My MOST Favorite Christie Capps Novella (so far!)
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Source: Gift from Author
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation Novella
THE PREMISE: Soon after returning from the distressing events in Ramsgate, Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy makes the grievous discovery that he is exhibiting some similar symptoms of the illness that his father suffered through in his last days. And now he is on a mission to preserve Pemberley and protect his family’s legacy by finding a suitable wife and producing an heir quickly. But can he convince the woman he wants to marry him under these alarming circumstances?
MY THOUGHTS: LOVED IT!! Wowza! This is a spectacularly unique premise – I don’t think I’ve read a story before where Mr. Darcy believes he has contracted a terminal illness… I loved the urgency and poignancy this gave to the story, poor Mr. Darcy does not believe he has many months or even years left to live. But I also loved how Ms. Capps balanced this more serious premise with wonderful moments of endearing playfulness, sincere joy, and unexpected love.
I loved everything about this story – how Mr. Darcy faces this wretched situation so stoically and selflessly, how Elizabeth’s care and compassion is immediately engaged when witnessing Mr. Darcy’s vulnerable state, and how both characters, believing their time together to be rather short, strive to keep their hearts disengaged. This relationship was full of such loyalty and devotion. I love how Elizabeth became so in tune to Mr. Darcy’s behavior and how she grew to understand how and when his illness effected him, and was not quick to prejudge or misunderstand him. In addition, I loved watching love blossom in both of these characters, how their quiet contentment and happiness in spending time with each other led to a fervent and irrevocable love. Lastly, I loved Mr. and Mrs. Bennet’s parts in this tale. Mrs. Bennet is the real MVP, believe it or not!
While I would, of course, love more this novella was one that was perfectly paced and developed. A Reason to Hope is an inventive and well-crafted Pride and Prejudice variation that shares a heartwarming and uplifting journey for Darcy and Elizabeth. I highly recommend!
I read and enjoyed this story (5 star review from me) as I have also enjoyed her other stories.
I too love this book Meredith! Just wonderful! It’s definitely a favourite along with For Pemberley and Lost and Found.
It’s a shame Joy is no longer writing her Christie Capps novels but at least I can continue to reread those in the series.
Oh I did not this one, will check it.
I loved this story too. Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Meredith!
This novella looks amazing!! I have read another JAFF with a similar premise in which Darcy is lead to believe that he has a degenerative brain disease and marries Elizabeth for the same reasons. I do not remember what it is called, but I remember really enjoying it.
Susanne, would it have been Amy D’Orazio’s story A Fine Joke? Darcy thought he was dying in that story. It was amazing if you haven’t read it.
Loved your review, Meredith. AND, I loved the book. OMG! I loved this Darcy and Elizabeth. Mrs. Bennet, MVP. Well chosen.
sounds fantastic!
Wasn’t this story awesome? I loved it for all the reasons you stated so well. I think it’s time for a reread. 🙂
This is my favorite Christie Capps Novella also! I have read it many times! I love both Darcy and Elizabeth in this story!
I haven’t read this one yet! Thanks for the great review its going on my btr list!
Thanks Meredith I read this book a while ago now and enjoyed it very much, your review has inspired me to reread again
Sounds like a very moving story, glad to find out about this one as I had missed it.
Thank you for your lovely review, Meredith. Your caution in not giving things away is so appreciated by me. You’ve got skills!