Hi friends! I hope you are all doing well! We have a scary hurricane heading towards us at the moment… 😮
But in happier news I have the lovely Jennifer Redlarczyk here for a visit today! Just a few weeks back she released Darcy’s Melody – a book I’m very excited about as it combines my two loves Jane Austen and music! Today Jennifer shares an intriguing scene between Darcy and Elizabeth and in honor of someone’s special birthday today, Jennifer is sharing an outtake from Darcy’s Melody as well!! We hope you enjoy!
Greetings! I am pleased to be back on Meredith’s blog today with my new release, Darcy’s Melody, inspired by Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. In the year 1811 the war with France continues to rage, sending many injured men home to England where accommodations are limited. Raising funds to build an additional structure at the London Hospital for the wounded has become a top priority for Lady Eleanor Fitzwilliam, Countess of Matlock. She has not only enlisted members of the ton to assist with her committee, but women who are well-known throughout the trade community. It is within this endeavour that Elizabeth Bennet and Georgiana Darcy first meet through a mutual love of music. In this particular scene, however, Darcy and Elizabeth encounter each other under very different circumstances.
From Chapter One
Under the Cover of Books
London
Tuesday, 21 May 1811
Early afternoon
Ballard’s was an eclectic treasure trove of rare first editions and unusual books located on the thoroughfare of Piccadilly. Although it appeared somewhat dingy and dimly lit from the outside, inside the ageing building the atmosphere was inviting, and a vast array of literature beckoned lovers of the written word.
Promptly at one o’clock, Fitzwilliam Darcy entered the bookshop and walked directly towards his favoured section. While paging through a military war journal, he instinctively glanced toward the back of the shop. Even with several patrons milling about the establishment today, Darcy’s eyes were drawn to a young lady who appeared to be examining a small book in the poetry section.
Closing the journal, Darcy ambled over to where the woman stood and began perusing the titles on a nearby shelf. After taking a book in hand, he purposely turned his head towards the young lady. Captivated by her large, dark emerald-green eyes sparkling with mischief, he felt his lips curve into a half smile when she spoke.
Pray, sir, may I trouble you to hand me the book of Cowper poetry on the upper shelf?”
Darcy nodded. “With pleasure. Cowper is an excellent choice.”
As he reached for the book, she continued, “One poem in particular reminds me of Oakham Mount in Hertfordshire. I find I am rather desirous of its solace today if only through the eyes of the poet.”
Handing her the book, he answered in kind. “I understand your sentiments for I, too, am from the country and have longed to return to Derbyshire.”
Arching an eyebrow in his direction, she inclined her head and said, “I thank you, sir.”
You are most welcome.”
As she turned the pages of her selection in search of the poem, Darcy heard the young lady gasp when both of her books slid out of her hands and onto the floor. “Oh dear,” she sighed, stooping down to retrieve them.
Allow me,” he immediately offered. Both reaching for the books, Darcy felt her small, warm hand carefully slip a folded piece of paper into the palm of his own. The young lady had not replaced her glove after perusing her own book, and her skin was soft to the touch. Leaning closer, the faint scent of lavender seemed to strengthen, causing his chest to tighten and his heart to quicken in response.
Feigning innocence, she looked up at him and said, “Again, sir, I am in your debt. Perhaps I should make my purchases before I have another mishap.”
Permit me to carry these to the desk for you.”
Acknowledging his offer with a slight curtsey, the young lady whispered, “Sir, I think we are being observed.” Then speaking louder, she added, “Thank you again. You are most kind.”
Your servant.” He bowed. With his senses heightened from being forewarned of impending danger, Darcy spoke softly in return, “How did you come? I would not have you leave here unescorted.”
There is a carriage waiting, sir. A manservant is nearby and a maid is within.”
Then leave now and be careful.”
~ ♫ ~
I’m sure you have many questions about this clandestine meeting which is for the most part explained during the first chapter of my book. If you haven’t purchased the book, please feel free to check out the first two chapters of Darcy’s Melody in the preview on Amazon.
