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Redemption
Elizabeth and Jane are children of Mr. Bennet's first marriage. The results of Ramsgate are more dire than in canon. We begin on the night of the Meryton Assembly.
Regency, D&E HEA.
Regency, D&E HEA.
- GenresRomance
278 pages, ebook
First published August 26, 2012
3 people are currently reading
50 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
June 15, 2023
[Unpub] Review: Redemption: jfb: 5-stars
https://www.fanfiction.net/s/8024099/...
Rating: MA: mature audience: multiple deaths/murders, adult themes, violence, graphic sex scenes, mention of rape but not described, crude sexual language. 20-chapters.
Trope: exalted relations
Wow!! Again… I say wow. This author [jfb] can certainly raise the hair on your arms with the treachery and angst in a story. La! I enjoyed reading the author’s research notes. They were amazing. I have read another story by this author and thankfully survived it.
Henry’s Legacy: https://www.fanfiction.net/s/6991714/...
Once again, we are in an alternate universe entirely outside the box of Austen’s canon. We have all the P&P characters and then some. However, they are totally OOC from their classic counterparts. We have the trope where Jane and Elizabeth are children from Bennet’s first marriage and have hidden connections that would make superior sisters [Caroline and Louisa] swoon with envy. The other Bennet girls were from his marriage to Fanny Gardiner.
OMG! There is only one way to describe this: ICNPID [I-could-put-it-down]. The title of this story is so appropriate. I did not fully see or understand that until later. Wow! I mean… I am staggering from this story. Dang!
I don’t know where to begin… there was so much… I am still reeling from the shock and awe. I feel that I should issue a caution or caveat. This was gritty, hands dirty, full of deceit, treachery, murder, and scandal involving our favorite Austen characters and… of all things… it also included the Royals. OMG!
We have the line-up of the usual villains, Wickham [what have you done, OMG!], Mrs. Bennet [scheming shrew], Mr. Bennet [lazy, selfish, indolent, and self-absorbed], Lady Catherine [maniacal b-witch], Lord Matlock [sorry SOB], his eldest son and heir [chip off the old block], and other Lords of villainy from within the Realm. I shouldn’t but I must include Charles Bingley in this villainous group… I am so angry at him, both for his actions, lack of action, selfishness [thinking only of himself and what he wanted], lack of concern and restraint where it was needed most, and lack of backbone where his sisters were concerned. What he set in motion was unbelievable and had deadly consequences. Caroline and even Mrs. Hurst had a hard lesson to learn. The evolution of their comeuppance was unbelievable. OMG! I am still in shock. One note… this was the best discussion between Charles and Louisa regarding their place in society. He tried to explain the reality between his sister’s perceptions of society, their social standing, and what was in fact the truth.
Danger, treachery, and betrayal were strongly featured in this story. Elizabeth was a force to be reckoned with. Jane was naïve to the point of being childlike. Her story was a sad one and ended badly. Georgiana and Lydia were a surprise and their story orbited around the main story of Elizabeth and Darcy. Both suffered at the hands of our SBRB, Wickham. Our boy was presented with a reality check that made him face who and what he was. It was a sobering reality as he looked at the situation caused by his own hands and his attempts to protect and make amends. This was horrible in the worst way.
I loved this story. Man… the powerful emotions, feelings, and desires between our dear couple will scorch the pages of your reader. I mean… this was the D&E that sends the heart fluttering… and talk about your hot flash. Man… this guy could start his own forest fire. Whew!!! There wasn’t an epilogue, but there were short paragraphs of future events. I loved it.
1st read: 3-23-18 ~ 3-24-18
2nd read: 12-4-18 ~ 12-5-18
3rd read: 4-11-19 ~ 4-12-19
4th read: 8-8-19 ~ 8-9-19
5th read: 11-28-19 ~ 11-29-19
6th read: 2-1-20 ~ 2-2-20
7th read: 3-30-20
8th read: 4-18-20 quick glance
9th read: 6-10-20 ~ 6-11-20
10th read: 10-22-20 ~ 10-23-20
11th read: 12-1-20
12th read: 1-24-21
13th read: 4-18-21
14th read: 11-13-21 ~ 11-14-21
15th read: 2-2-22
16th read: 6-14-23 ~ 6-15-23 Yeah, I couldn’t put it down
https://www.fanfiction.net/s/8024099/...
Rating: MA: mature audience: multiple deaths/murders, adult themes, violence, graphic sex scenes, mention of rape but not described, crude sexual language. 20-chapters.
Trope: exalted relations
Wow!! Again… I say wow. This author [jfb] can certainly raise the hair on your arms with the treachery and angst in a story. La! I enjoyed reading the author’s research notes. They were amazing. I have read another story by this author and thankfully survived it.
Henry’s Legacy: https://www.fanfiction.net/s/6991714/...
