Average customer rating:
- Read it!
- Better than the real thing
- Quite a page turner. Great ending for the series
- The Best
- Worth the wait
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These Three Remain: A Novel of Fitzwilliam Darcy, Gentleman
Manufacturer: Touchstone
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
 Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
Literary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
Historical | Genre Fiction | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
General | Romance | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 0743291379 |
Book Description
The exciting conclusion to the Fitzwilliam Darcy, Gentleman trilogy recounts the climactic events of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice from its enigmatic hero's point of view.
One of the most beloved romantic heroes in all of literature, Fitzwilliam Darcy remains an enigma even to Jane Austen's most devoted fans. No longer. With this concluding volume in the Fitzwilliam Darcy, Gentleman trilogy, novelist and Austen aficionada Pamela Aidan at last gives readers the man in full.
These Three Remain follows a humbled Darcy on the journey of self-discovery, after Elizabeth Bennet's rejection of his marriage proposal, in which he endeavors to grow into the kind of gentleman he desires to become. Happily, a chance meeting with Elizabeth during a tour of his estate in Derbyshire offers Darcy a new opportunity to press his suit, but his newfound strengths are put to the test by an old nemesis, George Wickham.
Vividly capturing the colorful historical and political milieu of the Regency era, Aidan writes in a style evocative of her literary progenitor, but with a wit and humor very much her own. While staying faithful to the people and events in Austen's original, she adds her own fascinating cast of characters, weaving a rich tapestry out of Darcy's past and present that will beguile his admirers anew.
Customer Reviews:
Read it!.......2007-09-24
Wonderful! If you are an Austen fan - you'll enjoy all three "Darcy" books by this author.
Better than the real thing.......2007-09-05
My daughter and I have read the trilogy and this author is true to the original. Darcy comes to life and we see him in another light. Aidan's Darcy is lifelike and we share his struggles and adventures throughout the book. A "must read" if you love Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. This book also has, at the end, discussions for a book group. Very useful.
Quite a page turner. Great ending for the series.......2007-09-04
I really enjoyed this imagined inside view into Darcy's character and path to self-realization. I couldn't put the book down and read through it very quickly, despite having to take care of my 9 month old son! I also found the historical tidbits on the history and politics of the era interesting; Aiden found a good way to incorporate it into the background. You don't get that inside view in Austen's work. I also think Aiden struck a good balance for having sympathy for Darcy without being overly forgiving of his shortcomings. There is only one thing I want to know: What happened to Georgiana's piano???
This book made me want to reread Pride and Prejudice again! :-)
The Best.......2007-09-04
Pamela Aidan gave us the dept of Darcy's feelings. She let us see the deep turmoil that he went through to win Elizabeth's love and how he over came them inspite of his aunt's disapproval. Jane wrote about Elizabeth's thoughts and Pamela wrote about Darcy. She really understood Darcy's feelings and his love Elizabeth. Too bad that she haven't written another about the life of Darcy and Elizabeth at Pemberley, I am sure she would do a splendid job there too. Bravo, we are waiting for another one.
Worth the wait.......2007-08-31
I had a little trouble getting into Duty and Desire, the second book in this series, mostly because of the obvious lack of Elizabeth Bennett actually appearing. This third book, however was worth the wait. It covers our favorie parts of P&P, but with all of the fun of finally knowing what Mr. Darcy was really thinking. And we get to really know Georgianna. She's so cute you want to take her home with you. And the relationship between her and Darcy is so refreshing. It's also nice to have a P&P novel that is true to Austen's style of writing...no heavy bedroom scenes or anything like that. I felt I was truly reading a sequel to P&P. My ONLY complaint is that there were some rare moments that the lengthy description had me skipping ahead to the next paragraph to get to the point. Otherwise, SO WORTH THE READ!
Book Description
"She is tolerable; but not handsome enough to tempt me."
So begins the timeless romance of Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet in Pride and Prejudice. Jane Austen's classic novel is beloved by millions, but little is revealed in the book about the mysterious and handsome hero, Mr. Darcy. And so the question has long remained: Who is Fitzwilliam Darcy?
In An Assembly Such as This, Pamela Aidan finally answers that long-standing question. In this first book of her Fitzwilliam Darcy, Gentleman trilogy, she reintroduces us to Darcy during his visit to Hertfordshire with his friend Charles Bingley and reveals Darcy's hidden perspective on the events of Pride and Prejudice. As Darcy spends more time at Netherfield supervising Bingley and fending off Miss Bingley's persistent advances, his unwilling attraction to Elizabeth grows -- as does his concern about her relationship with his nemesis, George Wickham.
