The Crimes of Elizabeth Darcy by Sophie Turner - Guest Post and Giveaway

Today I’m happy to be welcoming Sophie Turner back to the blog with what sounds like a potentially very angsty new book, The Crimes of Elizabeth Darcy, which is already getting some great reviews. Sophie has brought us a guest post and giveaway. Let me share the book blurb and then hand over to Sophie for her guest post. 

Book Description

After a tragic accident, Fitzwilliam Darcy is left for dead. His grief-stricken wife vows to do what is best for their children, including an ill-advised second marriage in the peerage.

Years later, Will Trevills leaves his happy life in Cornwall to discover the truth about his past. Thrust into a strange world after life as a fisherman, he gains a family he cannot recall. Lady Neston becomes Mrs. Darcy once more, and is grateful for her escape. But her husband questions his purpose as a gentleman, and cannot remember the love they shared.

Charged with bigamy, she may face the ultimate punishment, while the family she sought to protect has never been in greater peril.

Part thriller, part romance, and part courtroom drama, this Elizabeth and Darcy story is a long, absorbing read.

Readers should be aware that this story contains scenes of rape and sexual assault as well as a depiction of an abusive marriage and more general physical violence.

Harriet: A Jane Austen Variation by Alice McVeigh - Guest Post

Today I’m really pleased to be welcoming author Alice McVeigh back to the blog with her new book, Harriet: A Jane Austen Variation. Now who is Harriet? Well, it’s Harriet Smith from Austen’s Emma! It’s lovely to be able to feature something based on Emma as there is so little out there. Alice has visited here before with an Austen-inspired book, Susan (which is a book about Lady Susan, from Austen’s juvenilia).

This book has an interesting premise, which Alice has written us a guest post about. Let’s look at the blurb and then I’ll hand over to Alice for her guest post and giveaway!

Book Description

Emma, a privileged young heiress, decides to mentor Harriet Smith, a pretty boarding-school pupil, and to matchmake her as eligibly as she can… But how is she to guess that Harriet has a secret?

Meanwhile, the brilliant, penniless Jane Fairfax consents to a clandestine engagement with Frank Churchill – though not daring to confess, even to him, that she is being relentlessly pursued by her best friend’s husband.

Harriet sidelines Emma herself in favour of the ingenious Harriet and the fascinating Jane Fairfax. It is Emma – but an Emma with a surprisingly believable twist in its tail.

A Covenant of Marriage by C P Odom - Blog Tour - Excerpt and Giveaway

The blog tour for C P Odom's latest Pride & Prejudice variation, A Covenant of Marriage, stops here today with an excerpt and ebook giveaway! Let's look at the blurb and then I'll share the excerpt with you.

Book Description

A Covenant of Marriage—legally binding, even for an unwilling bride!

Defined as a formal, solemn, and binding agreement or compact, a covenant is commonly used with regard to relations among nations or as part of a contract. But it can also apply to a marriage as Elizabeth Bennet learns when her father binds her in marriage to a man she dislikes. Against her protests that she cannot be bound against her will, the lady is informed that she lives under her father’s roof and, consequently, is under his control; she is a mere pawn in the proceedings.

With such an inauspicious beginning, how can two people so joined ever make a life together?

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Fine Eyes and Pert Opinions by Maria Grace - Excerpt and Giveaway

We are joined by Maria Grace today, with her latest book, Fine Eyes and Pert Opinions. Maria has brought us a lovely long excerpt and an ebook giveaway too! Let's look at the blurb and then hand over to Maria.

Book Description

Darcy is at his wits end.

As guardian to his younger sister, he wants her to become a properly accomplished woman--she is coming out soon, after all. But Georgiana steadfastly refuses despite the encouragement of Elizabeth Bennet, long time Darcy family friend.  Darcy invites a few guests to Pemberley in the hopes of encouraging Georgiana's improvement with a taste of society.

Unexpected additions to the party prove dangerously distracting, leaving the Darcy family on the brink of disaster. Elizabeth holds the key to their restoration, but she has fled Pemberley, unable to tolerate another day in the Darcys' company.

Will Darcy relinquish his pride and prejudice to seek out a woman below his notice before his family is irreparably ruined?

A Case of Some Delicacy by KC Kahler - Blog Tour, Guest Post and Giveaway

Today I'm welcoming KC Kahler back to the blog. She visited here a long time ago with Boots and Backpacks, a modernisation of Pride & Prejudice. She's just released a new book, A Case of Some Delicacy, which is a Pride & Prejudice variation. KC joins us for a guest post as part of her blog tour, and there's a giveaway too! Read on for more details.

Book Description

A secret alliance grows when an unwanted suitor arrives at Longbourn...

When rumours of Jane Bennet’s impending betrothal to her father’s heir begin spreading at the Meryton Assembly, Elizabeth vows to save her dearest sister’s happiness from being sacrificed in marriage.

She finds an unlikely accomplice in Mr Darcy, the taciturn man whose heroics on the cricket field have managed to turn Lydia Bennet’s infatuation away from redcoats. Upon overhearing a heated exchange between Elizabeth and Mr Bennet, Darcy is stunned not only by her devotion to her sister, but also by her defiant words to her father. An inexplicable desire to help Elizabeth draws Darcy into the match-breaking scheme, despite knowing that he should want nothing to do with a family like the Bennets.

As the new allies work together, their friendship deepens into mutual admiration. But they must navigate a complicated web of sisters, parents, friends, cousins, and aunts, some of whom may be attempting their own manipulations and romantic schemes. Eavesdropping and jealousy abound, cricket balls go astray, and love blooms in spite of Mrs. Bennet’s misguided matchmaking.

Guest Post from KC Kahler

Hey there! Thanks to Ceri for hosting a blog stop for my new book A Case of Some Delicacy, and thanks to you all for checking it out!

