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Chance Encounters
Chance Encounters In Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, Fitzwilliam Darcy arrives at Netherfield in a state of indignation and delivers an insult that nearly ended his future before it began. What if he did not go to Meryton that autumn and instead met Elizabeth Bennet later in London during the winter? What if their introduction was not an insult, but rather a challenge to smile, and how does the strength of an ex... Full description
440 pages, Paperback
First published September 27, 2008
84 people are currently reading
529 people want to read
About the author
Linda Wells
10 books93 followersWelcome to my author page; let me tell you a little about myself. I worked for years in the environmental engineering world until I traded my career as a geographer for one as a mom to a challenging and really great son. One day, I saw the 2005 production of Pride and Prejudice, and I was fascinated. I bought a copy of Jane Austen's novel and read it so many times, falling under the spell of her unforgettable characters and story, and I could not help but wonder what happened next for them. That led me in search of Jane Austen Fan Fiction.
I read many stories and then one of my own started nagging at me. So, I found an old notebook and started writing it down. Without it even being finished, I took the plunge and started posting. It was, and continues to be, a fantastic and rewarding experience to watch a story take shape while so many readers follow along. I have many ideas for new stories, and with luck and lots of imagining, they will be written too.
If you would like to email me, I would love to hear from you! Lindawellsbooknut@gmail.com
Books by Linda Wells:
Chance Encounters
Fate and Consequences
Perfect Fit
Memory: Volume 1, Lasting Impressions
Memory: Volume 2, Trials to Bear
Memory: Volume 3, How Far We Have Come
Imperative Volumes 1 and 2
I read many stories and then one of my own started nagging at me. So, I found an old notebook and started writing it down. Without it even being finished, I took the plunge and started posting. It was, and continues to be, a fantastic and rewarding experience to watch a story take shape while so many readers follow along. I have many ideas for new stories, and with luck and lots of imagining, they will be written too.
If you would like to email me, I would love to hear from you! Lindawellsbooknut@gmail.com
Books by Linda Wells:
Chance Encounters
Fate and Consequences
Perfect Fit
Memory: Volume 1, Lasting Impressions
Memory: Volume 2, Trials to Bear
Memory: Volume 3, How Far We Have Come
Imperative Volumes 1 and 2
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
October 15, 2017
In this book Bingley hasn't gone to Netherfield yet and Darcy and Elizabeth meet in London. It's a chance to see how their romance will fare if he's not immediately faced with her family proving an embarrassment, which is interesting and I enjoyed it for quite a while. There are a number of characters that are different than Austen's though - Mr Bennet is massively more selfish and isn't out for Lizzy's best interests, Caroline Bingley is losing her grip on reality, and George Wickham does something really awful, he's not just a chancer in this, he is genuinely a bad person.
The main problem I had with this book is that it doesn't really seem to have much plot, it just ambles on. And there is so much repetition, masses of sex scenes, everybody saying how much they envy Elizabeth and Darcy's love match over and over again, lots of inappropriate touchy feely contact between them - in this era that was dodgy behaviour and Darcy and Elizabeth had more class than that. I would say many people wouldn't be that touchy feely now, let alone then. And Darcy cries at the drop of a hat which somehow didn't seem likely. It's a shame, as I was hoping for better from this book.
The main problem I had with this book is that it doesn't really seem to have much plot, it just ambles on. And there is so much repetition, masses of sex scenes, everybody saying how much they envy Elizabeth and Darcy's love match over and over again, lots of inappropriate touchy feely contact between them - in this era that was dodgy behaviour and Darcy and Elizabeth had more class than that. I would say many people wouldn't be that touchy feely now, let alone then. And Darcy cries at the drop of a hat which somehow didn't seem likely. It's a shame, as I was hoping for better from this book.
October 26, 2023
HEA in the beginning
First half of the book was amazing. It earned its 5 stars there. The last half of the book was what a HEA could be if not everything didn’t go smoothly.
I enjoyed the entire book but really didn’t enjoy the ‘Richard loves Lizzy’ plotline. I found Richard every bit as bad as Caroline and couldn’t believe Darcy not being more forceful with him.
I LOVED how Darcy took care of Wickham.
This book is great.
First half of the book was amazing. It earned its 5 stars there. The last half of the book was what a HEA could be if not everything didn’t go smoothly.
I enjoyed the entire book but really didn’t enjoy the ‘Richard loves Lizzy’ plotline. I found Richard every bit as bad as Caroline and couldn’t believe Darcy not being more forceful with him.
I LOVED how Darcy took care of Wickham.
This book is great.
May 27, 2018
This was a different approach on so many levels. Two star cross lovers take notice of each other across a dark theatre and feel such an instant magnetism to one another they breach propriety and battle for an introduction. It's as simple and romantic as that. I read some thought too hard about it and couldn't believe,for that time period, it would happen as it did. The best things in life are worth fighting for and sometimes you have to throw caution to the wind and just go for it! That goes for any time period.
