Two More Days at Netherfield

by Heather Moll

How would spending a few extra days in each other's company would affect the relationship between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr Darcy?

While her sister Jane is ill at Netherfield, Elizabeth overhears the proud Mr Darcy express his admiration of her and her fine eyes. Not sure what to think of his praise after all of their previous disagreements (and more flattered than she wants to admit) Elizabeth responds by teasing him, forcing Darcy to reconsider his opinion of a woman who has truly bewitched him.

The ensuing day and weeks see confrontations and apologies and the beginnings of a friendship between Darcy and Elizabeth. But their warming acquaintance impacts the behaviour of those around them inciting jealousy, anger and malicious falsehoods. Is the strength of their emotional connexion enough to reunite them and put them back on the path to love?

Genres: Romance, Historical Fiction, Regency, Fiction, Audiobook, Historical, Historical Romance

406 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 27, 2020

Reviews

[Sheila Majczan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a long P&P variation but it is well laid out, well developed, and has some new nuances. Some were funny and one, in particular, had my stomach in knots as I read to see if Darcy would cross a line, which in my mind would make him less of an honorable man...still a very human man, but I hold my book heroes up to higher standards.

While at Netherfield where Elizabeth is nursing a sick Jane, a decision is made to stay an extra two days; not only due to Mrs. Bennet's manipulations but also because Elizabeth sees the romance having more of a chance to gain deeper roots if Charles and Jane have time to talk as she is able to come down for dinner or to the drawing room when her health allows.

One significant event while the sisters are there is that Darcy and Elizabeth talk...about his insult and other things and form a friendship. He escorts Elizabeth into town on one of her walks where they meet Wickham along with several other officers. Darcy's countenance clouds over, he blanches and strides quickly away. Elizabeth runs after him, calling his name, "Darcy"...Wickham notices that her use of this more familiar name and takes it to mean they have formed a friendship. Darcy explains and pleads with Elizabeth not to have anything to do with the man but he has promised never to relate the Ramsgate affair to anyone so she only knows half the story.

A second significant event is that Darcy leaves a page from a letter on a desk when he is writing his sister and Elizabeth discovers it and can't resist reading it. She learns of Georgiana's distress while in "R." and being put upon by a "Mr. W." Elizabeth does give the letter back to Darcy and apologizes in face of his anger. He is afraid she will gossip about what she has read.

So these two events blend into threads of the story as we go on. The couple is falling in love but have not expressed this to each other or anyone else.

You will find it so very amusing to read of how Elizabeth educates her mother about the character and future prospects of certain officers who have been guests in their home and one of whom has imposed himself in the most unacceptable manner on Elizabeth during a Christmas get together at the Bennet home. Mrs. Bennet's reaction and how it spreads like wildfire in the Meryton area brought smiles. "Osculate"...how does she even know this word?

Both Mr. Collins and Mr. Wickham relate that Darcy is expected to marry his cousin. Then Charles Bingley tells of how Darcy is very close to his one cousin...verifying the intent in Elizabeth's mind.

Caroline Bingley's evil attempts to separate ODC plus Bingley's handwriting add to the misunderstanding. Then the Colonel and his older brother making the most horrid (IMO) attempts to provide Darcy with some entertainment to take his mind off a love affair gone wrong are all part of this enthralling story.

There are several scenes when we read of some intimate moments but they are tenderly told and without graphic details.

I recommend the story to lovers of P&P variations and my favorite couple, Darcy and Elizabeth.

(I also read the unpublished version and loved it.)

[wosedwew · Rating 5 out of 5]

If there is a day to act on the Love in your soul it is today, it is this moment. ~ Mike Dolan

“Two More Days at Netherfield” gives our favorite couple just that – two more days to find the love in their souls and two more days to act on it.

In canon Pride & Prejudice, Elizabeth and Jane arrange a ride back to Longbourn in Mr. Bingley’s carriage when their Mother claims the Bennet carriage will not be available until Tuesday. In contrast, Elizabeth realizes in the beginning of this book that Jane would benefit from extra time in Mr. Bingley’s company and does nothing to cause her removal sooner. The acknowledged couple draws closer and a friendship develops in another couple where distrust existed before.

Happiness often sneaks in through a door you didn’t know you left open. ~ John Barrymore

By chance, Elizabeth overhears the teasing conversation between Miss Bingley and Darcy where he acknowledges admiring her eyes. It is a small beginning but it is a beginning of a different understanding. Apologies are offered and accepted, friendship blooms.

Elizabeth also learns a bit about Georgiana when she discovers part of a letter Darcy has written to his sister. She protects the letter from the prying eyes of Miss Bingley but he knows she has read his words herself. It takes a word game to convey apologies and acceptance in front of the assembled party.

By the time the Bennet sisters leave Netherfield, a solid admiration has developed between two couples. Then, just when you believe the happy ending music will play early in the story …

A half-truth is a whole lie. ~ Yiddish Proverb

All the best lies contain a little truth and accomplished liars can convey a lie without uttering an untrue statement (just ask any politician). Wickham learns Elizabeth knows about part of his actions against the Darcys and adjusts his canon lie accordingly.