Today I’d like to discuss our favorite fictional family, the Bennets. I’m going to use some visual aids I created. You may have seen some of these memes combining headlines from the satirical “newspaper” The Onion with stills from various Austen adaptations. They went viral a few years ago, which was very strange and fun for me.

But back to those Bennets… In A Case of Some Delicacy, I tried to fill in some of the gaps, so that by the end they seem like a real family.

I’ll start not with any character, but with the dreaded entail of Longbourn, which has a huge effect on the family dynamics. Only Mr. Bennet stands between the Bennet girls and disaster. One hopes he has a very long life.

As all Austen fans know, this precarious situation has made Mrs. Bennet rather nervous and obsessed with getting her daughters married off.

Mrs. Bennet’s nervous condition is even more pronounced in A Case of Some Delicacy because Mr. Collins comes to visit sooner. She has to entertain the heir of her home in her home. Luckily he expresses interest in marrying Jane, which would save them all from displacement and genteel poverty.

But Mr. Collins isn’t anybody’s dream husband. For this reason, Elizabeth knows she can’t let Jane sacrifice her happiness for the family’s security. She tries to interfere in his courtship of Jane, and thus endures his many irksome speeches praising Lady Catherine.

Mr. Bennet also finds his cousin annoying, so why doesn’t he intervene instead of Lizzy? Well, Mr. Bennet would rather find sanctuary in his library than deal with his cousin, wife, and daughters. He’d rather avoid conflict. But he reforms his indolent ways over the course of ACoSD.

So we’ve covered Mr. and Mrs. Bennet, Mr. Collins, Elizabeth and Jane. But what about the remaining Bennet girls who aren’t fully fleshed out in P&P?

Lydia has her own subplot in A Case of Some Delicacy. Yes, I know: nobody likes Lydia! Of course, she starts out as a silly, selfish, stubborn, boy-crazy teenager. But in ACoSD she does some serious character growth, and you may even like her at the end!

Mary and Kitty also play smaller but crucial roles in the plot of ACoSD. Mary starts out as studious and pious, but by the end you may think there is more to her than meets the eye. Kitty is silly and boy-crazy like Lydia, but her heart’s in the right pace.

Some of my favorite scenes to write in ACoSD were scenes where all five sisters interacted with each other. They argue and bicker as all siblings do, but they also help each other.

Thank you for reading! I hope you too will feel like you know the Bennet family better after reading A Case of Some Delicacy.

About the Author

KC Kahler lives in northeastern Pennsylvania and works in online education, after having dabbled in sandwich making, bug collecting, and web development. She discovered Jane Austen fan fiction in 2008 and soon began dabbling in writing her own.

KC blogs about Austen and other pop culture topics. In 2015 and 2017, her popular Austen + The Onion Headlines meme was featured in The Atlantic, Flavorwire, and AV Club. In 2017, she made the requisite pilgrimage to Jane Austen country, where she took the waters in Bath, walked the lanes of Steventon, didn’t fall off the cobb in Lyme Regis, and stood awestruck in Chawton. 

KC’s first novel, Boots & Backpacks, was published in 2014. Her second, A Case of Some Delicacy, released in 2019.

KC’s social links

Blog / Tumblr / Facebook / Twitter / YouTube / Goodreads / Amazon 

Buy Links

A Case of Some Delicacy is available to buy now in paperback, kindle and kindle unlimited - Amazon US / Amazon UK / Amazon CA

You can also add it to your Goodreads shelf.

Giveaway Time!

You can win a $50 Amazon gift card from Quills & Quartos Publishing! The contest ends on 18 October. To be eligible, just comment on any of the blog tour stops. You need not visit all the stops (one point per stop and comment), however, it does increase your chances of winning by earning more entries.

Note Regarding Comments: I love to read your comments, but a few blog visitors have reported difficulties in commenting while using the Safari browser. If you are unable to comment, please try using another web browser, such as Google Chrome, or please contact me and I will add your comment for you :)

Make sure you check out the other blog stops! Here are the details.

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Audio Giveaway from Victoria Kincaid - Darcy vs. Bennet and When Jane Got Angry

Today I'm welcoming Victoria Kincaid back to the blog. Victoria has visited the blog many times and is always a lovely visitor. She has been making some of her titles available on audio and has come here to tell us about it, bringing a giveaway with her!

I was sceptical about how much enjoyment I would get from audio books but I have been listening for a few years now, when commuting or doing chores, and find them a good way to get some extra reading time into the day. I particularly find them good for re-reads, as I know what's coming next which means I can muster the patience to read at a slower pace!

Let's hand over to Victoria to tell us about the stories she's just released on audio.

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Hi Ceri and thank you for having me as a guest! I was lucky enough to recruit Stevie Zimmerman to narrate two of my audiobooks recently. She always does a terrific job; I especially love the voice she gives to Mr. Darcy. Readers love her too, and I know they’ll be thrilled with her narration of Darcy vs. Bennet and When Jane Got Angry (click on the links to hear samples of her narration). Below are excerpts from both books and details about a double giveaway of free copies of both audiobooks!

* * *

Darcy vs. Bennet

Darcy had barely taken three steps when he saw a vision. Clad in a pale yellow gown, the woman’s figure was light and pleasing. Lush curls of dark hair were piled high on her head, intertwined with tiny flowers. Instantly, Darcy knew he had not encountered her before. She was not moving or conversing with anyone; in fact, she seemed a bit lost.

When Darcy stepped toward her, her eyes flashed up to his, and his breath caught. Set off by the pale yellow mask, her eyes were a vibrant blue he had never seen before. There was something about her…as if he knew her already—which was ridiculous since he had never met her before. Without a conscious decision, Darcy took several more steps toward the mystery woman.

She had turned her face away and was now scanning the crowd. Seeking another man? He felt a twinge of unease, which was bizarre. He knew nothing about this woman.

