When Given Good Principles by MJ Stratton

Today MJ Stratton is visiting with an excerpt and giveaway of her latest book When Given Good Principles, which came out yesterday. There's also a giveaway - read on for more!

Book Description

“When one is given good principles, one must take care never to follow them in pride and conceit.”

George Wickham was content to ride the coattails of his well-connected friends, right up until they declared him a lapdog good for little else other than his connection to Fitzwilliam Darcy. Properly humbled, and with his father’s death imminent, he returns to Derbyshire in hopes of seeing the man who raised him before it is too late.

One last conversation with his father sets George’s feet on the right path and on a journey of self-discovery. Along the way he makes new friends and pursues new interests better suited to his disposition than that of a clergyman, eventually finding himself in Meryton, clerk to Mr. Philips, a country solicitor.

Stunned to encounter his friend Darcy and others he knows in the area, Wickham sets out to correct the poor impression Darcy has made on the citizens of Meryton… one lady’s opinion, in particular.

What happens when Mr. Wickham, charming, charismatic, and affable, uses his amiable nature to influence and guide the behavior and actions of those around him, and how will his reformation affect Darcy’s and Lizzy’s courtship? And what will happen when an unexpected source seeks to thwart his efforts?

When Given Good Principles follows an alternate path of our favorite Pride and Prejudice characters. Mr. Wickham joins Darcy and Lizzy in the spotlight in this Pride and Prejudice Vagary, featuring a reformed George Wickham and an unexpected villain.

Excerpt from When Given Good Principles by MJ Stratton

1 June 1804

Northmore Estate, Wiltshire

        Nineteen-year-old George Wickham was rather enjoying his time at Viscount Northmore’s estate. The summer weather was beautiful, the sport marvelous, and best of all, he was having the time of his life on someone else’s coin. George had met the viscount at Cambridge at the beginning of his first term. After being tormented for years at Eton, even with Darcy’s protection, it was a nice change to have a peer to be paying him some attention. Darcy had been his only friend through their years in school up until last term. Now George had been invited to spend the summer at Northmore with the viscount and several other friends. Yes, things were truly looking up.

        The door to the salon opened and a footman entered. “For you, sir,” said the stiff-lipped servant, as he handed the envelope in his hand to George.

        Immediately, George’s curiosity piqued. This was an express. No one he knew would send him such a missive…He tore it open, reading rapidly before collapsing in the chair.

        George, 

        Your father fell ill three weeks ago with a spring cold. He has been unable to recover, and it has moved to his chest. We do not expect him to last through the summer. Enclosed are some funds to see you home to Pemberley.

        G Darcy

        George reread the missive in his hands many times, barely daring to breathe. His father? No. The man was a tower of strength. He had fallen from a ladder and broken his leg five years ago. The doctors had all claimed he would never walk again, yet six months later the man had been about his business as the Darcy’s steward as if nothing had happened. Surely Mr. Darcy was mistaken.

        Not that it mattered. He would be on the next post coach home, if possible. George refused to risk the chance that he would not be present if his father passed.

        He gathered his thoughts and strode out to find the viscount. There were voices coming from the library, and George assumed that was where the rest of the gentlemen in the party were. As he approached the door, he happened to hear his name. He stopped outside, interested to hear what was being said.

        “Come now, Northmore!” Lord James Rutherford said loudly. “What do you see in Wickham? He’s the son of a steward! Hardly a gentleman and definitely not worth your time.”

        “I concede that point, James,” Northmore said, “but Wickham is a useful fellow. He is passingly good at cards and willing to do just about anything to keep my patronage.”

        “So, he is a lapdog?” snorted Marcus Hawthorn, heir to a baronetage.

        “Very much so,” Northmore said. “Obviously he will not be in our circles once university is complete, but for now, I do not mind having him around. Besides, it is a connection to the Darcys, tenuous though it is.”

        “Ha!” guffawed James. “In that you are correct. We know old Mr. Darcy favors him. Young Fitzy is too much of a stuck-up prig to get close to. I hardly know anyone else in our set that is at Cambridge to actually learn.”

        The three laughed uproariously at their humor. George stood just outside the doorway, equal parts angry and dismayed. He had thought he was accepted in the group based on his own merits; that besides his lack of fortune and breeding, those of the first circles had seen his value and sought to cultivate his friendship for that reason. To find out he had been acquired due to his connections to the Darcys was appalling. For a moment, he wondered if this was what Darcy felt like all the time.