Darcy was not the Darcy JA created he was shy to be sure but he was a lot quicker to open up. You have to keep in mind his biggest trouble was the behavior from Lizzy's family. Elizabeth was different for the fact we didn't see her with her father and sister but with her aunt and uncle. This took several immediate impediments out of the way and the understanding between D&E together sooner. There were some road blocks in the way but it was after the pair were aquainted better.
Mr. Bennet was the biggest shock and I won't say why other than to say in the beginning you will not like him. Caroline was so obsessed that she literally lost her head to obtain Darcy. Wickham was evil as ever but too quickly disposed of. Jane and Lizzy did not have that tight bond but it made sense the direction it took. Georgiana and aunt Catherine was both a surprise and joy. The one star I deducted is due to colonel Fitzwilliam. He struggles with being in love with Lizzy. I hated what he put poor Kathleen through and felt we should have got to see more on how he turned things around. My heart broke with hers as the former colonel told Katie was in love with Lizzy and brutally honest while doing so.
What a nightmare to learn the man you love hasn't given all of himself to you and struggled whenever around his cousins wife. I really wanted to see her make him realize how lucky he was but the story is about Darcy and Lizzy and I liked this book over all. If you have ever read anything by Wells this one is a typical of her work. You should prepare to kick back because her writing style is at a leisurely pace and detailed with pov's , intimacy, high emotions and in this one some violence surrounding an attempted sexual assault concerning Lizzy. Enjoy!
Darcy was not the Darcy JA created he was shy to be sure but he was a lot quicker to open up. You have to keep in mind his biggest trouble was the behavior from Lizzy's family. Elizabeth was different for the fact we didn't see her with her father and sister but with her aunt and uncle. This took several immediate impediments out of the way and the understanding between D&E together sooner. There were some road blocks in the way but it was after the pair were aquainted better.
Mr. Bennet was the biggest shock and I won't say why other than to say in the beginning you will not like him. Caroline was so obsessed that she literally lost her head to obtain Darcy. Wickham was evil as ever but too quickly disposed of. Jane and Lizzy did not have that tight bond but it made sense the direction it took. Georgiana and aunt Catherine was both a surprise and joy. The one star I deducted is due to colonel Fitzwilliam. He struggles with being in love with Lizzy. I hated what he put poor Kathleen through and felt we should have got to see more on how he turned things around. My heart broke with hers as the former colonel told Katie was in love with Lizzy and brutally honest while doing so.
What a nightmare to learn the man you love hasn't given all of himself to you and struggled whenever around his cousins wife. I really wanted to see her make him realize how lucky he was but the story is about Darcy and Lizzy and I liked this book over all. If you have ever read anything by Wells this one is a typical of her work. You should prepare to kick back because her writing style is at a leisurely pace and detailed with pov's , intimacy, high emotions and in this one some violence surrounding an attempted sexual assault concerning Lizzy. Enjoy!
December 5, 2020
With an average of 3.9 stars for 95 reviews on Amazon, (51% being 5 stars) you can imagine that this story raised some strong feelings. Some of the negatives were Mr. Bennet’s role, the number of technical errors, and the lack of development in Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s relationship prior to marriage. Those, plus the fact that the book, Kama Sutra, (mentioned as in the library at Pemberley), was not published during this time period, is another “mistake” pointed out in several reviews. And with that: some objected to the descriptions and/or frequency of ODC’s sexual relationship.
I love the first chapter; I love that in this story our favorite couple experienced “love at first sight”. I have read and re-read that chapter on more than one occasion. For me it was so endearing. So we don’t have all the accusations of a totally improper family or of class differences before cupid strikes.
We are told of Darcy’s father’s directions to his brother-in-law as to what he wants for Darcy in marriage and just why. We are told of an event in Darcy’s youth when the father takes the son to a brothel for sexual initiation BUT then makes him promise never to plant his seed outside of marriage as this could leave disenfranchised children in the community. And we also read why the father wants this for Darcy – a very powerful reason. And we learn that Darcy doesn’t know this latter purpose in the relationship he had with his father and in the relationship his father had with Wickham.
Then we are also told of Elizabeth’s relationship with her father. (Yes, this book has the fathers playing roles in past and present circumstances.) We know the Mr. Bennet of canon. Many of us don’t like that his indolence is a major contributing factor in the behaviors and personalities we witness in his daughters and even in his wife’s silly actions and shrill exclamations. In this tale Lizzy’s father has reared her more as he would have a son. He considers her his companion due to her wit and her demeanor. She gets his snide or humorous comments; they share opinions through just a raised eyebrow or a smirk. He DOES NOT expect her to marry and move away. But he has not faced just how that desire plays out until someone in whom Lizzy is seriously interested asks to first court her and then for her hand in marriage. This does not compute in his world. And the outcome is disastrous! If you like Mr. Bennet, you may not want to read this book. But one good effect to Mr. B’s observations about ODC is that he decides to change his treatment of his wife – oh, no, she doesn’t make a 180° change but she does “put a lid on it”.
We learn that Mr. Bennet has a past, one that no one has known about and one that now has a role in so many lives and relationships. You may be surprised most of all by a certain Mr. Carrington in this story.
