Impulse and Initiative (Pride and Prejudice Variation Series) Book

I read this book first as Impulse and Initiative and did post a review of 5 stars. I have now re-read it under this title.

I went back and posted under the original title an addition to note that I found there to be scenes involving Caroline Bingley and her design to spread rumors concerning Elizabeth's behavior with Darcy are omitted in this edition. Then, of course, the matter of Darcy's discovery that it was Caroline who set in motion the rumors and his consultation with her brother, Charles, have to also be omitted.

The lack of that particular scenario does not change my opinion nor my enjoyment of this book which I downloaded under kindle Unlimited on a whim to re-read on that rather device rather than take up my paperback first edition. I am glad I re-read it as I truly enjoyed the way in which Darcy is persuaded to return to Hertfordshire and attempt to woo Elizabeth and win her heart. One of my favorite lines is when she asks him how long he and his sister plan to remain at Netherfield and he answers, "As long as it takes." And then I loved how he decides that the best way to win her is to let her set the pace as he finds little by little, she is persuaded to accept a touch to her hand, then a kiss on the hand, as slowly she realizes that against all her determination, she likes it and looks forward to such small gestures of admiration.

Abigail Reynolds is one of my favorite authors and this book is only one reason why. Yes, there are scenes of a mature nature but they are built up to so naturally, so in character for two passionate lovers that I found myself wanting to read it all and very happy with this manifestation of their love.

The book does go on to address the Wickham situation but this time Elizabeth is in on the details and it was part of reading of them working in support of each other, part truly satisfying that I liked in this variation. Indeed part of Elizabeth's forming a relationship with Darcy is in her demand that he consult with her on decisions, even if the action is not to be changed, she wants to be part of knowing what is going on in every aspect of their lives together. And she expects to have him seek her affirmation of what will be then done or to listen if she has another opinion.

Well worth reading again.