Inspired Reflections: Three Short Pride and Prejudice Variations
Cassandra B Leigh - 2018
Darcy? There is something for everyone in this collection of short stories. Dreamy? In 'Inspired Reflections', Darcy's dreams inspire him to forget his pride and pursue Elizabeth Bennet. Persistent? After Darcy's horrid proposal, Elizabeth allows him a second chance in 'Hunsford Redux'. Repentant? When Elizabeth prevents him from proposing, he realizes his blunder. Will he overcome her 'Immovable Dislike' and win her hand?
A Fortunate Alliance: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Emma Crawley - 2017
When a storm obligates them to spend the day at their inn, Elizabeth befriends a young girl called Georgiana Wickham, who is travelling with her brother, George. The two become close right away, but it is obvious Mr Wickham is uneasy about their friendship. And it is just as obvious Georgiana is not whom she says she is. Why else would she seem so uncomfortable in her charming brother’s presence? When Georgiana confesses that she and Mr Wickham have travelled from Ramsgate to elope to Gretna Green, and begs Elizabeth to help her, Elizabeth is determined to do all she can. Including reaching out to Georgiana’s proud brother, Mr Darcy, who is in Bath in search of a wife of his own, and completely unaware of his sister’s plight. Can Elizabeth help Georgiana escape the avaricious ambitions of Mr Wickham? And will Mr Darcy arrive on time to save her from his old enemy? When Georgiana disappears with Wickham from her room at the inn, Elizabeth and Darcy are forced to team up to rescue her. And the experience forces a closer intimacy between the two than might otherwise have been expected.
Mr. Bennet's Gambit: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Don H. Miller - 2018
It assumes Jane Bennet has received the note from Caroline Bingley telling her that Bingley is unlikely to return and implying he may court Georgiana Darcy. Mr. Bennet decides something must be done to secure his family’s future and informs Elizabeth that she must marry Mr. Collins, which he can do because she is not yet of age. Elizabeth thwarts Mr. Bennet's plans by disappearing from Hertfordshire, perhaps forever. The story follows Elizabeth’s escape from what she considers a fate worse than death and her adventures after her escape. It also tells of Darcy's attempts to find her, once he discovers she is gone and is willing to admit to himself that he loves her. However, her father’s betrayal of the trust she had in his love for her makes Elizabeth question whether she will ever be willing to trust a man's love again. If the father she worshiped, whom she thought doted on her, was willing to submit her to a marital life of misery just to satisfy his own desires, how could she ever trust another man’s love. The book also tells how Mr. Bennet's decision, which causes Elizabeth to leave, directly or indirectly impacts the lives of all his daughters.
The Hypocrite: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Shana Granderson A Lady - 2020
What if the Bennets were not penniless and unconnected? For the purposes of this story great wealth is assumed, the source of the wealth is explained in the book. Will Darcy choose to acknowledge the rectitude of Miss Elizabeth’s reproofs or will he reject them in pride and conceit?Does he have the fortitude to change and how will knowing the Bennets affect those around him? Bingley in this variation is closer to his irresolute character that we see in canon. That is the only similarity that your will see in him my dear reader. There are villains but they are not the focus of the story.You will find all of your favourite characters from canon with a few new ones added in to broaden the tale. I trust that you will enjoy my effort.