Now, with today being September 12, Darcy’s birthday, I’ve decided to include a short story which was first posted on www.darcyandlizzy.com where you can still find a few other outtakes from my book. This particular story celebrates the birth of our hero. Enjoy!
Her Most Precious Gift
12 September 1783
The Study
The floorboards of the study seemed to groan as the master of Pemberley paced relentlessly from one end of the room to the other. His steps were heavy, and his muscles ached from lack of sleep. With each cry that echoed through the halls of the great house, James Darcy’s mind was filled with anguish, knowing his wife was suffering.
Father in heaven, I beg of you, protect her and the life of our child,” he prayed. Although Mr. Purdy, his doctor from London, had been in residence for the past three weeks tending his wife, the man’s presence did not lessen James’ fears. Last year, one of his own tenants had lost a child in the birthing process and then shortly after, the man’s wife perished from childbed fever. “If I were to lose them, I do not know how I should ever survive,” James whispered.
With Lady Anne’s next cry, James could endure the agony no longer. Flinging the door against the wall, he rushed from the study. Taking the stairs at a run, he climbed two at a time before striding down the hall to his wife’s chambers. Arriving at the entrance to her room, James nearly bumped into his ever-faithful housekeeper who stood porter at the door. Demanding entrance he bellowed, “Stand aside, Mrs. Reynolds. I must see my wife.”
Sir, I am sorry, but you cannot enter. Mr. Purdy has requested that you adhere to what is expected and remain outside of the birthing room until he sends for you.”
Stepping back, he glared at the small woman who dared to defy him. Though James Darcy dearly wished to ignore the societal expectations of a gentleman during a woman’s confinement, he also knew that it was his duty to abide by proper decorum. Regaining his composure, he asked, “Tell me, will it be much longer? I fear for her life and that of our child.”
The kindly woman smiled, “Mr. Darcy, trust me, all will be well. Lady Anne is tired, but her pains are coming closer now, and soon the babe will be with us.”
Thank you.” He nodded in compliance. “Please tell Lady Anne my prayers are with her and the child.” With that, James turned and walked in the direction of the nursery.
Entering the room, James briefly allowed himself to be distracted while he proudly examined all that his wife had done in preparation for their child. Decorated in pleasing hues of sunny yellows and greens, the room was cheerful and inviting.
Picking up a small wooden horse carved by one of his tenants for the babe, he unconsciously rubbed his fingers back and forth over the smooth wood as he walked about the room. Throughout his estate, Lady Anne was known to be an avid horsewoman and a lover of all nature. Thus, many such gifts had arrived as of late. Continuing to hold the figure, James took a seat in the corner rocking chair. Ever since she had felt the quickening, he had often found his wife sitting here, singing and talking to the babe she carried.
Looking about the room, it seemed as though every corner displayed something that would delight a child. Still, it was her personal touch which gave him the greatest pleasure. On the table lay a journal filled with pictures of animals Lady Anne had illustrated for the purpose of teaching their child as he grew. Directly across from where he sat, she had hung one of her larger drawings, a picture of the pond.
Dearest, you have loved that old pond for as long as I can remember. Even when your family came to visit during the summer months, it was a rare day that I did not find you there.” He chuckled with the recollection.
It was at the pond where James Darcy, a young man of one and twenty, first took notice of Lady Anne Fitzwilliam. From early on, Lady Anne had been fascinated with nature and was determined to catalogue nearly every kind of plant, bush and tree existing between Matlock and Pemberley. On that particular day, she had been sketching plants growing at the water’s edge and had accidently soiled her dress in the process. When he happened to come upon her, his first response was to criticise her carelessness. To his surprise, she chose to return his rebukes with one of her own.
Lady Anne, I do not understand you at all,” he chided. “Why must you always come to the pond whenever you visit Pemberley? I seem to recall that young ladies of your age should be netting purses and embroidering handkerchiefs, or better still, practicing their instruments.”
“Mr. Darcy, you may be the next heir to Pemberley, but I cannot help wondering if you are truly appreciative of the treasure which lies at your feet. Please forgive my impertinence, but in my opinion, unless you understand this land and embrace all it has to offer, you will never be a proper caretaker.” Lady Anne quickly turned away and began to collect her sketch books and pencils with the intention of returning to the manor house.
