Lovely review from Janet at the More Agreeably Engaged blog! She writes:
“There are many things about this book that I love but one of them is the author’s talent of revealing the thoughts of our hero and heroine in such a witty fashion. I found myself laughing on many occasions. It was such an amusing and endearing way of knowing their innermost feelings. I was happy to be along for the ride and ‘feel’ with them.”
Giveaway and guest post at Diary of an Eccentric. I write about the importance of laughter in Austen’s novels. Here’s the beginning of the blog — visit Diary of an Eccentric to read the rest or sign up for the giveaway!
“So, I wrote a Pride and Prejudice variation in which Elizabeth actually becomes engaged to Mr. Collins. Why was I motivated to write such a plot? Well, there are multiple reasons, but one is because my son (then 11 years old) thought Mr. Collins was funny….” https://diaryofaneccentric.wordpress.com/2015/08/13/guest-post-giveaway-mr-darcy-to-the-rescue-by-victoria-kincaid/
I’m so excited! Mr. Darcy to the Rescue is #15 in Regency Romance Bestsellers on Amazon! Thank you to everyone who has purchased it 🙂
Visit My Jane Austen Book Club for my guest post about Mr. Collins and why he’s so hard for JAFF writers to redeem. There’s also an excerpt from Mr. Darcy to the Rescue and a giveaway of an ebook or paperback copy!
The ebook of Mr. Darcy to the Rescue is now up on Amazon and Smashwords. The paperback copy is almost ready (and will be available through Amazon) and other ebook retailers are in the works (they take a couple days). Thank you to all my readers who have been waiting so patiently!
Here is the blurb for my next novel, Mr. Darcy to the Rescue — it should be out next week if everything goes according to plan!
When the irritating Mr. Collins proposes marriage, Elizabeth Bennet is prepared to refuse him, but then she learns that her father is ill. If Mr. Bennet dies, Collins will inherit Longbourn and her family will have nowhere to go. Elizabeth accepts the proposal, telling herself she can be content as long as her family is secure. If only she weren’t dreading the approaching wedding day…
Ever since leaving Hertfordshire, Mr. Darcy has been trying to forget his inconvenient attraction to Elizabeth. News of her betrothal forces him to realize how devastating it would be to lose her. He arrives at Longbourn intending to prevent the marriage, but discovers Elizabeth’s real opinion about his character. Then Darcy recognizes his true dilemma…
How can he rescue her when she doesn’t want him to?
Here is an excerpt from Chapter 2 of my upcoming novel, Mr. Darcy to the Rescue, which is about to go into formatting–hopefully to be released soon!
“I had a letter from Jane Bennet yesterday.”
These words, falling from the lips of Caroline Bingley, had the power to make Darcy’s gaze lurch in her direction. Was that her intent? The smirk forming on her lips suggested it might be. He turned his gaze back to the fireplace.
Darcy had invited Bingley to tea at Darcy House, and the addition of Miss Bingley to the party had been an unwelcome surprise. When she had followed her brother into the drawing room, Bingley had given Darcy a small, apologetic shrug. Darcy was most concerned about her effect on Georgiana, who found Miss Bingley intimidating. When would Bingley ever learn to gainsay his sister?
So far, however, the afternoon had proceeded smoothly. Georgiana had not uttered a word, but at least had remained in the room. Then Miss Bingley had proceeded to introduce this sensitive topic of conversation.
Charles Bingley was hardly less interested in his sister’s surprise announcement than Darcy. He shifted in his chair and set down his tea cup. “Ja-Miss Bennet wrote to you? W-what news is there from Meryton?” He made no attempt to sound casual.
Enjoying the effect she had on her listeners, his sister leaned back in her chair and drawled, “They have had a good deal of rain over the past fortnight.”
Bingley rolled his eyes. “Yes. And?”
“Jane’s Aunt Phillips had a cold but seems to be improving.” Miss Bingley’s smirk only widened.
Bingley made a frustrated noise. “Is that all?”
Darcy could sympathize. Her triumphant tone suggested she had news of great import, but perhaps she was simply teasing them. Darcy settled back in his chair and took a sip of tea.
Caroline Bingley had been the only member of their party at Netherfield who had guessed about Darcy’s attraction to Elizabeth. Three months before, he had left Hertfordshire determined to forget everything about Elizabeth Bennet but had found the task far more difficult than he anticipated. Elizabeth haunted his days and nights without ceasing. During the day, his thoughts turned to her: her musical laugh, teasing voice, light and pleasing figure. At night, he struggled to sleep, and when he did, he dreamed of her.
