The Letter That Interrupts it All

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Source: Gift from Author

TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation

THE PREMISE: Misunderstandings are clearing up, feelings of admiration and affection are flourishing, and second chances are seized at Pemberley. But then a letter appears that has the power to destroy all the progress made and damage the potential for more than one happily ever after. However, in this variation, the events that happen post-letter take a couple of unique turns…

MY THOUGHTS:

I actually went into reading this novel with some trepidation as I typically abhor when Lydia’s and Wickham’s drama disturb and alter everything wonderful that is going on a Pemberley. Talk about a most unwelcome and ill-timed interruption! I am happy to say this premise introduced some interesting twists that kept my dislike of such an interruption in check!

Elizabeth visiting Pemberley is such a pivotal part of her relationship with Mr. Darcy. She is seeing him with new eyes, learning more about his true nature, and finally sketching his character with accuracy. Michelle D’Arcy beautifully portrays all these discoveries and emotions in Elizabeth’s visit.. In addition, she illustrates Mr. Darcy’s earnest attempts to improve Elizabeth’s opinion of him, his gentlemanly thoughtfulness towards the Gardiners, and his compassionate and kind behavior with everyone he encounters. I enjoyed witnessing  Elizabeth’s observation of all of Mr. Darcy’s improved behavior and admirable attributes. I especially loved the forthright conversations the two had and the moments where they chose words or actions that unmistakably alluded to their feelings for each other…

But as seasoned Austenesque and Pride and Prejudice variations readers have come to expect…an interruption is coming. And I was pleasantly surprised to see this one take a unique turn. I appreciated the alterations and new developments these turns caused. Especially the ones that led to more Darcy and Elizabeth together time! Those late night scenes at various inns….*swoon*

In addition to Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy, I appreciated Ms. D’Arcy’s portrayal of other P&P characters. Georgiana’s relationship with both Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth is lovely to witness, Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner are wonderfully supportive and sanguine, Mr. Bingley grows some decisiveness, Mr. Hurst is more than a lump, and Mr. and Mrs. Bennet are, in essentials, very much what they ever were but very likable. My only quibbles would be a desire for some scenes that were summarized to happen on page instead, and for maybe a little more satisfying closure with the resolution.

Captivating, endearing, and unique – Undoubtedly By Design is a beautifully inspired visit to Pemberley! A wonderful choice for readers who crave more time with Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth within Pemberley’s majestic and idyllic environs!

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