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Meryton, located roughly one hundred fifty miles to the south of Pemberley in Derbyshire and nestled in the pastoral valleys of Hertfordshire, was experiencing an atypical cold spell for this winter of 1817. Snow had not yet fallen and it was warmer than the northern counties, but beyond a doubt, winter had descended with a vengeance not seen in years. Whatever the facts, weather or otherwise, none of the inhabitants of the modest manor known as Longbourn took note. All energies were either focused on preparations for the trip to Pemberley or avoiding said preparations. Mrs. Bennet had been in a barely controlled dither since her springtime trip to Darcy House in London. She was further incited by Kitty’s gushing descriptions of Pemberley, after her daughter’s return from visiting there in August. Despite her incessant declarations to anyone listening of the great wealth that her second daughter married into, the woman of humble means had no true concept of such a life. The subdued opulence of Darcy House had amazed her, and based on the picture painted by Kitty, Pemberley promised to be vastly superior. Frankly, she was overwhelmed at the concept and her infamous nerves were on high alert—for justifiable reasons this time.

Between Mary’s wedding planning, the Christmas vacation arrangements, and his wife’s histrionics, Mr. Bennet found himself retreating to the solitude of his study more and more to evade the frenzy. He merely wanted to see his favored daughter and new grandson, enjoy the pleasure of good company, and lose himself in the library. Inconsequentials, such as fashionable clothing and haircuts, were of no interest.

Transportation to Derbyshire had not actually occurred to him as an issue. His plan was simply to utilize the landau, and if five persons proved a bit snug, all better to maintain warmth! The arrival of the luxurious Darcy coach two days before their scheduled departure, with an obviously carefully worded letter from Lizzy, explaining its purpose with her natural humor, brought a smile to his face. The rationale was of no real importance to the practical gentleman. He instantly recognized the advantage and was pleased, not only for the reasons delineated by his darling daughter, but also for the comfort afforded his old bones. It never crossed his mind to be offended. Besides, Mrs. Bennet’s theatrics would have effectively smothered any sensations of insult had they come to mind.

“Such a fine, fine carriage it is!” she gushed. “What a marvelous gentleman he is to be sure! Married our Lizzy when surely no one else would likely have her, always far too independent and sharp-tongued for her own good. Truly a wondrous gentleman, so generous and kind, is he not Mr. Daniels?”

Mr. Daniels’s agreeing reply, the hundredth or so such offered since departing Longbourn, was lost in the continuing rambles of his future mother-in-law. Mary’s gentle smile and soft eyes met his, giving the flummoxed young man the inner strength necessary to deal with the situation. His weekly visits to Mary since her departure from London had given him the opportunity to become acquainted with his soon-to-be family. As Darcy before him, Mr. Daniels was baffled at how the demure, proper young woman who was his fiancée had arisen from such a family. Mr. Bennet was quieter than his wife, but with a clever wit and penetrating gaze not possessed by his middle daughter. In all ways, Mary was an enigma in the Bennet clan, far more than Lizzy ever had been.

Joshua Daniels counted himself a fortunate man indeed, the antics of the Bennets notwithstanding. His betrothed was a steady young lady, prim, stoic, and fairly humorless; but intelligent, kind, and warm. Since these were character traits identical to Mr. Daniels, the two were well matched. Both approached their union with logic and sensibleness, emotion only a dim part of the decision initially. That there was a physical attraction was obvious to them both, but to say it was a raging passion would be erroneous. Their innocent and balanced natures did not lend well to consideration of such things. However, as the long weeks of their engagement unfolded, both began to sense the stirrings of something stronger; emotions that simmered far under the skin as they gradually took tender liberties with chaste kisses and hand touching. This excursion to Pemberley, as painful as it was for the decorous solicitor to reside as a guest in a client’s home, would be an eye-opener. The extended period of time the couple would spend together, often inadvertently alone as people came and went about the enormous manor, as well as witnessing the blatant if constrained demonstrations of affection between their hosts, would enlighten them to the greater riches possibly uncovered in a passionate marriage. Without giving too much away, it is safe to conclude that Mary and Joshua would have a fulfilling marriage in all ways.