While James had difficulty identifying with Lady Anne’s passion for nature, he was taken aback by her implication that he would never be a proper caretaker. No one had ever questioned his suitability to be the Master of Pemberley on any level. Not willing to be so easily dismissed, he proceeded, “Lady Anne, I would like to know your meaning.”
“Forgive me, I have said too much.”
Not wanting to end the discussion, he asked, “Will you not continue to share your opinion with me?”
Lady Anne looked at him with curiosity. “If you wish,” she shyly smiled.
“I do,” he said looking into her sparkling blue eyes. It was the first time James had ever noticed their vibrant colour, and he could not help but smile.
Very well then, I shall be happy to show you some of my work,” she answered. In doing so, he not only developed a new appreciation for the essence of the land which he had often taken for granted, but he found himself very much impressed with a certain young lady.
My dearest love, I have been a fortunate man to see my legacy through your eyes as I manage our vast estate,” he murmured.
Continuing to study the picture, James had to admit that the pond area had also become his favourite refuge, since it held many treasured memories of time spent there alone with his wife. More recently, during the late spring and much of the summer, James and Lady Anne had often picnicked there when they felt the need for quiet and solitude.
On one such day, the happy couple had taken to that very spot. Knowing how much his dear wife loved country wild flowers, James had set out to pick a small bouquet for her pleasure while she rested beneath a large shade tree. Upon his return, the vision presented before him was overpowering.
Having removed her bonnet and gloves, his lovely wife sat upon a large rug, reclining against the trunk of a tree. Several long curls no longer bound by their pins, beckoned him to her side as they lazily blew about in the gentle breeze. All was quiet save for the intermittent sound of water splashing against the shoreline and the simple song of a thrush who accompanied his wife as she hummed a familiar lullaby. There she sat with her eyes closed and her hand tenderly caressing the swell of her body where their child was growing.
My darling,” he quietly spoke, not wishing to startle her when he placed the flowers on the rug and sat beside her. “Never, have I seen you looking lovelier.” He kissed his wife on the cheek, whispering how much he loved her as he covered her slender fingers with his large hand. To his delight, James Darcy was rewarded with the miracle of life, when mere seconds later he felt the babe quicken for the first time.
Anne, is this our child which I feel stirring here, beneath my hand?”
Yes, my love, it is.” With eyes misting, she fondly returned his smile. “Our child grows stronger with each passing day.”
Again he felt the quickening. “Does it feel uncomfortable?” he asked in wonder.
No, not yet, the babe is too small. The movements will become stronger as I continue to increase. For now, I am content, and I find the quickening of our child is very comforting.”
I am glad to hear it.”
Interrupting his reverie, James’ senses became heightened by a sudden quiet which now pervaded the house. Though his wife’s painful cries had stopped, he had not yet heard the crying of the babe. Filled with panic, James bolted from the room and ran down the hall.
Hang propriety, I shall see my wife this instant!”
At the moment he thrust open the door, James became aware that all was not well. Mrs. Reynolds was holding his wife’s hand and wiping her tear stained face while Mr. Purdy along with the midwife, both huddled over the child who had yet to make a sound.
James,” she sobbed, reaching for him with outstretched arms. “The babe does not cry.”
Not wasting a moment, James was at Lady Anne’s side embracing her and whispering words of endearment and reassurance into her damp hair. Although he expected the worst, he tried not to show his fear as he comforted her.
Seconds later the doctor slapped the babe on the backside once again. Without delay, a loud cry was heard by all. Still holding the babe in his arms, Mr. Purdy turned to the couple exclaiming, “Mr. Darcy, Lady Anne, I offer both of you my congratulations on the birth of a healthy son!”
Thank God,” Mrs. Reynolds murmured, quickly moving to initiate the cleaning of the babe and her mistress.
May we see our son before he is bathed?” Lady Anne nearly pleaded.
