I Never Knew Myself

A Pride and Prejudice Variation (Darcy and Elizabeth Happily Ever Afters)

By: Melanie Rachel

Narrated by: Stevie Zimmerman, Harry Frost

Elizabeth Bennet is living a lie.

She’s known since she was fifteen that she isn't truly a Bennet, but who is she? Are the people and places that appear in her dreams just a sign of her active imagination, or are they memories of her true family? Could the stories she'd told Jane when they were children not be stories at all?

Fitzwilliam Darcy is reliving a nightmare.

He hasn’t dreamed of “Ellie” Windham in years, but after meeting Elizabeth Bennet, he is reminded of the day little Ellie was kidnapped. And now he is left to wonder whether he is drawn to more than her fine eyes. When Darcy realizes that Elizabeth and Ellie might be one and the same, he is anxious to return her to the Windhams, and Elizabeth is no less eager to meet her family. But when the idyllic reunion she longed for goes awry, both Darcy and Elizabeth wonder whether it’s really possible to put a broken family back together again.

Can Darcy help Elizabeth find her place in her first family so she can one day join him in his?

©2020 Melanie Rachel (P)2024 Melanie Rachel

A wonderful story voiced to life

INKM is arguably the best version of the "Elizabeth is not a Bennet" trope. Mel's writing is unparalleled. Her cjoice to habe both Stevie and Harry read it aloud is extraordinary. A 5-star audio now added to a 5-star novella. Very well done, all of you.

Overall a Very Good Listen

I greatly enjoyed this story. The writing was clear, with a lovely plot and characters, not to mention thoughtful dialog.

Though, I do feel that I should point out that if you are looking for a tale that follows Canon to some degree, with faithful characterizations of Elizabeth and Darcy - this isn't the story for you.

I liked this version of ODC, but I never really felt like it WAS them... which is understandable because the world each grew up in was drastically different from the original. So it follows that there would be subtle changes to behavior. I compliment the author for her attention to detail.

Darcy was much more forthright and this Elizabeth is a little less certain about things. This isn't a criticism - its just meant to moderate expectations of those looking for a story more true to the original. Other than Longbourn, Netherfield, and the names of most characters - there is little resemblance to Austen's work.

One small criticism i did have: while I like it when authors give us a stronger, less naive Jane - I thought this Jane was a little more self centered than "Jane" should be.

I adored Mary though.. oddly this Mary reminded me more of Austen's Jane than Jane did. This was certainly one of my favorite variations for Mary's character though. I also liked the thoughtful inclusion of some teen angst for Georgiana & Mercy.

I always know Elizabeth is going to be altered when her one of her nicknames is "Ellie". Sorry, but i am not a fan of this name change for Elizabeth. Again, I am certain this was a plot device meant to highlight that "Elizabeth is not a Bennet," but I still rebel when it's used.

While these are minor criticisms, or concerns -I can't emphasize enough, it was a very good book. I am just not sure it needed a 'Pride and Prejudice' setting to be told.

A great listen.

Having the 2 best readers in one book was a real treat! Good characters. Mrs Bennett was particularly horrifying.

Good story, great narration!

This is a very good story, long and involved-the way I love them! The narration was like a dream come true, so so good! I long for more!

Fantastic!

Excellently done. A true joy to listen to. I would recommend this to anyone especially first time listeners.

Great story and Excellent narration

I very much enjoyed this variation of P&P. I think the story was well thought out and brought beautifully to life. I especially liked the beginning where we meet Elizabeth as a child and her family as well as Darcy, Fitzwilliam and his brother - and then the abduction. The author evoked very strong emotions. An interesting version. Narrated by 2 of the best readers out there.

Simply. The. Best.

This has long been a favorite book for me. It’s often a go-to when craving something wonderful but familiar in JAFF stories. Having it in audible form is that much better. Harry and Stevie bring it brilliantly to life and, even knowing this story as well as I do, I found myself breathless and unable to stop listening. Even if you already have this book in e-format or print I would highly advise you to get the audible as well. It’s so worth it! And if you haven’t already had the opportunity to read this story yet this is one for the ages and will stay with you long after you’ve finished it.

Great story!

I really enjoyed this variation. It was well written and very entertaining. The narration was fabulous! Recommend!

Nothing But the Best of Variations…

I’ve been so enthralled w/ P&P’s beyond as when I was a child, my elder sister (4yrs) & teaching me to love books as she did. We read Austin’s books to the endings, discussed & wrote our.own continuations. But this is most imaginable of a revamp. So wonderfully NOT at all the same dulls of the rest! Sheer brilliance by our Author & narration so well done, BRAVO…

Be prepared to cry, laugh and enjoy this fabulous story

I read this book quite a while ago and it quickly became my favorite. This is an emotional story for all of the characters. And now with the amazingly wonderful and talented narrators Harry Frost and Stevie Zimmerman have amplified this story. It will absolutely be a re-listen just as the book had been a re-read. I am so thankful that Melanie Rachel took the time, not only to write this beautiful story but to have Harry shout! (You will understand quickly in the story). Take a chance and enjoy this book too.