Setting the story vividly against the colorful historical and political background of the Regency, Aidan writes in a style comfortably at home with Austen but with a wit and humor very much her own. Aidan adds her own cast of fascinating characters to those in Austen's original, weaving a rich tapestry from Darcy's past and present. Austen fans and newcomers alike will love this new chapter of the most famous romance of all time.
Customer Reviews:
pleasantly surprised .......2007-09-27
I enjoyed this book but didn't realize it was one of three until about halfway through and had to wait for the next few to come out. I enjoyed the writing style and felt that the author remained true to the original story. In all, out of all the Pride and Prejudice follow-ups I have read, I enjoyed this one the most.
Fair reading.......2007-09-24
This book is ok,but it really stretches Darcy's character. Given his reserved character I cannot see him allowing himself to be so easily involved in some of the things he did. it is really a letdown. I thought it would be more on his thoughts of Miss Elizabeth.
An Assembly Such as This.......2007-09-15
Pamela Aidan is good, too wordy, but good. She takes three long books to do what Austen did in one. But we all have our own Elizabeth and Darcy and, while Aidan's Darcy is on the mark, for me her Elizabeth is quite wrong. I quote: "He knew his own desire; it was already engaged in the person of one impudent, exciting, lovely little piece of baggage by the name of Elizabeth Bennet ..." Elizabeth? Our Elizabeth? Impudent, exciting, lovely little piece of baggage? I love Elizabeth Bennet for her intelligence and humor. I don't recognize Aidan's version at all. And she keeps referring to her as "sweet." Oh, and her curls dance in the breeze? Curls?
She also badly needed an English copy-editor. A word she totally misuses is "University," "at University." This is pure American. The English say "he's up at Oxford/Cambridge." There are two or three "gottens" lying around too. Again, pure American. "Not bloody likely" is 20th Century working class English and "Good show" comes from the RAF in World War II.
Oh, while I think of it, why in heaven's name does she refer to "Mrs. Edward Bennett?" No, no, no, no. And she talks of fields enclosed by "Wall, fence or wood." What, no hedges?
But enough pickiness. I like her Georgiana very much (despite the religion) and Dyfed Brougham is a great invention. He could surely carry a whole book on his shoulders.
The whole series is well worth reading.
Good fun, although definitely skewed by 21st century romance conventions.......2007-08-29
Aidan does a good job of attempting to flesh out Darcy's side of the story. She does an especially good job of reinterpreting Darcy's interaction with Elizabeth from Darcy's point of view-- Lizzie sparkles just the way we would imagine she would in the eyes of an admirer. It does seem, however, that some of Aidan's interpretations of Austen's novel are skewed by more modern, romance novel conventions. This becomes especially apparent in the sections that Aidan does not have Austen's original work to provide plot and dialogue for her. In these instances, Austen's satire and sharpness tend to get shoved aside for devices such as the loyal and trusted (and of course, witty) valet, and Darcy's increasing fear of the husband hunting mamas (both of which are staples of historical romances, and therefore tend to fall into the category of flat, conventional, filler characters/devices). So, if you're looking for fluff, this is a good read, but if you want social satire, seek fulfillment elsewhere.
just to add my 2 cents.......2007-08-16
This book is awesome! I love how Aidan brings us Darcy's point of view, explains his reserve and family pride. Lovely how he mentally pursues Elizabeth and notices her fine points. This book really made it so clear to me why he would just pop off and ask her to marry him. This series actually fleshed out P&P in such a believable way. This is the first of three part series. 1st book and 3rd book are SO strong. You will not be unhappy you read these books.
Book Description
This sexy, epic, hilarious, poignant and romantic sequel to Pride and Prejudice goes far beyond being a Jane Austen sequel. It's Tom Jones meets Jane Austen meets Georgiana, the Duchess of Devonshire, with essence of Scarlett O'Hara and the Wife of Bath thrown in.
Every woman wants to be Elizabeth Bennet Darcy-beautiful, gracious, universally admired, strong, daring and outspoken-a thoroughly modern woman in crinolines. And every woman will fall madly in love with Mr. Darcy-tall, dark and handsome, a nobleman and a heartthrob whose virility is matched only by his utter devotion to his wife.
Their passion is consuming and idyllic-essentially, they can't keep their hands off each other-through a sweeping tale of adventure and misadventure, human folly and numerous mysteries of parentage.