On the other hand, I did like Lady Catherine’s change in character…even though it didn’t occur until there was a death in the family. The Fitzwilliam family’s role in accepting, supporting and then setting a standard for the “ton’s” outlook on the marriage was a positive one. Even within the family the older brother’s marriage of convenience is affected by this marriage of love between Elizabeth and Darcy.
I liked the development of Col. Fitzwilliam’s relationship with Darcy and with Darcy’s love for Elizabeth, his and Darcy’s acknowledgment of certain feelings and how he faced up to those, how he made a resolution to change and how he communicated the feelings, what they meant and how he changed. He does get his happy ending.
Darcy and Elizabeth begin a relationship which seems to be made in heaven BUT this tale gives them more than their share of trauma, of heartbreak, of learning how to communicate. And it was gratifying to read that there were others in the family who observed the need to point out to one or the other how they needed to share even the ugly parts of their lives. Darcy and Elizabeth grow and at times cling to each other against overwhelming events.
There are other romances in this story. Georgiana and, even Lydia, have love lives. Caroline Bingley acts in a ghastly manner on more than one occasion. Charles and Jane do not have the backbone to set boundaries with, again, horrendous results for ODC.
The only negative, (and this book does have 443 pages) is that in the epilogue some facts are rather vague. I had to wonder at offspring, (gender, names, etc.) and other events referenced which kept our couple steadfast in their need for each other’s support and love. But all-in-all this was a long and satisfying book. I would recommend it to all JAFF lovers.
I love the first chapter; I love that in this story our favorite couple experienced “love at first sight”. I have read and re-read that chapter on more than one occasion. For me it was so endearing. So we don’t have all the accusations of a totally improper family or of class differences before cupid strikes.
We are told of Darcy’s father’s directions to his brother-in-law as to what he wants for Darcy in marriage and just why. We are told of an event in Darcy’s youth when the father takes the son to a brothel for sexual initiation BUT then makes him promise never to plant his seed outside of marriage as this could leave disenfranchised children in the community. And we also read why the father wants this for Darcy – a very powerful reason. And we learn that Darcy doesn’t know this latter purpose in the relationship he had with his father and in the relationship his father had with Wickham.
Then we are also told of Elizabeth’s relationship with her father. (Yes, this book has the fathers playing roles in past and present circumstances.) We know the Mr. Bennet of canon. Many of us don’t like that his indolence is a major contributing factor in the behaviors and personalities we witness in his daughters and even in his wife’s silly actions and shrill exclamations. In this tale Lizzy’s father has reared her more as he would have a son. He considers her his companion due to her wit and her demeanor. She gets his snide or humorous comments; they share opinions through just a raised eyebrow or a smirk. He DOES NOT expect her to marry and move away. But he has not faced just how that desire plays out until someone in whom Lizzy is seriously interested asks to first court her and then for her hand in marriage. This does not compute in his world. And the outcome is disastrous! If you like Mr. Bennet, you may not want to read this book. But one good effect to Mr. B’s observations about ODC is that he decides to change his treatment of his wife – oh, no, she doesn’t make a 180° change but she does “put a lid on it”.
We learn that Mr. Bennet has a past, one that no one has known about and one that now has a role in so many lives and relationships. You may be surprised most of all by a certain Mr. Carrington in this story.
On the other hand, I did like Lady Catherine’s change in character…even though it didn’t occur until there was a death in the family. The Fitzwilliam family’s role in accepting, supporting and then setting a standard for the “ton’s” outlook on the marriage was a positive one. Even within the family the older brother’s marriage of convenience is affected by this marriage of love between Elizabeth and Darcy.
I liked the development of Col. Fitzwilliam’s relationship with Darcy and with Darcy’s love for Elizabeth, his and Darcy’s acknowledgment of certain feelings and how he faced up to those, how he made a resolution to change and how he communicated the feelings, what they meant and how he changed. He does get his happy ending.
Darcy and Elizabeth begin a relationship which seems to be made in heaven BUT this tale gives them more than their share of trauma, of heartbreak, of learning how to communicate. And it was gratifying to read that there were others in the family who observed the need to point out to one or the other how they needed to share even the ugly parts of their lives. Darcy and Elizabeth grow and at times cling to each other against overwhelming events.
There are other romances in this story. Georgiana and, even Lydia, have love lives. Caroline Bingley acts in a ghastly manner on more than one occasion. Charles and Jane do not have the backbone to set boundaries with, again, horrendous results for ODC.
The only negative, (and this book does have 443 pages) is that in the epilogue some facts are rather vague. I had to wonder at offspring, (gender, names, etc.) and other events referenced which kept our couple steadfast in their need for each other’s support and love. But all-in-all this was a long and satisfying book. I would recommend it to all JAFF lovers.
December 25, 2025
The Best Beginning
The way Darcy and Elizabeth first encounter one another in this book is one of my most memorable and favourite beginnings for this beloved couple. Rather than meeting in Meryton, they have a “chance encounter” at the theatre. There are other chance encounters in the story as well. Mr. Bennet’s portrayal was maddening. Fearing he will lose his favourite companion, he is not ready to give up Elizabeth to a husband. I adored Alex Carrington, and loved his part in the book, especially the loyalty he displays to his parents. Wickham was especially evil. Caroline’s Darcy obsession is also particularly extreme.
