📚 The work of a moment (ARC) 📚

by Jan Ashton

Imagine Elizabeth sees something that makes her thing Bingley is not a good match for Jane and she therefore doesn’t encourage the match. I like this little change very much because it changes so much in Elizabeth’s view of her environment and of others interacting with her. And it changes her relationship with Darcy quite a lot. I enjoyed this variation and the forming relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth very much

A longer review is to follow soon. Release day of the book is today (August 31st).

The book was the 11th book this month and book 102 this year.

📚Recommendation and review📚

📖 Mr Darcy likes it wild

✒️ Beth Massey

🎙️ Benjamin Fife

💜💜💜💜💜/5

When Mr Bennet wants to force his daughter’s hand to marry Mr Collins, Elizabeth desperately runs away. Disguised, she sees no other option than to make it to Nova Scotia. But boarding a ship is expensive and therefore she needs assistants - and Mr Darcy is the person she asks for help.

Mr Darcy is already deeply in love with her after the Netherfield ball and therefore fled to London to escape her pull. Now she is standing in disguise in his London home and is asking for his help. He can’t turn her down but he also can’t let her go to Nova Scotia. And thus the wildest tripe in both of their lives begins.

Will Elizabeth find a solution for her predicament? Will Darcy finally admit his love for her? And will he be able to convince her that there may be another solution than fleeing abroad?

If you like to know if Darcy is able to help Elizabeth to avoid an unwanted union with Collins and how this help leads to Darcy and Elizabeth’s own happiness, you should definitely listen to this excellent variation.

I highly recommend it.

If you want to read my complete review you will find it at Melanie reads Jaff on Facebook, on Goodreads and here on Substack.

When Mr Bennet wants to force his daughter’s hand to marry Mr Collins, Elizabeth desperately runs away. Disguised, she sees no other option than to make it to Nova Scotia. But boarding a ship is expensive and therefore she needs assistants - and Mr Darcy is the person she asks for help.

Mr Darcy is already deeply in love with her after the Netherfield ball and therefore fled to London to escape her pull. Now she is standing in disguise in his London home and is asking for his help. He can’t turn her down but he also can’t let her go to Nova Scotia. And thus the wildest tripe in both of their lives begins.

Will Elizabeth find a solution for her predicament? Will Darcy finally admit his love for her? And will he be able to convince her that there may be another solution than fleeing abroad?

The story was very well written by the author Beth Massey. It was the first time that I read a story of hers but I liked it very much and am therefore looking forward to discovering her other variations.

I loved Elizabeth in this variation. She is quite out of character due to her disguise (she acts like one needs to act if one were this person) but I can very well imagine her acting like that in such a situation. Means to say, I think she has this behaviour in her but, due to society, does normally not act in that way. She certainly enjoys the freedom the disguise brings her and acts very bold and brazen, but always charming.

Darcy was very protective of Elizabeth in this variation. He tries to prevent every harm that may come to her, but she, in her boldness, sometimes rather seeks the trouble. Poor Darcy ;-) … I love how he reacted to her and that he even sensed her in her disguise when it was not obvious that it was she who was standing before him. He is so full of love for her and does everything that she will not follow through with her plan to flee to Nova Scotia. In my opinion, he does not need to tell himself that he can live without Elizabeth because that’s a lie.

The story is a really funny one because Darcy and Elizabeth (in disguise) encounter many different, and due to the disguise funny, situations on their way through England. Elizabeth is often the one to bring them into these situations due to her new boldness, and Darcy, not very good at disguising and pretending, often nearly betrays their secrets. That was so funny. And, in addition, they both fight with their feelings for one another which they can certainly not show on a trip through England, disguise or not.

Besides the funny moments there are also a lot of moments of love and desire between ODC. You may imagine that, due to the circumstances, these moments of love and passion are rather unique ones. But let me assure you, once they have discovered their mutual affection they act like every normal couple would act ;-)

There is, in the end, a solution for Elizabeth’s dire situation at home with her being forced to marry Collins. Fortunately she does not need to any longer and she can instead marry like her (and Darcy’s) heart desires.

But Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s happily ever after is not the only one, along their way many other couples found each other and many other happy unions were founded.

There are some villains in the story (Elizabeth even catches one), but they do not try to intervene in Darcy and Elizabeth’s relationship and are no threat to their love story. But fortunately, in the end, all the villains get what they deserve and can no longer harm or distress others.

Benjamin Fife was the narrator of this variation. He was, in my opinion, the perfect narrator for this story. I enjoyed his narration very much. He always had the right humor in his voice that is needed to tell about this special ride though the English countryside. I enjoyed his performance very much.

If you like to know if Darcy is able to help Elizabeth to avoid an unwanted union with Collins and how this help leads to Darcy and Elizabeth’s own happiness, you should definitely listen to this excellent variation.

I highly recommend it.