A crease appeared between her eyes, and her mouth tightened. Was she in distress? “May I be of service, miss?” He bowed. “You appear uneasy.” What a ludicrous thing to say! Surely he could think of a better way to introduce himself to this vision of loveliness.

She was biting her lower lip, and Darcy wanted more than anything to alleviate her anxiety. “I was looking for my friend.” His surge of jealousy was instantly assuaged by her next words. “She is blonde and wears a blue dress.”

“Ah, I believe she has accompanied my friend onto the veranda for a dance.”

“Oh. So I have been abandoned.” Her lips quirked into a half smile. She sees her friend’s abandonment as a cause for amusement rather than resentment, Darcy noted.

“As have I. Perhaps we may be abandoned together.” How did such flirtatious language emerge from his mouth? Usually he had no facility with words. Perhaps the mask offered him some kind of license? But her clear blue eyes held his in a captive gaze. No, it was her. Something about this woman stirred deep feelings so all he saw—all he could see—was her. The rest of the world simply fell away.

Her eyebrows tipped upward doubtfully. Was he being too forward with a woman he had just met? Darcy almost did not care. He would do anything, break any rules of propriety to stay with this enchanting creature. “Would you do me the honor of the next dance?”

She blinked rapidly and blushed, her gaze not meeting his. Was the request such a surprise to her? Of course, they had not been introduced, but a masquerade should allow them to dispense with such formalities. Then she gave him an arch look. “A stranger in a mask has just asked me to dance. What would my mother say I should do in this situation?”

Was she teasing him? He had seen other men engage in such banter, but it never happened to him. He cleared his throat. “I believe your mother would advise you to accept under the circumstances.” He found himself smiling at her. “I assure you, miss, I am not a highwayman despite the mask.”

She tapped her lips thoughtfully with her forefinger. “So you would have me believe you are a respectable gentleman? I would expect a highwayman to say so.”

Darcy could not prevent a laugh from bursting forth. At the beginning of their conversation he had suspected she might be unaware of his identity, but now he was sure of it. No woman ever dared to banter with Fitzwilliam Darcy in such a way; they were too eager to compliment his figure, his features, his clothing, his horse…and anything else he possessed. Every exchange with a marriageable woman was colored by awareness of his fortune—except this one, and it was delightful. How had such a woman found her way into the Berwicks’ masquerade?

He restrained an impulse to take the woman’s hand; he did not know her. “Very well, will you promise to dance with me if I promise not to purloin your reticule or jewelry?” As he said this, he realized she possessed neither. How odd.

She laughed, a bright, silvery sound. He had made her laugh! “Yes, I thank you. But this set has just begun.”

He glanced at the veranda where the couples had just begun their set. “Then perhaps we may take a stroll in the gardens before the next one commences.” Where had he discovered this new fount of gallantry and ease? Robert often teased Darcy about being stiff and formal in company.

The woman took his proffered arm, and they slowly walked toward the formal gardens, which were less crowded than in the area around the court. He had so many questions about this enchanting woman that his throat felt clogged with them. “I pray you, tell me your name,” he finally managed.

She slid him a sidelong glance. “It is a masquerade. Should not my identity remain hidden?”

He shrugged. “I do not wish to think of you as ‘that woman in yellow’ for the entire evening.”

Her laugh was genuine, not the polite tittering allowed for a lady of the ton. “Very well, my name is Elizabeth.”

When Jane Got Angry

Caroline Bingley is not my friend, Jane Bennet realized about five minutes into the woman’s visit at the Gardiners’ house. It was a startling realization. A disheartening one.

Jane had called upon Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst at the Hursts’ house on Grosvenor Square not long after her arrival in London. With the reasonable expectation of a prompt return call, she had waited at home every morning for a fortnight, but Miss Bingley had not appeared until more than a month had passed. Even this slight Jane might have ignored if Miss Bingley had appeared at all pleased to continue the acquaintance—or at least penitent about her lateness—but the other woman had given only scant and insincere apologies.

Although she should have been attending to the conversation, Jane instead was hearing the echoes of many conversations with her sister Elizabeth warning against believing in Miss Bingley’s regard. Jane struggled not to fidget in her chair as she recalled Lizzy’s words.

Belatedly she realized the conversation had faltered to a stop. I must speak. But, heavens, what had Miss Bingley and Aunt Gardiner been discussing? Jane’s memory was entirely blank. “We are enjoying very fine weather,” she said hastily. Trite but unexceptionable.

Aunt Gardiner blinked in surprise. Miss Bingley pursed her lips. “What has that to do with the fashion for long sleeves?” she sniffed.

Jane shifted in her chair. “Er…well…it is pleasant to wear long sleeves in fine weather.” The palms of her hands were growing quite moist. What a terrible explanation!

Miss Bingley shrugged disdainfully. “If you would call it ‘fine.’ It rained three days ago and ruined my slippers.”

Aunt Gardiner gave Jane a sidelong glance as if to say, “This is your friend?”

Jane raised her eyebrows in response, hoping to convey, “I may have been mistaken.”

“It has been quite sunny and warm for the past two days,” Aunt Gardiner pointed out. “Particularly for February.”

Miss Bingley flicked a bit of dust from her skirt. “Yes, unseasonably warm. One does not know whether to wear wool or linen or cotton. It is most disconcerting.”

Her aunt rolled her eyes at Jane, who hid a smile. Was it even worth the effort of a polite conversation if a woman could complain about warm and sunny weather in February?

Maggie, the Gardiners’ maid, set down a tea tray laden with biscuits on the drawing room table. Aunt Gardiner poured a cup and passed it to Miss Bingley, who took a tiny sip as if she expected they might have substituted dishwater for tea.

Oh, good grief. Gracechurch Street might not be Grosvenor Square, but the Gardiners were hardly beggars in the streets. Even Maggie gave the visitor a scornful glance as she slipped from the room.