Again and again, he had examined the problem but had always determined there was no other solution than to banish her from his thoughts. So far, he had met with little success, and now this reminder from Miss Bingley only threatened to further disturb his equanimity.
Georgiana nibbled a biscuit, attempting to appear interested in a conversation about people she had never met.
“Caroline—” Bingley’s voice held a note of warning.
Miss Bingley sighed dramatically as if extremely put out by her brother’s demands. “Well… There was one item of interest. One of Jane’s sisters is engaged to be married to that parson who is a cousin of theirs.” Miss Bingley sneered, a singularly unattractive expression.
“Mr. Collins,” Darcy supplied.
“Yes, that is his name.”
Darcy’s chest compressed with anxiety, making it hard to breathe. “Which sister?”
“The second. Elizabeth.” Miss Bingley slid him a look that could not be interpreted as anything less than triumphant.
It was now impossible for Darcy to breathe. What had happened to the air in the room?
Elizabeth! Engaged to that idiot? Married to that fool for the rest of her life? Going to his bed? Bearing his children?
No! It was not possible. Darcy needed to protest the impossibility of this pronouncement, refute it immediately, but nothing emerged from his mouth save a strangled gurgle. Georgiana’s gaze shifted to him, wide-eyed with alarm.
Bingley, fortunately, had not lost his powers of speech. “Engaged to Mr. Collins! I thought she had more sense.”
“She does,” Darcy growled. “There must be some error.”
Miss Bingley’s laugh held no actual mirth. “Jane would hardly make such a mistake!”
“The man is a fool!” Darcy expostulated. “How could she accept him?”
Georgiana had plastered herself against the back of her chair, her eyes never leaving his face. His outburst was out of character, he knew, but at the moment, he could not find the means to control himself.
“Now that I think of it,” Bingley said, “I do recall that Collins danced two dances with her at the Netherfield Ball.”
“Yes, he danced very ill!” Darcy said.
“Perhaps he had been courting her back then,” Bingley concluded.
Darcy closed his eyes and considered this. The idiot parson had danced with Elizabeth and made a fool of himself. He had tried to engage her in conversation, but Darcy had seen no signs of interest on her part. Elizabeth had far too much sense. She had been mortified when Collins had presumed to converse with Darcy without an introduction. No, it was impossible. How could she have accepted his hand?
When he opened his eyes, he noticed the gaze of everyone in the room upon him. Damnation! He too easily betrayed himself when it came to Elizabeth Bennet!
Here is another excerpt from my most recent work in progress, Mr. Darcy to the Rescue — currently in final editing and hopefully to be released soon! Enjoy!
Elizabeth enjoyed the passing scenery from the carriage window, but Mr. Darcy, seated opposite her, was making her uncomfortable. Often when she happened to glance his way, she noticed his gaze on her.
After a while, Elizabeth could not bear the silence between them and engaged Mr. Darcy in some innocuous conversation about the weather and the state of the roads; then their dialogue faltered. Still, Mr. Darcy persisted in giving her heated looks from under the brim of his hat. Elizabeth felt herself grow warm and uncomfortable. What did he mean by watching her so? She refused to be intimidated! The thought made her smile.
“You find something amusing?” Mr. Darcy asked.
She supposed a version of the truth would do. “I was reflecting that you have a way of making things happen.” Elizabeth replied, careful to keep her tone distant and neutral.
He arched a brow quizzically. She explained: “You wished to leave Rosings Park, so we did. You wished to take us to Pemberley, so we are on our way.”
A crease formed between his eyebrows. “Is this a bad quality?” He inquired. Naturally he was too intelligent not to notice the potential criticism in her observation.
“Not in the main, no.” Elizabeth responded. “I would imagine it is a desirable quality for many. However, some people in your position might be tempted to bend others to their will.”
Both his eyebrows rose. “Is this flaw to be laid at my feet as well?” Was it possible he was hurt by her implication? No, he could not possibly care so much for her opinion.
“I do not know you well enough to say.”
Mr. Darcy covered his mouth and coughed. “You overwhelm me with your flattery.” When he removed his hand, a smile curved the corners of his mouth.
“Do you require my flattery?” She asked archly. “Others might fulfill that role more ably than I.” She kept her tone from being overly friendly; it was far too easy to be drawn into an easy banter with him.