The book contains mature scenes between a married couple.

📚Recommendation and review📚

📖 Her affections and wishes

✒️ Heather Moll

💜💜💜💜💜/5

Just before Elizabeth is to return home after her sojourn in Kent, Lady Catherine comes up with a plan: Elizabeth is to attend a house party at the estate of one of Lady Catherine’s acquaintances. The house party takes place during a horse race and Lady Catherine wants Elizabeth to find a husband there. Elizabeth has no chance but to accept.

Fitzwilliam Darcy is in a foul mood after Elizabeth rejected his proposal. But when his friend asks him to look after his younger brother during a horse race so that the latter does not gamble away his inheritance, he has no chance but to accept. Little does he suspect that he will meet Elizabeth again at Woodcote Park.

Once reunited, Darcy and Elizabeth clear up all remaining misunderstandings and become friends. Elizabeth begins to see that she misjudged Darcy and falls for him. It does not take them long to come to an understanding but not everybody is overjoyed by this prospect. After Elizabeth is the victim of some unfortunate accidents Darcy is sure that someone is trying to harm her.

Is indeed someone trying to remove Elizabeth from Darcy’s proximity? Why is someone trying to harm her? Will their beginning love be able to overcome these obstacles?

If you like to know how a house party right after Darcy’s proposal in Hunsford can change Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s relationship, you should definitely read this really excellent book.

I highly recommend it. Release day is September 1st.

If you want to read my complete review you will find it at Melanie reads Jaff on Facebook, on Goodreads and here on Substack.

Just before Elizabeth is to return home after her sojourn in Kent, Lady Catherine comes up with a plan: Elizabeth is to attend a house party at the estate of one of Lady Catherine’s acquaintances. The house party takes place during a horse race and Lady Catherine wants Elizabeth to find a husband there. Elizabeth has no chance but to accept.

Fitzwilliam Darcy is in a foul mood after Elizabeth rejected his proposal. But when his friend asks him to look after his younger brother during a horse race so that the latter does not gamble away his inheritance, he has no chance but to accept. Little does he suspect that he will meet Elizabeth again at Woodcote Park.

Once reunited, Darcy and Elizabeth clear up all remaining misunderstandings and become friends. Elizabeth begins to see that she misjudged Darcy and falls for him. It does not take them long to come to an understanding but not everybody is overjoyed by this prospect. After Elizabeth is the victim of some unfortunate accidents Darcy is sure that someone is trying to harm her.

Is indeed someone trying to remove Elizabeth from Darcy’s proximity? Why is someone trying to harm her? Will their beginning love be able to overcome these obstacles?

The story was very well written by the author Heather Moll. She is one of my favourite authors and this story showed me again why I love her books and her style of writing so very much. She certainly never disappoints me with her stories and each new book is a need-to-buy for me.

The story takes place only weeks after the Hunsford proposal. Both Darcy and Elizabeth have their accusations still on their minds but both also had time to think about their own conduct. I love that both regret their words and are determined to begin anew when they meet again at Woodcote Park. I love that Elizabeth is now able to understand Darcy better and that she can see his behaviour as what it really is - that he greatly admires her. Darcy also regrets his words to Elizabeth and is determined to treat her with respect. As they now understand each other better and all misunderstandings are cleared up, they reach an early understanding and only need to defend their love against others.

I loved Darcy’s protectiveness of Elizabeth. He already has addressed her reproves but he still is that much in love with her as he was when he proposed. He is determined to protect her at all costs. I really like that he is willing to go home to make her more comfortable, but when he sees that she is not opposed to his company he is determined to show her his changes and win her heart.

Elizabeth was sometimes rather stubborn, especially when it comes to Darcy’s warning that someone is trying to harm her. That annoyed me a bit because Darcy’s arguing that the incidents were no accidents was sound. But sometimes her stubbornness also resulted in great scenes, for example her lying in Darcy’s bed to get an explanation because Darcy refuses to tell her anything because she is ill and needs to go to bed. Such a great scene :-).

I really liked about Elizabeth that she is able to see her mistaken beliefs about Darcy and that she acts to win his good opinion. I also loved her actions in the parlour game to be near him. Another of my favourite scenes.

I loved the relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth. There was so much chemistry and desire between them. I loved how they interacted with one another, I loved how aware they were of each other in company and I especially loved their stolen moments together. This book was labeled “kissing only” but I’m glad that it was a bit more than kissing (but no mature content) because otherwise the relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth would not have worked that way.

The story takes place at Woodcote Park near Epsom. As Darcy and Elizabeth are part of a house party all other characters are new. Darcy and Elizabeth can therefore begin again at a neutral surrounding. Unfortunately for them not all other participants of the house party are neutral. Another woman has set her cap on Darcy and tries to win him and make him marry her. This rival makes Elizabeth a bit jealous, at least at the beginning when she is not yet sure of Darcy’s continued affection. But for Darcy this jealousy is a good thing because he can recognize that Elizabeth is not indifferent to him.