        George retreated a few steps, then made a show of entering the room loudly, which stopped all conversation. “Gentlemen,” he said in greeting. “Northmore, I have received an express and am required at home immediately.”

        Northmore’s apparent concern would have seemed genuine if George had not just heard their discussion. “Nothing terribly wrong, I hope?” he said.

        George swallowed tightly. “My father is ill,” he said mildly, trying his hardest to hide his distress.

        Northmore’s response was lukewarm. “Oh, well,” he said, “I do hope that all is resolved shortly. ‘Tis a pity that your holiday has been cut short.”

        Nothing was said about feeling regret at his departure. There was no expression of distress at his news. George felt as if the world had been laid bare before him. He was not wanted here. And so, he bowed succinctly at that remark and excused himself to pack. He was on the next post coach back to Pemberley, determined to forego all comforts until he was at his father’s side.

Author Bio

MJ Stratton grew up in a small town in rural Utah, moving back in 2021 after being away for ten years. Her love of Jane Austen was born at a young age when she read Pride and Prejudice for the first time. Her first ever exposure to JAFF was watching Lost in Austen as a teen. MJ recently left her teaching job to be at home with her four children, and hopefully pursue her passion for writing more fully. After feeding her love of books by editing and beta reading for years, she hopes to commit more fully to penning her own stories. MJ loves food, growing things, and the quiet of the countryside. You can find MJ on Facebook and Amazon.

Buy Links

When Given Good Principles by MJ Stratton is available to buy now in Paperback, Kindle and Kindle Unlimited.  

• Amazon US • Amazon UK • Amazon CA • Add to Goodreads shelf

Giveaway Time

MJ Stratton is giving away 3 ebooks of When Given Good Principles. To enter, please use the linked Rafflecopter. 

Note about comments:  If you'd like to comment on this post and have any problems adding your comment please contact me and I will add it for you :)

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Spells and Shadows by Victoria Kincaid - Excerpt and Giveaway

I’m really pleased to be welcoming Victoria Kincaid to Babblings of a Bookworm today with her latest Pride & Prejudice variation, Spells and Shadows, which has a magical element.

Victoria has joined us with an excerpt of the book and an ebook giveaway. Read on for more details!

Book Description 

Spells and Shadows, A Fantasy Pride and Prejudice Variation

As a secret agent for the Mages’ Council, Mr. Darcy investigates a necromancer who is leading his followers down a dark path. When they discover him, a fight and a chase drive Darcy—injured and close to death—into the river. He is rescued and healed by Elizabeth, a talented mage at the Longbourn estate. Darcy cannot help developing feelings for her, but he dares not reveal his true identity while the necromancer’s creatures search for him.

Elizabeth Bennet is intrigued by the family’s new guest as he recovers at Longbourn. But mystery surrounds the man, and strange happenings plague the neighborhood while he visits. Elizabeth herself harbors a secret that she cannot share with the handsome stranger.

When Darcy’s enemies come calling, the Bennet family is caught in the crossfire. Worse, Elizabeth’s magic draws the necromancer’s particular interest. Darcy is falling in love with her and believes she returns his feelings, but the secret of his true identity could destroy their budding relationship—if they survive the upcoming danger.

Can Elizabeth and Darcy protect themselves and their families from the necromancer’s plots? What will happen when learn each other’s secrets? Can Elizabeth and Darcy’s love survive when it is entangled in a web of secrets, spells, and shadows?

Doubt Not, Cousin by Barry S Richman - Blog Tour, Excerpt and Giveaway

Today I’m happy to be welcoming a new visitor to the blog as the blog tour for Barry S. Richman’s book, Doubt Not, Cousin drops by. This is a Pride & Prejudice variation. Let’s look at the blurb, after which I can share a very romantic excerpt and ebook giveaway with you, courtesy of Meryton Press.

Book Description

Darkness, in many forms, must be conquered to emerge into the light and embrace one’s happily ever after.

Fitzwilliam Darcy. Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam.
Two cousins, closer than brothers.
One finds love despite his inner demons; the other resists love because of them.

Elizabeth Bennet. Kitty Bennet.
Two sisters, strengthened by adversity.
One willingly yields to love; the other pridefully misinterprets it. 

An epic saga steeped in intrigue and gift-wrapped in romance, Doubt Not, Cousin chronicles the trials and tribulations of three extraordinary families during England’s Regency era. 