A more cunning lie comes from Caroline Bingley who omits one sentence in an account of her visit to Longbourn.

Romance, angst, villainy plus an unhappy ending for Wickham (loved Mama Bennet’s part in that) and the perfect setdown for Miss Bingley (Darcy leaves no stone unturned) … what more could a reader of JAFF want?

Finally, to reach their Happily Ever After … our couple must spend “Two More Days at Netherfield” … complete with another word game!

I received an early copy of this book with no promise of a review, good or bad.

[J. W. Garrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

“It is not time or opportunity that is to determine intimacy; --it is disposition alone. Seven years would be insufficient to make some people acquainted with each other, and seven days are more than enough for others.” –Jane Austen, Sense and Sensibility

Everything that we expect in a Pride and Prejudice variation was present in this story. Our author started with the question ‘What-if’ Jane and Lizzy stayed two more days at Netherfield when Jane was sick. Would our story change that much? I was rather surprised to see the difference a couple of days made in this story arc.

Villains: Oh, yes, we had our villains. If you gathered up the usual suspects there would be many familiar faces. We had our Caroline Bingley, the conniving, grasping, b-witch from the north. We also had the SBRB [scum-bag-rat-bastard], Wickham. The way our author used him was such a surprise and in a different way than we are accustomed to. I was confused for a short time as he wove his web of deceit. Oh, he was smooth, charming, glib-tongued, as he slithering around any receptive ear that would hear him blather his lies through gold-studded teeth. Well, ok, I made up that last part. I’m sure, when he smiled, there was at least a sparkle from a diamond imbedded in his tooth. This was cruelty in the nth degree. He was horrid to one of the Bennet daughters and Momma Bear didn’t take kindly to it. You don’t mess with a bear cub without momma bear showing you just what fury is all about.

Papa Bear, on the other hand, infuriated me like never before. This man was something else. He got on my last nerve. He had Zero respect for his family and every single time he opened his mouth, whether at home or if they had company, he ticked me off. This was a surprise. I really felt for Elizabeth.

Our villains created such a gulf between ODC that I wasn’t sure they would or could bridge the gap. She was here and he was there with no way to communicate and dang that Bingley and his horrid handwriting messed with Darcy big time. Bingley needs to hire a secretary and never write another letter of importance or anything for that matter. Don’t even get me started on Darcy’s relations and that blasted house party. I nearly had apoplexy. Whew! Talk about your close call. Where are my salts?

This was a story that made you think long after you have read it. I’m still processing it. The introspection of ODC was amazing as they reasoned out their feelings and their place in society and life. To finally realize what was important to them and to come to grips with their place with or without the other. How would they go on? That got me. Then, for them to discover the treachery that kept them apart was heartbreaking.

“One day spent with someone you love can change everything.” –Mitch Albom, For One More Day

What I liked: Watching Darcy and Elizabeth come to grips with their feelings. This was not a fast story. It evolved slowly over time allowing ODC to come to grips with their feelings for each other. They also had to deal with insurmountable odds and the interference of others. I loved discovering little nuggets of dialogue from other Austen stories interspersed throughout this story. What fun.

What I didn’t like: It was too long. I thought parts of it could have been trimmed a bit to take out the duplication and repetition of the same scene or dialogue that was told several times from different perspectives. We would have the ‘let me tell you what happened’ and then another person had to be told what I had already read or knew. That part was a bit tedious.

I volunteered to read an ARC from Quills & Quartos Publishing with no expectations of a review favorable or otherwise. The views and opinions expressed are my own. I loved this story and recommend it for those who love a good D&E HEA.

[Jenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just loved this book so much - it's the best I've read for a while. The tone, pace and language is spot on and the reader also gets to spend lots of time with Darcy and Elizabeth.

So, as the name suggests, Elizabeth and Jane stay on for two extra days at Netherfield which changes the direction of the story. The variation starts almost immediately where Elizabeth overhears Miss Bingley teasing Darcy about his interest in her (Elizabeth). In the extra days at Netherfield, and as a consequence of what she overheard, Elizabeth and Darcy build a lovely and genuine friendship. Also, Elizabeth and Darcy meet Wickham for the first time together, (as the men dont travel to Longbourn to visit Jane because she is still at Netherfield... ) so Elizabeth gets to hear more about what happened between Darcy & Wickham but Darcy doesn't disclose the whole story... so there is still the opportunity for Wickham to cause mischief later on... which he does!

There is some angst... but not too much, all caused by misunderstandings and misinformation on both parts. I felt so sorry for both of them. I really liked this portrayal of Darcy and Elizabeth - they forge a strong friendship but still manage to squabble. You can see how their relationship is deeply felt right from the start - it's very well written, you really get a sense of the emotional intimacy between them. I loved seeing their friendship grow.

The Bennets are pretty awful in this book - embarrassing, vulgar and Mr Bennet is completely disinterested in his family. Wickham is a real sly one here... much more devious than we usually find him. He's cunning and clever and awful. Miss Bingley is a sneaky madam too and she and Elizabeth have some brilliant exchanges.