The rival for Darcy’s affection is a very determined woman. Caroline Bingley is rather a saint in comparison. This woman doesn’t stop from insulting Elizabeth and also acts very bold with Darcy and more than once offers herself as companion for the night. I really didn’t like her, she was not a sympathetic woman.

I must confess I like stories where a house party takes place. A house party normally means Darcy and Elizabeth are not able to run away from their feelings. In this story they are already aware of their feelings and especially Elizabeth uses the parlour games for a sort of flirting with Darcy. I loved that very much and enjoyed the tension (and desire) this created between ODC.

Due to the rival for Darcy’s love and attempts to hurt Elizabeth, the story is rather thrilling, especially at the end. The reader tries to guess alongside Darcy and Elizabeth who may be the culprit, but the solution is not obvious and therefore one only knows for certain who tries to harm Elizabeth when all is revealed (be assured, it is not that obvious as it sounds now ;-) )

Because the story is located at Woodcote Park and Darcy and Elizabeth are the only well-known characters, the main culprit who tries to come between Darcy and Elizabeth and harm the latter, is therefore a new and by the author invented character. I’m sorry to say, no Wickham or Caroline to blame for any harm done ;-) .

If you like to know how a house party right after Darcy’s proposal in Hunsford can change Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s relationship, you should definitely read this really excellent book.

I more than highly recommend it.

I received a free copy of the book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.

📚Recommendation and review📚

📖 Affectations of candour

✒️ J Marie Croft

💜💜💜💜💜/5

When her young friend, just recently orphaned, is sent to her relatives who live at the coast of Somerset, Elizabeth is to accompany her to spend the summer with her. After arriving she learns that there will be another new addition to the community as the previous owner of the neighbouring estate passed away, and his heir is none other than Fitzwilliam Darcy.

When they meet again Darcy seems more open, warmer, attentive and determined to begin anew. Elizabeth is likewise intrigued by the chance to finally know him better. But then she learns that there seems to be a secret understanding between him and one of his houseguests.

Hannah Wright and her family are to stay at Darcy’s new property for the summer as his guests. After already spending time with Darcy in London she sees herself on the brink of becoming the new mistress of Pemberley. She is not willing to give up this position, and certainly not to an unknown woman from the country, and is therefore determined to do what must be done to keep her place in Darcy’s regard.

Will Hannah be successful in keeping Darcy and Elizabeth from forming an attachment? Will she convince Darcy that she, Hannah, is the perfect mistress of Pemberley? Or will the magic of a summer by the coast bring Darcy and Elizabeth nearer than Hannah may have imagined?

If you would like to know if a stay at the Somerset coast will change Darcy and Elizabeth’s opinion of one another and if they are able to find happiness despite the presence of a rival, you should definitely read this excellent book.

I highly recommend it.

If you want to read my complete review you will find it at Melanie reads Jaff on Facebook, on Goodreads and here:

When her young friend, just recently orphaned, is sent to her relatives who live at the coast of Somerset, Elizabeth is to accompany her to spend the summer with her. After arriving she learns that there will be another new addition to the community as the previous owner of the neighbouring estate passed away, and his heir is none other than Fitzwilliam Darcy.
When they meet again Darcy seems more open, warmer, attentive and determined to begin anew. Elizabeth is likewise intrigued by the chance to finally know him better. But then she learns that there seems to be a secret understanding between him and one of his houseguests.
Hannah Wright and her family are to stay at Darcy’s new property for the summer as his guests. After already spending time with Darcy in London she sees herself on the brink of becoming the new mistress of Pemberley. She is not willing to give up this position, and certainly not to an unknown woman from the country, and is therefore determined to do what must be done to keep her place in Darcy’s regard.
Will Hannah be successful in keeping Darcy and Elizabeth from forming an attachment? Will she convince Darcy that she, Hannah, is the perfect mistress of Pemberley? Or will the magic of a summer by the coast bring Darcy and Elizabeth nearer than Hannah may have imagined?

The story was very well written by the author J Marie Croft. I have read several of her previous stories and enjoyed them all very much and was therefore eagerly awaiting this book. And it certainly was no disappointment.

I loved the setting of the story at the coast of Somerset very much. In my opinion the author described the locations and the landscape where Darcy and Elizabeth spend their summer very well, I was feeling a bit like being on vacation and would have loved to be there myself.

I really loved that Darcy was more at ease on his holiday and that Elizabeth gets to see more of his real personality and not the proud master and commander of an estate. As he travels with Georgiana he, when being in her and Elizabeth’s company, has no need to pretend and hide his feelings. He is finally able to show them. I like that very much. And I really enjoyed that he gets to appreciate Elizabeth’s qualities more than he did before, and especially when he compares her to Hannah. I like that this comparison makes him love Elizabeth’s qualities even more.