Once again, we are in an alternate universe entirely outside the box of Austen’s canon. We have all the P&P characters and then some. However, they are totally OOC from their classic counterparts. We have the trope where Jane and Elizabeth are children from Bennet’s first marriage and have hidden connections that would make superior sisters [Caroline and Louisa] swoon with envy. The other Bennet girls were from his marriage to Fanny Gardiner.
OMG! There is only one way to describe this: ICNPID [I-could-put-it-down]. The title of this story is so appropriate. I did not fully see or understand that until later. Wow! I mean… I am staggering from this story. Dang!
I don’t know where to begin… there was so much… I am still reeling from the shock and awe. I feel that I should issue a caution or caveat. This was gritty, hands dirty, full of deceit, treachery, murder, and scandal involving our favorite Austen characters and… of all things… it also included the Royals. OMG!
We have the line-up of the usual villains, Wickham [what have you done, OMG!], Mrs. Bennet [scheming shrew], Mr. Bennet [lazy, selfish, indolent, and self-absorbed], Lady Catherine [maniacal b-witch], Lord Matlock [sorry SOB], his eldest son and heir [chip off the old block], and other Lords of villainy from within the Realm. I shouldn’t but I must include Charles Bingley in this villainous group… I am so angry at him, both for his actions, lack of action, selfishness [thinking only of himself and what he wanted], lack of concern and restraint where it was needed most, and lack of backbone where his sisters were concerned. What he set in motion was unbelievable and had deadly consequences. Caroline and even Mrs. Hurst had a hard lesson to learn. The evolution of their comeuppance was unbelievable. OMG! I am still in shock. One note… this was the best discussion between Charles and Louisa regarding their place in society. He tried to explain the reality between his sister’s perceptions of society, their social standing, and what was in fact the truth.
Danger, treachery, and betrayal were strongly featured in this story. Elizabeth was a force to be reckoned with. Jane was naïve to the point of being childlike. Her story was a sad one and ended badly. Georgiana and Lydia were a surprise and their story orbited around the main story of Elizabeth and Darcy. Both suffered at the hands of our SBRB, Wickham. Our boy was presented with a reality check that made him face who and what he was. It was a sobering reality as he looked at the situation caused by his own hands and his attempts to protect and make amends. This was horrible in the worst way.
I loved this story. Man… the powerful emotions, feelings, and desires between our dear couple will scorch the pages of your reader. I mean… this was the D&E that sends the heart fluttering… and talk about your hot flash. Man… this guy could start his own forest fire. Whew!!! There wasn’t an epilogue, but there were short paragraphs of future events. I loved it.
1st read: 3-23-18 ~ 3-24-18
2nd read: 12-4-18 ~ 12-5-18
3rd read: 4-11-19 ~ 4-12-19
4th read: 8-8-19 ~ 8-9-19
5th read: 11-28-19 ~ 11-29-19
6th read: 2-1-20 ~ 2-2-20
7th read: 3-30-20
8th read: 4-18-20 quick glance
9th read: 6-10-20 ~ 6-11-20
10th read: 10-22-20 ~ 10-23-20
11th read: 12-1-20
12th read: 1-24-21
13th read: 4-18-21
14th read: 11-13-21 ~ 11-14-21
15th read: 2-2-22
16th read: 6-14-23 ~ 6-15-23 Yeah, I couldn’t put it down
April 8, 2025
https://www.fanfiction.net/s/8024099/...
Only the man who has enough good in him to feel the justice of the penalty can be punished. ~ William Ernest Hocking
This is a story of crime and punishment.
Rape is committed and unpunished by the law.
Three murders are committed which are unpunished by the law. Another killing is committed which is justified under the law.
Why then is Fitzwilliam Darcy sent to Newgate Prison over an action taken by Bingley?
Crimes were committed to punish crimes, and crimes were committed to prevent crimes. ~ Robert Ingersoll
Background: More than 20 years before the start of this story, Mad King George rapes a young noblewoman who is lady-in-waiting to Queen Charlotte. The Queen will be Godmother to the unborn child but first, the young woman needs a husband. A quick marriage is arranged to the much-despised youngest son of an Earl. A daughter is born.
Our story begins at the Meryton Assembly where Elizabeth leaves a very favorable impression with Darcy. Their affection develops quickly and soon after the Bennet sisters leave Netherfield, Darcy approaches Mr. Bennet for permission to marry Elizabeth – permission which is repeatedly denied.
Because of Georgiana’s situation, our dear couple needs to marry quickly and they leave for Scotland. On their return to London, the mystery surrounding Jane and Elizabeth’s birth is revealed. Jane is taken from Longbourn and moved into the palace under the Queen’s protection. Her romance with Bingley is over … or is it?
There is a great streak of violence in every human being. If it is not channeled and understood, it will break out in war or in madness. ~ Sam Peckinpah
Villains abound in this story.