This is a really great book - an original idea, brilliantly executed and one that has real emotional depth. I just loved it and read it in one sitting I'd definately recommend it. At one point, I had actual tears in my eyes... which never normally happens when I'm reading!! It's mostly clean... a bit of kissing and courtesans feature at one point but there isn't any sexual content or detail in relation to this.

I received an ARC of this book from the publisher with no promise of a favourable review.

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

As posted at:
https://austenprose.com/2020/03/23/tw...

3.5 rounded up to 4 stars

Everybody familiar with the classic story of Pride and Prejudice knows that Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy don’t communicate to each other with total honestly until their meeting at Hunsford during his (horrible) marriage proposal, which he continues in his letter the following day. But what if circumstances lead them to do so much earlier in their relationship? That’s the premise for Two More Days at Netherfield, a Pride and Prejudice variation by Heather Moll.

While Jane Bennet is ill at Netherfield and Elizabeth is there to nurse her, early changes lay the foundation for those extra two days. First, Elizabeth learns Darcy actually admires her. Then, Darcy discovers Elizabeth overheard his insult at the Meryton assembly. His initial apology is half-hearted at best, and Elizabeth calls him on it, adding, “[Y]ou have been disagreeable and conceited from the moment of your arrival in Hertfordshire!” Interestingly, the conversation does not deteriorate. Darcy, recognizing he’s in the wrong, offers a more sincere apology.

“[N]ow that Mr Darcy had offered an acceptable apology, she could tolerate his company a little better.” Ergo, Elizabeth isn’t as disturbed when her mother refuses to send the Bennet carriage, and the sisters remain at Netherfield two more days rather than borrowing Mr. Bingley’s and returning to Longbourn.

Events over these two days lead to a lot of self-examination by both Darcy and Elizabeth. He comes to recognizes that his behavior IS haughty and unmannerly, while she realizes that she forms judgments too quickly and harshly.

Darcy even warns Elizabeth about Mr. Wickham and describes his dishonorable character, providing details regarding his father’s Will and Wickham’s acceptance of money in lieu of the church living. In conversing about their respective families, Elizabeth admits embarrassment over the behavior of her mother, father, and sisters. Darcy’s sympathetic but blunt response makes her comprehend more fully how their actions could adversely affect her own reputation. Darcy observes Elizabeth and Jane working on charity baskets for their father’s tenants; she notes how conscientiously he approaches his duties as Master of Pemberley. To cap things off, Darcy catches a brief glimpse of Jane’s heartfelt response to Bingley.

By the time the Bennet sisters return to Longbourn, Darcy and Elizabeth have become close friends. “He would be a better man, he decided, a less selfish man, for having befriended Elizabeth Bennet. In their short time together in the same house, she had reminded him what it was to be a gentleman with a greater consideration towards the feelings of others.”

Consequently, every obstacle that the original Pride and Prejudice doesn’t address until the Hunsford proposal and during their interactions at Rosings get brushed away quite early. Also, Elizabeth has gotten a clear glimpse of the improved Darcy that Jane Austen didn’t introduce until their meeting months later at Pemberley. Soon, Darcy even decides to propose to Elizabeth the day after the Netherfield ball. What could go wrong?

Never underestimate Mr. Wickham’s ability to wreak havoc! His machinations separate the lovelorn couple and send the rest of the book down a decidedly different path. The combination of Caroline Bingley’s scheming and Mr. Bingley’s poor handwriting keeps Darcy and Elizabeth apart and miserable during much of this entertaining story.

The conversations between Darcy and Elizabeth are pitch-perfect. All the characters are well-defined. Georgiana is depicted as suffering from paralyzing self-doubt, and a gathering of the dysfunctional Fitzwilliam family at Pemberley during the holiday season doesn’t help. Mr. Wickham’s unusual storyline in Hertfordshire is a standout. Caroline gets satisfying verbal smackdowns, first by Elizabeth and then by Darcy. Once again, it’s Lady Catherine who unwittingly gives Darcy hope and sends him back to Hertfordshire, though the information she provides is quite different than in canon. The whole story is unpredictable and full of angst, keeping the reader on edge and eagerly turning pages.

The book, as wonderful as it is, would benefit from additional pruning. Too often, the author narrates Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s thoughts when their dialogue and actions provide sufficient information. Some scenes are described first from Darcy’s point of view and then repeated from Elizabeth’s. Their thoughts also get repetitive at times, creating additional drag. The HEA (Happily Ever After) extends longer than necessary. Some side stories don’t resolve and perhaps could be eliminated. Also, readers should be aware there are three scenes with Mature Adult content—some of which seem irrelevant to me.

Despite those flaws, Two More Days at Netherfield is well worth your time if you enjoy an unusual plotline, crackling dialogue, a bunch of angst, sizzling romance, and well-drawn characters.

[Ｓｈｉｆｒａ ♕ · Rating 2 out of 5]

I do not jest when I declare that 'Two More Days at Netherfield’ ruined the better part of two days for me.
The first 40% Ms Moll had me eating out of the palm of her hand, cursing myself for not having read this sooner and pledging my undying devotion & fealty to her.

The last 60% had me regretting every decision in my life that led to me picking up this infernal nightmare of a novel!

