Interesting Variation
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Impulse and Initiative explores what might have happened in P&P if Darcy had pursued Elizabeth to Hertfordshire after she refused his first proposal. It is an interesting and enjoyable read, and on the whole I found the story believable. Although Reynolds portrays Darcy in a much softer light than the original, this falls in with Austen's conclusion that when they were finally united Elizabeth taught him to cast aside his reserve and join in her teasing. In parts some of the dialogue could easily be Austen's, and the areas where Reynolds works in passages from the original text are skilful.
Where it fails to be a true variation on P&P is the content- much of the book is given over to explicit physical attraction and some sexual relations, which would obviously never appear in an Austen novel. Although I would never have bought the book had I realised before that this would be such a key part of the story, I actually found it acceptable in the context of the book. It does stretch credibility in places- it is hard to imagine Mr. Darcy could have found so many opportunities to be alone with Elizabeth, or that she would allow his advances to such an extent, but the psychology of Mr. Darcy pursuing Elizabeth single-mindedly, of her being attracted to him but then pulling away, of her independence preventing her from committing to an engagement, is realistic when set against the relationship Austen establishes between them. It merely translates their relationship into a setting which would not have been discussed (and probably would not have occurred) in Austen's period.
The book as a whole is very well written. I would say there was too much sexual content, and it is certainly not for purists, but it is a very enjoyable read. On finishing it I immediately ordered the other books in the series.
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It has nothing to do with P&P, but nice to read
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Apart from using the names of the characthers and the environment, this book has almost nothing to do with original P&P. Darcy and Elizabeth are very different in character. Far too much sex involved that it is almost a cheap love book. If their behaviours in this book is reflecting the requirements of the times P&P written, then the original book is not from the same time. I don't want to give spoilers so just saying some things in the book is ridiculous!
It is a nice story but can not be a variation of P&P.
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Brilliant, Darcy gets his girl much sooner.
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This is my favorite book written by Abigail Reynolds. I first read this when it was on her own website. Colonel Fitzwilliam persuades Darcy to go back and pursue Elizabeth and not give up on her. It then shows their courtship and ultimate marriage. Wonderfully witty book.
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I can't help but love this determined Darcy!
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I love the Darcy Abigail Reynolds portrayed in this book. Despite Darcy's resignation to accepting his fate without Elizabeth at first, once urged on by the Colonel, Darcy returned to Herdfortshire to prove his love to Elizabeth. He didn't give up even though Elizabeth didn't show him any encouragement. Their journey to understanding was gradual and heart-felt.The library scene was romantic, sensual and moving. And I like the humour. I reread it a few times already.
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