What If Mr. Darcy Discovered His New Bride Blames Him for their Forced Marriage?
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Source: Gift from Author
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation
THE PREMISE: Mr. Darcy is Elizabeth Bennet’s preserver twice over, only to overhear that she blames him and his “brazen presumption” for their forced marriage in the first place. Now they both are “caged together for life.” Any chance for a tolerably happy union is done away with as doubt, deception, and distance have crept in to their marriage…
MY THOUGHTS: I love when Mr. Darcy comes to the rescue! Especially when Elizabeth still thinks the worst of him and is still trying to sketch his character. Mr. Darcy is incredibly swoon-worthy in this story as he gently tends to Elizabeth’s needs, displays his adorable sense of humor, and takes care to ensure safety. And if that isn’t enough to make us love him, as soon as he learns that other have spotted them alone together and have spread malicious gossip, he unhesitatingly yet deferentially prepares to do his duty (and follow his heart) and propose to Elizabeth Bennet. I just loved this beginning!
Where Joana Starnes’s talent shines – and where it always shines in any book she writes – is with her sensitively and sublimely developed depictions of Darcy and Elizabeth through their journey to love, happiness, and understanding. I always love how Ms. Starnes takes us into their heads and reveals their inner-thoughts, tangibly displays their emotional struggles, and and gives the readers plenty of insight and introspection. I find her way of portraying these beloved characters to be immensely perceptive and satisfying. I loved seeing how both characters struggled with pain and uncertainty. Seeing them work through their obstacles (even the self-made ones) was moving and rewarding. And their romantic encounters with each other were ardent with a capital A. (Note: For readers who might like forewarning, there are allusions to intimate scenes, but very little takes place on page).
In addition, one aspect I especially enjoyed about this portrayal of Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s relationship was how (after their initial misunderstanding) they strove to have a marriage of full honesty and open communication. Even if the truth was painful or would present difficult challenges. This was a very evolved and mature relationship. I appreciated the moments where both of them shared with each other unreservedly and how, through their opening communication with each other, they worked through the obstacles in their path.
My one quibble for this story would maybe have to do with the balance and pacing . There were some lengthier passages in the story that were several chapters in length – the beginning incident, D&E living in Pemberley complete contentment – and then some new storylines that were swiftly introduced and resolved in one-to-two chapters towards the end of the book. While I enjoyed some of theses new storylines (especially since they were about secondary characters), they did feel a little disjointed and maybe needed some more leisurely development to match the pacing and balance of the rest of the story. And in a bigger scope, even though they brought some fresh drama and conflict, I don’t know if some of these storylines were as necessary.
Joana Starnes’s Twists of Fate is an impassioned and articulate tale about Darcy and Elizabeth finding true understanding with each other and learning that the strongest bonds are forged with honesty and reciprocated openness. A beautiful and bewitching Pride and Prejudice variation that any ardent admirer of Austenesque would enjoy! I highly recommend!
Isn’t this just a wonderful story? I too love their honest communication with each other once the misunderstanding had been cleared up. This definitely helped to prevent further problems. I’ve read this several times, Joana always writes such a fabulous Darcy!
So glad to hear that, Glynis! I’m not surprised that you loved this one! Joana Starnes does indeed!
Lovely review. I have this book, but have yet to read it. Will have to visit it very soon! Thanks for the reminder.
Thank you, Jennifer! I hope you get the chance to read this one soon!
I thought I’d already read this book, but I haven’t yet! Moving up on my TBR list. Great review, Meredith!
Thank you, Katie! I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
Agree! A riveting and absorbing read… I savored the unraveling of their fledgling love and the brilliance of the heart-pounding romance when truths are revealed. A thoughtful tale full of familiar, swoon-worthy characters and sizzling scenes! “Twists of Fate” is a real gem that we expect from the incomparable storyteller, Joana Starnes.
That is so beautifully and eloquently said, Christina! You have such a way with words!
I read this a year ago and it was excellent, as are all Joana Starnes’ books. She’s a beautiful writer & always a must-read.
Agreeing with you 1000%!!
Joana Starnes is a great author. Personally I had an issue with D letting E befriend his former mistress and everyone knew. Forget all the other angst, that was difficult to swallow.
Hi Sam, I can understand having an issue with that. Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts.
Thank you for the review! Sounds like å book to read soon.
That’s wonderful! Thank you so much for checking out my review!
Yes, this was an enjoyable book!
So glad to hear you thought so too!
Thank you for this review, one more book to add to my to-read list.
My pleasure! I hope you get the chance to enjoy this one soon!
I love anything Joana writes! I have the book and your lovely review makes me want to get started reading it.
Yay! Thank you so much, Brenda! I’m so glad to hear that my review prompts you to want to read this book more!
Thank you so much for the review, Meredith. It seems that the development of D&E’s relationship is very well drawn 😉
My pleasure, Teresa! Thank you so much for reading my review!
I thought I’d read this one, but looking at my Goodreads I don’t think I have. Sounds like it’s well worth a read.
Absolutely, Ceri! Hope you get the chance to enjoy this one soon!
I have read and loved all of Joana’s stories. Great review, Meredith.
I can say the same, Sheila! Thanks so much!
Nice review, Meredith. I hope this encourages more and more people to read it and get to know Joana’s great writing if they already don’t. Now I’ve got to go reread it, like…yesterday, or at least after I finish my current read.
Thank you, Michelle. I feel the same!
Loved your review and I am becoming a big fan of Joana’s writing style.
Thank you, Charlotte! And that is excellent!!