Hi friends! Happy Wednesday! This post is coming to you from an airport, where I have (unexpectedly) spent the night! 😁😩 And while I am eagerly waiting to get on my last plane and reunite with Fezzik again, how about I distract myself with something very special – like a cover reveal for a new Pride and Prejudice variation by Julie Cooper!!
~ From the Author ~
Meredith, thank you so much for having me again, this time for the cover reveal of Mr Darcy’s Abducted Bride, designed by the lovely and talented Susan Adriani.
My daughter challenged me to write a story in which either Mr Darcy kidnaps Elizabeth or Elizabeth kidnaps Mr Darcy. Of course, we all know that polite society, even now, frowns upon hostage situations; during the Regency, it would have been unspeakably coarse. But it set my mind to thinking…what circumstance would possibly initiate a criminal capture between two such well-behaved characters? And the story was born.
~ Book Description ~
Miss Elizabeth Bennet is going nowhere with the two of you. Anyone can see she is not in her right mind.
ON THE DAY AFTER MR BINGLEY’S BALL at Netherfield Park, Fitzwilliam Darcy is determined to leave Hertfordshire and put the delightfully beguiling Elizabeth Bennet out of his mind. As he is preparing to leave, however, he hears some horrifying news. Mr Collins, it seems, intends to make Elizabeth an offer of marriage. Mrs Bennet—panicked by Mr Bennet’s illness—will stop at nothing to ensure that her obstinate, headstrong girl accepts it and becomes Mrs Collins as soon as is possible.
RUSHING TO LONGBOURN, Darcy finds that Mrs Bennet has contrived to make Elizabeth out of her wits while she and Mr Collins plan for an immediate wedding. Recognising that Elizabeth will find herself bound to a ridiculous man for life, Darcy acts a hero, rescuing her and removing her from harm, intending to keep her away from the dastardly duo until she has regained her wits.
DAZED AND CONFUSED BY THE STRANGE GOINGS-ON at Longbourn, Elizabeth finds herself thrust into a terrifying journey alone with Mr Darcy. Mr Collins and her mother will stop at nothing to see their plans carried to fruition, and Mr Darcy is her only chance of salvation. Can she learn to trust him quickly enough to discern which of the choices before her will lead to happiness?
Mr Darcy’s Abducted Bride is a novella-length Pride and Prejudice vagary.
~ Excerpt ~
Elizabeth maintained her dignified countenance until the heavy inn door shut firmly behind them and they had walked several steps into the darkness beyond it. Suddenly she stopped, forcing Darcy to pause with her, and looked up at him.
“I have no idea where I am going,” she said.
“I was following your lead.”
She burst into laughter. “That is not at all wise, sir, when I have been out of my head for most of the day. I suppose your belongings are still at the inn?”
“A few bits and bobs only. Oh, and my man is there, awaiting my return. I suppose he might begin to wonder, if I did not.”
She shook her head ruefully. “Let us turn back, then.”
“I would never dream of spoiling such a perfect exit as you provided us. I will send someone to fetch him, and my coachman as well.”
“It is long past dark, and unfair to drag them out,” she worried aloud.
“Probably the innkeeper would insist upon our departure regardless—engaging in fisticuffs in his taproom is frowned upon, I am certain. My men will understand, once they know Wickham is in the vicinity. Besides we are a mere couple of hours, give or take, from town, and doubtless they would prefer to have their own beds.”
Which they could have had long ago, had they not had to deal with me and my illness, she thought. The fact that Darcy’s entire contingent would want to remove him from Mr Wickham’s vicinity was no longer surprising.
Matching words to action, he gained the attention of a stableman, who promptly ran to do his bidding. People had a way of doing that, she noticed. In fact, it seemed like no time at all before once again, they were ensconced in his carriage, rumbling along the pavement. Moonlight flooded the vehicle, lighting the interior and yet Darcy remained cloaked in gloom.
Elizabeth had more questions than answers, but for some reason was reluctant to break the silence between them. He sat across from her, a large, silent, dark silhouette; with almost surprising boldness she heard herself burst out with the last words she had ever thought to utter.
“I wish you were not so far away from me.” Realising how brazen she had sounded, she tried to explain. “It is difficult to speak to your shadow.”
Instantly he moved into the space beside her, so quickly it was startling—almost as if he had very much wanted to sit next to her.
Well, she thought, since we are married, there is no reason why we should not begin to be comfortable with each other. And so she leant against him, and was gratified when he moved his arm around her and covered her hand with his much larger one. It was an unfamiliar feeling, to be resting in the arms of a man.
It was also sweet, satisfying some need she had never known she possessed.