The book was self-published in 1999, with more than 10,000 copies sold. Here is what some readers are saying about Mr. Darcy Takes a Wife: "Pure pleasure...this book is so much fun I recommend it heartily." "Wow, Darcy! I could not put it down." "Tremendous-I didn't want it to end!"
Customer Reviews:
Jane Austen it is not.......2007-10-10
I picked this book up at a Border's Jane Austen display, and I was stunned that it had found a publisher. To have a sequel to P&P start with a Elizabeth refusing to sit on a pillow because of a night of endless sex is really unforgiveable. The prose is turgid making each sentence a long hard slog. There are numerous historical inaccuracies and the language is stilted, and in some cases, made up or misused (as in the use of late 19th century 'libido'). This is a desecration.
Mr. Darcy Takes A Wife.......2007-10-03
I thought it was wonderful and entertaining. I can't wait for the next one, the one after that, and so on. I loved it so much, I hope the series doesn't end!
Ugggh.......2007-10-02
I'm not a nun or a prude by any means (in fact I've been in the field of sexuality ed for a very long time) but, ugggh! Too many badly written sex scenes, very very long. My copy had 100 pages missing near the end, and I was actually grateful! An unlikable Lizzy, a flaky Darcy and lots of lust. What's the rule now? If it's bad, make a sequel; maybe we'll get even more money...
I actually threw this book away (something I have never ever done in my life; it was missing pages, after all), but I guarantee there's more than enough copies in circulation without mine. I'd suggest you borrow it--buy it if you like it. You won't be out the $$ if you don't.
Not for the prude, but definately a page turner........2007-09-27
I think those who didn't like the book are expecting Jane Austen to be turning over in her grave. We have to remember that even though from a much more refined era, she was a woman way ahead of her time. If she lived in this era she probably would have thoroughly enjoyed this sequal. We all would love to know what happens to the newly married Darcy's. I thought that MDTAW was a great read - once I got passed the shock of the forthrightness of all the sex. (I mean come on people - the book is probably quite accurate in the context that they had sex back then in and out of marriage just as much as we do now - even if it is more "accepted" now.) There is so much more to the story than sex though. Mystery, humor, emotion. The main characters are very well developed and all the new characters add much to the story. I gave it 4 out of 5 stars because I couldn't put it down. I would have given it 5 stars if we didn't have to listen to Lydia whine so much. What a pain in the A.
Big disappointment .......2007-09-27
Not a big fan of this book. I had to keep making myself continue on just to finish. The language is to convoluted and strained to sound like Jane Austen and it falls flat. The story is is full of sexual encounters that Austen would never have approved of. While this may not present a problem for readers today there is something to be said for leaving somethings to the imagination.
Book Description
³There was little danger of encountering the Bennet sisters ever again.²
Jane Austen's classic novel Pride and Prejudice is beloved by millions, but little is revealed in the book about the mysterious and handsome hero, Mr. Darcy. And so the question has long remained: Who is Fitzwilliam Darcy?
Pamela Aidan's trilogy finally answers that long-standing question, creating a rich parallel story that follows Darcy as he meets and falls in love with Elizabeth Bennet. Duty and Desire, the second book in the trilogy, covers the "silent time" of Austen's novel, revealing Darcy's private struggle to overcome his attraction to Elizabeth while fulfilling his roles as landlord, master, brother, and friend.
When Darcy pays a visit to an old classmate in Oxford in an attempt to shake Elizabeth from his mind, he is set upon by husband-hunting society ladies and ne'er-do-well friends from his university days, all with designs on him -- some for good and some for ill. He and his sartorial genius of a valet, Fletcher, must match wits with them all, but especially with the curious Lady Sylvanie.
Irresistibly authentic and entertaining, Duty and Desire remains true to the spirit and events of Pride and Prejudice while incorporating fascinating new characters, and is sure to dazzle Austen fans and newcomers alike.
Customer Reviews:
Wonderful!.......2007-09-24
If you are an Austen fan - you will love this series. The author does a GREAT job of capturing Jane's voice. Enjoy!
This book helped me decide not to read the third book in the trilogy.......2007-08-29
This does contain some spoilers and plot details, so if you don't want to know what happens, please don't read any further.
