Determination

A Pride & Prejudice Variation

By: C. P. Odom

Narrated by: Christopher Jarvis

Length: 13 hrs and 6 mins

Publisher's summary

“Love at first sight” is a laughable concept in the considered opinion of Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam and never occurs in real life—certainly not in the life of an experienced soldier. In fact, until he observes the smitten nature of his cousin Fitzwilliam Darcy, he doubts that fervent love exists. Marriage, after all, is a matter of money, social standing, and property.

But his cousin becomes besotted with Elizabeth Bennet, the lovely but penniless daughter of a Hertfordshire gentleman, and is determined to make her his wife. Unfortunately, emotions overwhelm his good judgment, and he botches an offer of marriage.

When the colonel attempts to untangle the mess, his own world becomes almost as chaotic when he makes the accidental acquaintance of Miss Jane Bennet, Elizabeth’s beloved eldest sister. Can emotions previously deemed impossible truly seize such a level-headed person as himself? And can impassible obstacles deter a man of true determination?

©2021 C. P. Odom (P)2023 C. P. Odom

Colonel Fitzwilliam to the Rescue!

This is a sweet low angst story from the perspective of Colonel Fitzwilliam and Jane. I’ll admit I found it a bit dull throughout much of the story. There wasn’t much conflict aside from what Lizzie herself created. Colonel Fitzwilliam was a strong character and I can only describe dear Jane as, well, a bit wanton! (Mostly in a good way I think). Propping the Colonel up so much did weaken Darcy in my mind though.

The Performance was lucky to receive 4 stars from me. I did actually like the narrator himself, but I did not care for the echoing effect when voicing characters. It has a far off feel to it. There are also several issues in chapter 2 with the narration overlapping itself. You can barely tell what’s being said. While chapter 2 held the bulk of the issues, they did pop up again briefly in chapter 4. Also was it REALLY necessary to repeat the title of the book, author and narrator in front of EVERY chapter? That annoyed me more than anything.

Would I recommend it to others? If you’re a fan of P&P variations- I think so…. If you have a credit to spare.

Richard and Jane

A P & P variation that focuses on Jane and Col. Fitzwilliam. Yes Darcy and Elizabeth are present but Jane takes the front seat on this one. If you're a fan of the Colonel, you'll enjoy this story. His characterization is on point to this reader's imagination of just who the Colonel is. Jane is a bit stronger here. She doesn't deviate much from cannon but she shows a little bit more maturity. I enjoyed this version of Jane. A definite re-read for me.

Strong Jane and excellent Colonel Fitzwilliam

Loved how strong Jane is. Loved it was mostly about Jane and Colonel Fitzwilliam, with a little Darcy and Elizabeth. The narrative is well done. I highly recommend

Loved this story

It was a great story. Mostly about Jane and the Colonel. But also ODC. The narrator has a great voice and reads very well but I think it was a bit much to repeat every chapter with the title and the narrator’s name. In my audiobook at ch 2 and 4 there was parts where there was double voices. I hope this will be corrected. Great Jaff.

Some issues with first release!

In the first section there are multiple places where the dialogue was evidentially recorded onto multiple tracks and the tracks overlap badly. Please check.

Determination- Left Me Wanting More

I love this P&P variation. I loved the story, the narration, the background, music and quotes before each chapter. Listening to “Determination” left me wanting MORE like it! The presentation, for me, had the feel of a Drama in the background; but, in the form of a love story with just enough angst. I recommend to anyone that like a good read in the form of a love story.

Richard and Jane

Adorable story featuring one of my favorite pairings. The Colonel really shines in this retelling and it is beautifully performed by Mr. Jarvis.

Determination

I read this book when it was first published and was quite pleased to see it recorded. The author has a talent for spinning tales that veer off canon in appealing ways. Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam’s character is highlighted in the story as a very masculine, take-charge tough guy who lived with the Darcys during his teen years and is like a brother to Darcy. I loved the way he handled Wickham, but he also took tender care of Lady Cathrine. It’s a great story and I highly recommend it, however, as another listener mentioned, there are a few technical glitches in the first few chapters. Hopefully that can be corrected at some point.