Wickham has irreparably damaged Georgiana and is hunted by Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam.
But villains also exist in other places, especially within the Fitzwilliam family. The Earl and the Viscount have bankrupted their family estate and involved Lady Catherine in some of their schemes.
Are the Bingley siblings villains or not? It’s a matter for you to decide. Certainly, the sisters are punished and only one of the siblings has a happy ending.
General FitzRoy (portrayed in “The Madness of King George” by everyone’s favorite Colonel Fitzwilliam) shows more villainy than in that movie.
Our dear Prinny may not be exactly a villain but ...
Laws are spider webs through which the big flies pass and the little ones get caught. ~ Honoré de Balzac
So if that quote is correct – how is Darcy the little fly who gets caught? What act of treason has he committed?
A lot of violent acts are included but the story itself is not violent. Most of the action is “off-screen” and just discussed. The murders are quiet and Darcy’s treason is completely non-violent. The rape which begins it all is only mentioned. There are bedroom scenes that involve a married couple.
The author bases all characters (except those in canon P&P) on historical figures and includes notes at the beginning of most chapters to explain the actual and fictional family relationships. The family trees have crossed several times within the Darcy family so I found those notes very helpful.
The author's notes also explain details of Regency life and laws. The act requiring all members of the Royal Family to have approval from the Monarch before marriage is very important.
Law is nothing unless close behind it stands a warm living public opinion. ~ Wendell Phillips
Only the man who has enough good in him to feel the justice of the penalty can be punished. ~ William Ernest Hocking
This is a story of crime and punishment.
Rape is committed and unpunished by the law.
Three murders are committed which are unpunished by the law. Another killing is committed which is justified under the law.
Why then is Fitzwilliam Darcy sent to Newgate Prison over an action taken by Bingley?
Crimes were committed to punish crimes, and crimes were committed to prevent crimes. ~ Robert Ingersoll
Background: More than 20 years before the start of this story, Mad King George rapes a young noblewoman who is lady-in-waiting to Queen Charlotte. The Queen will be Godmother to the unborn child but first, the young woman needs a husband. A quick marriage is arranged to the much-despised youngest son of an Earl. A daughter is born.
Our story begins at the Meryton Assembly where Elizabeth leaves a very favorable impression with Darcy. Their affection develops quickly and soon after the Bennet sisters leave Netherfield, Darcy approaches Mr. Bennet for permission to marry Elizabeth – permission which is repeatedly denied.
Because of Georgiana’s situation, our dear couple needs to marry quickly and they leave for Scotland. On their return to London, the mystery surrounding Jane and Elizabeth’s birth is revealed. Jane is taken from Longbourn and moved into the palace under the Queen’s protection. Her romance with Bingley is over … or is it?
There is a great streak of violence in every human being. If it is not channeled and understood, it will break out in war or in madness. ~ Sam Peckinpah
Villains abound in this story.
Wickham has irreparably damaged Georgiana and is hunted by Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam.
But villains also exist in other places, especially within the Fitzwilliam family. The Earl and the Viscount have bankrupted their family estate and involved Lady Catherine in some of their schemes.
Are the Bingley siblings villains or not? It’s a matter for you to decide. Certainly, the sisters are punished and only one of the siblings has a happy ending.
General FitzRoy (portrayed in “The Madness of King George” by everyone’s favorite Colonel Fitzwilliam) shows more villainy than in that movie.
Our dear Prinny may not be exactly a villain but ...
Laws are spider webs through which the big flies pass and the little ones get caught. ~ Honoré de Balzac
So if that quote is correct – how is Darcy the little fly who gets caught? What act of treason has he committed?
A lot of violent acts are included but the story itself is not violent. Most of the action is “off-screen” and just discussed. The murders are quiet and Darcy’s treason is completely non-violent. The rape which begins it all is only mentioned. There are bedroom scenes that involve a married couple.
The author bases all characters (except those in canon P&P) on historical figures and includes notes at the beginning of most chapters to explain the actual and fictional family relationships. The family trees have crossed several times within the Darcy family so I found those notes very helpful.
The author's notes also explain details of Regency life and laws. The act requiring all members of the Royal Family to have approval from the Monarch before marriage is very important.
Law is nothing unless close behind it stands a warm living public opinion. ~ Wendell Phillips
March 30, 2018
This is simply an indescribably fabulous bit of JAFF that is compelling, unique, brilliant and well researched.
Everyone who knows them know that Jane and Lizzy Bennet are special in Redemption they are much more. Wickham is even more loathsome, Mr. Bennet even more indolent, Caroline even more grasping.
There are at least a half dozen new characters introduced and the historic notes are fabulous.
Loved it! LOVED IT!!
