Darcy is hoping they’re wrong.Elizabeth Bennet is enjoying a stroll around her father’s estate when she finds herself in unexpected danger.Fitzwilliam Darcy is on his way to spend a few weeks with a friend when he stumbles across a beautiful woman running for her life. He throws himself between her and the danger, not realizing his selfless act will change both their lives forever.Forced to marry, Darcy and Elizabeth each face the same dilemma – hold onto anger at their situation or look for the good in the other person. Will they remain strangers forever, bound by law but separated by feelings, or can they find common ground and a lasting love?Darcy’s Uneasy Betrothal is a novel-length Pride and Prejudice variation. If you like courageous heroines, swoon-worthy heroes, and interesting plot twists, you’ll love Zoe Burton’s most recent offering to the JAFF world. Pick up a copy and escape for a few hours into Darcy’s Uneasy Betrothal.

     After his unfortunate marriage proposal, Darcy writes Elizabeth a letter and, in his attempt to hand it to her, everything changes – both of them are kidnapped. In just a few days, Elizabeth finds herself floundering in fear, loneliness and despair, facing a terrible future at the hands of heartless mercenaries, while Darcy, injured, is left behind. Determined to save the lady who holds his heart, Darcy embarks on an uncertain journey to rescue Elizabeth. Together with his cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam, he discovers the power of love, friendship and trust, which goes beyond any familial connection. In this romantic, dramatic adventure, involving sea travels, mercenary pirates and bloody fights able to determine life or death, Darcy and Elizabeth come to realise that they must never let hope die. Hope and their mutual love are all they have to keep them alive. Until their last breath. EXTRACT Richard was now very curious about how Darcy had managed to bear the journey from London to Portsmouth in his present condition. Darcy chuckled at his enquiries. “Richard, you know me well enough to guess I could not stay back when so much is at stake, when Elizabeth’s life is in such danger.” He looked around and all eyes were on him. He became serious again. “They say that love and hate are the two most powerful forces to move a man. I can guarantee you all, I have plenty of both.” ABOUT THE AUTHOR As a non-fiction writer and polyglot, I am fascinated by the beauty of writing, and the gift of combining words and sentences to achieve the perfect expression of ideas and critical analysis. But writing fiction also takes one a step further and expresses, at a much deeper level, not only creativity, but feelings and emotions. And that is my intention from now on: to write stories that can arouse people’s feelings and dreams. And what could be better than starting it with something I just love? As a huge fan of 'Pride and Prejudice' – my favourite book by far – I have spent the last two years reading not only the original, but also hundreds and hundreds of P&P variations. As a result, while increasing my knowledge of the English language on an academic level, I decided I would like to start writing my own versions. I can only hope you enjoy reading them as much as I have enjoyed writing them. POST SCRIPTUM - 27th Sep 2018 Please, allow me to add a small comment about some of the reviews I have received in USA. Indeed, English is not my native language, but contrarily to what was said, I am aware of my limitations and had this story analysed by an editor and copyedited by a registered professional. Unfortunately, as it seems, I was not very happy with my choices. I can just add that I have a deep respect for my readers, and that I have already corrected those mentioned mistakes.

    The arc of their courtship, marriage, and the starting of a family serves as the foundation for a turbulent series of events. As it always is within Austen’s world, there is the familiar carousel of suitors, betrothals, triumphs, and societal disgrace. Many of the familiar characters are on hand, including Mr. and Mrs. Bennet; their daughters Jane and Elizabeth; Colonel Fitzwilliam; and Bingley, who has his eyes on Jane. Also here is the bitter Lady Catherine, as the novel also considers the more ominous social realities of the fondly remembered age. The handsome but conniving Mr. Wickham seeks to even an old score with his former friend Darcy. False accusations challenge Elizabeth’s love for her new husband, and the novel careens to a violent climax that is the result of society gossip and damaged reputations. This attention to the consequences of the contemporary mores of the day in the lives of these characters represents a fresh take on this time-honored tale.

    Marie Croft’s humorous novella, A Little Whimsical in His Civilities spans one moonlit, autumnal night upon the gentleman’s return to Hertfordshire in pursuit of Elizabeth Bennet. “We take the turning which places us on Meryton’s main road, and—oh, gad! There it is—the base-court building which passes for an assembly hall in this godforsaken place. For me, the venue shall be either a heaven or a hell tonight. My palms grow clammy, my gut churns, and I regret that second helping of onion-laden vegetable pie forced on me before we left.” Accompany Darcy as he, intent on reversing the disastrous first impression he made there, braves another Meryton assembly and seeks to win his heart’s desire.

