An Unpleasant Sort of Man

A Pride and Prejudice Variation

By: Michelle D'Arcy

Narrated by: Stevie Zimmerman

A secret encounter at Oakham Mount, an unexpected and unknown witness, a fight that unearths dark revelations—all are instrumental in changing Elizabeth Bennet’s beliefs, born from pride and tainted by prejudice, one cold November morning.

At Longbourn, the upcoming Netherfield ball is considered to be proof of Mr. Bingley’s admiration for Jane, and is anticipated with much enthusiasm. Only the irritating presence of Mr. Collins and his irksome attention ruin Elizabeth’s disposition and induce her to take a walk that will change her life—as well as the lives of others.

At Netherfield, Fitzwilliam Darcy, haunted by his ardent admiration for a certain lady, plans to return to London immediately after the ball with Bingley’s family, leaving their troubles and distress behind. On the evening of the ball, Elizabeth’s spirit is heavy with remorse, while doubts leave her undecided as to how she should proceed. As Darcy considers asking Elizabeth to stand up with him for a set—the first and last he believes he will ever dance with her—the ball is interrupted by news of a most disturbing incident which will affect the entire neighbourhood.

From that very moment, everyone’s plans will be altered. Suspicions and rumours will shake the calm and complacency of the quiet and peaceful town of Meryton, as well as a lot of first impressions. Events will quickly unfold, more secrets will be revealed, previous relationships will change while improbable friendships and most unanticipated alliances will form and grow.

Forced by circumstances and guided by honor, loyalty, and courage, Elizabeth and Darcy will have to act together, thus discovering themselves and each other. Will their journey ruin or strengthen their alliance? Will their partnership end in just friendship, or blossom into something else entirely?

©2022 Mihaela Hercaud (P)2023 Mihaela Hercaud

a wonderful story

This story catches your attention from beginning to end. How would Pride and Prejudice change if Darcy and Elizabeth were forced into each other's presence long enough to understand the other's heart. This story answers that question. 4.5 rounded up to five.

Great reread or listening

I did read this book last year. Now I listened to it. Stevie Zimmerman did a great job as usual. A joy listening to her. Great Jaff

Wonderful Adaptation

I was surprised by the unexpected friendship and character change of one the Bennett’s. Encouragement comes from an unexpected family member to help lead to Darcy and Elizabeth’s happy ending.

Too Much Mrs. Bennet

Mrs. Bennet is too stupid to live in this story and often in some other JAFF I have had the displeasure of spending a credit on. The Bingly sisters are especially annoying, throw in an obnoxious Lydia and there you have it. Great narration. Average story.

One of the best JAFF I've read

I have read and own approximately 25 JAFF audiobooks. I place this variation in the top 3. it held very true to the characters and their nature, with no dramatic changes to behavior of any of the original characters.

There was very little angst, which I appreciated as it wasn't necessary to drive the plot in this particular story. I honestly think Austen would have approved of this Lizzy and D'Arcy. While some of the characters faded into the background sooner than I expected (like Jane and the other Bennett sisters) or were hardly introduced at all, I didn't feel the retelling suffered at all, since the story was about ODC and they rightly had center stage. I enjoyed seeing Mr. Bennett placed a little more prominently than usual.

Yes, I will be revisiting this particular variation of P&P often. Stevie Zimmerman was on point, as always.

Quite a lovely story

I absolutely loved this book! My only complaint is that the title doesn't quite fit the story. I almost didn't read this/listen to this book because of the title but I am glad I gave it a chance. The love story is quite lovely as ODC tries and discover their feelings and what their feelings mean. This is a low angst story. Stevie Zimmerman as always did a superb job at the narration!

Slow Burn Romance

Having previously read the book, this is one of those stories that I feel presents much better in audiobook form. I loved it, with Stevie Zimmerman providing an another outstanding narration and performance. She can really draw out your emotions. I had a tear or two during the final proposal.

Interesting

This excellent story has good narration, moderate angst, and several unexpected twists to keep your interest.

Wonderful

Excellent slow burn romance between Darcy and Elizabeth. Highly recommend! Beautiful writing, excellent narration. A perfect volume for a wonderful afternoon escape.

Minimum conflict

Not much Wickman, Caroline Bingley or Lady Catherine which I enjoyed their absence. Sweet story.