Suffice it to say it all unraveled.

Synopsis:
In P&P Lizzy slimly missed overhearing Darcy being teased by Miss Bingley on his admiration of her person when on a walk in the Netherfield garden. Here Lizzy does.

“The only thing he has to recommend him is his excellent taste in the style of ladies’ eyes he admires.”

This small change enacts a plausible ripple effect that leads to her being more comfortable around him. Lizzy, embolden, and teases Darcy about his assembly slight and he apologizes duly

During this time Lizzy and Darcy become friends


It is a treat to witness the teasing chemistry of ODC. These extra days are charming and well done

“I am still awaiting a recommendation. I would hate to be confined to reading the second volume of whatever you chose to read.”

All is going smashingly, that is until Lizzy reads a letter Darcy was penning to Georgiana that he left out. She doesn't gather anything from it and returns it to him but Darcy, on edge about his sisters reputation being ruined, becomes aloof & resentful towards her.

When the party plays a game of 'Consequence' a very engaging scene unfolds as they spar in subterfuge;

He said, ‘to be curious about that which is not my concern, while I am still in ignorance of my own self, would be ridiculous.’
She said, ‘What the weak head with strongest bias rules is pride, the never-failing vice of fools.’

In P&P Lizzy states Darcy was the man who suited her best. She would bring out his liveliness and he would afford her consequence. We are privy to their mutual instruction and 'tis a treat!

Darcy gets sorted out on his haughtiness by Bingley, his Father's tenet he finally recalls,
and of course Lizzy, and though Darcy makes strides in the better part of the novel, this growth shows no real consequences in the unfolding or resolution of the plot, so.. what was the point?

In the end the resolution is owed to mere chance by way of Lady C as 'Deus Ex Machina'! Where is the character growth payoff, it's dividends?

Indeed all is was going well until the artificial misunderstanding comes about due to the usual suspects. Though Mr Bingley unwittingly through his infamous sloppy penmanship solidifies the separation.


I rue the day I allowed my feelings to become engaged. Such precious, fragile things as ones feelings should not be trusted to Ms. Molls care.
A cruel mistress, she delights in vexing and inciting expectation by providing a taste of ODC charming interaction and then takes heart in then depriving it.
It's like she gets off on being withholding!


⚠I'll warn you now, there is this senseless, pointless business about Darcy's rake cousins (including the good colonel) trying to hoist a mistress unto Darcy at a degenerate holiday house party and him almost going through with it ( and it comes too close for comfort).

It adds nothing to the story except it's a fresh source of misery to dangle in front of the reader, and as a sadist, Ms. Moll could scarcely resist!

I adore powerful angst, aye a novel devoid of it hasn't a hope of being compelling or memorable, but this was silly contrived angst and went on so long!

That coupled with boredom, as each damnable day of ODC separated is described and drawn out in excruciating detail, made it a reading to be endured not enjoyed.


What Pleased Me:
⭑ The chemistry and gradual comfort with each other is well done

⭑ Consequence game had me in awe and stitches

⭑ Bennet dinner party and Darcy trying his damnedest best to be polite was engaging hilarity

“I do hope you had a pleasant time at dinner, Darcy.”
“It proved to be an intellectual poverty.”

⭑ Mrs Bennet proved under all her silliness she loves her children


What Vexed Me:
The misunderstanding angst was torture! Not the fun interesting sort, but the odious boring torture that is employed because the author can't think up a valid conflict.

The angst had me sweating buckets with strain to push through another page, waiting fruitlessly for the semblance of an event, anything to kick in, to move the plot forward, only for it to never arrive.

There was no real plot which is why the slim excuse of the misunderstanding was employed. Weak!

☠Relies on 'Deus Ex Machina' for resolution

The Bottom Line:
The grief and patience endured was not worth any payoff; the build up of expectations smartly accomplished by beguiling ODC chemistry and rapport in conversation the first 40% was throughly undermined by the subsequent 40% of utter abject misery.

My heart grew cold by unmet expectations and my mind bored by the lengthy accounts of their their protracted separation where nothing worth reading happened.

Thus by the final 20%, with a heart hardened and my mind long detached, the pulseless reunion could scarcely hope to repair the damage done.

The promise of sweet deliverance that kept me foolishly slugging through endless chapters filled with misery and tedium, was not engaging or compelling enough to act as the balm rewarded to a long suffering reader.

Angst developed with purpose will be a stinging pleasure that, with it's resolve, tending to be born from character growth or a hero's journey, will be recalled upon with understanding and fondness, as 'tis acknowledged necessary for the characters to get from point A to B.

This contrived angst over trifling misunderstanding that with a single conversation could be clarified leaves a sour taste and proves a tale to be without focus or purpose.


I wouldn't be able to reread -nor would I care to- and I am dismayed since I adored the first 40% to pieces.