Jane supposed she should share the maid’s disdain, but she could barely summon the energy for it. Every aloof look from Miss Bingley weighed on her, as if every time the other woman glanced at her, Jane grew smaller and more insignificant—until she was in danger of disappearing altogether. She had believed in Miss Bingley’s friendship, thinking her sincere, if a bit arrogant.

Miss Bingley had been the one to solicit Jane’s company in Hertfordshire and treat her as the most intimate of friends. The complete alteration in the other woman’s demeanor was incomprehensible. Had Jane unwittingly given offense?

No. Lizzy warned me. This is through no fault of mine. It was painfully clear her sister had been correct about Miss Bingley’s lack of regard.

Her chest was hollow and achy; her eyes burned. Jane had not only lost a friendship, but she also had lost faith in her own discernment. What other errors in judgment have I committed?

Had Jane been wrong about Mr. Bingley’s regard for her? She had hoped that an acquaintance with Miss Bingley would allow her to see the woman’s brother once more. However, if Miss Bingley is not my friend, I may never see Mr. Bingley again. The realization bore down on Jane, pinning her to her chair like an enormous weight.

She tried to assemble a smile despite finding it difficult to breathe. Jane had slowly lost all hope of Mr. Bingley after he left Netherfield, but her arrival in London had rekindled those dormant embers. Now Miss Bingley’s disdain snuffed them out as completely as if they had been doused with water.

The chances were never very good. Any hopes likely were in vain. This reminder did nothing to ease her breathing.

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Have you read either of these books? I've read Darcy vs. Bennet, which I enjoyed. I still have When Jane Got Angry on my to be read list. I am intrigued to know what changes that might make, if Jane Bennet had lost her cool!

You can buy these books now, in print or ebook, if you prefer, but also in audio.

Darcy vs. Bennet - Amazon US / Amazon UK / Amazon CA / Audible US / Audible UK / Goodreads

When Jane Got Angry - Amazon US / Amazon UK / Amazon CA / Audible US / Audible UK / Goodreads

Author Bio

Victoria has a Ph.D. in English literature and has taught composition to unwilling college students. Today she teaches business writing to willing office professionals and tries to give voice to the demanding cast of characters in her head.

She lives in Virginia with an overly affectionate cat, two children who are learning how much fun Austen’s characters can be, and a husband who fortunately is not jealous of Mr. Darcy. A lifelong Austen fan, Victoria has read more Jane Austen variations and sequels than she can count – and confesses to an extreme partiality for the Colin Firth miniseries version of Pride and Prejudice.

Visit her at www.victoriakincaid.com

Goodreads • Twitter • Amazon US Author Page •

Giveaway Time

Victoria is kindly giving away an audio book of each title. So one audio book of Darcy vs. Bennet for one winner, and When Jane Got Angry for another winner, which can be downloaded from either audible.com or audible.co.uk.

To enter, please leave a comment on the blog post by the end of the day worldwide on Monday 9 September. Please ensure that you include your name in your comment and also tell me your order of preference for the audio books. That way, if you're chosen first you will get the book you want most!

You can gain one additional entry to the giveaway by tweeting about this post. To ensure that I find your tweet please copy me (@frawli1978) into your tweet.

Note regarding comments: I love to read your comments, but a few blog visitors have reported difficulties in commenting while using the Safari browser. If you are unable to comment, please try using another web browser, such as Google Chrome, or please contact me and I will add your comment for you :)

Blog Tour Schedule

Victoria is visiting other blogs so you can learn more about the books and increase your chances of winning. Check out these other stops!

September 3 -- Babblings of a Bookworm
September 4 -- My Jane Austen Book Club
September 5 -- From Pemberley to Milton
September 6 – More Agreeably Engaged
September 10 -- Austen Authors
September 11-- Diary of an Eccentric
September 12 – Savvy Verse and Wit
September 23 -- Austenesque Reviews
September 21 - My Love for Austen

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Subscribe to Babblings of a Bookworm

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Mrs Collins' Lover by Bronwen Chisholm - Author Interview and Giveaway

Today I’m very happy to be hosting a first time visitor to Babblings of a Bookworm. A very warm welcome goes to Bronwen Chisholm, who has written a new Pride & Prejudice variation, Mrs Collins’ Lover. As I don’t know Bronwen very well, she has agreed for an author interview, and she's brought a giveaway too!

Let’s take a look at the blurb for Mrs Collins’ Lover, and then we will pour out a virtual cuppa and have a chat with Bronwen.

Book Description

Elizabeth Bennet was raised with a strong belief and faith in God's plan for her life. She knew He had a plan, even if the details were hidden from her. But, when placed in an untenable situation, she turned instead to the arms of a man to find brief moments of joy. Finally, when able to realize the happiness which was always intended for her, the weight of her guilt over her past sins convinces her of her unworthiness. Only through reconciliation with the Lover of her soul can she truly fulfill the life He planned for her. But first, she must forgive herself in order to find redemption.

Remember: In order to be redeemed, there must be sin. This story is intended for mature audiences. Trigger Warning: There are incidents of abuse in this story.

Darcy in Hollywood by Victoria Kincaid - Guest Post, Excerpt and Giveaway

Today we're welcoming Victoria Kincaid back to the blog with her latest book. As you can infer from the title, Darcy in Hollywood is a modern Pride & Prejudice variation which sees Mr Darcy as a Hollywood film star. Victoria has brought us an excerpt of the book and has also shared her thought processes in transporting Austen's characters to modern-day Hollywood while keeping them true to the characters the readers know and love. Victoria is also kindly offering a giveaway of an ebook of Darcy in Hollywood to one of you. Read on for more details!