… But who is the girl with the violet eyes?

Handsome, Clever & Rich by Jayne Bamber - Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway

I’m happy to be welcoming Jayne Bamber back to the blog with her latest book, Handsome, Clever & Rich. It’s a Pride & Prejudice variation but some of you might recognise this title as being words Austen uses to describe Emma Woodhouse…

Let’s have a look at the book blurb and then I’ll hand you over to Jayne, who has brought us both an excerpt from Handsome, Clever & Rich and an ebook giveaway.

Book Description

What if Elizabeth is not a Bennet by birth, but by marriage?

When Netherfield Park is let at last, the village of Meryton is inveigled in romance, intrigue, and a few less-than-happy reunions. The Bingley siblings return to the home of their youth, an estate purchased just before the death of their father. The neighborhood, especially the Bennet family, is ready to welcome them back with open arms, but Mr. Bingley’s attempt to make a good impression on his community backfires so badly that it is his awkward friend Mr. Darcy who is obliged to salvage the situation in the aftermath of Mr. Bingley insulting Jane Bennet at the Assembly.

Young widow Elizabeth Bennet begins her acquaintance with Mr. Darcy on amiable terms, but the reckless folly of his friend and the regrets from her own past create a bumpy path to Happily Ever After for them.

Not long after an injury obliges Elizabeth to recover at Netherfield Park, her estranged sister finally discovers Elizabeth’s whereabouts, and journeys from Highbury to Meryton in all haste, suitors in tow.

When one unexpected betrothal arises out of necessity, Jane Austen’s most notorious matchmaker is inspired to work her magic at Longbourn, Netherfield, and Lucas Lodge – but she, too, will have met her match in matters of meddling & mischief….

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The Sailor’s Rest by Don Jacobson – Guest Post, Excerpt and Giveaway

I’m very pleased to be welcoming Don Jacobson with a guest post and excerpt of his new book, which is released today! The Sailor’s Rest is a book which features characters from both Persuasion as well as Pride & Prejudice. First, I’ll share the blurb with you and then hand over to Don for a guest post and excerpt from The Sailor’s Rest. There’s also an ebook giveaway. Read on for more details.

Book Description

The Sailor’s Rest: The Naval Adventure Jane Austen Could Have Written!

Jane Austen’s greatest lovers come together to be tested in the crucible of war on the Mediterranean’s blue waters and in the smoky confines of a prestigious London gambling den.

The Sailor’s Rest is inspired by Pride and Prejudice and Persuasion and is set on the stage of Napoleon’s 100 Days. Discover how the two betrothed couples—Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy, along with Frederick Wentworth and Anne Elliot—find their love tried by separation, battle, and deception.

The novel immerses readers first in a mystery, then a sea chase, and, finally, a satisfying comeuppance. From the tattered rooms of a waterfront inn to three frigates engaged in a deadly game of naval chess, readers will experience the yearning as four hearts come closer to one-another. Before the tale ends, the audience will step into the gilded confines of London’s preeminent card room.

The Sailor’s Rest uses the characters formed by Austen as a starting point in an Austenesque excursion that will leave readers both challenged and richer for the experience.

The Sailor’s Rest is set in the Persuasion timeline of 1815 but leaves in place the age and plot constructs established by Austen in Pride and Prejudice. This is a full-length novel of 115,000 words.

Part mystery, part adventure - and all heart - This has the feel of a Hornblower epic.

Alice McVeigh, author of Susan: A Jane Austen Prequel

Mr. Darcy 's Valentine by Heather Moll - Blog Tour, Guest Post, Review and Giveaway

Today I’m really pleased to be welcoming Heather Moll back to the blog with the blog tour for her newest book, Mr. Darcy’s Valentine. I love a bit of seasonal reading and have been lucky enough to read this one. As you will have gleaned from the title it’s a Valentine’s day story. Read on to learn more about the book, read a guest post from Heather, see what I thought of the book and finally have the chance to enter a worldwide giveaway.

Book Description 

WILL AN EXCHANGE OF SECRET VALENTINES LEAD TO LOVE?

After her aunt notices her partiality for Mr Wickham, Elizabeth Bennet is invited to town for the winter along with her sister Jane, and February in London gives Elizabeth the chance to become better acquainted with the Gardiners’ friend Mr Elgin.