I measure the quality of a JAFF by three factors, as follows;

1. Did I feel the characters acted true to Austen's character framework (allowing for changed circumstance and scenario to offer some leeway)?Yes
2. Was I engaged during the reading and not bored?Yes for the first 40%, resounding No for the last 60%
3. Was the writing compelling/ intelligent and was there sufficient interaction/dialogue between the main characters? Yes for the first 40%, resounding No for the last 60%

[James S · Rating 5 out of 5]

An uncommon series of what ifs

Instead of thinking poorly about Darcy for most of the book, Lizzy overhears some praise about her, while she and Jane are at Netherfield. Instead of Darcy worrying someone will ruin Georgiana’s reputation it’s is he who leaves part of a letter laying around with info about Ramsgate. Luckily Lizzy finds it and protects it. Darcy is the one to jump to conclusions often instead Lizzy.

So many of the common tropes are turned on their head.

So a newish tale is told and we are not sure comes next.

I enjoyed the story a lot and probably reread it again in the future.

[Michelle Snow · Rating 3 out of 5]

Received an ARC for an honest review. Overall, a slower-paced, angsty book with a unique and interesting storyline.

Some well-plotted deviations from cannon that make this story interesting. At Netherfield Elizabeth overhears Darcy complimenting her to Caroline, which helps to heal her wounded vanity and opens the door for her to settle her grievances against Darcy for his slight at the assembly. Their interactions at Netherfield after they resolve their differences are refreshing, and it was nice to see love start to bloom on both sides earlier in the story.

There is an interesting twist that arises where Elizabeth, having so misjudged Darcy before getting to know him at Netherfield, decides to give Wickham the benefit of the doubt even though she is suspicious of him from the start. Her attempts to broker a reconciliation between Darcy and Wickham are the starting point for much angst found throughout the rest of the story.

This story has a Bingley with backbone, which is an OOC that I always enjoy. He stands up to Darcy's opinions about the Bennet family connections (in this story Darcy doesn't doubt Jane's affections) and Caroline's evilness (extra evilness here) and does not let himself be dissuaded from returning to Netherfield and pursuing Jane. A strong Bingley is always fun.

There is also an interesting twist on Wickham. He's still a baddie, but he tells different manipulative lies based on a different original meetup with Darcy and Elizabeth. It was a nice deviation from cannon that spares the reader from the Lydia elopement scenes (thank goodness).

What makes it three stars for me is the pace of the book, which made it seem overly long. It was a slow read for me (which is not usual). By the time the ladies leave Netherfield after Jane recovers, I was surprised to see that I was only about 25% done; it felt like I had been reading a lot longer than I actually had been, and there was still 75% left to go. There was a lot of repetitive explanation of ODC's thoughts that showcases much angst throughout the the book. My preference is for a faster pace and less angst, so I struggled to get through some of the middle chapters. (I think I'm unique in JAFF-land in that I prefer less angst.) If this is you as you read the book, I suggest skipping the interlude with Lady Hancock and Milton; there is a tie-back late in the book but it is pretty well explained. The ending did pick up the pace, which kept me reading when I might have otherwise set the book down.

[Dung · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this story. I read it as an unpublished novel. Had the pleasure of reading the published version. So glad that it has been published.

The published version is definitely 5⭐️ quality.

Who knew that two extra days at Netherfield can make such a difference.

Love all the twists that the additional two days provided.

Give Mrs. Bennet the proper encouragement and it could be used to the the benefit of her family and community. I loved how she championed not having officers at Longbourn.

So glad Wickham and Caroline Bingley got their comeuppance for causing Darcy and Elizabeth such heartache.

Such a great P&P variation. I would definitely recommend it. There’s definitely some angst to keep you turning the page.

I received this novel as a ARC.

10/14-10/15/2020 - Had the opportunity to listen to the audiobook and really enjoyed it. Even though I’ve read this story as an unpublished and published I still enjoyed the angst in the story and having Caroline Bingley set in her place due to her actions.

Love this Mrs. Bennet as well!

I would definitely recommend listening to the audiobook for those who love P&P.

[Ree · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very Good!
Reviewed in Canada on February 3, 2020
Well written with few proofreading errors. I found the author’s different take on Wickham’s deceit very clever. I really enjoyed the beginning chapters that formed ODC’s relationship. For me there was a bit too much angst after that, but that may just be me because even a little makes me nervous! Unfortunately, I found the whole time with Darcy and his two cousins quite unnecessary to the story. It all seemed to not quite fit. I also found the sudden jump from engagement to being married awhile disappointing. Their engagement time in Brighton would have been interesting I think. I also always enjoy a wedding and honeymoon for ODC. I did enjoy this book though and highly recommend it.

August 4, 2022 - Audiobook
Good 4-star narration by Katherine Anderson. I sometimes felt her intonation didn’t accurately reflect the emotion being described in the text. Still good though. I’d forgotten how angsty this book was when I first read the Kindle version.

[Toni NB · Rating 4 out of 5]

Impressions:
Caroline and Wickham were despicable.
Mr Collins was nearly as bad.
Mr Bennet was an ass of a father and could care less about his family.
I think Wickham seduced Georgiana but it was never actually revealed.
Miss Fisher was scary; Darcy almost succumbed to her and I don’t know how Elizabeth would have handled learning that Darcy had taken a lover during the time they were separated.


Good story, longish novel. So many misunderstandings that were finally made right but 3/4 of the book.