    . . NOTE: You will find that this Darcy is much lighter of heart than Jane Austen's. Why? Because he has fallen for the lady of his dreams and is in full, happy pursuit of her. His life has been sad since losing his parents and then nearly losing Georgiana to Wickham at Ramsgate. Elizabeth has given him the ability to smile and be happy again in spite of Caroline Bingley's machinations. Come and laugh and love with our dear couple in 'Darcy vs Bingley.'What if Fitzwilliam Darcy didn’t shun Elizabeth Bennet at the Meryton Assembly? And what if he found that he was dealing with coup de foudre, love at first sight, of this delightful young woman?However, Caroline Bingley is determined to wed Darcy even if she has to compromise him. Will she succeed? And what kind of havoc will George Wickham create when he appears on the scene?Join our dear couple in a whirlwind Regency romance that will make you both laugh and sigh as they reach for their ‘happily ever after.’"A love-at-first-sight story for Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth brings new drama and comedy to our favorite Austen story!" ~ Elizabeth Ann West, author of To Capture Mr. Darcy...Excerpt:Because the ground was still soft and a little muddy in spots, the men refrained from indulging in their usual race and concentrated on looking for damage to the one dam on the property and to ensure none of the ponds had overflowed their banks.All was well except for the dam, which had sustained a small amount of damage needing repair that would be reported to Bingley’s temporary steward. Up until now, the man had seemed very competent, and if Bingley decided to buy Netherfield, he would retain the man permanently. Bingley appreciated Darcy’s acumen in regard to estate management and his willingness to train his friend too. He would do well if he could become as knowledgeable also.“It’s been a good morning, and the property seems in fine shape. Let’s return and prepare for our visit to Longbourn.”“Darce, shall we race back?” Without waiting for an answer, Bingley urged Baron into a gallop that showered Darcy in mud. The gauntlet had been thrown.Achilles loved a good run and quickly caught up with Baron. Then Darcy returned the favor.After leaving the horses at the stable and apologizing to the groom for the condition of the horses and equipment, both men cleaned their boots before entering the house through the kitchen. The cook, the kitchen maid, and the scullery maid all stood speechless as Bingley and Darcy tried to sneak up to their bedchambers. The three had never seen gentlemen covered in mud to the extent that Bingley was picking it out of his teeth. The ground had proven muddier than expected.Hurrying toward the staircase, they were dismayed at the shriek behind them. “Charles…Mr. Darcy!” Caroline Bingley was appalled at their appearance.Louisa just said, “Oh, my!”Hurst doubled over in laughter at the sight of the mud-spattered men: from head to toe. “I’m going to dub you two Mud Hens,” he said. And he howled with laughter.Nobody could tell that both men were blushing fiery red.And the footman was coughing up a storm. ...

    Darcy's failed proposal at Hunsford, he delivers a letter to Elizabeth Bennet to explain himself. Except, she gets a papercut on the letter and faints at the sight of blood. Then, the brush catches fire, lightning strikes, and the local dam breaks. Darcy and Elizabeth must stick together to save themselves while further odd incidences – wild animals, jewel thieves, and rioters among them – thrust the couple into a most improbable adventure. As the pair navigate through the events of their unlucky day, it is up to them to settle their differences – and perhaps find themselves lucky in love in the end. In this humorous, action-packed variation on Jane Austen's Pride & Prejudice, the fates conspire against Darcy and Elizabeth at every moment. Fans of all ages will appreciate this sweet, exciting adaptation of a beloved classic. This novella is 20,000 words in length and perfect for fast and fun journey into the world of Pride & Prejudice.

    Some desires are good, some are bad, and some are evil. After a near-brush with death, Fitzwilliam Darcy decides it is time he married and produced an heir for Pemberley. Believing the only way forward is a marriage of convenience, Darcy makes arrangements to go to Town. If he should die without a son, then his rakehell cousin, Orwell Darcy, will inherit his estate. Orwell Darcy has always desired Pemberley and its wealth. When he learns that his cousin is making plans to marry, and will soon be leaving Pemberley to finalise the arrangements, he makes his own plans to ensure that event never happens.

    With Mr. Bennet’s full blessing, Fitzwilliam Darcy informs Elizabeth they are to be married. Furious that they have decided her future for her, Elizabeth sets out to change Darcy’s mind. However, the untimely interference of Lady Catherine de Bourgh, and Darcy’s subsequent actions makes it impossible for Elizabeth to break their engagement. The events that follow lead to betrayal, a renewal of affection, and even death. Yet, in the midst of all this chaos, love blossoms, and in the most unlikely manner... To Love Mr Darcy, is an exciting alternative to the original Pride & Prejudice novel by Jane Austen. UK English, spellings, grammar and terminology are used throughout this book.

    . .” William CongreveA month after her wedding, Elizabeth Bennet Darcy had taught herself to be silent, watchful, careful. She moved through the house with eyes downcast, avoiding contact, speaking only when spoken to. She walked through the garden in much the same way, her face hidden from the sun—and from the direct gaze of any servant she might encounter—by the deep brims of the fashionable bonnets she wore.Just four short weeks after their marriage, the deep love between Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy is on the verge of collapsing forever. They must join forces to overcome whatever—or whoever—threatens to destroy their home, their love and their very lives.