This, of course, was in the future. For now, they all persevered for the ride. It rained and snowed intermittently as they traveled, but the sturdily built coach, with thick walls, window shades, rugs, and compartments for heated bricks, made for a fairly comfortable journey. By the afternoon of the second day, as they rumbled through Matlock, the clouds broke and sleety rains ceased. The sun peeked through the gaps, offering no warmth of any significance, but casting eye-blinding tendrils of illumination over the glittering snow blanketing the fields.

It was Kitty who recognized the hamlet of Lambton, familiar from afternoon shopping trips with Georgiana. “Oh! This is Lambton, Papa. It means we are very close! Just a few miles and across the river is Pemberley!” Lizzy had instructed Mr. Anders to approach from the north rather than the slightly shorter southern avenue veering from Beeley. She would never forget her initial view of Pemberley, as seen from the bridge crossing the River Derwent: the mansion sitting proudly amid the gardens and fountains, ringed to the rear by vast forests, the main façade a breathtaking vision of Darcy heritage and prestige.

The coachman slowed on the bridge, allowing the occupants to gaze lingeringly as well as permitting word of their arrival to reach Mr. Darcy from the unseen sentry he knew was waiting. By the time the carriage drove under the massive stone and vine swathed archway and halted before the portico, the Bennets and Mr. Daniels were silent with awe.

Darcy stood under the entry, commanding and formal, with Dr. George Darcy to his left, wearing a broad, welcoming grin. Georgiana, hair regally arranged and dressed in a lovely gown of pale blue velvet, stood to his right. Mary and Kitty enthusiastically greeted Georgiana, Darcy’s welcoming speech lost in the flurry.

“Mrs. Bennet, how utterly delightful it is to see you again.” George approached the spellbound woman, bowing with a roguish flair and offering his arm. “If I may be so bold? I am quite certain there is a lovely young lady lurking in the foyer with an incredibly cute baby in her arms. I had the honor of delivering this infant you know, first to lay eyes on his beauty, as it were. Of course, the real work was accomplished by your daughter, William having some input here and there…”

His voice trailed off as he led the bemused woman into the painted foyer. Darcy looked at Mr. Bennet, smiling faintly at the silently laughing older gentleman. “Mr. Daniels, welcome to Pemberley. Please, gentlemen, let us retire to the parlor where it is warm and refreshments are waiting. I should warn you, Mr. Daniels,” he said with a chuckle as the three entered the house, “it is likely you shall discover attention from your fiancée slowly forthcoming for a day or two until female conversation is exhausted. Word of wisdom from an experienced husband given free of charge.”

Sharon Lathan has another hit for P&P lovers in her new book, In the Arms of Mr. Darcy. It’s one of several continuations of the classic novel she has written and each one is as good as the last.

In this one, the story carries on with the Darcys and their new son, Alexander. They couldn’t be happier, but the same can’t be said for all the members of their family and their friends. Will their own love influence their nearest and dearest?

Sharon shows great care to detail in this and all of her books. She’s given us a great, romantic love story about two happily married people, something we don’t always get to read about. There is some sex in the book so if that isn’t your thing, don’t buy the book. However, I suggest just skipping over those pages because it’s really a great read.



Elizabeth and Darcy’s life is getting more interesting everyday in In the Arms of Mr. Darcy (2010) by Sharon Lathan. With the arrival of their new son, Alexander, Darcy seems to be living in a dream world. That is until Christmas arrives and with it an endless number of guests. All of which seem to want to take time with this newest member of the house of Pemberley. Darcy discovers he has a jealous side to him. We were already aware of this trait, Mr. Darcy.

The intrusions upon his life continue and with a business tragedy, the love life of his cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam and the rapid maturity of his young sister, Georgiana at times it seems he doesn’t know what direction he is going.

He does have an anchor in the storm with his lovely wife Elizabeth. But even the lives of women who live comfortably can not be easy and although expecting a leisurely existence of raising her new son and running Pemberley, Elizabeth is thrust into the reality of marrying a family of ‘The Ton’.