While the first book in this trilogy has the help of Austen, who provides both plot and dialogue for Aidan to mine, this book proves that when left on her own, Aidan has a very conventional and, in my opinion, limited interpretation of _Pride and Prejudice_. This book covers the period between Darcy's departure from Hertfordshire, and his reunion with Elizabeth at Rosings. Why this period, which in Austen's novel warrants little attention, should deserve an entire book, while the events from Rosings to the story's end (a much longer stretch of time) should be crunched into the last novel in the trilogy is anybody's guess. In this interim, Darcy apparently becomes an amature sleuth, a fashion icon, a bachelor on the hunt for a wife, and the brother of a religious fanatic-- not to mention something of a social butterfly. The reserved Darcy given to us by Austen, and present in Aidan's first novel, has almost entirely disappeared. I find it very difficult to believe that Darcy would attempt to cure his infatuation with Elizabeth by trying to find a wife of higher social standing, since he was never really marriage minded in the first place. Additionally, the fashion obsessed valet may be an effort on Aidan's part to historicize and add texture and context to her story, but since Darcy isn't a dandy, I'm not sure what he adds to the story. Yes, he helps investigate the mystery at the heart of the story, but even this activity serves a more conventional purpose-- he can be both the requisite trusted servant and sidekick (and since we know Darcy's a snob, why he would choose his valet for a sidekick is beyond me). The characterization of both Colonel Fitzwilliam and his elder brother completely contradicts what we know of them from Austen's novel, and again seems an effort to add texture, but again falls into courting stereotype and modern convention (because all contemporary and historical romance novels need bickering family members and bad boys) rather than actually enhancing the story. Bingley is gone from this tale and is instead replaced by some random new best friend that we could care less about but who Aidan seems to want to set up as Georgiana's future flame-- if it weren't for the fact that Georgiana has been so destroyed by her experience with Whickam that she's inspired to become some sort of religious zealot! What Georgiana's new-found faith does for her character remains unclear by the end of the story. I could try to imagine how it could play out in the third novel, but frankly, I just don't care. These aren't the characters I know and love. Instead, they're riddled with contemporary conventions and completely lacking in depth and coherent motivation.
Frankly, if you want a more nuanced interpretation of the story from Darcy's point of view, read Janet Aylmer's _Darcy's Story_. Although it's more reserved in tone than any of Austen's work (with the possible exception of _Mansfield Park_) the interpretation of Darcy's character and his perception of events, as well as other key figures in his life (e.g. Georgiana) makes much more sense. This story enhances our enjoyment of Austen's novel and the characters in that story, which is probably why many of us are reading these books.
If you're looking for Darcy as detective, try Carrie Bebris' _Mr. and Mrs. Darcy Mysteries_ series, which offers a more even attempt at reproducing Austen's style (although the supernatural plays a much bigger role in this series that it ever does in Austen, even than it does in _Northanger Abbey), while continuing Darcy and Elizabeth's story, and putting them into contact with other of Austen's characters from other books. They're entertaining and inventive, and instead of trying to add details to a story that was already well-crafted and told, they give us something new to experience.
Buy all three, and hope for a 4th with Brougham and Georgiana!.......2007-08-27
This is probably the best Jane Austen sequel published so far, and I've read nearly all of them. Yes, it might have been told without quite so much soul-searching over 3 volumes. And the story line in book 2 does seem more involved than is necessary. But the addition of a very plausible religious theme for Georgiana as a means out of her depression, and the inclusion of a fine backstory for Mrs. Annesley, all fit well with the characters that Jane Austen gave us. The absolutely best new character is Lord Dyfed Brougham. Finally Darcy has a friend other than nice but shallow Bingley - someone smarter, possibly even better looking, higher in birth and more than able to give him a set-down when it's called for. The scene in the tavern, with a drunken and forlorn Darcy and an understanding but critical Dy is excellent and something we've all wanted to see in any P&P movie. I hope that Ms. Aiden is working hard on volume 4 to make a suitable happy ending for Geogiana and Dy, give Bingley a backbone, and also give us a glimpse of Ms. Aiden's ideas about life at Pemberley. (But please, don't make us suffer through more of Wickham and Lydia - everyone seems to bring them back for plot devices, when we really all just want them to GO AWAY.)
Not as good as book one, but have to read anyway........2007-08-16
It seems that most people agree that this is not as strong as the other two in the series. It is still a good book, but takes Darcy into situations that I did not believe. Austen is so great because she is so believable, and this just isn't. That said, this book does a great job of giving Darcy's valet a life. So many books just gloss over servants, and this does not. This book covers the missing months between Netherfield and Rossings. You have to read it because the situations are alluded to in book 3.
Not on a par with the other two books of the trilogy.......2007-08-05
I enjoyed the trilogy, but found the second book over the top. I felt she was trying too hard to make something exciting happen in Darcy's life. I didn't find it plausible that he would be so easily duped. The main reason to read it is to connect the first and second book.