A bit of angst but not terribly so. I love a lot of tension with ODC so for me it was mildish. The last few chapters tidied things up nicely and functioned like an epilogue.

[abmom · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great story with lots of angst and so much sweetness to boot. Caroline and Wickham are horribly cunning and create so much havoc for ODC. I loved the setdown Darcy gives Caroline. Delicious! A real good read.

[Bezbuza · Rating 3 out of 5]

Enjoyed the first third, the rest made me furious with its contrived angst and out-of-character behaviours. Pity, because it’s well written.

[Lady Jl · Rating 4 out of 5]

a start of friendship

Friendship is a start to tender feelings. The extra days at Netherfield give Darcy and Elizabeth a start. Darcy’s personality is ingrained and his beliefs lead to misunderstandings with the help of a selfish woman who sees Elizabeth as a threat. Elizabeth’s belief in humanity causes her to trust Wickham’s claims of redemption. The lack of communication and society rules impede ODC and lead to a separation. The cast of characters has the story breaking off in branches that try to make the story more interesting but I found it distracting. I wanted the couple to have more of longer happen ending than was given.
Overall I was not disappointed. It was a good read and not the horrible story some reviewers stated.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars. Slightly too much angst for me, but BEAUTIFULLY written. Excellent dynamic. Great POV switches.

Slight SPOILER - The part with Miss F frightened me so much I barely read that chapter. Just enough to know if it was safe.

[MichelleH H · Rating 4 out of 5]

So much to love, so much to hate. Overall great story, with Darcy and Elizabeth getting a bit better acquainted at Netherfield because of a longer than necessary stay. I looks like Darcy and Elizabeth are establishing a solid friendship. The above is part of the love of this book.

The middle is too long and I got very impatient with there being too many villains, too many misunderstandings and too many IMO dumb circumstances that kept the couple apart. This was the hate part.

It got better though. We get to see a renewed relationship and a happy ending. There is so much that Heather Moll excels at, including all the feel good relationship building and the romance. Great story teller. And I think her writing has improved with every book she's written and I highly recommend them all, including this one.

This was a reread (re-listen?) and the narrator-Katherine Anderson-did a fine job.

[Sophia · Rating 5 out of 5]

If they had more time in forced proximity, would it have made a difference? That is what author Heather Moll poses in a sparkling 'what if' variation on Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice.

Two More Days at Netherfield opens at the point in the original story when Elizabeth Bennet visits Netherfield Park, which is being leased by handsome, charming Mr. Bingley and his guests, for the purpose of caring for her ill older sister. She has no desire to be around the denizens of the house particularly the arrogant Mr. Darcy who slighted her.

But, an overheard conversation tells her that she might not have Mr. Darcy figured out as well as she thought. Longer time in the gentleman's company including a true apology might make all the difference in the world and they are well on their way to a friendlier understanding of one another until others decide to interfere for their own purposes.

Two More Days at Netherfield was a delightful surprise. I've already previously enjoyed another variation tale from the author and liked it, but this one has the distinction of drawing my satisfaction while employing a trope I generally don't like- miscommunication being the main source of the conflict. However, there are always exceptions it seems and Heather Moll wrote the story in a way that miscommunication didn't feel contrived or merely there to soup up the drama.

This was a longer tale, but I was vested deeply for almost the entire extent. I found a few moments deeply suspenseful like when Darcy was facing a moral dilemma and I felt I was sweating it out with him or when Elizabeth was in danger from an unscrupulous rake. Between the careful build of relationships and characters, these spikes of excitement were just the right seasoning.

I look forward to reading more slightly spicy variations from a talented author.

[Madenna U · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two more days at Netherfield nursing Jane allows Darcy and Elizabeth to become actual friends. As a result, Elizabeth has a much higher opinion of Darcy. He, however, has his usual reservations about his attraction to Elizabeth. Jealousy and misunderstanding are the order of the day. Our dear couple has to have a few ah ha moments to find their happily ever after.

[Talia · Rating 3 out of 5]

It started well but from the time of the ball on it became tedious and dragged. Later, the story took another turn that I wished it didn't and I was harded to the outcome. I wouldn't read this one again.

[Sam H. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not sure I liked this, there was so much back and forth between ODC liking/not liking each other. I did like Mrs. B stepping up and taking care of business re Mr. W. Big hole plot, E's reputation was not harmed an iota? No real follow thru re Georgiana, IMHO

[Meredith (Austenesque Reviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

What If Elizabeth Wasn’t Impatient To Depart Netherfield?

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Source: Review Copy from Author

TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation

TIME FRAME: Begins while Elizabeth and Jane are at Netherfield

SYNOPSIS: Elizabeth Bennet accidentally overhears Caroline Bingnley teasing Mr. Darcy about her fine eyes and it gives her some pause…Mr. Darcy is a puzzle she would definitely like to solve! With some new revelations and interactions together that help reform her opinion of this proud and disagreeable man, Elizabeth doesn’t fight Mrs. Bennet’s machinations to prolong their stay at Netherfield. How do two more days at Netherfield impact Elizabeth and Darcy? What does it change for Bingley and Jane? Does this new course produce any alterations for Mr. Collins, Caroline Bingley, or George Wickham?