And without further ado….here is the big reveal!!!
(expected release date: April 8th)
Oh. My. Ga— this is phenomenal. Stunning, surprising, and sweet. 😮
This cover has me entranced. The pastels and textures are gorgeous. And I love all the details like the artistic screen and bits and bobs around the room. 🖼️
I’m not sure what I love more, the ardent pose of the lovers’ the purple coat, or the glimpse of a kitten in this scene. 💗
An abduction scheme sounds thrilling! Especially with Mr. Darcy coming to the rescue. 🥰
What do you think, friends? 🤔
~~~
GIVEAWAY TIME!!!
The lovely people at Quills and Quartos are offering 3️⃣ ebook copies of Mr Darcy’s Abducted Bride to 3️⃣ lucky readers who comment on today’s post!
To enter this giveaway leave a question, comment, or some love for Julie below.
- This giveaway is open worldwide. Thank you, Quills and Quartos!
- This giveaway ends March 20th.
~~~
You can preorder Mr Darcy’s Abducted Bride now!
My sincere gratitude to Julie and the wonderful people at Quills and Quartos for putting this special post together!
Oh wow! That excerpt is very intriguing. Leaves me wondering how Darcy could get Lizzy to “cooperate” with willingly staying abducted; does she somehow in her confusion think they are married? Can’t wait to find out!
Also, the cover is adorable! The kitty darting away was one of the first things that caught my eye!
How indeed! It was a bit of a project to get these two to cooperate with their kidnap, even after assuring them it was all for the best.
Susan Adriani is SUCH a talented artist!
Wonderful as always and looking forward to another book by Julie. Thanks for featuring!
Thanks Jen! I appreciate you!
Oh my gosh! I can’t wait to read all of this. Does Mr Collins and Mrs B get stopped? Pay a price? So many questions and can’t wait to answer them.
I have made it Darcy’s life work to stop them, Marsha. Thank you!
I love this plot! I can’t wait to read it. It sounds like a fun and inventive twist on the story.
Thank you Beth! I hope it’s as fun to read as it was to write!
I’ve read abduction stories, but never with Darcy as the abductor…can’t wait! Thanks for the chance to win.
Turns out, when Darcy puts his mind to it, he’s capable of doing just about anything for his girl. Best of luck on the drawing!
Although I have seen a few other stories with this premise, none were written by the incomparable Julie Cooper. I have so many questions, chief among them is what happened to Elizabeth that she is/was “out of her wits” and how does Wickham fit into the scheme of things? I am looking forward to the publication of this tale. Congratulations on publishing another book.
Awwww, Jeannette, thank you so much for your kind words!
That Wickham, always getting his nasty mitts involved!
I completely agree with Meredith’s assessment of the beauty of the cover. Oh, Darcy, you always come to the rescue. Be still my heart. Thank your the excerpt and giveaway.
Thanks for commenting Eva!
Can’t wait to read this story! Love this author!
Thank you so much Joan!
I love Julie’s stories and this sounds intriguing. another for my TBR pile.
I appreciate the kind words Theresa!
Wow! This sounds incredible! I do love a storyline where Darcy rescues Elizabeth! Thank you and the folks at Quills and Quartos for the opportunity to win this book! I love the cover. It is gorgeous! But the excerpt has me intrigued! I can’t wait to see what happens during this bold rescue!
Best of luck in the giveaway Jean!!
Sounds like a wonderful story!!!! Love the cover!!! Can’t wait till read this!!!
Thank you so much Susan!
Looking forward to another book by the talented Julie Cooper!
Awww Jennifer, thank you for your kind words!
Well, THAT seems like a very exciting story! I eagerly look forward to reading it; but not soon enough it seems. I’m curious about how “Mrs Bennet has contrived to make Elizabeth out of her wits”.
I hope you are able to enjoy it!!
Looking forward to this, love Julie’s books
Thank you so much Kerry!
I can’t wait!
I’m so happy you’re eager for it!
I would love to read this next, just started reading another of hers – that would make it 3 Julie Cooper books in a row 🙂
Aww Nicole, I’m so happy you’re enjoying!
I have so many questions! Like what led up to this excerpt? Sounds very juicy and I’m eager to read the whole story!
Your answers will come! I’m so happy you’re eager!
I love Pride and Prejudice variations This one has a intriguing twist Mrs Bennett is a desperate person and desperate times call for desperate measures. Can’t wait to read the rest for this variation
You and me both, Kathy! I’m glad you wish to read!
My first thought was that he was helping her wind a ball of yarn, which made me swoon.
Oh to have Mr Darcy wind my yarn. Le sigh.