Book Description
Mr. and Mrs. Darcy have an exceedingly passionate marriage in this continuing saga of one of the most exciting, intriguing couples in the Jane Austen Literature.
As the Darcy's raise their babies, enjoy their conjugal felicity and manage the great estate of Pemberley, the beloved characters from Jane Austen's original are joined by Linda Berdoll's imaginative new creations for a compelling, sexy and epic story guaranteed to keep you turning the pages and gasping with delight.
What people are saying about Mr. Darcy Takes A Wife, the bestselling Pride and Prejudice sequel.
"A breezy, satisfying romance." -Chicago Tribune
"While there have been other Pride and Prejudice sequels, this one, with its rich character development, has been the most enjoyable." -Library Journal
"Wild, bawdy and utterly enjoyable sequel." -Booklist
Customer Reviews:
Mr. Darcy Takes a Wife.......2007-09-26
A wonderful and inspired sequel to Pride and Prejudice. The devlopment of Austen's characters and creation of new ones, along with adventure, intrigue, love and romance, makes this a marvelous read. I have read it three times already, and look forward to reading it again and again.
Sorely disappointed.......2007-09-10
I recently purchased this book, and, for the first time, actually returned a book to the bookstore. After struggling to read more that half of the book, I had to return it.
Usually, I enjoy even the smuttiest of romances, yet this one only degrades two of the most beloved characters in the English language. The text jumped all over the place. Perhaps it ended well, but after 42 chapters, I had enough.
Darcy and elizabeth, Days and Nights at Pemberley.......2007-09-01
I found this to be well written, but somewhat labored in the presentation. I enjoyed the basic story lines and salute anyone willing to take on the task of following Ms. Austin. An enjoyable if rather over long story.
So sexy, Mr. Darcy!.......2007-08-16
Wow, this book's steaming hot that it influenced me to romance my husband and love on him. This book will show a strong and masculine Mr. Darcy that you will want to read about many times over!
Nights and Days was great., Darcy is great!!.......2007-08-09
I loved the book...the passion is wonderful and easy to imagine the love they shared.
Product Description
Mr. Darcy's Diary presents the story of the unlikely courtship of Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy from Darcy's point of view--sharing his innermost thoughts and feelings. This graceful imagining and sequel to Price and Prejudice explains Darcy s moodiness and the difficulties of his reluctant relationship as he struggles to avoid falling in love with Miss Bennett. Though seemingly stiff and stubborn at times, Darcy s words prove him also to be quite devoted and endearing qualities that eventually win over Miss Bennett s heart. This continuation of a classic romantic novel is charming and elegant, much like Darcy himself.
Customer Reviews:
Excellent.......2007-09-28
I absolutely loved this book. It was not particularly deep and it was very easy reading, but as I am in college, I get enough heavy stuff. It came at a perfect time and I enjoyed reading it immensely. I also gave it to my roommate to read and she loved it too, even though she does not particularly like Pride and Prejudice. The only thing I would say about it is that you had better have read the original before this book, or it won't make sense. I give it two thumbs up!
Too short..........2007-09-07
This was a very quick read and I did enjoy it, however it was a little too short. I also had quite a bit of the original dialogue as quotes and for the size of this book I thought it was too much. I did like the idea though and this gives some insight into Mr. Darcy's perspective of all the events plus a little idea of what could have happened after the P&P ends. Enjoyable read but not the best sequel out there.
Mr. Darcy's Diary.......2007-09-05
Amanda Grange really kept the same language and tone that Jane Austen used in the original story of Pride & Prejudice. She retold the same story from Darcy's point of view. I thought she did an excellent job.
I enjoyed how she added some witty examples of their married life together at the end. Even with having to deal with all the crazies from both of their families, I think they are going to make it.
Fitzwilliam Darcy---humanized!.......2007-09-05
The aspect of this novel by Amanda Grange which pleases me most is that she has been successful in turning Fitzwilliam Darcy into a flesh and blood man. Since Pride and Prejudice is essentially written from Elizabeth Bennet's point of view, at times I want an explanation of what Darcy is thinking. This book managed to do that for me. Even knowing that these words, thoughts and ideas do not come from Jane Austen, I am still completely satisfied with thinking "my" Mr. Darcy would have been like this. He was arrogant, he did believe in his own self-importance, he did interfere in Bingley's life. But, he also learned from Elizabeth and Bingley and the situations he found himself in that he could change. He didn't need to stay so stiff and formal. He could actually learn to tease and be teased and the world as he knew it would still remain on its axis.
