Love and Libertine

 


Title and Author: Love and Libertine by Jann Rowland
Type: Pride and Prejudice Variation
Perspective: Darcy and Elizabeth
Romance Level: Austen-esque
Recommended: yes, 3 stars
Access: Free for Kindle Unlimited

Summary: This variation starts when Elizabeth goes to visit Hunsford to stay with Charlotte and Mr. Collins. Sir Lewis de Bourgh is a wealthy man with little to stop him from getting what he wants (generally the prettiest young woman in the vicinity).  Lady Catherine asks Darcy and the Colonel to visit Rosings early to help protect Elizabeth and Maria Lucas from Sir Lewis. When Darcy sees Elizabth again and is forced to keep her company for safety, he must decide if he wants to please his family or follow his heart. 

Pros:
* This is a unique take on a Darcy Elizabeth story. It makes Lady Catherine and Anne both make more sense. 
* Lady Catherine is likable here and eventually decisive too.
* I do like a story that puts Caroline in her place. 

Cons:
* This is a darker variation. Elizabeth is in danger on several occasions and I do wonder why she would not have left earlier. 
* It feels incredible that a man (even one of power and wealth) can get away with this. Wouldn't an angry father have arranged a riding accident before this?
* We don't see much of the Bennett family in this one. (We do see Jane and the Gardiners at the end). 

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