The writing is truly characteristic of Linda Wells’ passionate characters; it is definitely mature in content, so if that makes you squeamish, it’s not the book for you. Parts are quite graphic, and there is also a violent assault scene.
The way Darcy and Elizabeth first encounter one another in this book is one of my most memorable and favourite beginnings for this beloved couple. Rather than meeting in Meryton, they have a “chance encounter” at the theatre. There are other chance encounters in the story as well. Mr. Bennet’s portrayal was maddening. Fearing he will lose his favourite companion, he is not ready to give up Elizabeth to a husband. I adored Alex Carrington, and loved his part in the book, especially the loyalty he displays to his parents. Wickham was especially evil. Caroline’s Darcy obsession is also particularly extreme.
The writing is truly characteristic of Linda Wells’ passionate characters; it is definitely mature in content, so if that makes you squeamish, it’s not the book for you. Parts are quite graphic, and there is also a violent assault scene.
October 25, 2017
I probably have problem with long stories. But this story felt endless. I had to take a break several times, because I was just so bored.
November 14, 2015
If you're looking for a low angst tale that includes numerous scenes of ODC, a very romantic love at first sight scenario and a long story that meanders along in a well written way, then this is the book for you.
It's a sweet story where Darcy and Lizzy are very committed to each other and relish their very passionate and loving relationship.
While most of the characters are extremely positive and welcoming of Darcy and Lizzy's relationship, Mr Bennet's character left a lot to be desired.
An ideal read for all lovers of Pride and Prejudice who yearn for a gentle love story, one filled with little stress, low angst and any blips along life's path easily resolved.
It's a sweet story where Darcy and Lizzy are very committed to each other and relish their very passionate and loving relationship.
While most of the characters are extremely positive and welcoming of Darcy and Lizzy's relationship, Mr Bennet's character left a lot to be desired.
An ideal read for all lovers of Pride and Prejudice who yearn for a gentle love story, one filled with little stress, low angst and any blips along life's path easily resolved.
September 29, 2020
I will read anything by this author. Loved it.
Reread: Hoping for more. Love this book!
Reread: Hoping for more. Love this book!
July 21, 2015
What if Darcy never made it to Meryton and never had the chance to offend Elizabeth immediately? What if instead her wit and cleverness warms him from day one and the two become inseparable?
What I loved about this variation: Nearly everything! I for some reason love when Mr. Bennet is an antagonist. He is very against Elizabeth being married altogether in this variation. As much as I love misunderstanding, I think I love the fact that Elizabeth and Darcy accepted their love for each other nearly immediately. There really is so much going on in this book that you really are okay with less misunderstandings between them (there are definitely some still, but mostly it's their own self doubt). I really think this version of their love story was beautiful. I liked the new character Alex Carrington. I enjoyed the evilness and the disturbed mind of Caroline Bingley.
What I didn't like - this may seem like a long list for a book I am giving five stars. I wavered and thought maybe it's only a four, but felt that I really did love this book so changed it to five. This is definitely a MATURE AUDIENCE ONLY book. With that being said, I don't at all mind the adult content...however towards the end it started to get to be sooooooo much that I was skipping it. She describes their relations...VERY often.
I think my main complaint though is Richard Fitzwilliam. Some variations like to really hone in on his attraction to Elizabeth, and this one is one of those. He even claims to be in love with her...even after he himself marries. That just made me uncomfortable and I could have done without it.
Loved this book though and I'll read it again in the future!!
What I loved about this variation: Nearly everything! I for some reason love when Mr. Bennet is an antagonist. He is very against Elizabeth being married altogether in this variation. As much as I love misunderstanding, I think I love the fact that Elizabeth and Darcy accepted their love for each other nearly immediately. There really is so much going on in this book that you really are okay with less misunderstandings between them (there are definitely some still, but mostly it's their own self doubt). I really think this version of their love story was beautiful. I liked the new character Alex Carrington. I enjoyed the evilness and the disturbed mind of Caroline Bingley.
What I didn't like - this may seem like a long list for a book I am giving five stars. I wavered and thought maybe it's only a four, but felt that I really did love this book so changed it to five. This is definitely a MATURE AUDIENCE ONLY book. With that being said, I don't at all mind the adult content...however towards the end it started to get to be sooooooo much that I was skipping it. She describes their relations...VERY often.
I think my main complaint though is Richard Fitzwilliam. Some variations like to really hone in on his attraction to Elizabeth, and this one is one of those. He even claims to be in love with her...even after he himself marries. That just made me uncomfortable and I could have done without it.
Loved this book though and I'll read it again in the future!!