The Curse of Land's End: A gothic 'Pride and Prejudice' variation
Rose Lorimer - 2019
Something buried in his past is always trying to emerge. Unable to overcome his pain, he hides from the world. Until a letter reaches him. Bingley, one of his best friends, is inviting him to spend some time at the coast, in the neighbouring area of Penzance, Cornwall, where he is not just dealing with his business, but also enjoying the first months of his new life as a married man. His bride is an angel-like gentlewoman called Jane, whom he met during a visit to Hertfordshire, last Summer. In case Darcy accepts, Bingley has only one request to make: that he may bring with him one of his new sisters, a Miss Elizabeth, as a favour to his dearest wife. After such a painful summer, and considering he had already missed his friend’s wedding, against all the odds, Darcy decides to accept. What he does not know is that this single decision will change his life forever. First, because he will meet the only woman not just handsome enough to tempt him, but also the one who breaks the walls of his prison, opening for him a door to a happiness he never thought possible. And, second, because he will never be the same ever again after this, which will also be the most terrifying experience of his life. “The Curse of Land’s End” is a story about secrets, intrigue and mysteries which challenges rationality and faith, and demands a courage strong enough to transcend every instinct of self-preservation in the name of honour and love. “You will do nothing in this world without courage, for it is the greatest quality of the mind next to honour.” (Aristotle) Rated Mild+ (Contains up to 10 mild swear words; contains kisses, and mild, non-seductive description of intimacy — 'My Book Rating'). FROM THE AUTHOR Suddenly, I felt compelled to write a story which would take me (and JAFF) far from my comfort zone, and try something new. It was watching ‘Crimson Peak’, a biting-nail horror story, that the inspiration finally came to me. How would it be to write a story about ghosts, combining romance and mystery, but with no ghosts? "The Curse" is set in 1815, a year when Romanticism — a movement marked by the exaltation of feelings of loss and guilt related both to nature and men — was the fashion and drama, an essential component of the works of this time. "Songs of Experience", by William Blake (1794), "The Corsair", by Lord Byron (1814), and "Frankenstein", by Mary Shelley (1818), are all good examples of how committed the authors were in exploring human's woes; sometimes the sombre tone and dramatic plots are almost too depressing to endure. I can understand the bad reviews related to this point. But I cannot regret my choice. As another reviewer said, “we are all entitled to our own opinions”; the good reviews show it. I grant — my choice in writing a story using Romantic features was bold, but, for me, the result was very pleasing, especially considering the happy ending — what is not the norm for the Romantics. I should not be saying this, but it doesn't matter how much Literature I study, I always love a good happy ending. Another important choice was the deep POV of ODC. In P&P, we live the story through the eyes of Elizabeth and do not learn about Darcy’s struggles until very close to the end. I intended to show the huge abyss between his aloof appearance and his troubled mind — but here, he another reason for it.
Marooned With Darcy: A Pride & Prejudice Variation
Abbey North - 2020
Collins’s younger brother when they meet Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy. Mr. Darcy’s disapproval of the burgeoning affection between Jane and Charles is painfully obvious, and Lizzy does her best to thwart his attempts to stop the developing relationship. She is puzzled by how invigorating it can be to trade barbs with Darcy, and he seems to enjoy it as well, but he is the last man she could ever soften toward due to his haughty manner and prideful ways.When their ship wrecks, Lizzy and Darcy end up stranded alone on an island. As the days pass while they await rescue, the undeniable attraction between them becomes overwhelming, leading them both to act. Even as Lizzy succumbs to the temptation and falls for Darcy, she wonders if he is indeed the last man she would ever marry, or if she has been fooling herself about the strength of her emotions all along? While Abbey sometimes writes sweet JAFF, this is strictly SENSUAL.
His Frozen Heart: A Pride & Prejudice Novella
Christie Capps - 2019
Fitzwilliam Darcy arrived in Hertfordshire with his sister's words ringing in his ears. "You have a heart of stone." He had no reason to doubt Georgiana Darcy. Or so he thought-until he met Miss Elizabeth Bennet.Each time he was in her company, Miss Elizabeth's impertinence chipped away at Darcy with her wit and kindness. By the time autumn turned into winter, he was captivated. In the springtime, Darcy felt stirrings of love. By summer, he would do whatever it took to convince her he was a worthy gentleman with a warm heart brimming with tender affection. This variation of Jane Austen's Pride & Prejudice is a 20,000-word glimpse into the Regency life of a man of means who learns to value the love of a good woman more than the wealth and position he was born into as the master of Pemberley.This story is appropriate for all readers who should be familiar with the original story by Jane Austen.
A Hasty Decision: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Wynne Mabry - 2019
Darcy makes a hasty decision. After all, if he cannot have the lady he loves, it little matters whom he marries. Or so he thinks at the time. It is not long before he regrets his choice, but there is no turning back. As a miserable marriage threatens his own happiness and his sister’s, he finds comfort in friendships, including an unexpected one with Elizabeth. When the unthinkable happens, she remains a loyal and valued friend. But what will it take for them to have a second chance at happiness?
