First Impressions by Alexa Adams

First Impressions
A Tale of Less Pride & Prejudice
by Alexa Adams

Published: March 2010
Publisher: Outskirts Press
Genre: Romance
Paperback: 190 pages
Rating: 4

Description from the amazon:
In Pride and Prejudice Fitzwilliam Darcy begins his relationship with Elizabeth Bennet with the words: "She is tolerable, but not handsome enough to tempt me; I am in no humour at present to give consequence to young ladies who are slighted by other men."

What would have happened if Mr. Darcy had never spoken so disdainfully?

First Impressions explores how the events of Jane Austen's beloved novel would have transpired if Darcy and Elizabeth had danced together at the Meryton Assembly.

Jane and Bingley's relationship blossoms unimpeded, Mary makes a most fortunate match, and Lydia never sets a foot in Brighton.

Austen's witty style is authentically invoked in this playful romp from Longbourn to Pemberley.

Amusing Quote:
"He has reservations and is not prepared to declare himself at this juncture. It is imperative that you remember that Mr. Darcy is a reserved, dignified man, who is unaccustomed to the high spirits of our family. We must endeavor not to overwhelm him or he will surely flee. This is how the matter now stands - we all must be quiet, sedate, and on our very best behaviour when he is amongst us, do you understand?"
-Mr Bennet warning Mrs Bennet, chapter 12, page 76

My two-bits:
In-a-word(s): cupid
What a delightful read for this time of year!

I'm left with a warm and fuzzy feeling ;-D

It's a what-if Darcy and Elizabeth story that includes other interesting pairings. Thus, my in-a-word selection. Cupid's arrow aims true towards more than two couples.

Because this tale is composed of less pride and prejudice, we are treated to a gentler and amenable Darcy rather than the haughty one.

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For those who need a weekly dose of Jane-like stories: Alexa also writes Janeicillin

I have long suffered from a most annoying ailment that I call please-don't-let-this-be-the-last-pageitis. The disorder kicks in whenever I reach the end of a particularly satisfying book, usually resulting in my turning back to page one and starting to read it all over again. But relief is on the way for, at long last, after many failed attempts, I have finally succeeded in manufacturing a cure. I call it Janeicillin, prescribed in installments of approximately 2500 words, each Friday, best taken with tea. I focus on those last few pages of Austen's novels, in which she speedily rushes us towards the end, and draw them out into short tales detailing the time between those cathartic engagements and subsequent weddings. Enjoy.--Alexa Adams
Read the latest Janeicillin here

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* review copy courtesy of author

* for Everything Austen challenge

* read Alexa's Pemberley Ball post: based on characters of First Impressions

* part of Pemberley Ball