Of course, My Lady.” Without hesitation, the doctor quickly wiped some of the mucus from his reddened face and body before wrapping the crying child in some clean linen. Carrying him to his loving parents, he carefully placed the boy in Lady Anne’s waiting arms.
Oh my precious child,” she cooed, kissing the top of his dark, matted hair. Her voice was calming, and the babe ceased his crying as she continued to talk to him in her soothing voice.
Curiously pulling back the cloth to inspect his newly born son, James choked with pride upon seeing his son’s long body, lean and strong. “He is perfect, my love, just as you are. Oh, how I love you both, my darling.”
What shall we call him?” she asked never looking away from the face of her beloved son.
I believe your surname, Fitzwilliam, would be fitting, as is often the custom. It is a strong name and one that will be worthy of his position in society when he reaches manhood.”
Smiling, she looked up at her husband while saying, “And if I may, I would like to add James, after his dear papa.” He nodded in approval. “Then, if you do not object, I would add yet one more. In honour of your younger brother who is no longer with us, I would like to call him Alexander.”
I am pleased, my love, a very fitting name. Fitzwilliam James Alexander Darcy, the next heir of Pemberley.”
Yes, the next heir of Pemberley.”
The End
~~~
Oooh! Such an intriguing encounter between Darcy and Elizabeth, I cannot wait to learn more about their clandestine encounters and what it all means!
And such a touching sequence about Mr. and Mrs. Darcy – I love that Mrs. Darcy was outspoken and had a fondness for natures, sounds like she would have gotten on famously with Elizabeth Bennet!
Thanks again to Meredith for hosting me today. Readers, please leave your comments 
below to be entered in my giveaway for two eBooks (International) and for one print book accompanied by a Darcy’s Melody tote bag. While you’re at it, I’m sure Darcy wouldn’t mind a birthday wish or two, although I would prefer it if you sent me your favorite cake since I do virtual eating very well. Then if you have time, please check out my YouTube channel where I’ve recorded all of Lizzy’s songs along with a book trailer. Also, do stop by my Pinterest page and take a look at my chapter by chapter posting of Darcy’s Melody in pictures. Good luck! Jen Red ♫
~ Connect with Jennifer ~
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~~~
GIVEAWAY TIME!
Today Jennifer brings with her some lovely prizes for me to give away in celebration of her new release!! TWO ebooks of Darcy’s Melody (open internationally) and ONE canvas book bag with a print copy of Darcy’s Melody inside (open to US residents) will be given away to some lucky winners!!! Woot woot!!
To enter this giveaway, leave a comment, a question, or some love for Jennifer!
- This giveaway is open worldwide (ebooks only). Thank you, Jennifer!
- This giveaway ends September 19th!
Congrats on your new book and Happy Birthday, Darcy! Wishing Darcy a very wet year. May he swim in the pond forever!
Talia! Thanks for your wishes! I’m totally with you about that pond and there are some references in Darcy’s Melody. Ha Ha. Good luck with the giveaway! Jen Red
Hey Meredith! Thanks again for having me today! I love being here and can’t wait to see what kind of cake folks leave for Darcy’s Birthday! Jen Red
I susoect messaes were exchanged between Darcy and Elizabeth (Iam presuming she is Elizabeth though)
Obviously having problems typing this morning – suspect, messages, and I am – I meant to type
I know what you meant Vesper and thanks for stopping by. It is Elizabeth and I thought meeting this way would be a change from “Barely Tolerable.” The exchange of messages is explained further along in the first chapter. Good Luck with my give away.l Jen
Happy Birthday, Darcy, and this giveaway ends on my daughter’s birthday. What is going on that Elizabeth is handing Darcy a note and he is so concerned about her? I am very, very intrigued. The excerpt was very moving. Thank you for the giveaway.
Evamedmonds, thanks for stopping by! In the first chapter of this book, D&E meet in a very unusual way. They have no prior knowledge of each other but are doing the bidding of others which is revealed later on in the first chapter. Good luck with my giveaway. And happy birthday to your daughter. Jen Red
Now I am intrigued with how they meet.