When Mr Darcy and Elizabeth cross paths at a concert, Darcy must account for how Bingley left Hertfordshire as he considers his deepening feelings for Elizabeth. Bingley is determined to renew his attentions to Jane, and an evening’s diversion of writing valentines leads to disastrous results for Darcy.

When Valentine’s Day arrives, who will Elizabeth want to receive a valentine from: the lively man she just met or the man whose proposal she already refused? On sale Feb 1, 2023 by Excessively Diverted Press in ebook and paperback.  

Content note: this is a 50,000 word kisses-only variation

Three Brides for Three Cousins by Christine Combe - Excerpt

I can't believe it's been so long since I last posted! I hope you had a good Christmas (if you celebrate) and that 2023 has good things in store for you.

Today I’m happy to be welcoming Christine Combe back to the blog with her latest book, Three Brides for Three Cousins. Read on to learn more about the book and enjoy an excerpt, which Christine has come to introduce. 

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Excerpt from Three Brides for Three Cousins, Introduced by Christine Combe

Thank you for having me again, Ceri! I’m so excited to be visiting Babblings of a Bookworm today to talk about my latest Austenesque novel, Three Brides for Three Cousins. This new story is a Pride and Prejudice tale set on a slightly alternate timeline than the original. Many of the same events will happen just not at exactly the same time as Jane wrote.

Book Description

Fitzwilliam Darcy’s twin cousins are ready for their debut in society, and one might think that would keep their mother—the Countess of Disley—well occupied. But even preparing her daughters for presentation to the Queen and their debut ball has not stopped Lady Disley’s plans to marry off her two sons and her nephew at last. 

Elizabeth Bennet and her elder sister Jane are in London with their aunt and uncle at Gracechurch Street to enjoy some of the delights of the Season. They do not expect that meeting Mrs. Gardiner’s cousin from Derbyshire and the young lady to whom she is companion will lead to a reunion with the young man who wrote Jane some verses of poetry when she was 15 … or that he will be revealed to be a viscount.

Although sure this means the end of their new acquaintance with the shy Miss Darcy, Elizabeth and Jane are surprised when her brother lets the friendship continue. More than that, Lord Rowarth is forced to confess that his feelings for Jane remain strong, and his determination to defy convention and pursue a match with her unintentionally draws Elizabeth and Darcy to each other. Amidst supporting his brother's attachment to one Bennet sister and encouraging his cousin Darcy’s growing feelings for the other, Colonel Theodore Fitzwilliam is enlisted by a duke’s daughter to help prevent her family’s ruination from scandal.

Family drama, misunderstandings, and the expectations of society are difficult waters to navigate. Can these three cousins get through it all to win the hearts of their chosen ladies and secure their own happiness?

 

Now that I’ve piqued your interest with the blurb, how about a look at chapter 2?

***

Monday, 6 January 1812 

Elizabeth Bennet had never been more pleased to be in London than she was upon reading her father’s letter.

His writing at all was rare enough a treat—Mr. Bennet rather enjoyed receiving correspondence, but disliked being obliged to write back—so for him to write to her voluntarily, without her having written first, was a special occasion indeed.

The contents of his letter were excessively diverting; he had received a letter from his cousin Mr. Collins, a young gentleman he had never met, about the beginning of December that he admitted to not having replied to for a fortnight. Mr. Collins apologized for not having written before but had feared disrespecting his father’s memory to be on good terms with one whom the late Mr. Collins had been at variance. His mind was now made up to “heal the breach” in their family; having been ordained the previous Easter—and having been so fortunate as to be distinguished by the patronage of someone called Lady Catherine de Bourgh—he felt it his duty to promote and establish the blessing of peace in all families within the reach of his influence.

Mr. Collins further apologized for being the next in the entail of their family estate, as it would prove an injury to Mr. Bennet’s “amiable daughters,” assured him of his intention to make them “every possible amends,” and proposed coming to visit at Longbourn for a week.

He seems to be a most conscientious and polite young man, Lizzy, upon my word, and I doubt not will prove a valuable acquaintance, especially if Lady Catherine should be so indulgent as to let him come to us again. He cannot possibly be sensible, I think—and in fact, I have great hopes of finding him quite the reverse. There is a mixture of servility and self-importance in his letter, which promises well. I am impatient to see him. The only thing that could make the endurance of this visit more enjoyable would be if you were here to laugh with me, my dearest girl. There will not be two words of sense spoken together in this house until you and Jane are returned.

