Schemes and Speculation

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Source: Gift From Publisher

TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation

THE PREMISE: After Elizabeth’s unequivocal rejection at Hunsford, Mr. Darcy obstinately decides to give her up and finally concede to Lady Catherine’s wishes by proposing to Anne. Knowing Darcy is heartbroken and not in his right mind, his two cousins – Colonel Fitzwilliam and Lord Saye – try every tactic to make him give up this ridiculous plan. But when persuasion, consolation, and bribery all fail, they decide to rouse him into action with some manufactured competition…

WHAT I LOVED:

• An Inspired Scheme: Well done, Fitzwilliam brothers! You know your cousin well. And what a way to goad him into action! By letting him believe that someone else is traveling to Meryton with the intention of seeking Elizabeth’s affections. I thought it was a genius plan, and I love seeing Lord Saye and Colonel Fitzwilliam work together and pull it off with their credible acting skills.

• Everyone Wants In: Saye doesn’t give three straws about privacy. He likes to have his fun too, you know. What started as a coercive bet between brothers, becomes a grand and famously known wager that has all of London speculating. I loved the sporting fun of everyone bandying about this choice bit of gossip and their eagerness to place their own wagers. Even Elizabeth’s sisters were in the spirit of things and ready to speculate…

• The Fitzwilliams In Meryton: While Darcy was invited back to Netherfield to stand up with Mr. Bingley and take part all events and outings planned for Mr. Bingley’s wedding, the two Fitzwilliam brothers solicit their invites from Bingley to join in on all the festivities. It was great fun to see these two mix and mingle with all of Meryton. Saye is as irreverent and mischievous as ever, and Colonel Fitzwilliam is determined to charm. Their antics together with their cousin are always so diverting to witness, but how fun to see them with Caroline, Mrs. Bennet, Lydia, and Elizabeth.

• Darcy Quietly Winning: With his competition whisking Elizabeth’s attention away at every opportunity, how is Mr. Darcy to repair Elizabeth’s opinion of him? He fails to initiate any sort of amicable conversation with her multiple times, and instead ends up accusing her and igniting her ire. But Elizabeth shows her wit and shrewd perception in this tale. As one suitor continues to pursue her with fervor, she is more inclined to seek out the one with more reserve.  She observes him whenever she can. She sees his quiet good works, she notes his compassion and sincere care, she understands his honorable actions. I love seeing Darcy win Elizabeth’s heart in this gentle and gratifying way.

• Saye Saves the Day: I delight in Saye’s penchant for drollery and outrageous opinions, but I also love when he has these deep and perceptive moments of sense. I absolutely adored the moment in this book where he shares some frank truths and wisdom with someone who needed to hear them. Despite all his flummery and aloofness, he truly is a loyal and caring friend.

WHAT COULD HAVE BEEN BETTER:

• I’ll facetiously repine that this novella could use more Florizel…I think he is becoming an “in demand Amy D’Orazio essential” like Lord Saye. 🐩 😏

FINAL THOUGHTS:

🤨  Colonel Fitzilliam and Lord Saye are master manipulators and cunning instigators!

📚 Amy D’Orazio proves she can do light-hearted satire just as brilliantly as she does heavy, heart-wrenching angst.

🤣 Full of ruses, gambols, and misdirection this is a most entertaining and amusing read that is sure to make you laugh and smile.

Add to Cart   I   Add to Shelf