I found this book to be slow going at first. I really didn't think I was going to be able to accept this Darcy as the same one who lives in my imagination. But a strange thing happened as I continued to read. I began to really like this man. Amanda Grange had made him a true, real, loveable person for me. As most of the other reviewers have said, I also am a huge fan of the Jane Austen books. Ms Grange does not try to be Jane Austen. She tries to be herself, giving us her version of how she thinks Fitzwilliam Darcy might have responded to his situations. I applaud her effort and recommend this book as a worthwhile read.
This is just a little extra information in case you get confused (as I did). This book came out in Britain in 2005 in hardcover and was titled DARCY'S DIARY. It has a full head portrait of Darcy on the cover, quite interesting but maybe just a little too feminine for "my" Darcy. The paperback was published in 2007 and is titled MR. DARCY'S DIARY. I, of course, was not careful and managed to buy them both. The paperback has only a partial portrait, probably because the publisher discovered that each of us has our own mental picture of Fitzwilliam Darcy. Both books are identical in every way except as I have stated. Now, my advice is to just read and enjoy one copy or the other.
Great reading!.......2007-08-16
I enjoyed this book for it kept me interested to a point that I "soaked it up" and finished it in a day but I kept reviewing the best parts I enjoyed most.
Book Description
When Elizabeth Bennett marries the brooding, passionate Mr. Darcy, she is thrown into the exciting world of London society. She makes a powerful friend in the Marchioness of Englebury but the jealousy among her ladyship's circle threatens to destroy Elizabeth's happiness. Elizabeth is drawn into a powerful clique for whom intrigue is the stuff of life and rivalry the motive, and her success, it seems, can only come at the expense of good relations with her husband. This novel also continues the stories of other favorite Pride and Prejudice characters including Georgiana Darcy and Kitty Bennett, each of whom have amusing adventures of their own. Told in the language of the era and bringing Regency society vividly to life, Mr. Darcy Presents His Bride recalls Austen's theme of the necessity of individual growth in the maintainance of lasting bonds.
Customer Reviews:
It was... OK........2007-10-03
This was not one of my favorite P&P sequels, but there were things I liked about it. I will admit that I did like how the author developed Kitty's character and Georgiana's (though I like Aidan's character development of Georgiana a bit better). She does a good job at telling the story the way she sees it, the biggest problem I had with it was that we both disagreed on how Elizabeth would act in certain situations. It wasn't until the end that I felt she captured the same character that Austen formed. It was OK, but it took me two read throughs and some ignoring of events to get through it.
As a sidenote, I think the editor should be fired, because it drove me crazy with the formatting errors and such.
Not a Bad Sequel.......2007-09-21
I have wanted to read a good "sequel" to P&P and have been disappointed with many. There have been some I couldn't get all the way through. This one was okay. Although the author had a different writing style than Austen, I didn't think it was too bad. Like Austen, it didn't go into any graphic love scenes, but still had some affection between the two. I also liked how the author tried to be true to Elizabeth's spunk. It was a little off and a bit much at times, but at least she had personality in the book. I don't think any sequel will ever top the original, but then I don't expect them to and can enjoy a few that are less than wonderful.
Missed the mark........2007-09-04
This was a disappointment to me. The beginning was good, it showed Darcy and Elizabeth as the loving couple that they are then Elizabeth got over her head with the high society in London and the life of Darcy and Lizzy got lost some where. Lizzy flirted and forgot about Darcy and his feelings. I don't think that Jan Austen meant it to continue like that.
I couldn't feel the love between Darcy and Lizzy because they didn't have time enough together. I hated it when Kitty died just when she found happiness. The story didn't have a plot like someone else said and the most important story about Darcy and Lizzy was mentioned briefly in the epilogue, about the kids, when was she pregnant, how did Darcy felt about being a dad and how happy they were. I didn't care about the other characters which were so elaborated on. Just give me the details on how happy Darcy and Elizabeth were at Pemberley that is how Jane Austen would have continued her story.
Great Book-It could have been Jane Austen writing.......2007-08-17
I loved this book. It seems to have the spirit of Jane Austen's writings in it. I think she would have very much approved this book. I loved the character development, the way Ms. Halstead described Pemberley and Deepdene, you were there with them. I don't buy very many books for myself but I'll make an exception with this one. Thank you Ms. Halstead.