Wow. I can’t decide which of these excerpts is the more intriguing and poignant. Wishing you a very Happy Birthday and many more of the same (and many thanks for your generous giveaway offer). I have a photo of Colin Firth wearing a birthday cake hat but cannot seem to copy it here. Sorry.
Colin Firth with a BD Cake sounds delicious! Thanks for stopping by and I’m glad you enjoyed my excerpts. Good luck in my giveaway! Jen Red
I forgot to mention: Meredith, here in SC the coastal areas are already being evacuated. Looks like this is going to be a big storm that hits both Carolinas. Do stay safe.
I love both these stories and yes, I have read the entire book! Whoever wins will be very lucky indeed!
Thanks Brenda! I appreciate your support and we sure have had fun with my writing adventures! Jen Red
Wonderful feature and giveaway. The excerpts were very enjoyable. I look forward to enjoying this lovely book.
Thanks Anne. I hope you enjoy my tale as I had a wonderful time writing. Good luck in my giveaway! Jen Red
Enjoyed the excerpt. I wonder what led them to having a clandestine meeting. I also enjoyed the short story as I have never read about Mr. Darcy’s birth before.
Darcybennett , the meeting was arranged by others and is explained further in the chapter. I’m glad you liked my short story. When I was writing “Darcy’s Melody,” I wrote several outtakes like this one and plan to include them in an anthology of short stories that I’d like to publish in 2019. Good luck on my giveaway. Jen Red
JenRed is one of the sweetest people in JAFF. There are few others who have a caring nature to the extent she shows in every interaction. In addition, these excerpts show she’s a good writer. I love the choices of Darcy’s middle names. I know this story posted on D&L dot com and I missed it there but I understand there’s a Jennifer-sung soundtrack to go with the book, which you’d love, Meredith! Best of luck on the new release and on the anthology, Jennifer! Thanks for the special post.
Suzan, thank you so much for your kind words and support. The song you mentioned comes up on the YouTube link Meredith posted where she says Connect with Jennifer. It’s one that was written for my sister, Melody, so I decided to use it with pictures that represent my story in the trailer. Thanks again and good luck with the giveaway! Jen
Stay safe Meredith…you too JanisB. As for Darcy’s Melody, I truly enjoyed it and just loved this opening chapter. This additional story was just beautiful…no wonder Darcy was so taken with Elizabeth! Congratulations Jen and look forward to your next book!
Hi Carol, I’m glad you enjoyed the opening. The outtake gives us a little insight to Darcy’s parents, especially Lady Anne, who is acknowledged in several scenes, even though she has passed. In Darcy’s Melody, Darcy still feels a close connection to his mother and that is evident in how he speaks of her with Georgiana and Elizabeth. Good luck with my giveaway! Jen Red
Great excerpt Jennifer! I think I read a slightly shorter version you shared on another site, but it was great to read it again. So intriguing and mysterious. I wonder how the story will unfold. It’s as if Darcy and Elizabeth know each other already, even though this is their first meeting. And a sweet story of Darcy’s parents. Congrats on your new release!
Thank you so much Elaine! It was fun writing that first scene. Both Darcy and Lizzy doing something out of the ordinary makes for a fun first encounter. No crazy Bennet Mama or “Barely Tolerable” to contend with. Their next meeting in the second chapter proves to be far different. I hope you will get a chance to read my book. Good luck on the giveaway. Jen Red
OMG!! Lots going on today. First… Meredith… we want you and Mr. Bingley to be safe… hello to Mr. Bingley. Take cover… better still… leave and don’t take any chances with this storm. We want you safe. Second… thanks for hosting today. What fun!
Thanks to Jen Red for the generous giveaway and the exciting excerpts. I can’t imagine what Lizzy and Darcy are concerned about. Who is watching them and why? Also, that excerpt of when Darcy was born… oh, I love this Lady Anne. Yep, she would love Elizabeth. If she had lived, I could see them taking many walks on Pemberley grounds and the many pathways. Thank you for sharing.
Happy Birthday to Mr. Darcy… you’re looking pretty good for 200+ years old. May you live long and happy.