“I do not require it, but I would like to believe I have earned your admiration at least in some ways.” His smile had disappeared. Was he in earnest? Did he really desire her good opinion? Why? No, most likely this was simply empty chatter, a little meaningless flirtation to pass the time.
She could play that game as well. “My admiration? Of what use is it to you?” She asked with a cool smile.
He paused for a long moment, and she thought he might not answer. “I do not believe it is very liberally bestowed and therefore all the more worth the earning.”
Elizabeth tilted her head to the side and regarded Mr. Darcy quizzically. Did he truly believe his words or was he only seeking to flatter her? No, I cannot afford to believe he cares for my opinion.
“Or, am I mistaken?” Mr. Darcy’s voice recalled her to the conversation.
“No. I suppose there are few people I think well of and even fewer I could be said to admire.” She conceded, casting her gaze down at her hands. But then she reflected on the statement; how arrogant it made her sound!
“It is wise not to form judgments too quickly.” Mr. Darcy’s voice had a rough edge she could not identify. “But I will not importune you with questions about where I stand in your opinion. Hopefully this trip will help improve me in your estimation.”
Elizabeth’s head shot up, but—for once—Mr. Darcy’s gaze was directed out the window at the passing scenery. His expression was shuttered and unreadable, although the rapid drumming of his fingers on his leg betrayed some tension. Had he sensed her dislike for him, or had someone mentioned it to him?
“From what I have heard of Pemberley, an invitation to visit would be enough to raise its master in anyone’s estimation.” Elizabeth replied, striving to lighten the tone of the conversation.
Mr. Darcy’s gaze slid back to Elizabeth. “I am sure that is not true of everyone.” Did he mean her? “And I would rather win admiration through the content of my character.”
“Surely we all wish that.” She replied.
“I cannot imagine any would find fault with your character.” He regarded her steadily as he spoke.
Before Elizabeth had a chance to reply to this rather enigmatic statement, she felt Jane stir next to her and raise her head. “Oh, Lizzy, I believe I fell asleep! I shall have such a horrid crick in my neck now!”
Elizabeth had never before been so pleased to have a conversation interrupted.
I’m sooo excited! Today brought a wonderful, totally awesome review of Pride and Proposals by the lovely Meredith at Austenesque Reviews! Here are a few highlights:
“Pride and Proposals is a captivating and consuming read! I loved the intense premise, skillful character development, and emotive prose Victoria Kincaid employed. I would absolutely love to read more from her in the future! I highly recommend this novel to readers looking for a sensational and impassioned variation of Pride and Prejudice!”
“…full of delicious turns and surprising twists that will leave you spellbound!..But what I especially loved most about this novel was the expressive prose – it’s emotionally wrought, powerful, and soul-gripping.”
Here is another excerpt from my upcoming novel Mr. Darcy to the Rescue — hopefully to be released in a couple weeks. Darcy is visiting Longbourn. Elizabeth and Collins are engaged(!), and Collins has just arrived from Kent. I hope you enjoy!
*****
Over Mr. Collins’s shoulder, Elizabeth saw Mr. Darcy’s glaring at the man’s back. Did he disapprove of the familiarity of their greeting? “Mr. Collins,” Elizabeth murmured in greeting, knowing her cheeks were turning red.
“No, Elizabeth. Your modesty does you credit, but you must call me by my given name. For we are soon to know each other on a most intimate basis.” His smile might have been intended to convey affection, but it emerged as a leer.
Elizabeth’s stomach churned sickeningly. She cast her eyes down, unwilling to meet the gaze of anyone in the room. Bad enough that her fiancé was trafficking in innuendos, but to do so before Mr. Darcy!
If only something would happen to distract everyone’s attention. Lydia rushing in with news about officers and dances. Her mother’s attack of the vapors. Oh, where was a plague of locusts when one needed it?
Mr. Collins turned to greet Jane and became aware of Mr. Darcy’s presence. “Mr. Darcy! I did not know you were here, sir!” He bowed so deeply he almost toppled over and needed to grab a chair for support. “I pray you understand I did not intend any slight.”
“No, no. Of course not.” Mr. Darcy frowned, almost as if he harbored some sort of resentment against the parson. But most likely he was simply annoyed at the man’s obsequious behavior.
Mr. Collins’ face brightened as if he were about to impart the most wonderful secret. “I have come directly from Kent. Your aunt and cousin have been enjoying wonderful health!”
“That is good to hear,” Darcy muttered.