Elizabeth smiled as she folded the letter and put it away. Though she would certainly miss having the opportunity to meet this cousin of her father’s—who was due to arrive at Longbourn that very day—she could not say she was entirely sorry. She and her elder sister Jane had both of them been invited to spend a few months of the London Season with their aunt and uncle who lived there, and though they were not likely to attend any grand balls—and were neither of them expecting to land a husband, as was the general purpose of the Season—they were promised as much pleasure in shopping, theatre, concerts, and museum tours as their uncle could afford. They would meet many of their relations’ acquaintance who lived in Town, so there would also be dinner parties and card parties to enjoy.

That she and Jane would also be free of the foolishness and insipidity of their mother and youngest sisters was a bonus.

“Oh, what joy!” cried her aunt suddenly.

Elizabeth looked to her aunt with a curious gaze. “I see your letter has brought you as much amusement as mine has given me, Aunt. May I ask what is so joyful?”

Marjorie Gardiner smiled as she looked back at her niece. “My cousin Edina is come to London! I’ve not seen her since before my marriage, though we have corresponded frequently. Oh, how I long to see her—the poor dear was married just four years when her husband died of an infection, and they had no children. Rather than return to her father’s house, she took a position as companion to Miss Darcy.”

“Who is Miss Darcy, Aunt?” asked Jane.

Mrs. Gardiner looked up again as she folded her letter. “Miss Darcy is sister to Mr. Darcy of Pemberley—do you remember me telling you of that beautiful estate?”

Elizabeth nodded slowly. “Vaguely, yes. Did not you say that the grounds are delightful, and did not my uncle once claim there were woods and groves enough to satisfy even me?”

Her sister smiled and her aunt laughed. “Yes, Lizzy,” said the latter. “I have heard that seeing the park at Pemberley is a hard business, as it is a full ten miles round. I went there once—with my cousin Edina and her parents, as a matter of fact—and we toured the gardens about the house. I should have liked to see inside it as well, but the family were home that day and my uncle would not disturb them.”

She lifted her letter. “Edina proposes to call on me when they are settled, so perhaps in a day or two you shall meet her.”

“’They,’ Aunt?” queried Elizabeth.

“She is come with Mr. and Miss Darcy.”

Elizabeth shared a look with Jane. “Does Mr. Darcy bring his sister to Town for the Season’s marriage mart?”

Mrs. Gardiner laughed again. “Oh, certainly not! Miss Darcy is not yet out, as she is but fifteen and her brother thinks her too young to begin the search for a husband.”

If only Mamma were as pragmatic as Mr. Darcy on that score, Elizabeth thought sourly. She and Jane were the second and eldest of five daughters, respectively; Mary was third; Catherine—whom the family called Kitty—was fourth. Though the youngest of her sisters, Lydia was also the most outrageous; she was but fifteen years old, and her behavior was wild and inappropriate. Mr. Bennet had allowed her to be out in Meryton society when she was only fourteen, at first resisting the idea but then relenting under the pressure—and vexation—of the incessant complaints of his wife and her second favorite daughter. Above all things, Mr. Bennet desired peace and quiet in which to enjoy the books in his library, and if allowing the youngest of his children to join her sisters in the society of their neighbors would achieve that, he was glad to do it so long as they let him be.

Mrs. Bennet was sure that Jane’s “angelic” beauty would save them from starving in the hedgerows when their father was gone, for she was sure to get herself a rich husband, and she believed Lydia’s “liveliness” to be equally certain of as fortunate a match as her sister. Elizabeth knew that their chances of marrying well were not very great, considering the limited society in Meryton. And if her father could not be stirred to check her younger sisters’ behavior—for Kitty followed wherever Lydia went despite being two years older—she feared that some misstep of theirs would make any chance of a respectable match non-existent for all.

“No, my dears,” Mrs. Gardiner was saying, “Edina said Mr. Darcy did not wish to leave his sister all alone in Derbyshire, so brought her along while he conducts business in London.”

“Oh, how very kind he is to his sister!” Jane declared. “But… What of their parents, Aunt?”

Elizabeth watched her aunt’s countenance fall a little. “I am afraid they are both of them deceased,” she replied. “Lady Anne Darcy passed… oh, about twelve or so years ago now. Mr. Darcy the elder has been gone near five years.”