J.W. Thanks so much for stopping by and I’m glad you are enjoying the party. The why comes out later in the first chapter, but the who doesn’t come out until the 3rd. Lady Anne would love Lizzy and Lizzy gets to know her through her son and daughter. Although she has passed, Lady Anne holds a special place in the hearts of many in this story. Good luck on my giveaway. Jen Red
PS I agree, he is looking VERY good for 200+ years. Lucky Lizzy! Ha Ha!
I am so intrigued by the excerpt from Darcy’s Melody; I can’t wait to find out what all happens before and after this mysterious meeting!!
I would LOVE to win a copy!! Crossing my fingers and wishing hard!! 😀
Thank you for all the excerpts, Jennifer! Both of them were a real treat! And thank you for your generous giveaway, too!
And Happy Birthday, Darcy!! 😀
Warmly,
Susanne 🙂
And Meredith–stay safe!!! Praying for you and for those in NC!!
~Susanne
Hi Susanne! Thanks for stopping by. That first meeting was so fun, wasn’t it! A message passed along with a few sparks just to add a little icing on the cake. This is just the beginning of their relationship which will pass through several challenges before HEA. I hope you like my story and good luck in the giveaway! Jen Red
A lovely short story and a very intriguing excerpt! Thanks for the chance to win the book. I’d like to know exactly what Elizabeth and Darcy are up to!
Thanks Pam! Yes, what are those two up to? Much is revealed during the later part of this first chapter, but not all questions are answered until a little later in my tale. Good luck with the giveaway. Jen Red
Checking this book out right away! Thank you for the chance to win. Selfishly I will wait until after Sept 19 to buy it – just in case…
Thanks Beatrice! Yes, you can read more of the preview on Amazon, but all of your questions will not be answered right off. I hope you do well in the giveaway. Jen Red
Thank you! I read the Amazon preview earlier today, and it is TERRIFIC. At 481 pages the book’s quite long, too, which is very satisfying to look forward to after the delightful beginning I’ve seen.
Oooh I want to know what was in that note!!!!! Thanks for sharing, I’d love to read Darcy’s Melody ♥️ HB Mr Darcy
The note, indeed the note. It’s very tempting. Thanks for stopping by and wishing Darcy a happy birthday. Good luck in the giveaway. Jen Red
Hi Beatrice. Amazon has the first two chapters up on the preview so you can read a little more of what is going on. Thanks for stopping by and good luck with the giveaway. Jen Red
Oh I love to read snippets from JAFF books! I enjoyed both excerpts very much and would very much like it to be included in the giveaway. Thank you for making it possible! (And a happy birthday shout out to Mr Darcy; where would we ALL be if not for him? LOL)
Denise, I’m glad you stopped by and entered the giveaway. I love parties and Darcy is probably embarrassed by all the adulation, but we’ll just ignore that for now. Good luck in the giveaway. Jen Red
Elizabeth a spy? And Darcy? Goodness knows where this will go but I look forward to finding out. I loved the look back at Darcy’s parents and his birth.
Good luck with this book Jennifer.
Stay safe Meredith and I hope your home and possessions are as you left them when you are able to return.
Thanks Glynis! Spies indeed! OR are they…. More is explained in the first chapter. I’m glad you enjoyed my excerpts. Good luck in the giveaway. Jen Red
I haven’t been able to pick this one up yet! The clandestine meeting has me ready to go buy it now! Thanks and congrats!
Hi Leah! I hope you are doing better. Yes the first meeting is very special and one that sets the tone for their relationship. Good luck in my giveaway. Jen Red
Congratulations, wonderful book!
Venita, thanks so much. I’m glad you enjoyed my post. Good luck in the giveaway. Jen Red
I certainly hope Elizabeth is helping someone with her note to Darcy. I will be putting this on my wish list for sure!
lynnchar, yes the meeting was prearranged by others and the note is very important for their associates. Ha Ha! Now to find out how this ties in with my music theme. Thanks for stopping by and good luck with the giveaway. Jen Red
I am looking forward to reading Darcy’s Melody!