WHAT I LOVED:

- Just A Slight, Subtle Change: I love this premise. I love how such a slight change can cause so many ripples! I love that this premise made sense and all the alterations it produced were plausible. Heather Moll found a unique new path to explore, and I appreciated her thoughtful and deft execution. I especially enjoyed all the small details and touches that Ms. Moll connected with this premise, and Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice and other novels.

- Friendship and Courting: Awww…Darcy and Elizabeth are so cute together! 🥰 I loved seeing how Lizzy warms to Darcy and steers their acquaintanceship into friendship, and Darcy happily allows her familiarity and camaraderie. :💕 Heather Moll devises some situations and scenes that allow Elizabeth and Darcy some time alone, and I just loved witnessing the progression of their new and amicable friendship into ardent admiration and love. *sigh* That night at Longbourn…. *swoon*

- Poetry and Games: Again, I love the little touches Heather Moll skillfully adds to her story, such as Darcy loaning and discussing his books to Elizabeth and the clever word games the group played together. I loved the sweet connection Darcy and Elizabeth shared together over their reading and all the covert messages they were sending to each other through the word games!

- A Twist in Obstacles: With their newfound amity, Darcy and Elizabeth do not have their pride and their prejudices interfering and creating havoc. But never fear, Heather Moll devises some interesting, unexpected, and devious obstacles that create some delicious tension and turmoil!. And GAH!!! She employs these new obstacles at the most inopportune moments!! I enjoyed these clever and believable (mostly) twists Heather Moll threw in their way!

WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:

- Small Quibbles: There were some slower moving sections of this plot that maybe could have been trimmed a little. Georgiana’s storyline felt a little uneven. And I will admit I wasn’t as fond of the Christmas activities in Derbyshire and felt it detracted and weakened some aspects of the story. (SLIGHT SPOILER ALERT!) In addition, while I enjoyed the new obstacles created, I’d like to believe that Darcy wouldn’t be so easily impeded and that he wouldn’t be so quick to judge and alter his opinion about Elizabeth.

NOTE: A few very brief scenes become a little amorous with some references made to intimate situations, I would recommend this story for Mature Audiences.

CONCLUSION:

Tentative friendships, inventive twists, and reverent characterizations – Two More Days at Netherfield is another nuanced and well-crafted Pride and Prejudice variation from them pen of Heather Moll! If you love stories where the exchanges between Darcy and Elizabeth are playful and passionate, the stolen moments together are sincere and sweet, and the journey is enthralling and emotionally turbulent, I entreat you give this story a try!

Austenesque Reviews

[Sheryl Gordon · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Darcy We Dream About

A wonderful romance variation that has it all: contempt, reconcilliation, misunderstandings and heartfelt desire. When deliberate falsehoods tear apart our two would-be lovers, we feel their pain and regrets, holding fast to the hope that the villains will be exposed and the righteous will earn their rewards. Contains enough maturity, beautifully described without brushing extremes.Well conceived and accomplished. This will keep you turning pages past bedtime - Be Warned!

[Barbara K. · Rating 3 out of 5]

3-1/4 stars. This is a good JAFF/Austenesque novel in many ways. It's well written, well plotted, well edited, and my highest praise goes to the proofreader. It's mainly some personal quirks and preferences, and a conclusion that goes on too long, that bring about my lower than 4 or 5 stars rating.

What if Elizabeth and Jane Bennet follow their mother's recommendation to stay an extra two days at Netherfield, while Jane is recovering from her cold, and in that time Elizabeth and Darcy begin to get to know each other? What if he apologizes for his insult to her at the assembly, and she begins to realize that some of what she had seen as pride and disdain was his reserved nature? What if they become friends? And what if they are walking together when they both meet George Wickham in Meryton?

The romance here unwinds in a different configuration than in the original story, mainly because of that two-day difference in time spent at Netherfield. The characters are all very close to the originals except where they have to depart for a sometimes more modern seeming part of the story. The things I liked about this story kept me reading, and I'm not at all sorry I read it. I loved the little bits of rephrasing that were recognizable from Sense and Sensibility and Persuasion, and even a hint of something from Mansfield Park. They were very tiny and few, but delightful to come across all the same. There was humor, and it delighted me, especially the scene where Darcy teases Elizabeth about her handwriting, using Miss Bingley's words of praise for his own.

I know that lots of readers of Austenesque fiction will love this.

[Lady Mercury · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 to 3,5 Stars.

The first half or rather the first third let‘s say was really good and I did enjoyed every bit.
I love a good Friends to Lovers trope.
Now my problem is the 2/3, or maybe pet peeve I‘m known for,
At this point in the book, Darcy wanted to marry Elizabeth, Caroline knew his attachment to Elizabeth and what did she do? Let him believe she‘s to marry another even after ODC‘s talk of marriage only for love, and him even implying marriage to her. Yet he believed Caroline.

You love her!! Why do you believe a jealous b…? And your friends letter.. you know how he writes,if she‘s so important than leave for Longbourn but no rather leaving for Pemberley and believing his cousins even Colonel Fitzwilliam that he needs a mistress or courtesan or whatever. (I skipped the most part with the courtesan.)