This is a gorgeous cover. I love the colors and the ardent pose of the lovers. The excerpt is intriguing as well. Really looking forward to the release!
I’m so happy you find it intriguing.
One of my favorite JAFF authors releases a new book! I can’t wait!
Aw shucks, you’re one of my favorite readers!
Love the cover. and the snippet has certainly whetted the appetite. Here’s hoping this latest offering is as wonderful as Julie Cooper’s other stories. Hopefully, I will be lucky enough to win an ebook
Thank you Sarah! Best of luck with the drawing!
The story sounds intriguing and the cover is so beautiful. I like Julie Cooper’s stories very much and I’m looking forward to read this one ❤️
Thank you so much!
I’m really looking forward to read it!!!
Thank you Valerie!
Firstly I hope you were soon reunited with Fezzik Meredith, I can’t imagine an airport being the most comfortable place to rest. Secondly, fabulous start to a story! I love that Darcy rescued Elizabeth from her evil mother and cousin! I love that they are married so too late for Mr Collins. I love that cover, the purple coat, Elizabeth’s lovely dress and of course the hint of a kitten! I really can’t wait to read this one so thank you for this wonderful post.
I hope you enjoy it, thanks Glynis!
Julie Cooper is one of my favorite JAFF writers and I cannot wait to read this one! Close proximity storylines are my favorite. Also, love that the cover was done by Susan Adriani – super talented!
Thank you so much Danielle! And yes, Susan is very gifted!
Congratulations! Its a pretty cover.
Mrs. Bennet has lost the plot and Collins isn’t far behind. Darcy to the rescue!
Thank you Sam!
Wow great cover. I am looking forward to reading this book. Please enter my name for an e copy.!
Best of luck in the drawing Nancy!
Just adore Julie Coopers books. Read ‘The Seven Sins of Fitzwilliam Darcy’ a couple of months ago and thoroughly enjoyed it! Ready for another good read and this sounds to be it!
The cover is beautiful, love it. Thanks for your generosity, I have my fingers crossed.
Good luck in the drawing Mary! I’m so glad you enjoyed Seven Sins!
This excerpt has me intrigued, however my main question comes from the Quills & Quartos excerpt emailed. I’m wondering why Mrs Hill was so cheerful and pleased. Clearly, there is much to unpack here. I’m very much looking forward to this book.
Ah, you caught that, did you Juana? Good eye!
Beautiful cover. I love abduction theme, especially if it involves Darcy and Elizabeth. I’m looking forward to reading it. Congratulations on the release and thanks for the giveaway.
Thanks for stopping by and commenting Kate!
Congratulations. That is an idea that I haven’t read in JAFF. So I am intrigued and can’t wait to read this story.
Thank you Bosa!
I love the cover, both dignified and playful at once. Can’t wait to read the book!
Thanks EV!
I’m a Julie Cooper fan and would look forward to any new story of hers, but the excerpt has really piqued my interest – looking forward to its release.
LOVE the cover – the fact that it doesn’t feature real people certainly is a plus in my book.
Thanks so much Martha, your kind words are very appreciated.
What? They are married? Oh, I have to read this. I hope you are home with Fezzik now, Meredith. Thank you for the except, cover reveal and giveaway.
Thank you Robin!
I’m really looking forward to reading this latest from Julie Cooper. All of her books are great!
I appreciate it Cath!
Congrats Julie! It looks like another great story with another Lizzy & Darcy adventure. I love the cover, the colours are great!
Thanks so much Char!
I love the dress too! Is Elizabeth sick? Oh my! What happened? I think it’s very funny that it’s Mr Bennet’s turn to be the ever complaining person in the family… Or is it just Mrs Bennet’s imagination? I can’t wait. Thank you ❤️
Thanks so much Rosa!
Great cover, and I love the idea for the story! Please enter me in the giveaway.
Thank you, best of luck on the giveaway!
This looks like a really interesting take on the original. As I find Mrs. Bennet’s personality fairly annoying at the best of times, this should be a fun stretch of that character.
Thank you Diana!
I’m looking forward to reading this. I’ve enjoyed your other books.
I appreciate it Gwen!
Gorgeous cover! I am very much looking forward to reading this. Julie and Susan, very well done!
Thank you so much Ruth!
This cover intrigued me because there are a lot of details including the cat. It’s funny. I enjoy this excerpt and I am glad to read an other an Excerpt from author Julie Cooper. Thanks a lot.
Julie Cooper always writes interesting variations, and this new offering sounds like it will not disappoint! The cover is lovely and the synopsis is intriguing. I look forward to reading it!
Thank you so much Amanda!