Book Description

Rich and arrogant movie star, William Darcy, was a Hollywood heartthrob until a scandalous incident derailed his career.  Now he can only hope that Tom Bennet’s prestigious but low budget indie film will restore his reputation.  However, on the first day of filming, he nearly hits Bennet’s daughter, Elizabeth, with his Ferrari, and life will never be the same.  Okay, she’s a little sarcastic, but he’s certain she’s concealing a massive crush on him—and it’s growing harder to fight his own attraction….

Elizabeth Bennet has a lot on her plate.  She’s applying to medical school and running the studio’s charity project—while hoping her family won’t embarrass her too much.  Being Darcy’s on-set personal assistant is infuriating; he’s rude, proud, and difficult.  If there’s one thing she dislikes, it’s people who only think about themselves.  But then Elizabeth discovers Darcy has been doing a lot of thinking about her.

She might be willing to concede a mutual attraction, but events are conspiring against them and Darcy subject to constant public scrutiny.  Do Darcy and Elizabeth have any hope of achieving Hollywood’s elusive happy ending?

Taking Another Chance by Brenda Webb - Excerpt and Giveaway

I'm very happy to tell you that today I'm welcoming Brenda Webb back to the blog. Brenda has visited many times and is always a lovely guest. She has a new Pride & Prejudice- inspired book out, Taking Another Chance, which has quite a bit of a time gap for our dear couple, where they are apart. Brenda is here with an excerpt, and she's brought a giveaway too. I'll share the blurb with you, and then hand over to Brenda.

Book Description

Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet have suffered profound heartache in the fourteen years since parting in Lambton when word of Lydia’s folly reached her family.

At the age of forty, Darcy is now a widower raising a teenage daughter, whilst Elizabeth, a spinster, has spent the intervening years in service.

Unexpectedly thrown into each other’s company by circumstances not of their making, has time stood still when it comes to matters of the heart?

Can their timeless love survive the newest obstacles to happiness?

Excerpt from Taking Another Chance with introduction from the author, Brenda Webb

Ceri, thank you so much for allowing me to visit and share an excerpt of my newest book TAKING ANOTHER CHANCE. I always enjoy visiting with you and your readers and giving away copies of my tales.

As a way of introduction to this story, I have always wanted to write a story where an older Darcy and Elizabeth find each other again and TAKING ANOTHER CHANCE is the result. The blurb above sets the stage for the story; however, for those who hate stories where Darcy is married to someone before Elizabeth, allow me to hint that the marriage began with deception and was of short duration.

Those who read my books know that I never have ODC in love with anyone but each other. After all, Some Loves Are Meant To Be!

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Matlock Manor
The ball

As William made his way down the magnificent grand staircase, it occurred to him that under Isabelle’s watch nothing at Matlock Manor was done conservatively, especially soirées such as this one. The ball was scheduled to begin in less than an hour, and not only were pots and vases of flowers and greenery occupying every available space, vines and cut flowers had been woven through the rails of the staircase and placed atop every doorway. In addition, the candles in every chandelier in the house were lit, whilst numerous candelabra had been scattered throughout the house, lighting all the recesses not reached by the chandeliers.

Though pleased for his cousin, William was secretly glad Pemberley’s furnishings were less ostentatious, for Matlock Manor reminded him too much of Rosings Park under Lady Catherine’s reign. That woman had died three years to the day after his marriage to Lady Cornelia, with the estate passing to his cousin Anne.

Anne had survived her mother by a mere two years, during which time Lord Matlock helped her run Rosings Park with the aid of a steward. After Anne died there were no de Bourghs alive to inherit, so the estate passed to Lord Matlock. After his death it became part of the family holdings and the steward continued to manage it under William’s watchful eye because Viscount Sele, the new Lord Matlock, showed no interest in doing so. William hoped that once Richard became more comfortable managing Matlock Manor, he could pass part of that responsibility on to his cousin.

As these thoughts were going through his head, William was oblivious to the fact that Lady Parker was waiting to accost him in the foyer. The minute she heard his boots on the marble floor, she swept out of the nearest parlour as though she had no idea he was there.

“Mr. Darcy,” the blonde-haired beauty purred as she floated towards him. “It seems we are the only ones dressed for the ball. And how handsome you look, too!”

William could not deny that Lady Parker was beautiful, and tonight she looked even more so, wearing a teal-coloured, silk damask gown with a delicate, gold-sequined net overlay. The gown’s sleeves were fashioned off-the-shoulder, and the bodice was cut so low that, for a brief moment, William found himself pondering what could be holding it up.

He quickly recovered. “That is not true. I was just talking with your sister and Richard, and they are both fully dressed.”

Ignoring his curt reply, Lady Parker walked over to weave her arm through his, lifted her chin and batted her eyelashes. “What a shame you cannot dance. I would love to be your partner tonight.”

“It is not that I cannot; it is that I choose not to. I will not chance ruining an unsuspecting partner’s foot should I misstep.”

“I am willing to take my chances,” she said brazenly.

“I am sorry, but I am resolute on the matter.”

“I could refuse to dance and keep you company.”

“Since my cousin is hosting this ball for your benefit, do you not think that would be inconsiderate?”

Suddenly, Lady Matlock called from the landing, “Darcy, Richard needs to speak with you right away. He is in his dressing room.”

Whilst Isabelle disappeared as quickly as she had come, William feigned disappointment. “Duty calls. Please excuse me.”