In style it reminded me of another book where the author drops in a bit of information that might be a little shocking or surprising; then goes back and fills in the backstory. It is fun but it can be a little confusing the first or second time you encounter it.
Mature content rating with one fairly explicit scene and several adult segments.
Everyone who knows them know that Jane and Lizzy Bennet are special in Redemption they are much more. Wickham is even more loathsome, Mr. Bennet even more indolent, Caroline even more grasping.
There are at least a half dozen new characters introduced and the historic notes are fabulous.
Loved it! LOVED IT!!
In style it reminded me of another book where the author drops in a bit of information that might be a little shocking or surprising; then goes back and fills in the backstory. It is fun but it can be a little confusing the first or second time you encounter it.
Mature content rating with one fairly explicit scene and several adult segments.
April 30, 2018
The author's style is very good, I really like how dynamic she is, some parts are short, on point. But still, it bothers me the fact that the story doesn't really have a plot, just a succession of events.
March 25, 2018
4.5 stars
Elizabeth and Jane are not daughters of the second Mrs. Bennet. In fact, Jane's father is the a participant in royalty imposing (in madness) on the Queen's handmaidens. So a number of peers watch the half-sisters' development and education from afar. The author provides many footnotes from history but does also admit to twisting facts and changing some dates.
Be warned we have some deaths within and they are not all of the natural variety. You may cheer with the event for figures we love to hate but then have mixed feelings when others are simply the result of greed or revenge. Then we also read of several couple who marry over the anvil, which has rippling effects.
Elizabeth and Darcy have this thing going on with magnetic sexual attraction. They do save it for marriage but then, watch out, make sure the doors are locked or that it happens out-of-view.
The reality of promiscuity ending in venereal diseases is a factor in this tale and not all who are affected are guilty of that immoral behavior.
Newgate Prison becomes the residence of one we love and we read (as I am sure you already realize) of how corrupt the officials guarding those within are and how the prison system was a deadly place to be incarcerated in those times. That latter fact was not just due to who is bigger and stronger but also how well you could survive in the filth and disease which surrounded you there.
This story has many lines of intrigue going on and at times those lines abut each other or become tangled together. I found it to be a page turner. There are 20 chapters.
Elizabeth and Jane are not daughters of the second Mrs. Bennet. In fact, Jane's father is the a participant in royalty imposing (in madness) on the Queen's handmaidens. So a number of peers watch the half-sisters' development and education from afar. The author provides many footnotes from history but does also admit to twisting facts and changing some dates.
Be warned we have some deaths within and they are not all of the natural variety. You may cheer with the event for figures we love to hate but then have mixed feelings when others are simply the result of greed or revenge. Then we also read of several couple who marry over the anvil, which has rippling effects.
Elizabeth and Darcy have this thing going on with magnetic sexual attraction. They do save it for marriage but then, watch out, make sure the doors are locked or that it happens out-of-view.
The reality of promiscuity ending in venereal diseases is a factor in this tale and not all who are affected are guilty of that immoral behavior.
Newgate Prison becomes the residence of one we love and we read (as I am sure you already realize) of how corrupt the officials guarding those within are and how the prison system was a deadly place to be incarcerated in those times. That latter fact was not just due to who is bigger and stronger but also how well you could survive in the filth and disease which surrounded you there.
This story has many lines of intrigue going on and at times those lines abut each other or become tangled together. I found it to be a page turner. There are 20 chapters.
March 27, 2018
Wow, lots of variation elements that I have never seen before. I loved it because of that alone.
March 29, 2018
In this Pride and Prejudice variation, Elizabeth and Jane have some very interesting relatives. For that matter so does Darcy. Most are out for themselves, but the love of our dear couple becomes a shelter for many. Those that are evil, have very evil plans but karma . .
I really enjoyed the flow of the story and this historical info accompanying the chapters. This story is a mature as Elizabeth and Darcy can't keep their hands off each other.
I really enjoyed the flow of the story and this historical info accompanying the chapters. This story is a mature as Elizabeth and Darcy can't keep their hands off each other.
March 31, 2018
This story sure has a bit of everything including romance, steamy sex, rape, political intrigue, family secrets, elopement, murder, sexually transmitted disease, betrayal, and imprisonment. It's a riveting story. Other reviews cover pieces of the plot, so I won't do so here.
The author does love to mingle actual historical facts and individuals into the story. The notes between chapters provide more details of her research, which you can choose to ignore or delve into with the references provided.
The book's title can be applied to one of the characters. (There's even a hint of Tale of Two Cities in here.) It can also apply to the healing, by the story's end, of a rift between two families going back several generations.
It has the usual unpublished-and-needs-a-proofreader/editor type of errors. I also wasn't thrilled with the final chapter, which would more properly be considered an epilogue. The major plotline had long since reached its resolution, and I lost interest in the fates of so many tertiary characters. Some secondary plotlines could have been eliminated to cut down on the length without sacrificing any of the drama.