Due to the long absence of the Netherfield party and her being away from home, Elizabeth’s opinion of Darcy has softened and she is able to view him without her prejudices. Therefore she is able to see that she misjudged him in some aspects and that he may very well be a very nice guy worth knowing. I didn’t like that Elizabeth, for a time, doubted Darcy’s and her feelings, but maybe she was already in love at this time of the story and therefore not able to judge the incident dispassionately. But I love that she, later, is able to see things clearly and, most importantly, trust her and Darcy’s feelings.

As the story takes place at the coast of Somerset there are many new characters to get to know. Only Darcy, Elizabeth and Georgiana are well known characters, all others are newly introduced by the author. For Elizabeth they are also new and Darcy only knows his own guests. This keeps the story unpredictable because Darcy and Elizabeth, as well as the reader, are not able to guess in advance what the others will do.
One of the new characters is Hannah Wright who is determined to have Darcy for herself. And believe me, she is more determined and more mean than Caroline Bingley ever was. She does not stop at any point and she indeed seems to have no conscience. She is determined to do everything, really everything, to become Mrs Darcy. I’m only glad that, in the end, she is not successful.

Besides the rival for Darcy’s affection there are no other mean people who try to come between Darcy and Elizabeth. And there is also no Wickham to endure because he is no part of the story ;-) .

If you would like to know if a stay at the Somerset coast will change Darcy and Elizabeth’s opinion of one another and if they are able to find happiness despite the presence of a rival, you should definitely read this excellent book.

I highly recommend it.

I received and copy of the story from the author and finished the book on KU. I am voluntarily leaving a review.

📚 Affectations of candour (ARC) 📚

by J Marie Croft

In Affectations of candour Elizabeth and Darcy meet again at the coast of Somerset after they have last seen each other at the Netherfield Ball. I really liked the summer atmosphere and feeling of the ocean that I got while reading the book. And I think that is also what Darcy and Elizabeth experience, everything is a bit easier. Would there not be Hannah Wright, who has set her cap on Darcy.

A longer review will follow soon. I enjoyed this book very much.

The book was the 10th book this month and book 101 this year.

🎧 Mr Darcy likes it wild 🎧

by Beth Massey, narrated by Benjamin Fife

Imagine Darcy and a disguised Elizabeth are on their way to Pemberley … you may imagine that not all works out as planned. I love the story, it was the second time that I listened to it, and it’s, literally, quite a ride. If you are looking for a story with many laughing out loud moments (never trust Darcy with a secret, he is not very good in making things up ;-) ) and many unexpected twists as well as a good pace … this is your story. I really enjoyed it.

A longer review will follow soon, I’m nearly finished with it.

The book was the 9th book this month and book 100 this year. It was also part of my Summer garden party (trope: An unexpected journey).

🎧 Windswept 🎧

by J. Dawn King, narrated by Stevie Zimmerman

Windswept was a re-listen for me. I read the story as soon as it was released and also enjoyed the audiobook soon after it was available. I really like that Elizabeth is, due to being forced together with Darcy and others during the storm, able to observe Darcy when he is to forced to act as he would act as the master of an grand estate. I love that she can observe his qualities as a leader and a good landlord and that she has the feeling that she can rely on him in every moment.

The audiobook was the 7th book this month and book 98 this year. It was also part of my Summer garden party (trope: A storm delays a return).

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📚 Her affections and wishes (ARC) 📚

by Heather Moll

I really enjoyed Heather Moll’s new story. Elizabeth and Darcy are both determined to make things work and therefore have an understanding early in the book. But things are not as easy as one things and I really liked the mystery that was also part of the story. Especially at the end the book was quite thrilling and kept me at the edge of my seat. Therefor I highly recommend it. A longer review will follow soon.

I received this book as an ARC from the author. Release day is September 1st.

The book was the 8th book this month and book 99 this year.

🎧Yours forevermore, Darcy🎧

by KaraLynne Mackrory, narrated by Brady Smith

I really love this story. I can very well imagine Darcy writing letters to Elizabeth to come to terms with these feelings and then locking them away without sending them to her. But I was glad that the letters were, nevertheless, accidentally sent to Elizabeth and that she comes to see Darcy in a different light. I especially loved the letters when we finally, alongside Elizabeth, came to know about their contents.

I received this audiobook as a gift in a Facebook giveaway

The book was the 6th book this month and book 97 this year. It was also part of my Summer garden party (trope: A letter changes everything).

🎧 The marriage trap 🎧

by Melanie Rachel, narrated by Harry Frost

I just posted about the audiobook, you can therefore find my thoughts here.

I have already written a review for the book, if you want to read this review, you can find it here.

I used this audiobook for trope # 13 (performed by a male narrator). It was also the audiobook of the month for August.