Georgiana and Elizabeth must attend the Court of St. James and bow to the Prince Regent. A wonderful in-depth article written by Sharon Lathan can be found here.

My favorite parts of the book were the interactions and budding love lives of Kitty Bennet (Elizabeth’s younger sister) and Caroline Bingley. Caroline especially deserves to have her own book written someday. I’d be first in line to purchase it.

Lathan also spends a fair portion of her book fleshing out Colonel Fitzwilliam’s love affair, which I also found intriguing. I like the direction she took with this, mainly because it is somewhat of an unconventional route. The Colonel is and has been in love with a married woman for quite some time and now she is recently widowed. What is he do to?

Lathan’s books fall under the Romance novel category, which means they are steamy and definitely ‘R’ rated. That means there are *cough* scenes inappropriate for young audiences. I found them a little heavy handed in some places, but overall not too distracting.

This is the fourth in her series and overall I would say the best so far. 4 out of 5 stars! Not for the purist due to graphic nudity!



Dear Mrs. Lathan, Please do not let this 4th delicious installment be your last. Your Friend, Kelli Crowe

No, I do not know Mrs. Lathan, but I would love to share a cup of tea with her and catch up on our mutual friends, the Darcys. Her enthusiasm for all things Darcy and Regency completely won over this sceptic.

Language: B+

Characterization: A

Plot: A

Revisit vs. Rehash: A

Nit Picky Little Things: A

Wonderful Little Moments: A++

Originality: A

The Moment I was Hooked: A



Language: Denuded, meretricious, insensate...I greatly enjoyed the language.

B+

Characterization: There is a listing of the Cast of Characters at the beginning of the novel - which I found helpful. After 4 books, there are quite a few supporting players and family members that my pre-parenting brain might have been able to keep straight....but lets just say that after 3 boys, I appreciate any sort of Cliff notes offered.

I think my favorite element of this book were the conversations between characters. They are intimate, humours and revealing. Darcy and Elizabeth have such great repartee. And so much of the character’s personalities and relationships are exposed through these wonderful moments. There is an element of reality and Romanticism in the conversations. A perfect combination.

There was one moment that Darcy seemed to act out of character in his natural, established protectiveness of Georgianna. I didn’t really understand the specific plot twist and the character’s reaction to it. However...I did see that Sharon Lathan is writing another book, The Trouble with Mr. Darcy. I have no idea if it is book #5 in this series. (I can hope!) Perhaps there are threads I am not meant to understand that will be revealed to me in later novels. And I really want someone to read this book so I can discuss it!! (My husband only has so much patience with hearing me ramble on about these things with the level of seriousness paralleled to a medical breakthrough.)

A

Plot: Ch. 3 The lush visual of Pemberley at Christmas (in Ch. 3) is like Regency England meets a Norman Rockwell Christmas. The reader also gets to see Pemberley as a playground to visitors. And true to Lathan form, just when I think all is well....well, it is not.

The story lines of Caroline Bingly and Kitty are two of my favorites in the book. (Do not fret, the plot is still mostly about Darcy and Elizabeth.) I adore Caroline in general. (Why I always seem to pull for the villain in these stories is a thread I honestly don’t want to pull too hard on, lest I become disappointed with my own unraveled introspection:) But beyond Kitty’s ill timed coughing, I never really gave her much thought. Lathan made me care about Kitty (and Mary, in her previous books).

The plot, again, moves quickly and is driven quite a bit by dialogue. The Darcys continue to travel. I found myself actually googling Devil’s Arse and Charles Cotton. Mrs. Lathan did her homework in this area. (I even looked back to make sure she really was from California and not England because of seemingly very accurate descriptions of places the Darcys visited.

A

Revisit vs. Rehash: No rehashing at all. Excellent use of flashbacks to events that we did not previously know about as readers. These flashbacks were very revealing to the character’s motivations and actions.

A+

Nit Picky Little Things: Hmmm, none come to mind beyond the previously mentioned plot twist.