Elizabeth isn‘t better though 🤦‍♀️ her constant association with Wickham, even though Darcy told her a bit and she read a letter but apparently was too stupid to put 1+1 together though everytime they saw each other Wickham asked about Darcy and talked about Miss Darcy. 🤦‍♀️
She really needed to learn the hard way I guess?

3/3 was finally sweet again and thank you! But why do the authors love making ODC wait to announce anything?

Caroline attempting those lies and even winning interrupts my flow same with the courtesan, but otherwise a good story.

Narration was also good.

[Dawn · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m glad others enjoyed this book more than I. The first half was good even if it was a little slow, but for me, the second half just dragged and dragged and the misunderstandings just kept going on & on to the point that I had to start doing a lot of skimming or I wouldn’t have been able to finish. It got better towards the end, but I’m not sure it was worth it. I was also not impressed with the gentleman’s “house party”, not my cup of tea. Overall, there were some good and enjoyable elements to this book, but I wouldn’t read it again.

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5/5 stars. It was a great premise, to see what would happen during two more days at Netherfield. Elizabeth and Darcy come to understand one another a little better and there is a new twist on the Wickham storyline. But still plenty of disagreements and angst to keep the story moving. Some topics were discussed repeatedly and it did get a little tiresome. I admit to skimming some parts eager for the HEA.

[Daniela Quadros · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book!

This is the second book from Heather Moll and though its content is completely different from His Choice of a Wife, it had the same impact on me: I couldn't put it down! I have to say there are some very angsty parts but in the end it was all worth it and our dear couple had their happy ending.

It starts with Elizabeth, as the title says, spending two more days at Netherfield while nursing Jane. And what a difference these two days made! She accidentally overhears Mr Darcy telling Miss Bingley about her fine eyes and from there on, her view of Mr Darcy begins to change. Elizabeth starts rethinking her interactions with the gentleman and they begin a friendship. It's beautiful how they start to see the other with different eyes, especially Elizabeth and how her respect and love for Darcy begins. Of course this is also a problem because by then Elizabeth is kind of afraid to misjudge again and when Darcy tells her about Mr Wickham she doesn't accept everything he says as truth because she wants to judge for herself. And then the angst starts ...

Wickham is very deceptive and there is also Caroline Bingley's lies that help to drive ODC's apart. I especially hate Caroline in this story and the set down she receives from Darcy in the end of the story is just magnificent! During this time apart Darcy and Elizabeth suffer a lot but of course, true love prevails and they have their happily every after in the end. The journey, although bumpy and full of misunderstandings, is necessary to their growth and coming together.

My greedy self would have liked to see more of them together at Brighton, for example, during their courtship. But the author gave us a lot so I can't really complain. I think this book is very interesting and I highly recommend it. I especially like the way she wrote Elizabeth. Her determination to change her prejudiced views in the beginning of the story is very commendable, even though it created problems for her and Darcy. A real must read!

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this book and it’s a lot more creative than the title suggests!
Lizzy overhears Darcy and Miss Bingley discussing her on their walk (the one where Miss B jokes about Darcy marrying Lizzy and how ever will they capture her fine eyes in a portrait?!) so she’s a bit more receptive to Darcy. Once he apologises for slighting her at the assembly they become friends and discover they enjoy quite a few of the things. Lizzie is persuaded to stay 2 days more to ensure Jane is feeling completely well before returning home (and without wanting to escape Darcy’s company, is keen to do so in order to let Jane spend more time with Bingley)
These slight changes lead to much bigger ones but of course before a HEA we must have a series of misunderstandings.
There’s plenty of literary discussions and references, witty banter, and romantic and sexual tension to be had.
The characters come across well - Darcy and Lizzy are far more introspective and are adapting to criticism earlier than in the original plot.
The villains are not too over the top in this story - Wickham is slightly more evil-seeming than in the original but not beyond reason. Caroline is bitchy without being insane. Lady C and Mr Collins are within the realms of their original characterisations too. There are a few new characters who are interesting enough.
I really enjoyed this one - I’m glad I persevered though a few of the complications bordered on making me too uncomfortable to continue - they weren’t as bad as I thought they would be.
Do read if you enjoy well written variations :)

[Rachel Collins · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great contribution to the genre from this author. What if E overheard more than what D says at the Assembly. With two more days at Netherfield, E overhears that D thinks she is pretty, or at least that she has fine eyes. Now she has competing information. Does he admire her or not? With two more days and her curious nature, it allows ODC to find out a bit more of each other before being parted. I love their relationship in this book, that its founded on their conversations and mutual respect. I struggled with the long section of the middle where they are parted from each other, but get why its need to drive the plot forward, and it was lovely when they are re-united!

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

This lovely story was well-written and edits. The first quarter of the book or so moved slowly while we spent a few extra days at Netherfield. After that, the action picked up and I enjoyed the story more. The story also has a more extreme version of a slothful Mr. Bennet, which was quite fun. I also enjoyed the length denouement that is sometimes missing in a romance story.

I recieved an ARC with no promise of review.