“And how old is the present Mr. Darcy?” Elizabeth asked. “To have a sister so very young, he cannot be much older than Jane.”

“I believe he is about seven-and-twenty,” Mrs. Gardiner replied.

“One cannot help but feel for such a young man, to have both the burden of his estate and fortune as well as a sister’s guardianship thrust upon him at only two-and-twenty,” said Jane then.

“Indeed, my dear,” Mrs. Gardiner agreed. “But from what my family and acquaintance in Lambton have told me, he is just as kind and generous as his father was. I think it would be a privilege to be noticed by him.”

Elizabeth scoffed. “Is it not said to be a privilege and an honor to be noticed by anyone richer than oneself?”

“Now Lizzy, do not speak so uncivil,” her aunt admonished her lightly. “You know it is the way of things that those of greater fortune and rank are afforded greater respect and deference, and therefore it is an honor to be acknowledged by them.”

Suppressing a sigh, Elizabeth nodded. “I know it, Aunt. And you are right—it would be an honor indeed to be the acquaintance of a man who owns half of Derbyshire.”

***

Author Bio

Christine, like many a JAFF author before her, is a long-time admirer of Jane Austen’s work, and she hopes that her alternate versions are as enjoyable as the originals. She has plans to one day visit England and take a tour of all the grand country estates which have featured in film adaptations, and often dreams of owning one. Christine lives in Ohio and is already at work on her next book.

Links:

Blog: All That They Desire / Facebook: Christine Combe

Buy Links 

If you are keen to read more, Three Brides for Three Cousins is available to buy now in Kindle and Kindle Unlimited.  

• Universal Amazon Buy Link • Add to Goodreads shelf

 

If you'd like to leave Christine a comment about the book please leave a comment on this post. 

If you have any problems adding your comment please contact me and I will add your comment for you :)

 

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Subscribe to Babblings of a Bookworm 

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The Last House in Lambton by Grace Gibson - Blog Tour

Today I’m really pleased to be welcoming Grace Gibson back to the blog with the first stop in the blog tour for her newest Pride & Prejudice variation, The Last House in Lambton.

Publishers Meryton Press are giving away an ebook on each stop of the blog tour so you will have the chance to win a copy of it too! Let’s look at the blurb and then I will hand over to Grace for a guest post about the book.

Book Description 

Does it ever stop raining in Lambton?

 

Darcy and Bingley depart Netherfield Park, leaving Elizabeth Bennet acutely aware of the monotony of her life. Seeking a reprieve, she volunteers to serve as temporary companion to Mrs. Gardiner’s elderly aunt who lives in Lambton. Nothing turns out as Elizabeth expects, and she is forced to dig deep into her reserves of common sense, humor, and stubborn persistence to prove herself equal to the dreary circumstances. 

 

Initially unaware that Pemberley is only five miles away, Elizabeth crosses paths with Darcy annoyingly often. When the gentleman rescues her from a shocking situation, Elizabeth faces some hard choices, at the same time struggling against the smoldering attraction that can neither be repressed nor fulfilled.

 

Mr. Darcy, meanwhile, in whose heart a fire has also been lit, is shocked by the lady’s stubborn refusal to accept his help. Alternating between alarm and begrudging admiration, he stands helplessly on the sidelines while she struggles to retain her independence. He, too, must make some hard choices in the end. Will he let her go?

A Dutiful Son by Kelly Miller – Blog Tour, Excerpt and Giveaway

Today I am welcoming Kelly Miller back to Babblings of a Bookworm with her latest book. It’s a Pride & Prejudice variation called A Dutiful Son. Read on for a lovely excerpt from the book, plus an ebook giveaway.

Book Description

What will Fitzwilliam Darcy do when his beloved father stands between him and happiness?

Darcy has always emulated his wise and honourable father, George Darcy. But following a sinister act of betrayal by a former family friend, his father rejects his most benevolent principles.

When Georgiana forms a friendship with Miss Elizabeth Bennet, Darcy convinces his father to allow the association to continue. However, Elizabeth soon presents a thorny problem: she entices Darcy as no other lady has before, and with his father’s current outlook, he would not approve of her as a daughter-in-law.

Still, Darcy’s problem may resolve in time: his father, after getting to know Elizabeth, is certain to recognise her many admirable qualities and change his mind. But what if he does not?

In this Pride & Prejudice Regency variation, Fitzwilliam Darcy is caught between the influences of love and duty. Which of these will wield the greatest power?