January 21, 2020
Chance Encounters
Just finished re-reading this wonderful story by Linda Wells, everything she writes is entertaining and a bit magical in the belief of true love overcoming all obstacles! I love that Darcy and Lizzie meet in town, in this tale, away from her annoying family, as it sets a different slant on their beginning! Mr Bennet is particularly obnoxious, when he finds out that Lizzie is being courted by an exceptional man, and tries to break them up, before they have hardly begun! But, Lizzie's Faith in Darcy, and his Trust in her, win out. They have many trials but their Happily Ever After is well worth it. Wonderful Read!
Just finished re-reading this wonderful story by Linda Wells, everything she writes is entertaining and a bit magical in the belief of true love overcoming all obstacles! I love that Darcy and Lizzie meet in town, in this tale, away from her annoying family, as it sets a different slant on their beginning! Mr Bennet is particularly obnoxious, when he finds out that Lizzie is being courted by an exceptional man, and tries to break them up, before they have hardly begun! But, Lizzie's Faith in Darcy, and his Trust in her, win out. They have many trials but their Happily Ever After is well worth it. Wonderful Read!
March 13, 2017
Long boring sections.
There is a story here separated by long sections that can be flipped over. If you have the patience you can get through it.. After a while I began to Profile Mr Darcy and regard the obsessive behavior described as frightening. I kept expecting the story to change with Elizabeth locked in an attic.
There is a story here separated by long sections that can be flipped over. If you have the patience you can get through it.. After a while I began to Profile Mr Darcy and regard the obsessive behavior described as frightening. I kept expecting the story to change with Elizabeth locked in an attic.
May 14, 2023
One of my favorite stories! So sweet and enchanting! I read it at least once every year.
July 1, 2016
This isn't so much a Pride & Prejudice variation as it is a complete do-over. But thinking about this book has made me realize something about myself; I read these books because they are easy. I don't need to put a lot of thought into them, I know everyone's name and what they do for a living and where they live and who their families are. They are like fast food verses home cooking; you know it's is going to be tasty but ultimately unsatisfying.
In this P&P retelling Lizzy & Darcy are spared the Prejudice and most of the pride. Their misunderstandings are few and are easily and quickly resolved. There are parts of this book that are good and overall it is not badly written, but I really didn't like it very much.
In this P&P retelling Lizzy & Darcy are spared the Prejudice and most of the pride. Their misunderstandings are few and are easily and quickly resolved. There are parts of this book that are good and overall it is not badly written, but I really didn't like it very much.
June 7, 2018
Good Lord…this book. There are a few parts I loved, but way more parts that I hated. Spoilers ahead.
Good points –
-I adored their meet cute
-I liked the distinct lack of miscommunication between Darcy and Elizabeth
-I liked the new characters and how they played into the story
Downsides –
-WHY would you ever make Mr. Bennet like that? He should never be the villain.
-The lack of propriety for this era is almost more than I can stand. I have said before that I am not a purist when it comes to P&P variances but this was almost way too modern.
-This book had no plot once they married. It rambled on and developed drama for no reason. The book could have been half the length if the author dropped the unneeded extra drama storylines (i.e. Wickman, Caroline, etc). And the way too many sex scenes - less is more. I only finished this book because I paid for it, otherwise I would have probably have closed this and chosen not to continue. It was just filled with way too many fanfic tropes for my taste (which says a lot since I have written my own fair share of trope filled fanfics).
1.5 stars, rounding up.
Good points –
-I adored their meet cute
-I liked the distinct lack of miscommunication between Darcy and Elizabeth
-I liked the new characters and how they played into the story
Downsides –
-WHY would you ever make Mr. Bennet like that? He should never be the villain.
-The lack of propriety for this era is almost more than I can stand. I have said before that I am not a purist when it comes to P&P variances but this was almost way too modern.
-This book had no plot once they married. It rambled on and developed drama for no reason. The book could have been half the length if the author dropped the unneeded extra drama storylines (i.e. Wickman, Caroline, etc). And the way too many sex scenes - less is more. I only finished this book because I paid for it, otherwise I would have probably have closed this and chosen not to continue. It was just filled with way too many fanfic tropes for my taste (which says a lot since I have written my own fair share of trope filled fanfics).
1.5 stars, rounding up.
Currently reading
May 21, 2023Currently reading... So far our dear couple have fallen in love at first sight, courted against her father's opposition, uncovered some family secrets, had some jealous arguments, ended up wed in a cute wedding scene, seen Jane and Bingley married, had a honeymoon at London and Pemberley, had multiple sexual scenes, dealt with a violent threat and delivered a villain to his fate. I think this is a good ending, and check the page count. But I am only at 50%, and there's half a book left. Right now they are introducing a new character, an apparent love interest for Colonel Fitzwilliam.
I have enjoyed the story so far but this does seem to go on and on after the HEA.
I have enjoyed the story so far but this does seem to go on and on after the HEA.
October 16, 2011
This book was almost a one star and as I have great admiration for those who can create a story and bring it forth on the page, I have to almost loathe a book to not give credit where credit is due.
While the author's treatment of the Elizabeth/Darcy love affair was handled anointly. I feel the author made a huge error in making Mr Bennet a loathsome man, Wickham a kidnapping rapist, Caroline Bingley a maddened voyeur and Jane and Charles wretchedly selfish beings.