Thank you Joan and good luck with the giveaway!
Happy birthday to Darcy! I tried to send virtual cake here in the comments but it didn’t work. I’m rather intrigued by that paper…
Hi Maria, Yes, everyone wants to know what was written in the message. Ha Ha! Virtual cake would have been delicious, but we can make due with Darcy’s Chocolate cake. Gook luck in the giveaway! Jen Red
Such an enjoyable tale and I love the idea of both Darcy and Elizabeth as spies. Thank you Meredith for hosting Jen and her lovely book (and stay safe!). Jen, great story and I can’t wait to read it again (and again and again . . . . . 😀 ).
Thanks Elaine, your support is always welcome. I, too, hope all is well with Meredith. Good luck in my giveaway. Jen Red
Oh, this sounds wonderful! I loved reading about the birth of Fitzwilliam and the clandestine meeting of Darcy and Lizzy. Can’t wait for more. Thank you, Jen, for the giveaway opportunity. The canvas book bag is lovely too! Best wishes with your release.
Meredith, I hope you and Mr. Bingley stay safe and your home too. This one does not sound good. I’ve been watching it and pray that it will not be as bad as predicted. Did I hear correctly that you had to evacuate? Take care!
Thanks Janet! I had fun writing that opening scene as well as the short story. Good luck in the giveaway and yes, Meredith, take care! Jen Red
Loved the sample you shared from your book, Jen, and the extra story in celebration of Mr Darcy’s birthday!! Thanks for the fun reads!
And Meredith, thinking of you and your hubby during this storm! Hope you are both well .
Hi Marilyn, thanks for stopping by. When I was writing DM I found myself writing a few back stories that didn’t fit in the book so it was fun to use one here. Good luck in the giveaway. Jen Red
Ooooo intriguing excerpt. Passing notes? Potential compromise there. I’m looking forward to reading this new book, oh boy, yes! Beautiful cover, Jen. Best of luck with this book, Jen. I’d love to win one of the ebooks.
For everyone on the east coast, be safe, good luck and God Bless. Meredith, I saw on your Facebook post that you and Mr. Bingley did evacuate. I’m glad, but I know you’re worried about your home and community, and your family and friends in the area. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
A tall, dark and handsome (and very rich) hero like Mr. Darcy needs an equally tall (4 layers) dark, rich (extremely rich luscious chocolate) choc cake to represent him. And enjoying such would be a nice substitute for um…looking at and dreaming of that hero. I don’t know though, I think about the only passion he indulges in is his love for and protection of his Lizzy, and his sister Georgianna, oh! and Pemberley. You know he’s all about duty. He might be more the conservative fruit tart kinda guy. Give me a piece of that chocolate cake, though.
Michelle, I cut a large slice of yummy rich chocolate cake! My favorite too. The cover is a Renoir Painting, Young Girls at the Piano in public domain. My son did the graphics for the cover which was fun. Thanks for you comments and good luck with the giveaway! Jen Red
Wow! Happy Birthday Mr. Darcy!! I cannot help but want to finish this book!! I am agonizing to complete it! Don’t you just love clandestine messages. I am so happy that you were here with it. May all the winners relish their treasures!!
Thanks so much Sharon for stopping by. The opening scene is very tempting, isn’t it. Good luck in the giveaway. Jen Red
Congrats on your new release, Jennifer. I am so intrigued by the excerpt, I can barely stand it. I must know why they are meeting clandestinely and why a special instruction to be careful. (My Lady Catherine moment is over.)
Happy birthday to Mr. Darcy! In the event you have gotten too many sweets, I will send a slice of sour cream pound cake, which is delightful.
Thank you so much for the lovely giveaway opportunity.
Stay safe, Meredith!
Lori thanks so much for the sour cream pound cake. One can never have too much cake in my opinion. I wonder if Darcy has a sweet tooth. Hmmm. Thanks for stopping by and good luck in the giveaway. Jen Red
Such a wonderful story. Such a delectable cake.. Thank you Jennifer for this Darcy birthday reminder and treats/stories.