Cursing under her breath as William started back up the stairs, Lady Parker walked on to the ballroom.

~~~*~~~

Elizabeth had come downstairs to fetch flowers from the conservatory in the hope that having flowers for their hair might coax a smile from Lady Marianne and Lady Marjorie, who were disappointed at not being allowed to attend the ball. Instead, they were to stand in the receiving line to greet the guests and then retire. Having found the perfect rose buds, Elizabeth was unable to go up the rear stairs because footmen were carrying a table down them; thus, she hurried towards the grand staircase. Stumbling upon Lady Parker’s ambush of William, she barely managed to stop before rounding the corner into the foyer. Holding her breath, she listened as he successfully parried each of Lady Parker’s advances, which reminded her of a similar scene involving Caroline Bingley years ago.

Covering her mouth to keep from laughing, she thought, Poor man! After all this time, you are still being pursued by the ladies.

As soon as the foyer emptied, Elizabeth rushed up the stairs, praying that she could present the flowers to the girls without encountering William. That was not to be, however, for the instant she pinned two white rosebuds at the back of Marianne’s head, William knocked on his daughter’s dressing room door.

“Come!” Marianne called and William walked in. Elizabeth froze.

“Would you excuse us, please?” he asked.

“Of course,” Elizabeth replied.

Picking up the pink rosebuds she had selected for Marjorie, she hurried into the hall and proceeded straight to that young woman’s dressing room. Cautiously laying her ear against the door and hearing nothing, Elizabeth tried the handle. The door opened, and she slipped inside to find Marjorie alone and weeping.

“Whatever is the matter, my dear?”

“Papa treats me like a child!”

“You may feel that way now, but once you have a daughter of your own, you will understand.”

Whilst drying her eyes on a lace-trimmed handkerchief, Marjorie retorted, “How can you possibly know that? You have no children.”

Elizabeth’s expression became wistful. “I once witnessed the downfall of a young lady who followed her own counsel. Believe me, the outcome was dreadful, not only for her but for her family as well. You should thank God every day that your father cares enough to limit what you do until you are mature enough to handle the responsibility that comes with making your own decisions.”

Marjorie’s brows furrowed. “Is this woman the reason you are in service?”

Surprised at Marjorie’s intuition, Elizabeth replied, “I am in service because I chose to be.” Changing the subject, she held up the pink rosebuds. “I found these in the conservatory and thought they would look beautiful in your hair tonight.”

Marjorie’s face brightened. “They are lovely. Will you pin them in?”

“Of course.”

~~~*~~~

This makes me a bit sad, but I am taking heart in Brenda's comment that she guarantees me a Darcy and Elizabeth happy ever after!

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Author Bio - from Brenda's Amazon.com Author Page

Before my obsession with all things Jane Austen, I worked as an administrative assistant to the president of a CPA firm. No longer working, I enjoy spending time with my family and indulging my love of storytelling.

Born on a farm in Cullman, Alabama, I proudly admit to being a country girl, and after years of living in the city, I finally achieved my dream of moving back to the country. My husband and I now reside on a three acre mini-farm, sporting chickens and numerous rescued dogs and cats.

Always a voracious reader, I rediscovered Jane Austen books after watching the 2005 Pride and Prejudice movie. Searching for everything relating to Miss Austen, I eventually stumbled into the world of Jane Austen Fan Fiction. After reading many of other people's stories, I decided to try my hand at writing a tale that kept coming to mind and began posting that story on online in 2009.

By November of 2010, I started my own forum, DarcyandLizzy.com, and many readers followed me to this site. Several of my friends insisted that I publish, and in April 2011, Fitzwilliam Darcy an Honourable Man became available.

I have since published the following novels: Mr. Darcy's Forbidden Love, Darcy and Elizabeth, A Most Unlikely Couple, Darcy and Elizabeth - A Promise Kept, Passages - A Pemberley Tale and Proof Of Love - A Pemberley Tale. I also published a novella - A Twist of Fate.

I post all my stories on the forum before I publish them and, just to set the record straight, any similarity between the names in my books and those of television or movie characters is purely coincidental. I have never watched soap operas and I watch little TV/movies other than BBC productions and those relating to the 1800s. In addition to the characters that belong to Jane Austen, my character's names come entirely from my imagination.

Anyone is welcome to join the forum and read my stories and an array of stories by a number of talented JAFF writers. Just register at www.darcyandlizzy.com/forum.

Buy Links

Taking Another Chance is available to buy now, both in ebook and paperback - Amazon UK / Amazon US / Amazon Canada / Add to Goodreads Shelf

Giveaway Time

Brenda is very generously giving away 4 ebooks of Taking Another Chance. This giveaway is open to people who can accept ebook gifts from Amazon.com. To enter, just leave a comment on this blog post by the end of the day on Sunday, 1 July. You can also earn an additional entry by tweeting about this giveaway. To ensure your tweet entry is counted please tag me, @frawli1978 in the tweet. You can only earn one additional giveaway entry through tweeting :)

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Mr Darcy's Enchantment by Abigail Reynolds - Guest Post, Excerpt and Giveaway

I'm very happy to be welcoming Abigail Reynolds back to the blog with her new Pride & Prejudice variation, Mr Darcy's Enchantment. This time the variation is quite a major one... this is a world where magic is real....

Let me share the blurb with you, and then we will hand over to Abigail for an excerpt from Mr Darcy's Enchantment.

Book Description

In a Regency England where magic and faeries are real…

Fitzwilliam Darcy is a powerful magician who controls fire, water, and wind. What he cannot control is his growing feelings for Miss Elizabeth Bennet. But Darcy is also sworn to uphold the laws which forbid women to use magic, and Elizabeth knows it.

Elizabeth’s sentiments towards Darcy are quite different. She detests his arrogance, and she fears he will expose her use of forbidden magic. He is the last man in the world she would choose to help her on a difficult and dangerous task.

But when a magical war looms between the land of Faerie and their world, a Lord of Faerie demands that Darcy and Elizabeth serve together as his emissaries to make peace with the other mortals. That mission throws them into the middle of a chaotic power struggle between magicians whose power dwarfs their own, and everything Elizabeth has ever believed about her family, her friends, and her enemies will be called into question.

This magical variation of Jane Austen’s Pride & Prejudice makes the land of Faerie as real as Regency London and Rosings Park, as bestselling author Abigail Reynolds presents new challenges for Darcy and Elizabeth in her longest and most enchanting story to date.

