Impulse & Initiative

January 22, 2009
We all know that Darcy abandoned hope of winning Elizabeth Bennett after she rejected his ham-handed proposal, but what if he hadn't taken no for an answer? What if, instead, he'd swallowed his famous pride and pursued her? This compulsively readable novel, an entry in Reynolds's "A Pride & Prejudice Variation" series, treats readers to an oh-so-spicy alternative story line. While there may be a little too much heat for proper Austenites, it's sure to appeal to fans of lusty historical romance.-Jeanne Bogino, New Lebanon Lib., NY

Copyright 2009 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

October 1, 2008
Reynolds, author of several self-published Pride & Prejudice Variations, as well asPemberleyby the Sea, also reviewed in this issue, asks, what if Mr. Darcy had persisted immediately in the wake of Elizabeth Bennets first refusal? Persuaded by his cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam, to snap out of the funk hes been in since Elizabeth turned down his marriage proposal, Darcy, along with Mr. Bingley, returns to Netherfield to try to woo the woman who has captivated him completely. At first reluctant to change her opinion of him, Elizabeth gradually comes to enjoy his company, but shes convinced shell never be able to love him. Timeserves to change her mind, howeverso much so that she agrees to marry himand she even succumbs to a moment of intense passionbefore their wedding. Die-hard Austenites will no doubt wonder why any variation on Prideand Prejudice is necessary, but lovers of steamy period romances will find plenty of stolen kisses and fluttering hearts to whet their appetites here.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2008, American Library Association.)