I have already listened to these audiobooks:

So far I have written reviews for these books/audiobooks:

• No less resentment (without audiobook part)

• Mr Darcy’s twelve days of Christmas (without audiobook part)

• The princess problem (without audiobook part)

• The marriage trap (without audiobook part)

• The seven sins of Fitzwilliam Darcy (audiobook) (goodreads link as it is not yet posted here!)

• Some particular evil (audiobook)

• Her last words (audiobook)

• The impoverished orphan (without audiobook part)

• The slipper scandal (audiobook)

• Room for improvement (without audiobook part)

You can find my reading list and the links to all my reviews of the year 2026 in this post:

2026 in books

If you look for a specific review I have a list here by title and by author (Both lists are a work in progress and not finished yet):

• Reviews by title

• Reviews by author

In the Pride and Prejudice audiobook group we have a fun event all summer long - A Summer garden party.

There are different categories and one was choose an audiobook for each and listen to it.

A locked room

The marriage trap by Melanie Rachel, narrated by Harry Frost.

I have already read the book as an ARC copy and loved it so very much. Darcy and Elizabeth are forced to marry but they are determined to make their marriage work nevertheless. I like their determination to look forward and to not the villains win. I naturally I love that they, despite their forced beginning of their relationship, find the love of their life.

Harry Frost was the perfect narrator for this story, I enjoyed his narration so very much.

_____

An embarrassing encounter

The cad, the couch and the cut direct by Jessie Lewis, narrated by Ian Pringle

I have also read the ARC before I listen to this audiobook (it is a re-listen like Wits & wagers). The story is so much fun, everyone mistakes a person for another and spreads rumours. So much fun. I enjoyed it so very much. And I was glad that Darcy and Elizabeth finally achieved a reunion.

_____

A letter changes everything

Yours forevermore, Darcy by KaraLynne Mackrory, narrated by Brady Smith

I really love this story. I can very well imagine Darcy writing letters to Elizabeth to come to terms with these feelings and then locking them away without sending them to her. But I was glad that the letters were, nevertheless, accidentally sent to Elizabeth and that she comes to see Darcy in a different light. I especially loved the letters when we finally, alongside Elizabeth, came to know about their contents.

_____

A storm delays a return

Windswept by J. Dawn King, narrated by Stevie Zimmerman

Windswept was a re-listen for me. I read the story as soon as it was released and also enjoyed the audiobook soon after it was available. I really like that Elizabeth is, due to being forced together with Darcy and others during the storm, able to observe Darcy when he is to forced to act as he would act as the master of an grand estate. I love that she can observe his qualities as a leader and a good landlord and that she has the feeling that she can rely on him in every moment.

_____

An unexpected journey

Mr Darcy likes it wild by Beth Massey, narrated by Benjamin Fife

Imagine Darcy and a disguised Elizabeth are on their way to Pemberley … you may imagine that not all works out as planned. I love the story, it was the second time that I listened to it, and it’s, literally, quite a ride. If you are looking for a story with many laughing out loud moments (never trust Darcy with a secret, he is not very good in making things up ;-) ) and many unexpected twists as well as a good pace … this is your story. I really enjoyed it.

_____

I will add the other audiobooks as soon as I have finished them.

🎧The marriage trap🎧

by Melanie Rachel, narrated by Harry Frost

I have already read the book as an ARC copy and loved it so very much. Darcy and Elizabeth are forced to marry but they are determined to make their marriage work nevertheless. I like their determination to look forward and to not the villains win. I naturally I love that they, despite their forced beginning of their relationship, find the love of their life.

Harry Frost was the perfect narrator for this story, I enjoyed his narration so very much.

The book was the 1st book this month and book 92 this year. It was also part of the Listeners challenge 2026 (# 13 - Performed by a male narrator) and part of my Summer garden party (trope: A locked door).

You can find the review of the book here. The review of the audiobook will hopefully follow soon.

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🎧Wits & wagers (part of: Cads & capers)🎧

by Amy D’Orazio, narrated by Ian Pringle

The audiobook of Wits & wagers was a re-listen for me. I find the story delightful, everyone, it seems, is wagering with everyone, only poor Lizzy, who is the object of the wagering, has no clue and is naturally not involved in the wagers. But I love how Darcy is forced to pursue her, this time in earnest, to show her that he still loves her and wants to marry her.

The book was the 2nd book this month and book 93 this year

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📚An error of fancy (ARC) 📚

by Amy D’Orazio

I received an ARC for An error of fancy before publication but was unfortunately not able to read it in time due to other books I needed to read. But I’m glad that I finally found the time because the story is delightful. I love how Darcy and Elizabeth’s relationship progresses (he shares biscuits with her, at this point of the story he could have done anything and I would have liked him nevertheless ;-) ). I didn’t like some characters, but it’s up to you to discover who that might have been, I will not spoiler things ;-).

