Darcy's Reckoning

A Retelling of Pride and Prejudice from the Gentleman's Perspective

By: Virginia Somerset

Narrated by: Alastair James Murden

"It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife."

These were the words that defined Fitzwilliam Darcy's young life. Any measure of integrity, honor, loyalty—these were secondary considerations to the size of a bachelor's estate. The only lady to esteem his genuine character was now lost forever, and he must face his future alone.

In his deepest despair, standing in a crowded assembly room of merry strangers, he would form an acquaintance that would confound his understanding of the feminine mind and inspire him to become worthy of her genuine approbation. At first believing himself to be misunderstood and unfairly judged, he must acknowledge his own culpability for the suffering of others and seize his opportunity to save the life of the woman he loves.

Return to Pemberley in this retelling of Pride and Prejudice, and discover an answer to the question never posed: Why would a man of sense choose to attend a ball with his friends, only to refuse to dance?

©2022 Somerset Publishing (P)2023 Somerset Publishing

Not too bad

The narrator was fantastic. The story itself was different from canon, but not necessarily enough that I would listen to this again. It wasn't distinct enough to be memorable.

3.5 rounded up

This release is for the audio version of this book that was released almost two years ago. I enjoyed the audiobook. The narrator has a great reading voice that was engaging and soothing. I had not originally realized this was the same book I had previously read, but I’m glad I listened to it, as I enjoyed the book more this time.

The story is a retelling of the original Pride & Prejudice from Darcy’s point of view. We learn a lot more about Darcy and about some of his experiences that form his cynicism and pride that he presents to the people of Meryton. We also meet some new characters and get some insight into some of the original side characters. I liked how the author depicted Anne deBourgh. So little is known of Anne and I liked the depth and spirit she had here. There were some very touching scenes involving her character. There was also some more insight into Caroline Bingley and some explanations to some of her flawed traits.

I liked that many of the characters go through a journey in this book and you see growth and development that is plausible and redeeming. The book did seem a bit long and dragged at times, probably because there was a lot of repetition of what we already know. Overall, I did enjoy this book and the extra insight that it provides. There is enough new to make it interesting. The writing is good and flows nicely. I would be interested in reading more from this author.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Beautiful, Ethereal

There is musing of the insightful sort throughout this well written story. It’s not the tiresome musings of willful misunderstandings but thoughtful and beneficial. I enjoyed the book very much and the perfect narrator added the poignancy of verse the story deserves. The author brings substance to the characters that make them more human and interesting. I found it fascinating. If you are looking for an action packed thriller it’s not here but if you marvel at the written word beautifully expressed with heart searching emotions you will find it exceptional.

Darcy's Reckoning!

I enjoyed this variation on my favorite "Pride and Prejudice". It is Darcy's perspective and intriguing. It is enjoyable and a good mix up. I love seeing how different writers mix this classic story up; even giving a zombie spin. I like how this author added some additional characters. I thought the narration was really good and helped bring the story to life.

Darcy’s backstory and lost love

This audiobook was so easy to listen to and not annoying as many can be. I loved the narrator!

This book has Darcy’s point of view and gives a history of his life and his past lost love. While the story follows quite closely the original plot, there are some changes such as his mother still being alive. I found his mothers actions a bit put offing. Lady Anne was the reason he lost his first love to another who happened to be a friend from school.

Darcy is a man who struggles to reconcile his heart with his head, who is ill at ease in company of strangers and who does not meddle well in a crowd, so he makes many mistakes letting the words rush out in his eagerness and anxiety to express his feelings.

I enjoyed the interaction between Darcy and Elizabeth. She didn’t let him off easily and when they finally get their happy ending it made me smile.

This is a long story but we get to see the details many authors pass over. I enjoyed it!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.