“I do believe Lady Anne’s coughing has grown less frequent and less forceful than previously. And she has had more color in her cheeks these past weeks. I told her at dinner the other night, ‘Lady Anne, you are like a delicate English rose!’” Mr. Collins drew himself up to his full height. “I flatter myself she was well pleased with the compliment.”
“I am sure.” A fly in Mr. Darcy’s soup could not have received a colder welcome. Mr. Collins nodded enthusiastically, completely oblivious to Mr. Darcy’s tone.
Mr. Collins wasted no time in positioning himself next to Elizabeth on the loveseat, far closer than she would like. Mr. Darcy was scowling again. Did he disapprove of their closeness? Well, it was no matter. Betrothed couples were allowed some liberties, after all.
“Lady Catherine has been most condescendingly helpful in preparing the parsonage for my dear Elizabeth’s arrival. She suggested new curtains in the upstairs sitting room and shelves in the bedchamber closet! Is that not a capitol idea?”
“A masterstroke,” Darcy agreed, his face carefully neutral.
Mr. Collins took Elizabeth’s hand and held it in the crook of his arm, against his body. She keenly felt the impropriety of this position, but removing her hand would only draw more attention to his actions. Was this how the rest of her life would be?
Mr. Collins patted her hand. “My dearest Elizabeth and I seem to have been formed for each other.”
Mr. Darcy’s walking stick clattered to the floor. “Pardon me.” The man bent to retrieve it, his face an unusual shade of red. Could dropping his walking stick have cause so much embarrassment?
Undeterred, Mr. Collins gazed down on Elizabeth fondly. “We are in perfect accord in all things.”
Elizabeth began to suspect Mr. Collins of knowing a completely different Elizabeth, one made whole cloth from his imagination. Suppressing a keen urge to roll her eyes, she could do nothing but smile wanly at him.
“How fortunate.” There was an odd tone in Mr. Darcy’s voice that Elizabeth could not identify. She would understand if such a declaration had provoked stifled laughter or disbelief, but Mr. Darcy seemed almost—angry? No, she must be imagining it. If Mr. Collins irritated him too much, Mr. Darcy would simply leave for Netherfield—which would solve one of Elizabeth’s problems for the day. Elizabeth found herself silently encouraging Mr. Collins.
He remained oblivious to Mr. Darcy’s tone. “I cannot wait until that day when she will make me the happiest of men and we can begin our lives of wedded bliss.” Quickly bringing a handkerchief up to her mouth, Elizabeth pretended a cough to hide her smile. Why did he insist on speaking like a heroine in a lurid popular novel?
“But the greatest joy will be when we return to Hunsford. For, my dear—” He gave her hand another clumsy pat. “—Lady Catherine has promised to visit you upon your arrival! What an honor! What condescension!”
“That is very good of her!” Mrs. Bennet cried. “You are very fortunate in your situation.”
“I am indeed.” Mr. Collins replied. “The most fortunate man alive!” A smug smile appeared on his face.
A fit of coughing drew everyone’s attention to Mr. Darcy. “My apologies. I inhaled some tea,” he said when once again capable of speech. Elizabeth frowned; she would have sworn the man’s tea cup had been empty for twenty minutes.
Mrs. Bennet’s curt nod suggested her grudging forgiveness for interrupting a tender moment between Elizabeth and her betrothed.
Recognizing the appreciative audience he had in Mrs. Bennet, Mr. Collins continued directing his conversation to her. “Have I told you about the windows at Rosings?” He proceeded without awaiting a reply. “There are eighteen windows on the front of the house. The glazing of each cost fifty pounds! Can you imagine?” He turned his smarmy smile on Mr. Darcy. “I have heard that your estate at Pemberley is very grand. How many windows do you have at the front?”
The other man’s gaze could not have been colder. “I have never counted.”
Mr. Collins continued on, blithely unaware if Mr. Darcy’s contempt. “I am sure they are very grand as well.”
Tension rolled off Mr. Darcy like water rushing down a mountain. Clearly Mr. Collins irritated him almost beyond endurance. Why would Mr. Darcy not return to Netherfield? He had been at Longbourn long enough. Excessively long, in fact.
“And the draperies in her large drawing room!” Mr. Collins exclaimed. “Silk imported directly from China. 115 yards of the finest silk!”
Mrs. Bennet gasped at the extravagance.
“I would imagine it would make an excellent topic for your next sermon,” Mr. Darcy remarked dryly. “Perhaps the transience of worldly goods?”
Mr. Collins’s mouth opened and he blinked at Mr. Darcy.
Victoria Kincaid 