An Unexpected Merry Gentleman by Anngela Schroeder - Guest Post, Excerpt and Giveaway

Are you feeling festive yet? I hope so, because I am welcoming author Anngela Schroeder back to the blog with a seasonal novella, An Unexpected Merry Gentleman. I'll share the blurb with you, and then hand over to Anngela for her guest post. She's also brought a giveaway!

Book Description

 ‘Tis the season to be jolly and Mr. Darcy and his sister have been invited to Netherfield for Christmas with Bingley’s business associate and the Bennets of Longbourn. There is no comfort or joy for this taciturn man when he discovers the sparkling Elizabeth Bennet finds him proud and arrogant. His only choice is to win her heart, but is it too late to change her opinion of him?

When Jane Got Angry by Victoria Kincaid - Excerpt and Giveaway

Today I'm welcoming Victoria Kincaid back to the blog with her latest book, When Jane Got Angry. Victoria is bringing us an excerpt of the book, plus a giveaway to a commenter on this post. Let's read the blurb and then I'll hand over to Victoria.

Book Description

When Mr. Bingley abruptly left Hertfordshire, Jane Bennet’s heart was broken. Since arriving in London to visit her aunt and uncle, Jane has been hoping to encounter Mr. Bingley; however, it becomes clear that his sister is keeping them apart. But what would happen if she took matters into her own hands? Defying social convention, she sets out to alert Mr. Bingley to her presence in London, hoping to rekindle the sparks of their relationship.

Bingley is thrilled to encounter Jane and renew their acquaintance, but his sister has told him several lies about the Bennets—and his best friend, Mr. Darcy, still opposes any relationship. As Jane and Bingley sort through this web of deceit, they both find it difficult to retain their customary equanimity.

However, they also discover that sometimes good things happen when Jane gets angry.

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Rational Creatures Anthology from The Quill Ink Collective - Blog Tour and Giveaway

Today the blog tour for the anthology Rational Creatures stops by. This is the the third anthology brought to you by The Quill Collective, brought together by editor Christina Boyd (see also The Darcy Monologues and Dangerous to Know: Jane Austen's Rakes and Gentlemen Rogues). Some of my favourite Austenesque authors have contributed short stories to this collection, which focuses on the ladies in Austen's works.

I'm happy to be welcoming author Elizabeth Adams here to chat with me about rational creatures in general, and in particular Persuasion's Anne Elliot, the character in Elizabeth's story. There's a fantastic giveaway accompanying the blog tour too. Let's read the blurb, and then we'll move on to my interview with Elizabeth Adams.

Emma and the City by Amy Hilliges - Guest Post and Giveaway

Today I'm welcoming an author to the blog for the first time. Amy Hilliges has written an Emma update, moving Miss Woodhouse to modern day New York. Think a cross between Emma and Sex and the City. Amy has visited here today with a guest post and giveaway. of Emma and the City I'll share the blurb with you and then hand over to Amy for her guest post, excerpt and giveaway!

Book Description

When arrows fly, Cupid better get out of the way . . . or risk being shot

It-girl and blogger Emma Worth appears to have it all: beauty, brains, connections and a fabulous Manhattan apartment. Emma makes it her business to tell others what to wear and who to date because she knows best. Obviously.

Despite her designer outfits and glitzy New York lifestyle, something's missing . . . If she only knew what it was. That is, until a hot A-lister swoops into her life and sends Emma's pulse racing and fills her head with red-carpet fantasies.

Emma's neighbor Adam Knightley is disapproving, telling her she needs to fix her priorities and stop chasing celebrity pipe dreams. The man would look hot on a red carpet himself, if only he’d stop frowning for more than five seconds.

When Emma’s matchmaking backfires and her meddling causes mischief, what's a girl to do? Try to lie her way out of it, of course.  Anyway, who cares, right? Because Emma's finally getting the kind of attention she deserves. Except in her fantasies, things looked a lot different. And it didn’t feel this heartrendingly painful . . .

Love her or hate her, Emma is back––with a sexy makeover, 21st-century problems, and another chance to redeem herself in this grippingly entertaining, thoroughly original retelling of the Jane Austen classic.

Recognizing Love by Lizzy Brandon - Excerpt and Giveaway

 Today I'm welcoming Lizzy Brandon to the blog for the first time. Lizzy is the author of Folly and Forgiveness, and has come here with her latest Pride & Prejudice variation, Recognizing Love. Let me share the blurb with you first, and then we'll hand over to Lizzy for an excerpt from the book. Lizzy has also brought an international giveaway with her!

The Secrets of Darcy and Elizabeth by Victoria Kincaid in Audio - Guest Post and Giveaway

Today I'm welcoming the lovely Victoria Kincaid who is treating us again, this time with a guest post and a giveaway of an audio copy of The Secrets of Darcy and Elizabeth. This is one of Victoria's earlier novels which has now been made available in audio. I'll start by sharing the blurb with you, and then hand over to Victoria for a guest post.

Book Description

What if Darcy and Elizabeth were plunged into the war between England and France?

In 1803 a treaty has allowed England and France to enjoy a brief peace in the midst of the Napoleonic wars. With Darcy despondent over Elizabeth’s refusal of his proposal, Colonel Fitzwilliam proposes a trip to France as a distraction. In Paris Darcy unexpectedly encounters Elizabeth, who is visiting with the Gardiners. This is his opportunity to court Elizabeth properly.  But before he can make much progress, England declares war again and Darcy must help Elizabeth flee France.

En route, Elizabeth and Darcy must battle brigands, French soldiers, illness, and their own mutual attraction – all without a chaperone.

When they return to England, they have their own secrets to conceal – even from those closest to them.

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Guest Post from Victoria Kincaid

Hi Ceri,  Thank you for having me back so soon!  I am thrilled that The Secrets of Darcy and Elizabeth is finally out on audiobook.  Narrator Stevie Zimmerman did a terrific job (I particularly like her voice for Darcy).  Readers are in for a real treat! 