An Appearance of Goodness by Heather Moll - Blog Tour, Guest Post and Excerpt

 The blog tour for Heather Moll’s latest book, An Appearance of Goodness stops by here today, with an excerpt and a giveaway. Let’s look at the blurb, and then I’ll hand over to Heather to introduce the excerpt. 

Book Description

Can a Derbyshire meeting lead to love or will Pemberley be plunged into mystery?

In the rainy summer of 1812, Mr Darcy returns to Pemberley with a large party in the hopes that coming home will help him recover from the disappointment of his failed proposal. He lost Elizabeth Bennet’s good opinion, but Darcy did all he could to rectify his errors. Meanwhile, Elizabeth hopes that travelling with her newly-wed sister and Bingley will raise her spirits and distract her from thoughts of Darcy.

When a misunderstanding causes the Bingley party and Darcy’s to spend a fortnight together at Pemberley, both Elizabeth and Darcy wonder if the other could love them. When the season’s wet and cold weather causes flooding throughout Derbyshire, Darcy’s attention reluctantly shifts from his guests–and Elizabeth–to managing the tragedy.

But when someone drowns and Darcy refuses to believe their death was an accident from the storm, he and Elizabeth must work together to uncover the truth before his houseguests leave, and before anyone else gets hurt.

Content note: mature content, mild violence

Once Upon a Time in Pemberley by Summer Hanford - Guest Post, Excerpt and Giveaway

Today I am really happy to be welcoming Summer Hanford for her first visit to Babblings of a Bookworm. Summer usually releases books with her writing partner Renata McMann, but this latest title, Once Upon a Time in Pemberley is a solo project. Summer has joined us with a guest post explaining how this book came about. There are aspects to this book that I didn’t pick up on from reading the book description so I found Summer’s post a really interesting read and I am sure you will too.  

Summer has also brought a giveaway, plus a nice long excerpt from the book. So, grab yourself a cuppa and settle in for a read! I’ll share the blurb first and then hand over to Summer so she can tell you more.

Book Description

Can the course of a life be altered by the stroke of a pen?

Widowed at a young age, Fitzwilliam Darcy has no reason to think he'll ever find the love his first marriage lacked. Instead, he dedicates himself to his roles as father and co-guardian, determined to excel at both. But when love finally finds him, will he be too mired by the strife of the past to recognize it?

Elizabeth Bennet does not care for the newest addition to Meryton society, no matter how handsome and wealthy Mr. Darcy might be. She is, however, rather fond of his children and his sister. If only Mr. Darcy needn't be so certain of his own worth, she would tolerate him on their behalf, but that change in him seems very unlikely.

Once Upon a Time in Pemberley is a sweet, Regency era Pride & Prejudice Variation of approximately 92,000 words. While this is Summer Hanford's first variation without co-author Renata McMann, it will not be her last. Plus, you can look for more joint Renata McMann & Summer Hanford variations to come.

Mr Darcy's Phoenix by Lari Ann O'Dell - Blog Tour, Guest Post, Excerpt and Giveaway

Today I’m pleased to be welcoming Lari Ann O’Dell back to the blog as part of a blog tour. I love that there are more Austen-inspired reads with a magical slant, and I am pleased to say that Lari’s latest book, Mr Darcy’s Phoenix is one of them, combining Pride & Prejudice with magic. Read on to learn more on the book, plus have the chance to win an ebook of Mr Darcy’s Phoenix. 

Book Description

A phoenix brings them together. Will a curse keep them apart?

When the hauntingly beautiful song of a phoenix lures Elizabeth Bennet to the Netherfield gardens, she has a vision of an unknown gentleman. He whispers her name with such tenderness that she wonders if this man is her match. Unfortunately, her gift of prophecy has never been exactly reliable.

Mr. Darcy is a celebrated fire mage, the master of Pemberley, and the man from her vision. But he is not tender; he is haughty, proud, and high-handed. His insult of her during the Summer Solstice celebration makes her determined to dislike him in spite of her love for Dante, his phoenix familiar.

After Mr. Darcy is called away by his duties, Elizabeth’s magic runs wild, and it is only their reunion at Rosings that offers her any hope of controlling it. They are drawn together by their love of magical creatures and their affinity for fire. But Elizabeth soon has another vision about Mr. Darcy, one that may portend a grave danger to his life.

Can Darcy and Elizabeth overcome misunderstandings, curses, and even fate itself?