I do enjoy that Darcy and Elizabeth get together much sooner rather than later. They have great sexual chemistry, and those scenes are nicely written. (Definitely a MA rating.)
I admit to being a bit disappointed in their too-perfect stereotypical characterizations, especially Elizabeth. She knows exactly the right thing to do and say in every situation. She's beautiful. She's kind. She's (secretly) royalty. She's married to Darcy, who adores her. It got on my nerves after a while.
I also wish there was more banter between them. This is an intense story right from the start, and some lightening of the mood with a touch of humor in spots would have been welcome.
Overall, however, this is another exceptional tale by a talented writer.
The author does love to mingle actual historical facts and individuals into the story. The notes between chapters provide more details of her research, which you can choose to ignore or delve into with the references provided.
The book's title can be applied to one of the characters. (There's even a hint of Tale of Two Cities in here.) It can also apply to the healing, by the story's end, of a rift between two families going back several generations.
It has the usual unpublished-and-needs-a-proofreader/editor type of errors. I also wasn't thrilled with the final chapter, which would more properly be considered an epilogue. The major plotline had long since reached its resolution, and I lost interest in the fates of so many tertiary characters. Some secondary plotlines could have been eliminated to cut down on the length without sacrificing any of the drama.
I do enjoy that Darcy and Elizabeth get together much sooner rather than later. They have great sexual chemistry, and those scenes are nicely written. (Definitely a MA rating.)
I admit to being a bit disappointed in their too-perfect stereotypical characterizations, especially Elizabeth. She knows exactly the right thing to do and say in every situation. She's beautiful. She's kind. She's (secretly) royalty. She's married to Darcy, who adores her. It got on my nerves after a while.
I also wish there was more banter between them. This is an intense story right from the start, and some lightening of the mood with a touch of humor in spots would have been welcome.
Overall, however, this is another exceptional tale by a talented writer.
September 12, 2021
An intriguing if somewhat dark story. Couldn't put it down.
With all that, there did seem to be quite an amount of plunging, burying and impaling. At some point you gotta get the picture that ODC lurved and lusted after each other... move along!
3.5
With all that, there did seem to be quite an amount of plunging, burying and impaling. At some point you gotta get the picture that ODC lurved and lusted after each other... move along!
3.5
March 23, 2018
I couldn't stop reading this fanfiction variation of Pride & Prejudice, and I am so tired today because of it!
The premise of this story and the twists and turns were brilliant. The tidbits of history incorporated were also very interesting. Wosedwew has written a great review summarizing and explaining this story. There is a strong sense of realism within the events.
One of the things I loved most about this story is how tactile it felt. The chemistry between Darcy and Elizabeth was palpable. There is a natural earthiness to their reactions.
"He was aware of his body, from the rub of his lawn shirt against his chest to the silk of the stockings on his legs to the restriction of his neck cloth as he swallowed. When he raised a glass of wine to his lips, he felt the tension in each finger and every small flexing of the muscles in his hand. The cool of the glass met the senstive skin on his lip. Then he felt every place in his mouth that the wine touched..." (quote from story)
I thoroughly enjoyed this unpublished work!
March 23, 2018
Unputdownable!
I absolutely loved it!
Thrilling story from start to finish.
Loved the premises where the Bennet's were of elevated rank as opposed to the usual reduced circumstances.
The attention and refrences to historical details was highly appreciated.
The realism was refreshing, not everybody got their rozy HEA but I am not so fond of the heavily sugared stories... The comeuppance of the villains was also very satisfying.
ODC had an early understanding in this story but mr Bennet refused to give his blessing.
Forced to elope, ODC headed to Gretna Green as time was of the essence, due to an ill Georgiana. (The Ramsgate debacle had rather severe consequences in this story.)
Elizabeth knew that the current mrs Bennet was not her birthmother but who was, she had no clue. The heritage of the eldest Bennet sisters will be revealed but for me to eloborate would ruin your read...
The story eluded to a rape, there were murders and natural deaths, imprisonment of one of the main characters and plenty of plotting and intrigue to keep me on the edge of my seat for the entire 20 chapters (about 100k words).
Highly recommend!
I absolutely loved it!
Thrilling story from start to finish.
Loved the premises where the Bennet's were of elevated rank as opposed to the usual reduced circumstances.
The attention and refrences to historical details was highly appreciated.
The realism was refreshing, not everybody got their rozy HEA but I am not so fond of the heavily sugared stories... The comeuppance of the villains was also very satisfying.
ODC had an early understanding in this story but mr Bennet refused to give his blessing.
Forced to elope, ODC headed to Gretna Green as time was of the essence, due to an ill Georgiana. (The Ramsgate debacle had rather severe consequences in this story.)
