An Affectionate Heart

A Pride and Prejudice Variation

By: Heather Moll

Narrated by: Stevie Zimmerman

Are love and affection enough to overcome the pain of grief and anger?

In the spring of 1812, Elizabeth and Lydia are the only Bennet daughters still unmarried after the death of their father. Elizabeth's health and spirits worsen as she moves among relations as an unwanted, dependent sister. She returns to Mary and Mr. Collins at Longbourn to learn that the neighborhood gossip centers on the reclusive Mr. Darcy.

Darcy and his sister live an isolated life in a small rented lodge near Netherfield after the events at Ramsgate. As Georgiana's health is failing, Darcy has his own regrets to bear. He tries to keep them secluded, but a young woman arrives who is determined to befriend his lonely, ill sister.

When Elizabeth receives disastrous news, she makes a daring plan to find happiness for herself while she still can. Misunderstandings and secrets abound for them both, but in the end, Darcy and Elizabeth will find greater strength together than they ever had apart.

This variation blends Austen's Pride and Prejudice with elements of Montgomery's The Blue Castle. Content note: secondary character's miscarriage off-screen, secondary character death, mature romantic scenes.

©2022 Heather Moll (P)2022 Heather Moll

Enjoyable "Pride And Prejudice" Variation

This was my first experience with Heather Moll's work, and I enjoyed it a lot. As the description stated, this story was an alternative view of Jane Austen's "Pride And Prejudice". The story was charming. The characters were complex, and their arcs were pleasing. The plot had some twists and turns but kept the spirit of the original story in my opinion. Stevie Zimmerman's narration was delightful, and her performance kept my attention. I was given a free copy of the audiobook, and I have voluntarily posted this review.

Absorbing story, Excellent narration

Heather Moll excels at writing variations that explore the many facets of our dear couple in believable ways for the given circumstances. Darcy is broodingly swoonworthy, upright in character, and takes far too much on himself. Elizabeth blossoms in an environment of independence where she can love those deserving of her devotion and behave in accordance with her values. While the circumstances in this variation are overset by grief and suffering, the angst does not overwhelm as Elizabeth and Darcy come to know each other and themselves better on a journey steeped in love and devotion.

Painfully beautiful

I love the mix up of everyone it's written so painfully beautiful. Narrator is fantastic.

Lizzy demands you read this book !!!

Enjoyable

An very enjoyable variation on a favorite book. Well performed by the reader. I recommend.

A re-read or now listening

An emotional story. Some sadness. A horrid Mary. Well written and a great narrative by Stevie Zimmerman. Great Jaff.

Heather Moll never disappoints!

A very touching story- my heart broke for Lizzy, Darcy, & Georgiana. Never fear, there is an HEA. Topped off by Stevie Zimmerman’s narration, this is one you will want in your library. I will return to listen again and again. Another wonderful story, Heather!

Moving story

This was difficult to read not due to the quality of the writing or narration as both are fantastic but due to the angst. As I listened I couldn't help but imagine Oprah pointing and shouting "You get some angst, and you get some angst, and you get some angst..." Despite all the angst, I really enjoyed this story and highly recommend it.

Great story meets perfect voice

I loved the written version of this story. There is a wonderful blend of poignancy angst and sweetness. The main characters are well developed and nuanced. The reader gives them each a unique voice that matches their personalities

Why I Enjoy JAFF

Well written story with a very unique concept. Mr Bennet died early and Mary married Mr Collins. Elizabeth is mistaken in a belief she is dying. Darcy rents the Netherfield lodge to hide his sister from society and family. Georgiana Darcy is very seriously ill after giving birth to Wickham’s child who is stillborn.

The story is riveting and the performance amazing. Heather Moll and Stevie Zimmerman are a fabulous combination.

Excellent story and narrator.

While this plot was quite different, I really enjoyed it and have gone back to in a couple of times to follow the truly good values projected by Elizabeth and Darcy.