Seriously?.......2007-07-24
This gotta be one of the worst book ever written as a sequel to Pride and Prejudice. I keep waiting for a plot - and guess what, there isn't any. Except of course Elizabeth has to have a miscarriage - just for the sake of drama. And of course Darcy and Elizabeth have to argue - about absolutely nothing. And for some reasons, Elizabeth is "afraid" to tell Darcy she loves him (HUH?!), and that causes chapters after chapters of problems between them. He's insecure, and she just won't say it. (Huh?!). The other characters are very weakly developed. I finished the book, and I am still not sure what the point was. There isn't even anything funny or entertaining to help me get through the pages. I am just amazed that this book gets published at all.
Average customer rating:
- The Second Mrs. Darcy
- A bit disappointed....
- The Voice of Jane Austen
- Aston's best Austen sequel
- Elizabeth Aston does it again
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The Second Mrs. Darcy: A Novel
Elizabeth Aston
Manufacturer: Touchstone
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Historical | British | World Literature | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
Literary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
Family Saga | Genre Fiction | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
Historical | Genre Fiction | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 0743297296 |
Book Description
The next adventure of the Darcy family from the author of Mr. Darcy's Daughters -- the story of a reluctant heiress who has been left a widow by Darcy's cousin Christopher.
It is a truth universally acknowledged that a single woman in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a husband. So say the friends and family of impoverished widow Octavia Darcy when she unexpectedly inherits a fortune, but she has a different view and looks forward to a new life of independence.
Escaping from the efforts of her half brothers and sisters to marry her off, Octavia goes to Yorkshire to find out more about the family she never knew, and while she is there she meets and crosses swords with landowner and politician Sholto Rutherford.
When she returns to London to share a house with the dashing Lady Susan, Octavia, now secure in her new life, becomes caught up in the romantic problems of her niece. Then, the shadow of George Warren, the old nemesis of the Darcy family, falls over her, and she is threatened with the loss of both inheritance and reputation.
Customer Reviews:
The Second Mrs. Darcy.......2007-09-29
Last night I just finished reading The Second Mrs. Darcy. It being the fourth book in a row I have read by the author. All were delightful and well worth the time and money. I have read and cherished all of Jane Austen's novels and feel she would have appreciated the manner in which Ms. Aston continued the story. I can only hope there will be more from her.
A bit disappointed...........2007-08-26
For a review of the plot see other reviewers.
Besides the fact that the cover art depicts a very pregnant woman that has nothing to do with the story, the research into what was considered acceptable in society during the era should have been performed with greater care by the author. Too many glaring errors appear in both the main character's behavior and occasionally in historical accuracy.
Otherwise, an acceptable read and certainly far better than any of her other offerings.
The Voice of Jane Austen.......2007-08-03
Elizabeth Aston has captured the voice of Jane Austen in the continuing saga of the Darcy family. I enjoyed the read if for no other reason than it is reminiscent of the Austen novels. It's a pleasure for one to escape the crazy pace of today's world and lose oneself in another time in history. As for criticism...I felt the story should have had more detail in given areas. I was slightly unhappy that the ending was tied up in such a neat little bow using very few pages. Felt it could have easily used an additional 50-100 pages.
Aston's best Austen sequel.......2007-06-27
This is the fourth Aston sequel to Pride and Prejudice that I have read, and it is by far the best. The story is believable, engaging, and the ending is totally satisfying. It may help you to understand some of the references if you read at least the first sequel (Mr. Darcy's Daughters), but skip the other two and go directly to this one. Loved it!
Elizabeth Aston does it again.......2007-05-13
Love to read something in the Austen vane that keeps such a nice comand of the English language----very entertaining
Book Description
Named Best Historical Mystery of 2006 by Romantic Times BOOKreviews!
After the intrigues and excitements of their time in the city, the Darcys are more than prepared for a bit of peace and quiet at Pemberley. This is time that they can spend together as Elizabeth settles into her pregnancy. However, such serene solitude is not meant to be. First a letter from Lady Anne Fitzwilliam Darcy, long deceased, is discovered. The contents are both mysterious and prescient for Mrs. Darcy. Then a summons to Northanger Abbey involves the young couple in intrigues that threaten not just the Darcy legacy and good name, but Mr. Darcy’s freedom as well.
…and to make matter even worse and more uncomfortable for the expectant mother, Darcy's overbearing aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, arrives on the scene to further bedevil Elizabeth.
Add to this rumors of treasure and past scandals, and it becomes obvious that peacefulness is not at home in Pemberley, but secrets and spirits of the past are, and their revelations can have a most a chilling effect on both the Darcys and their family to come.