Hi Buturot! Thanks for stopping by. I’m glad you enjoyed the cake and my excerpts. Good luck in the giveaway! Jen Red
Jennifer, what an intriguing hook for Darcy’s Melody. What are they up too? Is this their first meeting? They are definitely speaking in code (Hertfordshire, Derbyshire). Are they part of a spy ring? Are they exchanging love notes for others? I need to know more!
And the story of Mr Darcy’s birth was lovely. It was wonderful to see the relationship between Mr Darcy and Lady Anne. I love reading backstories like these.
To all of you who are in the path of Hurricane Florence, I pray that you will all be safe. It must be very scary.
Happy Birthday to Darcy. Having read this story while it was a WIP I look forward to reading the published version. Thanks for a chance to win it or a tote bag. Hope all those in Florence’s path are safe but sad to read of some deaths and much destruction. Thanks for the excerpt and the short story.
Hi Sheila, thanks for stopping by and I also hope that Meredith is safe and the the destruction from Florence is minimal. Good luck in the giveaway. Jen Red
Thank you for this giveaway as well as for sharing with us both that except from chapter one as well as that scene with Fitzwilliam Darcy’s parents the day he was born. I had not known September 12th was Mr. Darcy’s Birthday but now I have added it to my calendar so I will remember next year.
Thanks Chelsea! I’m glad you liked my excerpts. As for Darcy’s BD, someone else may have chosen another date, but that is the one we have for Darcy’s Melody. It has a special significance for me since it was the birth date of my first husband who passed on some 20 years ago. Just as “Melody” in the title of my story is a hidden dedication to my sister, Melody. Now you know a couple of my secrets. Good luck with the giveaway. Jen Red
Happy Birthday Darcy. Those are lovely excerpts. I love reading all your writings that show your beautiful heart and kindness.
Looking forward to reading this book.
Thanks Amy, I hope you enjoy it and good luck in the giveaway! Jen Red
Hello everyone and thanks to Jennifer and Meredith for bringing us this post.
I like the plot of this book and I would like to read it.
The picture on the cover is a painting by Renoir?
As for Mr Darcy’s birthday wish, I don’t think he needs our best wishes because he, in every situations, always finds the way to his happy ending!
Good luck everyone for the giveaway!
Hi Loren! Yes the cover is Renoir – Two girls at the piano- in public domain. That guy, I agree, he always gets his happy endings. Thanks for stopping by and good luck in the giveaway! Jen Red
Such an enjoyable story, Jennifer. Thank you.
Thanks so much Betty, I appreciate your kind words. Good luck in the giveaway. Jen Red
Wonderful cover, Jen!
Thanks Robin! My son is my graphics man. Of course he had an excellent download to work with being it is Renoir. Good luck in my giveaway. Jen Red
Happy belated birthday, Mr Darcy! I love reading the two scenes that you shared with us, Jennifer. I believe I’ve read the first excerpt before but I enjoyed re-reading it again nevertheless. It was sweet that James Darcy and Lady Anne are in love and it is not an arranged marriage.
As for the cover, the painting is lovely to look out but it may not suit the era in which the characters are portrayed. If I’m not wrong, I think the frocks and hairstyle in the cover greatly resembled the Victorian fashion. Whereas Darcy’s Melody is set during the Regency era where ladies wear Empire waist dresses. So there seem to be a disjointed representation of what the cover depicts and the actual writing.
Hi Lúthien84. I’m glad you enjoyed my excerpts. Yes, you are right about the date of the painting. It is Renoir 1889. Although it is not Regency, I thought it was an excellent representation of my title and what the story is about. Elizabeth and Georgiana meet under the direction of Lady Matlock and their friendship is strengthened through their love of music. These two women are the most important people in Darcy’s life. They are his music, metaphorically speaking. So while the painting is not period, it works for me. Thanks so much for your comments and good luck with the giveaway. Jen Red
I’m sending some love for you and thanks for the pleasure your stories have given me.
How mysterious! I would Love to bump into Mr. Darcy in a book shop. I adore your cover as well.
On fantasy for the entire book. When?