These character underpinnings greatly depreciated what could have been a great p&p variation.
While the author's treatment of the Elizabeth/Darcy love affair was handled anointly. I feel the author made a huge error in making Mr Bennet a loathsome man, Wickham a kidnapping rapist, Caroline Bingley a maddened voyeur and Jane and Charles wretchedly selfish beings.
These character underpinnings greatly depreciated what could have been a great p&p variation.
October 7, 2020
Barely got through this, such a slow read. Far too much "loving" and "passion" between ODC. Now I know some people really like that in these books, but when it takes place of the plot and the writing it just too tedious for my taste!
May 30, 2015
Enjoyed this variation of Austen 's Pride and Prejudice. Loved the way the author introduced Elizabeth and Darcy at the theatre. Brilliant! Love at first sight, with a smile, is indeed a welcomed change of their first meeting. Lizzy up for the challenge, smiles at Darcy. When his lips curve up just a little, she smiles a little more, and he meets the challenge again. Finally, her smile increased to show her teeth with a smile clear to her eyes causing Darcy to smile until his dimples showed. Good for Elizabeth insisting on a smile. A lot going on in this story, but the love between Darcy and Elizabeth was desired by everyone around them. Even Lady Catherine's disapproval of their marriage softened after time. Wicked Wickham finally gets his reward as well as Caroline. Loaded with people having connections to other major characters making the branches of the family tree spreading wildly throughout the society of London. Too bad Elizabeth's father was such a disappointment in this book. Barely was able to recover his relationship with his favorite daughter. Well written.
April 14, 2012
I loved this book. The variation was so different. Darcy and Lizzy love at first site. Even so they had many ups and downs to get to their happiness.I was uncomfortable with her portrayal of Mr. Bennett....at first but then I was more unconfortable with Col Fitzwilliams stalking/obsession but then I realized this is a variation and the characters I loved in P&P might need to be different.... Duh!!!
I loved to watch how their loved unfolded and developed rifgt from the first moment of thier "Chance Encounters"
Definitely top 5 on my list on my mission to read every prequel, sequel, variation and modern tale of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. Who knew there soooo many and a new one published just around the corner.
I loved to watch how their loved unfolded and developed rifgt from the first moment of thier "Chance Encounters"
Definitely top 5 on my list on my mission to read every prequel, sequel, variation and modern tale of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. Who knew there soooo many and a new one published just around the corner.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 26, 2018
Lovely long read with lots of romance and passion.
Love at first sight between ODC makes a very different road to HEA then canon but the road is definitely not without bumps...
Lady C, Wickham, Caroline are more wicked then ever but surprisingly Mr Bennet is joining them.
Loved the plot and the feel of the relationship between ODC.
Heartily recommend this book!
Love at first sight between ODC makes a very different road to HEA then canon but the road is definitely not without bumps...
Lady C, Wickham, Caroline are more wicked then ever but surprisingly Mr Bennet is joining them.
Loved the plot and the feel of the relationship between ODC.
Heartily recommend this book!
September 17, 2016
Loved it and didn't want to put it down! I was so glad that Wickham finally got his due from Mr. Darcy!
I just wish Caroline Bingley would have gotten what was due to her from Elizabeth and Charles and Jane had not betrayed the Darcys the way they did.
I just wish Caroline Bingley would have gotten what was due to her from Elizabeth and Charles and Jane had not betrayed the Darcys the way they did.
October 9, 2020
This is a really long book and I started feeling every one of the pages at around the middle of the book. To be fair, it started really well. I loved the initial sequences of the book but as it went on and on and on, it started wearing on me.
Darcy and Elizabeth's relationship was cute and sweet in the beginning but soon crossed the line to cheesy. Honestly I seriously doubt anyone in the era will behave the way they do in public. And the author repeatedly claims Darcy as a private man, but it seems as if every person in the book gets to knowcevery single one of his affairs. And Richard's obsession with Elizabeth is seriously disturbing. And, what is wrong with the men in this book? Why do they spontaneously burst into tears on every occasion? And did anyone notice that for two stubborn people one of them an impertinent woman, D&E never argue? They are perfect in every way individually and together. And this actually makes them boring. The main characteristic of them in the original is their faults (as said in the original title) and how they overcome them. That, I think actually made them interesting and relatable. But, in this they are like flawless and so in sync with each other, which I think is next to impossible in any human relationship. All in all, only my loyalty towards Darcy and Elizabeth made me finish this book.
The things I really liked in this book :
1. Darcy and Elizabeth's first encounter. It was really dreamy and sweet. And their courting and marriage.
2. The consistency if Mr. Bennet's portrait, even though I disliked the idea of a villainous Mr. Bennet.
3. Lord and Lady Matlock
4. Alex Carrington and his family.
I really regret that a book that started so well and with so much potential went so wrong midway. I think the initial portion of the book till the wedding would've made a really good novella with a good epilogue.