    Hearing from his aunt that the Collins’ are expecting Miss Elizabeth as a guest, Darcy and the Colonel change their plans and set off for Kent a fortnight sooner than originally planned. He and the Colonel have both decided that they are about to secure their future happiness. Darcy planning to propose to Miss Elizabeth and the Colonel is prepared to make a proposal of his own. Have you ever been a victim of false assumptions? Imagine assuming that the love of your life is engaged to your cousin and one of your dearest friends. Through a series of miscommunications and assumptions, Darcy believes that he has missed out on securing his future with Elizabeth when he comes upon them in Rosings Park. Will Darcy find the happiness he so desperately longs for …?

    It is the story of a powerful, determined, honourable and brave Darcy, ready to put his life in danger for the woman he loves, and a strong, witty, kind-hearted Elizabeth, ready to admit her errors and to receive and return his ardent love. What if, instead of meeting for the first time after the failed proposal at Pemberley, their first encounter instead takes place while they are both travelling toward the North.The story begins in July, at the beginning of the Gardiners’ and Elizabeth’s journey towards the Lakes. A storm thwarts their plans and a broken wheel on their carriage forces them to make an impromptu stop at an inn, which is already overcrowded and has no rooms left to accommodate them. With no place to stay, no carriage to continue their travel and even in danger of falling ill, their plans seem entirely ruined. Unless…Still grieving over his failed marriage proposal, Darcy is on his way home to Pemberley. As usual, he stops for the night at his favourite inn, together with his valet and two coachmen. An unexpected storm causes the inn to be overcrowded and, faced with so many people without shelter, he is trying his best to offer his support. To his utter astonishment, one of those in need is the woman of his dreams and nightmares, Elizabeth Bennet.Since they seem to share the same destination, the same regrets and sorrow and the same hopes, could they mend the past and build a happy future whilst travelling together? What if new villains and new dangers threaten their lives, forcing them to face the most difficult choices? Will Darcy be able to protect his love?Find out all the answers in this romantic and adventurous tale of our beloved couple.

    Drastic changes have taken their toll, leaving brother and sister adrift from polite society. Faithful to his vow to prevent further harm to his sister, Fitzwilliam Darcy has retreated from the few friends and acquaintances who still acknowledge him. Lonelier than ever, Darcy’s life is swallowed up by darkness until the day a young woman is discovered close to death on the estate grounds. Unaware of her identity, Elizabeth Bennet finds herself the recipient of Fitzwilliam Darcy’s benevolence whilst she recovers from her own encounter with Wickham. Elizabeth’s presence breathes life back into Pemberley and its occupants, until Wickham returns with a nefarious plan to regain control of both Elizabeth and Georgiana. Will Elizabeth fulfill her destiny and rescue Darcy from a desolate life or will the mystery of her parentage take her in another direction, leaving him alone once more?

    Darcy from realizing she is there. During those days she is successful in keeping her presence from his notice, she comes to learn more about him, his honorable character, and how well he is regarded by others. How long will she be able to keep her presence a secret from him, and what will happen when he finds out she is there? Mr. Darcy, meanwhile, is curious about the odd incidents taking place that he cannot explain. How will the reason he returned to Pemberley a day early affect him and those he cares about? Is the beautiful, accomplished, and admirable Miss Westerfield someone to whom he has already attached his affections? Does he truly intend to ask for her hand, as everyone believes? And how does the magpie play a role in the events of this story?

    Darcy leaves Elizabeth with no doubt as to his continued affection upon finding her touring his beloved Pemberley. When Darcy finds Elizabeth touring the park around Pemberley, he assumes he is still in the grips of one of his dreams, and acts accordingly. It quickly becomes apparent that he is mistaken.

    Before her marriage, she saw herself making the best possible choice. Her husband saved her family from ruin. All he asked in return was her hand. Secure in his good opinion, Elizabeth married him. Only with hindsight and his cryptic warnings that passion is not immutable does Elizabeth question her decision. Her solution? Give him a son as soon as possible. Once his lust for her has been slaked, this service she has rendered him will ensure her value. The newlyweds are summoned to Rosings Park almost the moment they are married. Though the estate can boast of beautiful grounds, Elizabeth and Darcy arrive to find devastation. A flood has swept away Lady Catherine’s last hopes of hiding debt and years of mismanagement. She expects Darcy to shoulder the recovery efforts. The effort to save Rosings strains the already tense relationship between Elizabeth and her husband. To make matters worse, her presence is met with disdain and disinterest from the family. As the days in the besieged estate drag on, Elizabeth slowly untangles the histories and secrets of her new relations. Like Elizabeth’s marriage, the crisis at Rosings is the culmination of past events. Disaster need not be the result of only bad choices; good principles have led them astray as well. As for Elizabeth, she barely knows her husband, and loving him might be impossible. Yet, she is determined to save all she can—her marriage and the estate—and somehow create the future she longs for.