Elizabeth knew that the current mrs Bennet was not her birthmother but who was, she had no clue. The heritage of the eldest Bennet sisters will be revealed but for me to eloborate would ruin your read...
The story eluded to a rape, there were murders and natural deaths, imprisonment of one of the main characters and plenty of plotting and intrigue to keep me on the edge of my seat for the entire 20 chapters (about 100k words).
Highly recommend!
March 16, 2021
What a story. It has romance and lots of suspense. Not much angst if that is your thing for ODC. but I loved it. Absolutly will read again. See other reviews for information on plot. One of my favorite unpublished pieces of JAFF.
May 23, 2019
Great story. Lots better than lots of ebook JAFF on Amazon. Very original plot. Fairly intricate plot. Seemingly simple events occur. Then the waves they create interact with karma wave from other events. Further along the timeline chaos is achieved. Everyone tries to dampen the chaos but really most everyone just tries to survive and come out with no damage at the end.
I recommend this book highly. It should be for sale someday.
I recommend this book highly. It should be for sale someday.
December 11, 2020
Very Good
I would buy this book if it was published. Other reviewers have given well-rounded summaries, so I won’t be repetitive here. I will say that I much enjoyed this fast-moving, interesting page turner. A non-published fan fiction, I thought it a very well written and praise-worthy read. I appreciated the research notes and historical facts as well. Definitely recommend this one.
I would buy this book if it was published. Other reviewers have given well-rounded summaries, so I won’t be repetitive here. I will say that I much enjoyed this fast-moving, interesting page turner. A non-published fan fiction, I thought it a very well written and praise-worthy read. I appreciated the research notes and historical facts as well. Definitely recommend this one.
February 16, 2021
Seductive! Mysterious! Fast Paced! Sexy! Exhilarating!
I blushed, awed, squealed and gasped!
It's fresh, it's daring. It goes where others won’t, it explores what others don’t!
Not just a read, but an education! Historical notes at each chapter head will feed and indulge your regency curiosity with interesting tidbits and broker you a peak at authors research.
You'll need: A hand fan & a notebook to keep track of some details. Maybe some wine. Couldn't hurt!
Synopsis:
This JAFF stands out distinguished; in style of storytelling, complexity of plot, and historic detail.
I tend to wait a few days to write a review but I am too keyed up and high on it that I must gush lest my nerves get the better of me.
The story is best appreciated going in with little to no information. Take the leap, just read it:
https://www.fanfiction.net/s/8024099/...
That being said, the first few chapters can be puzzling sorting out the threads of who is related to whom and jarring due to the authors 'jump about' method of exposition so just be prepared for the learning curve.
I promise you'll get your bearings about you shortly and will appreciate the authors stylistic choice for how it undeniably enriches the flow of the narrative.
There is a huge cast, extensive time jumps, backtracking but it works so well! She is a talented author so don't let this daunt you, you will be in capable hands, the story flows seamlessly.
Hard to believe this was fan fiction posted as chapter installments, it had this intrinsic order & organization that is just flawless. The plot wraps up nicely and it has this underlying thematic element to it that left me awed.
I'll admit it irked me at first since some scenes we are used to and expect in JAFF (particularly dialogue and such from ODC are skipped)
but this story is fast paced designed for someone who reads a lot of JAFF as is and can fill those blanks.
By no means does do I suggest the ODC romance is lacking or suffers from this; their understanding makes sense due the variation of events, they have a buttload of chemistry and are very on character and their interactions are bestowed economically and well written.
I loved how Lizzy wasn't mary sue-ish, at least I did not find her to be, even with elevated circumstances the opposition also is elevated in a compelling fashion. The challenges increased proportionally with the boons bestowed on our protagonist and effectively kept the stakes level and the story spicy.
The characters, both antagonist and protagonists, are complex and often jump rope between villain and hero to the point the arbitrary line is erased, and you are left with the blanketing appellation of 'human'.
There is a dope 'indolence origin story' for Mr Bennet.
Viscount Milton (eldest brother of Colonel Fitz) has such a compelling complex character development into this anti-hero and I just want to mention to keep an eye on that,
He ended up being my favorite character. Likely the most interesting character in the whole thing, and that's saying something because they all were intriguing.
Wickham will PUO
but he also has this insane character arc and I usually say the less of him the better, but here he worked out very well.
Verdict:
I've scarcely had more fun reading! This was everything engaging and exciting !
This honestly could and ought be a tv series or movie! I havent said that of any JAFF before but this was good as a stand alone story. It's amazing how the author took inspiration from historical events and information and weaved an original tale!
Compelling cast of characters, a thrilling plot and epic romance for ODC.
Definitely earned a spot in my personal top ten JAFF list! Cannot recommend this enough!