Darcy and Elizabeth's relationship was cute and sweet in the beginning but soon crossed the line to cheesy. Honestly I seriously doubt anyone in the era will behave the way they do in public. And the author repeatedly claims Darcy as a private man, but it seems as if every person in the book gets to knowcevery single one of his affairs. And Richard's obsession with Elizabeth is seriously disturbing. And, what is wrong with the men in this book? Why do they spontaneously burst into tears on every occasion? And did anyone notice that for two stubborn people one of them an impertinent woman, D&E never argue? They are perfect in every way individually and together. And this actually makes them boring. The main characteristic of them in the original is their faults (as said in the original title) and how they overcome them. That, I think actually made them interesting and relatable. But, in this they are like flawless and so in sync with each other, which I think is next to impossible in any human relationship. All in all, only my loyalty towards Darcy and Elizabeth made me finish this book.
The things I really liked in this book :
1. Darcy and Elizabeth's first encounter. It was really dreamy and sweet. And their courting and marriage.
2. The consistency if Mr. Bennet's portrait, even though I disliked the idea of a villainous Mr. Bennet.
3. Lord and Lady Matlock
4. Alex Carrington and his family.
I really regret that a book that started so well and with so much potential went so wrong midway. I think the initial portion of the book till the wedding would've made a really good novella with a good epilogue.
December 22, 2025
I had forgotten how much I liked this book. I first read this a number of years ago, and finally got around to rereading it.
The book is long, but well worth the reading. However, if you object to scenes of a sexual nature, you will not like this book.
Rather than a novel with a specific plot, this book is more of a historical record beginning with Darcy and Elizabeth meeting, and how all the characters mature and grow. Throughout the book, Darcy and Elizabeth grow together and have a very close and loving relationship, which is lovely to see. Colonel Fitzwilliam's journey is an interesting one also, as is Jane and Bingley's.
Darcy and Elizabeth fall in love almost instantly. I absolutely LOVE the beginning of the book, where they meet and fall in love. Mr. Bennet is horrible, wanting to keep Elizabeth at home. When something he does causes great harm, he feels tremendous guilt and realizes he must change in order to keep his relationship with Elizabeth.
Wickham is a scumbag - no surprise there. The shocking person was Miss Bingley, who is so obsessed with Darcy she does a few terrible things, one of which could have been avoided if Bingley and Jane had a spine and better sense. Darcy and Elizabeth felt betrayed because Bingley and Jane couldn't bring themselves to deal with Caroline as they should have.
The book is long, but well worth the reading. However, if you object to scenes of a sexual nature, you will not like this book.
Rather than a novel with a specific plot, this book is more of a historical record beginning with Darcy and Elizabeth meeting, and how all the characters mature and grow. Throughout the book, Darcy and Elizabeth grow together and have a very close and loving relationship, which is lovely to see. Colonel Fitzwilliam's journey is an interesting one also, as is Jane and Bingley's.
Darcy and Elizabeth fall in love almost instantly. I absolutely LOVE the beginning of the book, where they meet and fall in love. Mr. Bennet is horrible, wanting to keep Elizabeth at home. When something he does causes great harm, he feels tremendous guilt and realizes he must change in order to keep his relationship with Elizabeth.
Wickham is a scumbag - no surprise there. The shocking person was Miss Bingley, who is so obsessed with Darcy she does a few terrible things, one of which could have been avoided if Bingley and Jane had a spine and better sense. Darcy and Elizabeth felt betrayed because Bingley and Jane couldn't bring themselves to deal with Caroline as they should have.
October 15, 2017
I read this book over a year ago and forgot to write a review. So I reread it and thoroughly enjoyed it the second time around. It is a well written P & P variations as all of Linda Wells are written. It is a love story that changes the lives of many involved and mostly Lizzy and Darcy's lives. Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam fights his demons over Lizzy and eventually becomes a better person for it in the end. Lady Catherine also changes for the better.
Trials and tribulations occur for example, the betrayal of Mr. Bennet to Lizzy and all is resolved but it takes time. Naturally, Caroline is her devilish self but nobody but Darcy sees it and fears for Lizzy's life. In the end, Darcy does convince Jane and Charles that she really is insane. I will leave you with the rest to figure out yourself as I don't want to spoil the plot. Just giving you a look into the nature of the book. It is worth the read. Thank you for writing a great novel Linda!
Posted on Amazon on July 14, 2014
Trials and tribulations occur for example, the betrayal of Mr. Bennet to Lizzy and all is resolved but it takes time. Naturally, Caroline is her devilish self but nobody but Darcy sees it and fears for Lizzy's life. In the end, Darcy does convince Jane and Charles that she really is insane. I will leave you with the rest to figure out yourself as I don't want to spoil the plot. Just giving you a look into the nature of the book. It is worth the read. Thank you for writing a great novel Linda!
Posted on Amazon on July 14, 2014
April 18, 2024
Entertaining
Emotional variation with the many ups and downs of life. Personally could have done with less sex, but the author was trying to make a point of distinguishing them as a couple from the norm of the time. I think that the loss of an unknown pregnancy went on too long since this is a romance after all, but otherwise well done.