Here’s an excerpt from near the beginning of the book:

Slumping into his chair, Darcy regarded Richard through half-closed eyes, unwilling for his cousin to realize how shaken he was by the news about Georgiana. “I can see you will not grant me any peace until I have revealed all.”

“Now you are talking some sense.”

Darcy grabbed the bottle of port from the table next to Richard and quickly poured himself another glass, quelling Richard’s incipient protest with a glare. He would not tell the humiliating story without fortification. But after sipping his port, he fell silent, reluctant to relive the farce.

“Well?” Richard prompted.

“I…proposed to a woman, and she turned me down….Something many a man has had to grapple with. Not much to tell actually.” He strove to keep his tone matter-of-fact and his voice steady.

“What?” Whatever Richard had expected, it was not that. He simply stared at Darcy. “You—?”

“Yes.” Darcy found his cousin’s shock oddly disturbing, as if it confirmed the enormity of his failure.

“I cannot believe it! All of London has been holding its breath waiting to see who you will marry. For eight years, you have not favored a single woman. You have been leaving a trail of broken hearts in your wake—”

“I hardly think…”

Richard ignored his protest and barreled on. “She refused you? Who in the world would do that? Who did you propose to? A princess?”

“Believe it, there are women in England who do not care about my fortune. At least one. She refused me because she does not care for me.” She was right to do so, a voice in his head whispered.

“She does not like you? Darcy, who is this paragon who has seen through you?” Richard meant it as a light-hearted jest, but it struck Darcy to the quick. He scowled; that was exactly what Elizabeth had done.

“Does it matter?” The words came out almost as a groan. Darcy rubbed his face, realizing how tired he felt. Hopefully, Richard would leave soon so he could stumble up to his bedchamber.

“Yes, because I am dying of curiosity.” Richard sat up straighter in his chair.

“I think I would rather let you perish.” Darcy no longer attempted to conceal his irritation.

“Wait, is this Miss Bennet we are discussing?”

Darcy sighed. “Yes.”

“I noticed you were in a foul mood when we departed Rosings, but I believed that was because you wanted her but thought she was beneath you.” Richard’s teasing tone disappeared, apparently sensing how seriously Darcy took this situation.

“It appears I am beneath her.” Darcy gave a mirthless smile.

“Come, it cannot possibly be that dire. I know she found pleasure in matching wits with you at Rosings. What reasons did she give for her refusal?”

“I am proud, arrogant, and insensitive.” Darcy ticked the points off on his fingers. “Also, her opinion of my character was shaped by conversations with our great friend George Wickham….And….I helped persuade Bingley to separate himself from her sister.”

“That was her sister you told me about?” Richard groaned. “I am afraid I conveyed that information to Miss Bennet.” He appeared genuinely contrite.

Darcy waved this concern away. “It does not matter. No doubt she would have discovered it another way.”

“These do not seem to me to be insurmountable obstacles. You can explain the truth behind your dealings with Wickham and fix the situation with Bingley. Then you only need to be nicer to her…I know that will be the hardest part.” He gave Darcy a wicked grin, his teasing nature resurrecting itself.

Darcy stood and started pacing, rather unsteadily, on the carpet before his desk. “I already refuted Wickham’s lies in a letter to her. I also confessed my sins to Bingley two weeks ago. Hopefully, he will forgive me someday.”

“That was well done.” Richard nodded approvingly. “Will he return to see the sister?”

“I believe he will visit Netherfield next week.” Darcy stared bleakly at the pattern on the carpet.

“You should accompany him. Perhaps you can change Miss Elizabeth’s opinion of you.” Richard’s voice was full of hearty encouragement.

Darcy considered it for a moment; perhaps his letter had altered her view of his character, but, no, it could not possibly change enough. He shook his head in despair. “I am afraid it is a hopeless cause. She made that abundantly clear.”

“Surely there is some small reason for hope.”

“She said she had not known me a month before she knew I was the last man in the world she could be prevailed upon to marry. I defy you to find cause for hope in that.”

Richard gave a low whistle. “That is…impressive.…”

Darcy raised his eyebrows in appreciation of Richard’s reaction. “Indeed.”

Richard rubbed his chin with his palm. “Well, she is a spirited woman with decided opinions.”

“Yes.” That is why I love her.

“So, may I ask, what purpose does the port serve?” Richard’s voice was gentler and less teasing. Did he sympathize with Darcy’s despair?

“The theory behind the port is that it dulls the pain and causes me to forget, at least for a little while. It also helps me sleep. And then the following day, I feel so awful that I cannot think of anything else.”

“So that is the theory. How does it work in reality?” Richard asked.

Darcy shook his head, realized that it made the room sway, and stopped. “A life in tatters with drink is still a life in tatters.”

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Author Bio

Victoria has a Ph.D. in English literature and has taught composition to unwilling college students. Today she teaches business writing to willing office professionals and tries to give voice to the demanding cast of characters in her head.

She lives in Virginia with an overly affectionate cat, two children who are learning how much fun Austen’s characters can be, and a husband who fortunately is not jealous of Mr. Darcy. A lifelong Austen fan, Victoria has read more Jane Austen variations and sequels than she can count – and confesses to an extreme partiality for the Colin Firth miniseries version of Pride and Prejudice.

Visit her at www.victoriakincaid.com

Goodreads • Twitter • Amazon US Author Page •

Buy Links

You can buy this book in print, e-book or audio to enjoy today - Amazon UK / Amazon US, Audible UK / Audible US. Or, you can enter the giveaway to win an audio copy.

Giveaway Time

Victoria is offering an international giveaway of The Secrets of Darcy and Elizabeth. To enter, just comment on this blog post by the end of the day on 29 August 2018. Please leave a way for me to contact you, should you be the lucky winner.

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