A Season of Magic by Sarah Courtney - Blog Tour - Guest Post, Excerpt and Giveaway

Happy Friday everybody! The blog tour for Sarah Courtney's new Pride & Prejudice-inspired book, A Season of Magic visits us for its last stop today with an excerpt and giveaway. As you can tell from the title, it has magic, but to learn more let's look at the book description:

Book Description

Everyone knows Elizabeth and Jane’s parents were magical murderers. But blood isn’t everything.

When the girls are forced to reveal their elemental magic, it does not matter to the Mage Council that they did so only to save lives. Their parents were traitors, and the entire magical community is simply waiting for them to descend into evil themselves.

The Council reluctantly admits Elizabeth to the magical university (and unofficial marriage market) called The Season, where she will learn how to control her powers. If she can keep her head down and avoid drawing any untoward notice, she might be able to graduate and finally be accepted as a fire mage.

But fading into the background will be difficult. Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy, nephew to Lord Matlock of the Mage Council and a student himself, is assigned to observe her and report any misstep. One mistake could send her back to her foster parents, the Bennets—or worse, to prison. Yet when that mistake inevitably comes, he stands up on her behalf. Could he be an ally instead of an enemy?

When pranks between classmates become something more dangerous—and potentially deadly—Elizabeth will be forced to depend upon her friends—including Mr. Darcy. There’s something terrible lurking beneath the surface of the Season, and it will take everything Elizabeth has to survive it.

Born to be a Heroine by Christine Combe - Except

Today I’m happy to be welcoming Christine Combe to the blog with her new book, Born to be a Heroine. You may recognise this as a Northanger Abbey reference, but this is a Pride & Prejudice variation. Let’s look at the blurb and then I’ll pass over to Christine for an excerpt from Born to be a Heroine. 

Book Description

When Elizabeth Bennet meets the new residents of Netherfield at Meryton’s monthly assembly, she does not expect to make a fast friend in the perpetually cheerful Catherine Morland -- nor does she expect the surprise of being asked to dance by the proud and haughty Mr. Darcy.

Fitzwilliam Darcy doesn’t care to dance unless he is particularly acquainted with his partner, so no one is more surprised than he when not only does he accept the challenge presented to him by Miss Morland, but he also asks the playful Miss Bennet for a dance as well.

Catherine Morland joined Mrs. Allen in accepting the invitation of Mr. Bingley, great nephew of Mr. Allen, to visit Netherfield for the simple pleasure of making new acquaintances and seeing a new place. She is most delighted to have found in Elizabeth Bennet and her elder sister Jane the kind of dependable friendship she found in Eleanor Tilney.

When an old nemesis of Darcy’s comes to town, trouble quickly brews in which both Elizabeth and Catherine become entangled. While one young lady battles the workings of her heart, the other is caught in a compromise which could damage her respectability in society. Each is forced to look deep inside herself to discover the strength that proves she was born to be a heroine.

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The Barrister’s Bride by Suzan Lauder - Blog Tour, Excerpt and Giveaway

I’m happy to be hosting a stop on the blog tour for Suzan Lauder’s new Pride & Prejudice variation, The Barrister’s Bride. Suzan has joined us with an excerpt of the book and has brought a giveaway opportunity. Let’s look at the book description and then I’ll hand over to Suzan to introduce the excerpt.

Book Description 

A pact that will change their lives forever…

Fitzwilliam Darcy is a successful young barrister with a bright future. His late uncle has guided his career, made him his heir, and even selected a bride for him—sight unseen—whom he’ll meet and marry upon her majority. Who could have predicted that making the acquaintance of Miss Elizabeth Bennet in Meryton would throw those careful plans into disarray?

Elizabeth Bennet doesn’t know what to make of “Fitz” Darcy, who intrigues and draws her notice like no other. Despite Fitzwilliam’s warnings, she allows Mr. George Darcy, Fitzwilliam’s older brother and master of Pemberley, to charm her. Little does she know that she, too, has been promised in marriage by her late father—to an unknown barrister, no less. What is she to do when her hopes to marry for love disappear in the blink of an eye?

Is George Darcy’s suit in earnest? Can this mysterious bridegroom of her father’s choosing become the husband of her dreams? With the danger of duels and deceit, what will come of the initial attraction between her and Fitzwilliam? Will she become the barrister’s bride?

Note: contains scenes with adult content.

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