I do have to point out the faux pas in that Anne de Bourgh is Miss Anne de Bourgh -- NOT Lady Anne de Bourgh. As the daughter of a Baron, she is not entitled to the courtesy title, which is only granted to the daughter of an Earl or greater. Lady Anne Darcy was the daughter of an Earl and could continue to use the title even after she married an untitled gentleman. In one paragraph, Anne de Bourgh was referred to both ways. I blame it on editing, and hopefully it doesn't keep reappearing in future books.
Emotional variation with the many ups and downs of life. Personally could have done with less sex, but the author was trying to make a point of distinguishing them as a couple from the norm of the time. I think that the loss of an unknown pregnancy went on too long since this is a romance after all, but otherwise well done.
I do have to point out the faux pas in that Anne de Bourgh is Miss Anne de Bourgh -- NOT Lady Anne de Bourgh. As the daughter of a Baron, she is not entitled to the courtesy title, which is only granted to the daughter of an Earl or greater. Lady Anne Darcy was the daughter of an Earl and could continue to use the title even after she married an untitled gentleman. In one paragraph, Anne de Bourgh was referred to both ways. I blame it on editing, and hopefully it doesn't keep reappearing in future books.
September 27, 2017
I absolutely enjoy all the variations of pemberley. I have laughed and cried. I particularly enjoy the history of the era and about what standards were like for them. Some of Elizabeth Bennett character in a way reminds me of myself, independent. strong minded.fiercely loyal. A forward minded lady. Keep the variations coming.
I absolutely enjoyed all of the variations of pemberley. I have laughed and cried. I particularly enjoyed the history of the era and about what standards were like for them. Some Elizabeth Bennett's character in a way reminds me of myself, independent, strong minded, fiercely loyal. A forward thinking strong minded woman . Keep the variations coming.
I absolutely enjoyed all of the variations of pemberley. I have laughed and cried. I particularly enjoyed the history of the era and about what standards were like for them. Some Elizabeth Bennett's character in a way reminds me of myself, independent, strong minded, fiercely loyal. A forward thinking strong minded woman . Keep the variations coming.
November 20, 2023
4.5 stars
I only give 5 stats to stories I would read again. This was a great read. I love this author's style of writing. She always makes ODC one too envy and emulate. The Fitzwilliam family is always accepting to Elizabeth and pleasant folks. Even lady Catherine becomes likable. There is one thing that she does that I'm not to sure how i feel about it, Richard's feelings towards Elizabeth.
Her books are always filled with adventure and challenges for ODC for they always become stronger from them. I highly recommend if you're looking for a feel good story.
Her books are not clean.
I only give 5 stats to stories I would read again. This was a great read. I love this author's style of writing. She always makes ODC one too envy and emulate. The Fitzwilliam family is always accepting to Elizabeth and pleasant folks. Even lady Catherine becomes likable. There is one thing that she does that I'm not to sure how i feel about it, Richard's feelings towards Elizabeth.
Her books are always filled with adventure and challenges for ODC for they always become stronger from them. I highly recommend if you're looking for a feel good story.
Her books are not clean.
July 26, 2025
This one, like many long-format Pride & Prejudice variations, suffers from a familiar issue: a strong, engaging first half followed by a slow descent into a disjointed series of events, repetitive sex scenes, and WTF character development.
Once Elizabeth and Darcy are engaged, the story tends to lose momentum. With no real plot to sustain the second half, it becomes a rambling narrative filled with filler scenes.
I genuinely don’t understand why so many authors stretch these retellings to 400–600+ pages when a tighter, more focused story would preserve the spirit and charm of their original idea far more effectively.
That said, it’s not badly written, and the first half had real promise—hence the 3-star rating.
Once Elizabeth and Darcy are engaged, the story tends to lose momentum. With no real plot to sustain the second half, it becomes a rambling narrative filled with filler scenes.
I genuinely don’t understand why so many authors stretch these retellings to 400–600+ pages when a tighter, more focused story would preserve the spirit and charm of their original idea far more effectively.
That said, it’s not badly written, and the first half had real promise—hence the 3-star rating.
December 3, 2023
I've been reading Chance Encounters over several months. I'm well acquainted with the characters and plot of Pride and Prejudice making it easy to pick up randomly. There were endearing plot changes in Chance Encounters, including having Elizabeth's and Darcy's early mutual attraction. I enjoyed seeing Georgiana's character fleshed out and seeing Wickham handled decisively. I didn't care for the changes fashioned for Richard. I thought the improper intimate behavior between Elizabeth and Darcy was way over the top, would be inappropriate today--and especially in the late 1700s.
June 13, 2025
This is another lovely P&P tale by Linda Wells. I enjoy her stories because a lot more time is spent building characters and exploring the many types of relationships of couples in the Regency era. It is also good to see characters face the consequences of their whims and their actions.
All of these points plus the fact that many ‘secondary’ and new characters are given bigger roles makes Ms Wells stories much longer than the average P&P variations.
This book is well written and worth investing your time to read it.
All of these points plus the fact that many ‘secondary’ and new characters are given bigger roles makes Ms Wells stories much longer than the average P&P variations.
This book is well written and worth investing your time to read it.
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