Stars, Scandals, and Selflessness

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Source: Review Copy from Author

Having adored Victoria Kincaid’s President Darcy, I was thrilled to learn that she had penned a second modern-day adaptation of Pride and Prejudice. And similar to President Darcy, Victoria Kincaid takes our beloved characters to another high-profile environment quite different from a small village in England – Hollywood. In this fun and thoughtful update, Ms. Kincaid introduces us to a William Darcy who is an A-list actor that has a tarnished  reputation, an Elizabeth Bennet who temporarily is working as PA for her father’s production company but wants to go to medical school, and the rest of Bennets and Bingleys, who are actors, actresses, producers, and mom-agers.

Not confining herself to the constructs of Pride and Prejudice, Victoria Kincaid finds creative ways to implement some key points from Pride and Prejudice in the world of film crews, celebrities, and life in the limelight. There is a terrible (and nearly life-threatening) first encounter, a prejudice assumption or two, a battle of wills, and an insulting offer. And each was so skillfully reinvented that they often felt fresh and unexpected. In addition, there are quite a few surprises and twists towards the end that make this an enthralling unique Pride and Prejudice inspired story, rather than Pride and Prejudice translated to modern times.

One of the elements I enjoyed most about this story was how Ms. Kincaid widened her scope and explored the importance of familial support, accepting people’s differences, thinking about others, and doing good in the world. The film everyone is working on is a serious indie project that tells the story about a transsexual teen that is kicked out by her family, left homeless, and a victim of cruelty. Even though it is a heavy topic, it was one that was handled quite sensitively and sympathetically throughout the plot. I especially loved the charity endeavors that went alongside this movie and the focus on helping LGBTQ teens who have been kicked out or have runaway from home. I applaud Ms. Kincaid for incorporating these themes and side-plots in her story, and I felt she struck a wonderful balance of addressing some sad realities and illustrating how even the smallest acts of good can make a difference.

Another element I greatly enjoyed was the portrayal and development of William Darcy. He isn’t just the typical haughty Mr. Darcy that acts aloof. He has had his own hardships, including a disappointing childhood and a recent scandal that has created turmoil in his life and damaged his career prospects. He doesn’t have just his prejudices and pride to overcome in this story, but also his cynical view of the world. I love that he was grateful towards Elizabeth for showing him how to be a better person and admired her optimism. And I appreciated how he was always quick recognize the lack familial love and support in Elizabeth’s family. His overall journey to becoming a better man and earning Elizabeth’s love was heartwarming to witness.

While this story endeared and entertained me in many ways, it felt like there were a few scenes missing. Some developments felt a little rushed or glossed over – especially with the screenwriter’s storyline, Lizzy’s school/career options, and the award ceremony in the second half. And if they were fleshed out some I think the result would be a richer and more encompassing story.

Darcy in Hollywood is a diverting and refreshingly original Pride and Prejudice tale that I am sure many readers will enjoy. I greatly admire the inventive premise, insightful character development, and inspiring themes Ms. Kincaid employed in this story. I sincerely hope she will pen another modern-day adaptation of Pride and Prejudice soon!

NOTE: Due to the occasional use of profanity, I’d recommend this story for Mature Audiences.

Add to Cart   I   Add to Shelf