I measure the quality of a JAFF by three factors, as follows;
1. Did I feel the characters acted true to Austen's character framework (allowing for changed circumstance and scenario to offer some leeway)?Yes
2. Was I engaged during the reading and not bored?Oh, most definitely!
3. Was the writing compelling/ intelligent and was there sufficient interaction/dialogue between the main characters? Yes, though admittedly less ODC dialogue than Jaff expects but it works for this, trust!
P.S. You gotta listen to something sultry while reading to get in the headspace.
I recommend: 'Crazy in Love' by Eden Project
https://youtu.be/9_EvN5n5xwE
Just really set the tone for me!
Anyways, below is spoiler notes I kept to track the relations/ cast. I strongly recommend not reading this before you get the full background on Lizzy, I'll put them here as a reference guide:
I blushed, awed, squealed and gasped!
It's fresh, it's daring. It goes where others won’t, it explores what others don’t!
Not just a read, but an education! Historical notes at each chapter head will feed and indulge your regency curiosity with interesting tidbits and broker you a peak at authors research.
You'll need: A hand fan & a notebook to keep track of some details. Maybe some wine. Couldn't hurt!
Synopsis:
This JAFF stands out distinguished; in style of storytelling, complexity of plot, and historic detail.
I tend to wait a few days to write a review but I am too keyed up and high on it that I must gush lest my nerves get the better of me.
The story is best appreciated going in with little to no information. Take the leap, just read it:
https://www.fanfiction.net/s/8024099/...
That being said, the first few chapters can be puzzling sorting out the threads of who is related to whom and jarring due to the authors 'jump about' method of exposition so just be prepared for the learning curve.
I promise you'll get your bearings about you shortly and will appreciate the authors stylistic choice for how it undeniably enriches the flow of the narrative.
There is a huge cast, extensive time jumps, backtracking but it works so well! She is a talented author so don't let this daunt you, you will be in capable hands, the story flows seamlessly.
Hard to believe this was fan fiction posted as chapter installments, it had this intrinsic order & organization that is just flawless. The plot wraps up nicely and it has this underlying thematic element to it that left me awed.
I'll admit it irked me at first since some scenes we are used to and expect in JAFF (particularly dialogue and such from ODC are skipped)
but this story is fast paced designed for someone who reads a lot of JAFF as is and can fill those blanks.
By no means does do I suggest the ODC romance is lacking or suffers from this; their understanding makes sense due the variation of events, they have a buttload of chemistry and are very on character and their interactions are bestowed economically and well written.
I loved how Lizzy wasn't mary sue-ish, at least I did not find her to be, even with elevated circumstances the opposition also is elevated in a compelling fashion. The challenges increased proportionally with the boons bestowed on our protagonist and effectively kept the stakes level and the story spicy.
The characters, both antagonist and protagonists, are complex and often jump rope between villain and hero to the point the arbitrary line is erased, and you are left with the blanketing appellation of 'human'.
There is a dope 'indolence origin story' for Mr Bennet.
Viscount Milton (eldest brother of Colonel Fitz) has such a compelling complex character development into this anti-hero and I just want to mention to keep an eye on that,
He ended up being my favorite character. Likely the most interesting character in the whole thing, and that's saying something because they all were intriguing.
Wickham will PUO
but he also has this insane character arc and I usually say the less of him the better, but here he worked out very well.
Verdict:
I've scarcely had more fun reading! This was everything engaging and exciting !
A JAFF Epic!
This honestly could and ought be a tv series or movie! I havent said that of any JAFF before but this was good as a stand alone story. It's amazing how the author took inspiration from historical events and information and weaved an original tale!
Compelling cast of characters, a thrilling plot and epic romance for ODC.
Definitely earned a spot in my personal top ten JAFF list! Cannot recommend this enough!
I measure the quality of a JAFF by three factors, as follows;
1. Did I feel the characters acted true to Austen's character framework (allowing for changed circumstance and scenario to offer some leeway)?Yes
2. Was I engaged during the reading and not bored?Oh, most definitely!
3. Was the writing compelling/ intelligent and was there sufficient interaction/dialogue between the main characters? Yes, though admittedly less ODC dialogue than Jaff expects but it works for this, trust!
P.S. You gotta listen to something sultry while reading to get in the headspace.
I recommend: 'Crazy in Love' by Eden Project
https://youtu.be/9_EvN5n5xwE
Just really set the tone for me!
Anyways, below is spoiler notes I kept to track the relations/ cast. I strongly recommend not reading this before you get the full background on Lizzy, I'll put them here as a reference guide:
June 13, 2020
Excellent read. I’m usually fascinated by historical information but I have to admit I just wasn’t in the mood for it, so I didn’t read it. The story kept my interest and I was completely absorbed. I was happy I took the time to read it.
May 28, 2023
https://www.fanfiction.net/s/8024099/...