The book was the 3rd book this month and book 94 this year

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🎧The cad, the couch and the cut direct (part of: Cads & capers)🎧

by Jessie Lewis, narrated by Ian Pringle

I have also read the ARC before I listen to this audiobook (it is a re-listen like Wits & wagers). The story is so much fun, everyone mistakes a person for another and spreads rumours. So much fun. I enjoyed it so very much. And I was glad that Darcy and Elizabeth finally achieved a reunion.

The book was the 4th book this month and book 95 this year. It was also part of my Summer garden party (trope: An embarrassing encounter).

📚Recommendation and review📚

📖 The perils of proximity

✒️ various authors

💜💜💜💜💜/5

The perils of proximity is a collection of short stories by eight well-known JAFF authors.

If you like to read eight different short stories with Darcy and Elizabeth in situations where they are forced to solve their differences without running away, you should definitely read this excellent collection.

If you want to read my complete review you will find it at Melanie reads Jaff on Facebook, on Goodreads and here on Substack.

The perils of proximity is a collection of short stories by eight well-known JAFF authors.

TEMPEST by Frances Reynolds

After Elizabeth rejects his proposal of marriage Darcy is about to leave the parsonage when the storm makes his escape impossible. Will they, while they are stuck together, be able to clear their misunderstandings and reach a more satisfying conclusion?

I really like that, due to the weather, Darcy and Elizabeth can’t escape and need to talk about the proposal and clear their misunderstandings. This gives them the basics for a better understanding of one another and a new beginning.

A TAX ON HIS FORBEARANCE by Jan Ashton

Shortly before the Netherfield Ball Darcy returns to Netherfield after seeing to business in town. He is denied entry because an illness has afflicted Netherfield and the neighbouring estates. As the inn is already occupied Darcy is invited to stay with the Philips and discovers that Elizabeth has also found refuge there. Will Darcy’s feelings for Elizabeth become the better of him and let him declare himself?

Oh I liked the aunt and uncle Philips in this story. They were such nice people. And I was so glad that Darcy did see it too, even if it took him a little to acknowledge that they are loving and caring relatives of Elizabeth. And I loved Darcy and Elizabeth’s opportunity to talk to one another and discover that the other may be the person you never want to part with.

CERTAIN EVILS by Amy D’Orazio

After reading parts of Darcy’s letter of explanation Elizabeth is furious. How dare he insult her sister. In a fit of anger she tosses the letter in a well with wishes that certain evils may be brought down on him. A short time later Elizabeth discovers that her wishes may have come true, the gentleman needs to stay in the parsonage because he unexpectedly broke his leg and is not to be moved. In the course of the next days more calamities befall Darcy like Elizabeth had cursed him with her wishes. She, on her part, discovers that she may have misjudged him and soon wishes for all the misfortunes to stop. Will she be able to bring back joy in his life?

Poor Darcy, he suffers many misfortunes in this story. I like that Elizabeth, although she initially wanted him to suffer, soon discovers that she does not want him to experience all these dreadful things. I like that she spends time with him and gets to know him better and that she also sees how he handles crises. I was so glad that she actively searches for a way to end his suffering and that she is, in the end, successful.

BUILDING BRIDGES by Ali Scott

Elizabeth and her uncle and aunt Gardiner are visiting Derbyshire when flooding causes them to interrupt their journey at an Inn. Shortly before they have found an injured horseman on the road and have taken him with them - the wounded rider is none other than Mr Darcy. Forced to stay in the village due to the weather Darcy and Elizabeth spent much time together and Elizabeth sees how altered he is since their last encounter in Kent. Will Darcy be able to show her that he has taken her reprimands to heart and that he still loves her?

I really loved that Elizabeth needed to care for Darcy and that they, due to his recovery and the bad weather, are able to spend time with one another. This gives Elizabeth the opportunity to see his changed behaviour and him to show it to her. Elizabeth can also see a different side of Darcy when he is able to secure better accommodations with people he knows. I like the side Elizabeth gets to see very much.

NOT IN VAIN by Mary Smythe

When Elizabeth receives Jane’s letter in Lambton she is sure that she will never see Darcy again. Subdued, she returns to London with her aunt and uncle to be of help when Lydia is retrieved. Therefore she is again in Darcy’s company but both seem to be unable to overcome the changes caused by Lydia’s thoughtless actions. A fit of anger and the accusation that her actions have cost Elizabeth her happiness let Lydia finally see that her sister is in love with Darcy. As the two seem unable to make amends Lydia and her new husband, Mr Stone, take matters in hand. Will they be able to reconcile the two lovers?

This story was a bit sad because both Elizabeth and Darcy have no hope of ever being together. I like that Lydia takes it in hand to reunite them - after all it was she who was responsible for their separation. I loved Lydia for her idea but I can totally comprehend that Elizabeth despaired first. Until she comprehended that her actions were responsible for Elizabeth’s misery she was so selfish.