Fabulous cover and premise! I cannot wait for this book to be released. Julie Cooper is on my very short list of favorite JAFF authors. When April 8th comes, I will pounce on it!
I am so grateful, thank you!
The excerpt was wonderful. I can’t wait until the release date.
Thanks so much Elaine!
This book sounds intriguing! I am absolutly considering buying it! Congratulations on your new book!
Thank you so much!
Can’t wait to read your new book!!
I appreciate it very much Nan!
I am excited with this premise. Congratulations on this story. I do love it when ODC are together early and face the world.
Me too, Patty, me too! Thanks!
Ooh, a post-marriage scenario? this is definitely intriguing. Count me in!
I’m so glad you’re willing to read!
That sounds like a fun premise! Who doesn’t enjoy a good kidnapping. Haha.
Exactly Kelly, you’re taking this in the proper spirit!
Julie, wishing you the best on your new release! I’ve been impatient to read it for months – your books are wonderful, always. I’m so glad you love your cover. 🙂
Susan, you are so very talented! Thank you!
Julie Cooper is a must read for me! And combined with one of my favorite tropes – Mr. Darcy saving Elizabeth from Mr. Collins. I can’t wait!
Thank you so much Aimee!
Ahhhh, Julie, your D&E never fail to deliver ALL the feels! Looking forward to this one!
As do yours, Jessie!!
Wow! I can’t wait for this to be released! I want to read this NOW!! LOL
I very much appreciate your eagerness to read!
This one sounds like fun! Can’t wait to read!
Thank you Julie!
beautiful cover
Thank you Denise!
This is lovely. I always look for Julie’s books. I am so waiting to read this.
Thank you so much Maggie!
Great story line to look forward to reading! I like the detailed cover pic.
Thank you Debra!
The book sounds exciting, in spite of the calm, peaceful, and charming cover. And when is a Julie Cooper variation not intriguing & delightful?
Cannot wait to read this!
I appreciate your support Beatrice!
I agree the cover is fantastic.
Susan is such a talented artist!
The excerpt has me very eager to read more. I can’t wait.
Thank you Martha!
Love the kitten – but not sure about the purple coat – just don’t see Darcy wearing purple.
LOL, some artistic license with ODB there!
WOW, this sounds like it will be VERY interesting. Wonder what exactly she means when she is “out of her head” and what was her mother doing to cause her to be this way. Love the kitten as it gives some indication that life is not perfect & could be fun as kittens can make things so. Her look almost gives me the impression that she is not realizing that he is there???? Oh I can’t wait to read this one!!
Thank you Glory!
Love the cover!
To me it has georgette Heyer vibes!
Can’t wait to read this!
Congrats!!
I enjoy your variations so very much and look forward to reading this one as I watch the grass-whoops, I mean “dust-grow.
Ha! Thanks so much Betty!
Sounds like a fun story
Looking forward to reading this book!
Thanks for commenting!
I love the new cover reveal for Mr. Darcy’s Abducted Bride, and it sounds wonderful!
Thank you Holly!
This sounds intriguing… abduction by Mr. Darcy? To be fair, if it averts the disaster a marriage to Mr. Collins would be, bring it on. Looking forward to this one! And the cover is beautiful (even if the coat seems a little bit too fancy for Darcy!?!).
Thanks LoRie!
Sounds interesting! I look forward to reading it!
Thank you Katie!
This looks so good. E enjoy this type of story.
Thank you Debra!
Beautiful cover, very elegant. Intriguing plot- looking forward to an enjoyable read!
Thanks Lisa!
Anytime that Julie Cooper releases a book I’m ready to purchase it. Her writing is
always exquisite and flawless and her stories are filled with new perspectives..
I am a huge fan.
Aww Janet, I appreciate your kind words so much!
Gorgeous cover! The details and colors had me staring for a while. I like everything by Julie Cooper, so I’m ready for this. The kidnapping angle sounds exciting. Action P&P is fun!
My favourite trope for ODC is forced marriage, where, over time and trials, they find their HEA.
This sounds so intriguing!
Fascinating plot line. I am very intrigued!
Sign me up, I’m in. It’s Julie Cooper, I feel like we’re in pretty safe hands here. We can assume we’re going to enjoy ourselves. A lot.
Sounds great. I love Julie’s work!
Wow – I loved the excerpt and look forward to reading more. The cover is stunning! –Leslie
Kudos to Susan Adriani for a beautifully designed cover. I love all her covers that she did for Q&Q. The title, Mr Darcy’s Abducted Bride sounds very mysterious to me and the excerpt kept me entertained.
Wow…I have no words for Mrs Bennet. …
The cover is niceee…love the little kitten. Cute
Looking forward to reading more more more…