This is a long story in which both Elizabeth and Jane are of higher birth than the rest of their sisters; they are both the children of Mr. Bennet's first wife, although he is not Jane's father. It could be said the author offers an explanation as to why Elizabeth is his favourite, but here it is hardly something to be proud of, he is a horrible person.
I was so conflicted by this story - I sometimes found it hard to remember that I was not reading an actual, published work. The author has put a huge amount of work into it, they appear to have done a phenomenal amount of research and historical figures, who are presented with fairly realistic connections to the Bennet family, are woven into the narrative. But - IMO the human stories contained within that narrative are overshadowed. Many of the familar characters from P&P are here and there are certainly indications that several of them have moving and interesting stories - but we don't really get to hear those stories. Two of my favourite characters are in there - but they are completely wasted, one only mentioned infrequently even though on the face of it they could play a large part, the other wheeled on ocassionally then wheeled off until they are needed again with no indication what they are doing behind the scenes. The last chapter attempts to tell us what happens to all the characters but it's too late - we have only seen snapshots of what is happening to them before this and most of the resolutions are rushed and most are unconvincing; one at least was deeply illogical and made me rather angry.
For those wondering about ODC - of course they are there and in many ways I felt it was one of the best portrayals I have ever read. Of course, they fall in love and they marry (not really a spoiler). Elizabeth here is very engaging - she is not super-Liz, she is not perfect, she makes mistakes but she is intelligent and compassionate and you really do feel Darcy is very lucky have her. The only slight misgiving I have is . The other slight problem is that, to me, even they are slightly overshadowed by the copious presentation of the author's research. The book could also have benefited from the attentions of a good editor - words are misspelt or apparently missed out, sentences are unclear, it is almost as if the author is so excited by what she is writing her pen/keyboard runs away her :)
Given all this, it might seem strange that I have only witheld one star. I did enjoy this book, I have huge admiration for the work the author has put into it and it kept my interest all the way through. To have elaborated on the stories af all the characters would have made the story very long and unwieldy but it is surely the mark of a good tale that I wanted to know more? But I did feel perhaps less characters with more straight forward story lines may have made the whole thing a bit more satisfying?
This is a long story in which both Elizabeth and Jane are of higher birth than the rest of their sisters; they are both the children of Mr. Bennet's first wife, although he is not Jane's father. It could be said the author offers an explanation as to why Elizabeth is his favourite, but here it is hardly something to be proud of, he is a horrible person.
I was so conflicted by this story - I sometimes found it hard to remember that I was not reading an actual, published work. The author has put a huge amount of work into it, they appear to have done a phenomenal amount of research and historical figures, who are presented with fairly realistic connections to the Bennet family, are woven into the narrative. But - IMO the human stories contained within that narrative are overshadowed. Many of the familar characters from P&P are here and there are certainly indications that several of them have moving and interesting stories - but we don't really get to hear those stories. Two of my favourite characters are in there - but they are completely wasted, one only mentioned infrequently even though on the face of it they could play a large part, the other wheeled on ocassionally then wheeled off until they are needed again with no indication what they are doing behind the scenes. The last chapter attempts to tell us what happens to all the characters but it's too late - we have only seen snapshots of what is happening to them before this and most of the resolutions are rushed and most are unconvincing; one at least was deeply illogical and made me rather angry.
For those wondering about ODC - of course they are there and in many ways I felt it was one of the best portrayals I have ever read. Of course, they fall in love and they marry (not really a spoiler). Elizabeth here is very engaging - she is not super-Liz, she is not perfect, she makes mistakes but she is intelligent and compassionate and you really do feel Darcy is very lucky have her. The only slight misgiving I have is . The other slight problem is that, to me, even they are slightly overshadowed by the copious presentation of the author's research. The book could also have benefited from the attentions of a good editor - words are misspelt or apparently missed out, sentences are unclear, it is almost as if the author is so excited by what she is writing her pen/keyboard runs away her :)
Given all this, it might seem strange that I have only witheld one star. I did enjoy this book, I have huge admiration for the work the author has put into it and it kept my interest all the way through. To have elaborated on the stories af all the characters would have made the story very long and unwieldy but it is surely the mark of a good tale that I wanted to know more? But I did feel perhaps less characters with more straight forward story lines may have made the whole thing a bit more satisfying?
February 26, 2020
4.5⭐️ what an interesting story.
August 17, 2024
4.5*
drama, intrigue, love, betrayal, scheming, murders, angst, sorrow, redemption for some, not others. There's lots of historical background provided here as well that is interesting as well.
drama, intrigue, love, betrayal, scheming, murders, angst, sorrow, redemption for some, not others. There's lots of historical background provided here as well that is interesting as well.
Read
May 3, 2025Loved the concept BUT there was way too many unnecessary descriptions of intercourse. Left out would have improved my thoughts on this book. If her other stories are the same I won’t read them.
Read
November 21, 2018DNF Chapter 13
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