Yes, as stated in another review, the author would have been justified in adding an "s" to the end of her title. This book is delightful in giving us that situation in seriousness, in chance and in humor as we read of more than one couple's coming together..."when you plan a trick on someone to get them alone" (as explained by a certain aunt to her niece).

The characters of Darcy and Elizabeth are written with such poignancy in the very first instance of our reading, setting the stage for their coming together, that I had to pause, sigh and speculate on how well the author writes to draw us in and to allow us to love both figures. Darcy has already insulted Elizabeth at the Assembly, she has had to put up with his (and Caroline's) disdain and insults while nursing Jane when he receives a letter from Georgiana and then leaves the table without a word.

When we next find Darcy we read of a man in torment, in anguish, bemoaning his sister's self loathing and desire to live in isolation from the family and then we read as he falls apart, in tears and sobbing as he feels he has failed her and cannot see how he can proceed to help and guide her. He does this, in contrast to all we have read and think we know about him, as he believes he is alone in a glen far from the eyes and ears of any other human being.

But Elizabeth has taken one of her "famous" walks and overhears the outburst of a tortured soul. She tries to gain his attention after considering if she even wants to inquire and perhaps offer aid (considering just who it is she has come upon). Her caring attribute wins out. He does not hear her call his name and she approaches closer. When he finally is startled by her words and presence his reaction, a natural reaction to him, is to grab Elizabeth and hold her in his embrace as he further loses all aspects of control over his emotions.

Yes, I am just reviewing what the book description tells us but wanted to reiterate this scene as later we read of Darcy telling Elizabeth how when she put her arms around him he felt safe for the first time. This tells us so much about how much she means to him, even if she thinks just the opposite.

Elizabeth is not in love with Darcy at this point in time but this scene and then the proposal scene are just so heavy with sweet emotions that they continue to bring tears to my eyes. Yes, even though there is a compromise, Darcy does get down on one knee and the way in which Elizabeth questions the wisdom of doing as society dictates show us her true insight into what will be required in this relationship if they must be married.

I love all the interplay between ODC in this book. Darcy calling her “my Elizabeth” and Elizabeth reveling in the experience of her first kiss…sigh! Then there are all those characters with whom we are all so familiar: Wickham, Caroline, Charlotte, Richard Fitzwilliam with his parents, Anne DeBourgh and her mother, Lady Catherine, Mr. Collins and even dear sister, Mary, play parts in intrigue, plotting, confrontations and situations both downright funny but also most satisfying. At about 75% on my kindle I was applauding Mrs. Bennet’s words! Yes, Mrs. Bennet’s words. Cheering, Hallelujah!

I loved the way the relationship between Bingley and Jane was made to develop and mature. Well done. We are kept in suspense as to just who will end up with who as the author forces us to read of disappointments, misguided actions and manipulations in this tale. I was very happy with it all and then further loved the follow up at the end.

I have to add that near the end I again had tears but not over ODC…over another relationship and the caring of one human being for another through one’s final demise. Again, well written.

Please do take the time to read this. I am sure you will not be disappointed.