CLUTTER AND CONCEALMENT by Nan Harrison

After she receives his letter Elizabeth returns to the parsonage - only to see that Darcy is waiting for her in the parlor. Elizabeth is not ready to face him again and therefore decides to hide in Mr Collin’s garden shed until he is gone. Unfortunately Darcy sees her hiding and decides to look after her. Will they, without the company of the others, be able to overcome the accusations of the previous afternoon and read a better understanding of one another?

Darcy and Elizabeth in earnest conversation among Mr Collins’ garden tools without the opportunity to move because moving could become dangerous due to the instability of the building - I really like the idea. Darcy and Elizabeth have certainly no way to escape and no other occupation than to talk.

SEVEN DAYS IN NOTHAMPTENSHIRE by Lucy Marin

Immediately after she rejected Darcy in Kent Elizabeth and her father travel to his old friend in Northamptonshire because the two men want to talk about Earl’s newly acquired book. But instead of sitting with the men Elizabeth discovers that she is not the only uninterested guest, the Earl’s godson and his sister are also there, Mr and Miss Darcy of Pemberley. Elizabeth first thinks that this may be the longest seven days of her life but soon she begins to discover that she may have judged Darcy wrong all the time and she begins to enjoy spending time with him. Will they be able to come to love each other despite Elizabeth’s harsh rejection only some days prior?

I really love that Darcy and Elizabeth are forced together so shortly after Darcy’s proposal and that they need to behave civilly because they are in company. I like that Elizabeth can see Darcy interact with his sister and his godfather and that she also got their accounts of his kindness and loyalty and that she his therefore able to form a different picture of him

A JUST AND SOUND SPIRIT by Julie Cooper

Vicar Darcy and his cousin, Mr Bennet, are not on good terms because Darcy will inherit Mr Bennet’s estate after the latter’s death. Now Vicar Darcy has written to his cousin and intends to visit him with the extended aim of probably finding a wife among his daughters. When Elizabeth sees Jane’s fear of being forced to consider him despite being in love with another man, she decides to try to redirect his attention to her. When Darcy arrives her interest is immediately peaked and Darcy is equally captivated. Will the two be able to form a union or will the entail and the past stand in their way?

I had not formerly imagined Darcy as a vicar but after this story I am able to do it. And it worked well. I really liked the relationship they formed and that they were able to talk about everything. It was a really unique story.

If you like to read eight different short stories with Darcy and Elizabeth in situations where they are forced to solve their differences without running away, you should definitely read this excellent collection.

I highly recommend it.

In July I read/listen to three rather long books, something that’s not so common for me ;-) . But I was nevertheless able to reach my average number of 12, therefore it was a really good month. In July I also read a book that will surely compete for my book of the year, Faceless.

The whole month I kept my reading journal. I hope to move it from paper to a proper journal in August as I already have established what I want to have inside. I really love working with it and got myself a little printer for the covers and I also got some gloriousIn July I read/listen to three rather long books, something that’s not so common for me ;-) . But I was nevertheless able to reach my average number of 12, therefore it was a really good month. In July I also read a book that will surely compete for my book of the year, Faceless.

The whole month I kept my reading journal. I hope to move it from paper to a proper journal in August as I already have established what I want to have inside. I really love working with it and got myself a little printer for the cover pictures and I also got some glorious stickers for decorating. I’m looking forward to use them =)

Below you can see my reading calendar as well as the details to the books I read: stickers for decorating. I’m looking forward to use them =)

Below you can see my reading calendar as well as the details to the books I read:

80. Courting by the Book: A Pride & Prejudice Vagary by various authors, ARC, 5,0/5, 26.06.2026-01.07.2026
review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

81. Love at First Light: A Pride & Prejudice Novella by Christie Capps, audiobook narrated by Stevie Zimmerman, 5,0/5, 01.07.2026 - 06.07.2026

82. Mary, Quite Contrary: A Regency Romance Novel by Lefki Karantoni, ARC, audiobook narrated by Dom Burrell, 5,0/5, 06.07.2026 - 08.07.2026

83. Henry: A Pride & Prejudice Novella by Christie Capps, audiobook narrated by Stevie Zimmerman, 5,0/5, 08.07.2026 - 09.07.2026

84. Dangerous When Wet by Jennifer Joy, audiobook narrated by Harry Frost, 5,0/5, 09.07.2026 - 10.07.2026
review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

85. The Impoverished Orphan by Kelly Miller, audiobook narrated by Stevie Zimmerman, 5,0/5, 11.07.2026 - 14.07.2026
review (without audiobook parts): https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

86. Faceless: A Pride and Prejudice Forced Marriage Steamy Gothic Romance by Alix James, ARC, 5,0/5, 04.07.2026 - 15.07.2026
review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