Marrying Mr. Darcy: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Juliana Abbott - 2019
Rather than see her sister marry her cousin, a horribly dry man she doesn’t love, Elizabeth Bennet hatches a plan that will see her sister marry a wealthy man and send their boring cousin packing. Moments before the ceremony, Elizabeth’s plans go awry, and she is inexplicably cast into her sister’s role as a blushing bride. Despite her best intentions, Elizabeth suddenly faces the risk of scandal and public ruin… and a marriage she never planned on. Married to the much-revered Mr. Darcy, Elizabeth struggles to understand the stirrings in her heart. When an afternoon by the lake goes awry, Fitzwilliam Darcy finds himself giving his consent to marry a woman he’s never met. He never imagined his return to Pemberley would result in a new bride, a growing scandal, and an inexplicable connection to the beautiful and tenacious Elizabeth. As he settles into his unexpected role, a threat emerges, promising to sever their relationship and possibly ruin Elizabeth’s good name. With controversy stirring from all angles, can Elizabeth convince Fitzwilliam that he is the man she’s come to care for more than anyone in the world? **** Marrying Mr. Darcy is a sensual romance featuring Our Dear Couple in this Pride & Prejudice Variation, and it's over 40,000 words long.. ****
A Turn in Their Dance: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Linda C. Thompson - 2019
Darcy’s cutting remark at the Meryton assembly, Miss Elizabeth Bennet replies with a comment of her own about the sign of a true gentleman. When Darcy hears the statement, he is instantly stricken with remorse. He seeks a quiet place to compose himself and prepare an apology. As Miss Elizabeth moves through the crowd to share the incident with her friend, Charlotte Lucas, she hears an anguished voice from the darkened balcony. Stepping forward to offer assistance, she is surprised at what else she hears. This event and the turn it makes in the relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth is the premise of this delightful new story. How will an earlier understanding between our dear couple change their interactions with those around them—particularly Miss Bingley, Mr. Wickham, and Mr. Collins?
Intimate Encounters
Ola Wegner - 2018
While visiting her friend Charlotte at Hunsford cottage Elizabeth finds herself in a compromising situation with Mr Darcy. Forced by the unfortunate circumstances she had to reconsider his offer of marriage. Will she find happiness in a marriage to the man whom she professed to hate? ------------------------------------------------------------------- “I wish to apologize for my aunt’s behaviour,” Darcy said. “It was uncalled for.” She raised an eyebrow. “Your aunt’s behaviour?” “Yes, indeed. She has offended you gravely and you did nothing to deserve such treatment. I have never been engaged to my cousin. Neither did I ever have any romantic intentions towards her. I have never cared for the rumours that might have circulated about us. I have never denied them, though. I can see now that my attitude could have created the impression for some people, my aunt included, that I was willing to marry Anny one day. That has never been the case, I assure you. My intentions towards you were always honest.” She cocked her head to the side. “Should I thank you then that you were noble enough to offer me marriage and not a position of another kind, as your aunt suggested to me?” “You must be aware than many men in my position would have acted quite differently towards a young woman of your station. But no, I have never thought of offering you the position of my mistress.” Elizabeth wrapped her hands around her middle and took a few steps away from him, murmuring to herself but loud enough for him to hear. “How very considerate of you.” “You must be aware that you simply cannot leave for Hertfordshire before the two of us come to an understanding,” he said. Elizabeth turned to face him. “Mr Darcy, I do not deny that we both found ourselves in a most unfortunate situation. My hope is that we shall come up with a solution which shall satisfy both parties.” “Miss Elizabeth, I do understand that you were not expecting my initial proposal. You must see your good fortune now when the initial shock is gone. It is highly improbable either for you or your sister to ever encounter a man of my station in life willing to marry one of you.” Elizabeth closed her eyes for a moment. Mr Darcy was stubborn. He refused to accept her decision. “Mr Darcy, I think that your aunt would be more than willing to forget about everything if only…” “If only I married Anne,” he finished, interrupting her. “It is out of the question.” “If only you said to Lady Catherine that you did not wish to marry me,” she continued, her voice patient, “I am certain that she would be more than happy to forget about all of it and silence all the gossip about our supposed secret meetings and engagement. I will return home and no one will ever hear anything about it. My reputation shall be saved, and we shall all forget about this most unfortunate situation.” She stared into his face almost pleadingly, waiting for his response. “You refused the money,” he said. “My aunt offered you a small fortune if only you were to leave silently. You refused. Is that true?” “Yes.” “Why did you do it?” “Is your intention to offend me even more than your aunt did, Mr Darcy?” she asked sharply. He took a step towards her and looked deeply into her eyes. “Perhaps, after all, you did not wish to lose the very last chance of reconciliation with me.” Elizabeth chuckled mirthlessly, shaking her head. “Your presumptuousness is truly astounding, sir.