Customer Reviews:
A thrilling tale about the former mistress of Pemberely.......2007-06-21
This mystery novel is the third in the series by Carrie Bebris. They are all sequels of Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice." You do not need to have read Pride and Prejudice to understand this novel although it will help you greatly if you do.
In this story, Elizabeth feels the presence of Darcy's mother in the house, Pemberely. She feels that she is not the mistress and the late Lady Anne, who was adored by all who knew her, still remains. At first it appears that Elizabeth is not pleased with her presence or any rememberance of her. That will soon change. . .
Lizzy is expecting a child, her husband wants to hire a physician to see to the birth, buy Lizzie wants a midwife. They go to Bath to meet the physician and while there they get a letter from a Captain Tilney who wants to make there aquaintence at his home Northanger Abbey, if you have read Jane Austen's novel "Northanger Abbey" you will understand and appreciate the connection between these characters and novels.
The Darcy's arrive at Northanger Abbey on a horribly rainy night and find that their reception by the housekeeper and msater most peculiar and disturbing. You see, they went chiefly because Captain Tilney mentioned in the letter that their mothers were close friends and was curious about their relationship. In addition, Darcy and Elizabeth have grown very curious about Lady Anne because Lizzy has discovered a letter addressed to her from Darcy's mother. Well of course Darcy and Lizzy run into a mishap, an evil plot of familiar and unfamiliar charcters, and the great Lady Catherine de Bough all while they are trying to solve a mystery of Lady Anne before Lizzy is ready to give birth!
This book was such a page turner, wonderful if you like mysteries and Pride and Prejudice, I would say it is the best of the series!!!
The best yet of the series!.......2007-06-20
Fast read. Excellent characters and terrific story. I bought an extra as a gift! As hokey as it sounds that Darcy and Elizabeth are in a mystery, it was remarkably well-written, intriguing and absolutely entertaining. The characters remain true to Austen. I'm hooked. Buy one, you'll have to buy the whole series, too!
A Wonderful Yarn.......2007-06-18
Carrie Bebris has written a wonderfully engaging story that will captivate Jane Austen fans. Indeed, I think Jane Austen would be very pleased with Bebris' continuation of her characters. Mr. & Mrs. Darcy are both deeply drawn and fully realized. The book is also thoroughly researched and accurate, but what's great is that the research doesn't get in the way of the story or the characters. I highly recommend this book to any Jane Austen fan!
Best of the three.......2007-06-18
This book is the best of the three Darcy mysteries by far. Although the plot is still less interesting than the subplots and general character interaction, there's significantly less of the supernatural involved. I give the author credit for an interesting idea when she combined Jane Austen's characters with the kind of plots Catherine Morland loved, I just couldn't buy Elizabeth entering so whole-heartedly into that world. Oddly, Northanger Abby is the only book that really deals with those ideas, and this is the first of the Darcy mysteries to shun them.
Overall it was enjoyable and a quick, fun read.
An entertaining read.......2007-04-07
This series got off to a bit of a rocky start in my opinion, but this book and the previous one have only gotten better. In _North by Northanger_ in particular, Ms. Bebris has really caught the bantering tone that I imagine conversations between Elizabeth and Darcy would have had after their marriage, and the back-and-forth between them over the sex and possible names for their coming first child was one of the most enjoyable parts of the book for me.
The mystery is bizarre and a bit far-fetched but not overly taxing, and mainly acts as a vehicle for bringing together several of the characters we love (and love to hate) so much from _Pride & Prejudice_, as well as from the other novels. (I wish that Catherine Tilney - nee Morland - had made an appearance, though. I would have liked to see how she could have matured from the slightly silly, though good-natured, "heroine" of _Northanger Abbey_.) There is also some character development, and it's good to see Elizabeth, who at the beginning of the novel feels overshadowed by the memory of Darcy's mother, gain confidence and become truly the mistress of Pemberley, which certainly would have been a daunting task for her, given her modest upbringing. Darcy, too, must still learn some lessons about humility, particularly in his overprotective attitude over Elizabeth's pregnancy. This is made more understandable, however, by the fuller picture that we gain of his childhood, his mother's personality and the relationship between his parents, mainly through letters that Elizabeth must pore over to discover what has become of a precious heirloom.
Book Description
Reading First is a comprehensive, all-in-one resource for understanding and implementing the five key areas of reading instruction - phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. As outlined in the K-3 Put Reading First Initiative of the No Child Left Behind Act, these researched based strategies are essential for effective reading instruction. With plenty of ready-to-go activities and time-saving reproducibles, this single resource puts it all together so you can, with confidence, take up the challenge of helping all children become successful readers.
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