87. Peacocks of Pemberley by Laraba Kendig, audiobook narrated by Harry Frost, 5,0/5, 14.07.2026-18.07.2026

My thoughts about the audiobook

88. Her Father's Eyes: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Lucy Marin, ARC, 4,0/5, 16.07.2026 - 22.07.2026
review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

My thoughts about the book

89. Fitzwilliam Darcy, Master Spy by Jennifer Joy, audiobook narrated by Stevie Zimmerman, 5,0/5, 18.07.2026 - 22.07.2026

My thoughts about the audiobook

90. The Bennet Inheritance by Jann Rowland, audiobook narrated by Harry Frost, 4,0/5, 22.07.2026 - 29.07.2026

My thoughts about the audiobook

91. The Perils of Proximity: An Anthology of Pride and Prejudice Variations by various authors, ARC, 5,0/5, 22.07.2026 - 30.07.2026

My thoughts about the book

You can find my reading list and the links to all my reviews of the year 2026 in these posts (work in progress):

2026 in books

If you look for a specific review I have a list here by title and by author. Both lists are a work in progress and not finished yet):

Reviews by title

Reviews by author

🎧 The Bennet inheritance 🎧

by Jann Rowland, narrated by Harry Frost

I just posted about the audiobook, you can therefore find my thoughts here.

I used this audiobook for trope # 3 (Male author). It was also the audiobook of the month for August.

I have already listened to these audiobooks:

So far I have written reviews for these books/audiobooks:

• No less resentment (without audiobook part)

• Mr Darcy’s twelve days of Christmas (without audiobook part)

• The princess problem (without audiobook part)

• The seven sins of Fitzwilliam Darcy (audiobook) (goodreads link as it is not yet posted here!)

• Some particular evil (audiobook)

• Her last words (audiobook)

• The impoverished orphan (without audiobook part)

• The slipper scandal (audiobook)

• Room for improvement (without audiobook part)

You can find my reading list and the links to all my reviews of the year 2026 in this post:

2026 in books

If you look for a specific review I have a list here by title and by author (Both lists are a work in progress and not finished yet):

• Reviews by title

• Reviews by author

🎧The Bennet inheritance🎧

by Jann Rowland, narrated by Harry Frost

I loved Darcy and Elizabeth’s relationship, it’s love at first sight and their courtship is only for their pleasure. But in my opinion the book was in parts (especially near the end) a bit overlong. And I definitely did not enjoy Mr Bennet’s choice of his second wife. But the rest was quite enjoyable.

The audiobook was the 11th book this month and book 90 this year. It was also the audiobook of the month of July and part of the Listeners challenge 2026 (# 3 - By a male author)

📚The perils of proximity📚

by Amy D’Orazio, Julie Cooper, Lucy Marin, Mary Smythe, Nan Harrison, Frances Reynolds, Ali Scott and Jan Ashton

I received an ARC for this collection and I enjoyed it so very much. All stories have in common that Darcy and Elizabeth are forced together in a situation and can’t escape. They are therefore forced to solve their misunderstandings. And each author was indeed able to find a different situation for ODC from which they need to find their way to their happily ever after.

The book was the 12th book this month and book 91 this year.

📚Recommendation and review📚

📖 Her father’s eyes

✒️ Lucy Marin

💜💜💜💜🤍/5

When Elizabeth’s parents die when she is but a small child, she is taken in by her uncle’s family and raised like she was their own daughter. She always thought that she would never know about the other part of her family. But now her uncle, Mr Bennet, found a letter from her mother he thought was lost in a fire. Elizabeth discovers that her birth name is Sterling and with the help of her aunt’s brother she is able to find her deceased father’s relatives - the Lord and Lady Romsley.

When Elizabeth finally meets them they are overjoyed to discover that Elizabeth is the daughter of Lady Romsley’s brother. They embrace her wholeheartedly and soon Elizabeth is swept up in their world, and she discovers, with a certainty of her heart, that she belongs with them. But being part of the Romsley family also brings one person back in her life: Fitzwilliam Darcy.

Darcy initially fled to London to forget Elizabeth and her enchanting eyes. But now she is in his aunt’s home and claims to be her long lost niece. And with her new connections Darcy dares to hope what he would not have allowed himself to hope back in Hertfordshire. Unfortunately he had told her then that he thinks her unsuitable in every way.

Will Darcy be able to show Elizabeth that his initial opinion was too hasty? Will he be able to convince Elizabeth that he loved her from the very beginning? And will Elizabeth be able to forgive him for his dismissal of her?

If you like to know how Elizabeth is able to find her deceased father’s relations and how this unexpectedly brings Darcy back into her life, you should read this variation.

If you want to read my complete review you will find it at Melanie reads Jaff on Facebook, on Goodreads and here on Substack.