Mr. Darcy's Twelfth Night: A Steamy Pride and Prejudice Sequel
Elizabeth Ann West - 2021
For the first time, Elizabeth is thrown head-first into the world of Mayfair shopping, dinners, and balls. You can take the headstrong woman out of the country, but London's highest society isn't ready for Mrs. Darcy's fearless ways.Warned by his uncle that marriage changes a man, Fitzwilliam Darcy confronts expectations not only from his peers, but also his household and even his wife! Absolved of joint decisions when they were with the Bingleys in Hertfordshire, residing in London even for a few weeks places a strain on the new Darcy marriage. Old insecurities and parlor privateers demand a price to be paid and it's the first time Mr. Darcy's wealth may not be enough.One thing is certain, with those fiery tempers come fiery passions. The love shared between Mr. Darcy and his Elizabeth helps smooth over their struggles in communication. If only people would stop knocking on the door! When the Matlocks' Twelfth Night Ball becomes the can't be missed event of the Ton, Darcy and Elizabeth have a big decision to make. Will they remain in London answering to the whims and antics of the fast set close to the Prince Regent? Or will they carry the topsy-turvy night beyond dawn and run away to Pemberley?Mr. Darcy's Twelfth Night is a steamy Regency romance novel for fans of If Mr. Darcy Dared.
Pride Under Good Regulation : A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Eselle Teays - 2020
Both the grandfather and father of the master, Mr. Thomas Bennet, married blue-stocking wives from the Continent. These circumstances had a profound effect on Mrs. Bennet and her five daughters. Because of this broader worldview, the Bennet family was more aware of, and affected by some historical events of the period far outside the twenty-four families around Meryton than what one would expect of minor gentry in the backwater.Elizabeth Bennet had a superior mind and the self-assurance of a modern young woman; Mr. Darcy, the too proud master of Pemberley, Derbyshire was properly humbled by Mrs. Bennet during their first meeting. How would the courtship between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy go under these different scenarios? How would Mr. Darcy behave when his pride was under good regulation?If you stripped away the changed circumstances, the characters would behave fairly similarly as in canon. If you are looking for extra angst or extra thrills, you will be disappointed. Pride and Prejudice has been classified as a comedy of manners. It is of course a huge challenge for even a seasoned writer to have anywhere close to the genius of Jane Austen to dissect and depict Regency manners with such a sharp insight. The ‘manners’ part of the Regency era was particularly difficult for a twenty-first century first-time fiction writer to emulate. In fact, the reader may detect some modern sensibilities in the Elizabeth in this story: self-assurance, resourcefulness, independence, etc. Hopefully, this story offers some amusing bits to make it a fun read.All verifiable historical characters, buildings and events appearing in this story are borrowed purely as vehicles in a work of fiction, but as much respect as possible is paid to the historical accuracy (as obtained through brief internet searches and well-researched references) in the description of these entities. Chapter notes are provided where appropriate for those who are interested.As of May/June 2021, the whole story has been revised - errors largely corrected, the length slightly shortened to improve the flow of the story, and a few extra chapter notes added.
With My Whole Heart Forever
Wendi Sotis - 2020
Miss Elizabeth Bennet’s pleasure trip to the Lake District with her aunt and uncle is redirected when they receive an express stating Mrs. Gardiners’ sister and two nephews have fallen ill. The trio proceeds to a farm in Derbyshire to assist the ailing family, on the estate where her aunt grew up, Pemberley. During a walk, Elizabeth happens upon a young lady. A friendship is born, but secrets and heartache surround her new friend. Perhaps Elizabeth will finally meet Ana’s brother, of whom she has heard so much, at Pemberley’s Harvest Ball?Fitzwilliam Darcy is desperate to help his sister recover from the events at Ramsgate but is at a loss as to how to do so. After she begins to ride every day, she also seems to begin healing. In his state of relief, he does not push for answers as to why. When Ana comes to him excitedly requesting that he make the Harvest Ball a masque, he is so grateful for her interest in something, he agrees.
Darcy's Winter Ball: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
A.J. Woods - 2019
Hoping the time away from home might begin to heal Jane’s wounded heart, Elizabeth also seeks peace and quiet to finish the novel she has been working on in secret. She does not expect to meet Mr. Darcy ever again, but should she collide with the arrogant man who had a hand in causing Jane’s sorrow, she has vowed to give him a piece of her mind. A chance encounter while visiting his favorite bookshop finds Fitzwilliam Darcy in the company of a woman he has failed to forget. When he discovers that Elizabeth is there to research a novel she is writing, Darcy offers the use of his own personal library instead, hoping she might finally understand his true character. When the two are thrown together again by fate, will Darcy and Elizabeth open their hearts enough to amend their first impressions of each other? Though not without plenty of conflict, Darcy’s Winter Ball is a sweet, lighthearted, Regency-set novella, with a happy ending for ODC.