his sister's are good friends, not the duplicitous harpies, they are.
Elizabeth hates Darcy, having overhead an unkind remark when they met.
This story sidesteps the misunderstandings. So Jane has a confident, tough side and calls the harpies on their lies, in public, then let's Bingley know she loves him.
Elizabeth and Darcy talk to each other and rapidly resolve their differences.
There is then a well executed plan to protect the Bennet and Darcy sisters from the reprehensible George Wickham.
Good appearances from Colonel Fitzwilliam, Mary Bennet and Mr Collins.
This is a clean, sweet story that is quite enjoyable.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.