A

Wonderful Little Moments: Mr. Bennet meeting Alexander, "Are you the boss of the road?," the family tree, the backgammon games, Mrs. Smith, Lady Worrow (who’s gregariousness reminded me of how my grandmother used to hold the attention of a room), learning Mrs. Gardener’s and Mrs. Bennet’s first names.

A++

Originality: The farther away from where Jane Austen left off that Lathan takes me, the more I appreciate her creativity. This 4th book takes us through the Darcy’s 2nd year of marriage.

A

The Moment I was Hooked: I was committed before I started reading. I will say, Ch. 3’s Christmas celebration made me think of visiting the Biltmore and the lushness of a huge home at Christmas time. I remember emotionally sinking down into the story at that point.

A

I started out as a sceptic of this series and was won over to be quite a fan.



For months, I have looked forward to diving into Sharon Lathan’s series, The Darcy Saga. I managed to obtain Books 1-3, and signed up to review Book 4 for this month. My goal was to work through the series from the beginning and then continue to Book 4, In the Arms of Mr. Darcy, now available from Sourcebooks Landmark. Alas, my schedule—both my personal and my reading schedule have been inundated with activity and I have had to begin my experience with The Darcy Saga without reading the first three books in the series.

Fortunately, Sharon has presented a Darcy tale that can stand on its own—all that is required is a rudimentary knowledge of Jane Austen’s classic novel, Pride and Prejudice. While I wish I could have begun the series from the top, I don’t believe my experience was diminished by this fact at all. I became easily immersed into this Austenian world and had a complete grasp of the events and relationships within.

A listing of the “Cast of Characters”, a brief description of the main characters, including some birth dates and wedding anniversaries, precedes Lathan’s tale. This was quite a useful tool for me at the outset, as it kept me from disorientation with all of the individuals within the story. I especially liked the inclusion of dates, as I was able to understand the context of events in Lathan’s timeline.

In the Arms of Mr. Darcy is quiet and yet recurrently passionate, primarily focusing on Fitzwilliam Darcy, his wife Elizabeth and their newborn son Alexander. Surrounding them are their close friends and family, most of who were introduced in the original Pride and Prejudice. The book is essentially a series of anecdotal tales, revealing the everyday life events of these characters and the occasional moments of drama in their lives.

For Darcy and Elizabeth, most of their drama comes within the bedroom. Darcy does have a couple of side adventures of his own and plays rescuer to Elizabeth in one harrowing incident, but most of the action comes from their marital relationship’s intimacies. While I’m pleased that sex is portrayed as a wonderful gift of married life, readers should be aware that their love scenes are fairly steamy and occur regularly within the novel.

Outside of Darcy and Elizabeth, other anecdotal moments in the lives of their loved ones are shared. Most of these incidents are short and sometimes seem inconsequential to the rest of the story, but they are enjoyable nonetheless. The storyline that probably has the longest reach across the novel is that of Colonel Fitzwilliam as he grows from an ambitious soldier to a man who desires a steady home life and family of his own. His storyline had quite a few twists and turns, and I highly enjoyed his journey as an individual.

While I didn’t enjoy In the Arms of Mr. Darcy as much as I had hoped, it was still a pleasant, ambling stroll with the characters of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. Again, I could have done without the amount of sexual detail with Darcy & Lizzie, but at least that aspect was kept within a married relationship. Little Alexander Darcy was simply adorable, and the way his parents doted on him almost made me fancy another little one myself! Books 1-3 are still on my shelf, and I still plan to read them as well. This Janeite cannot get enough of these characters, and I’m pleased that Sharon Lathan has given them another enjoyable way of being in this reader’s life.



Sharon Lathan has written several books that continue one of the most romantic and beloved stories of all time, Pride and Prejudice. The first book, Mr. and Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy, takes place shortly after the wedding. Sharon takes us behind closed doors (wink, wink, nod, nod) to give us a more personal look into the Darcy’s lives.

In the Arms of Mr. Darcy is the fourth book in Sharon Lathan’s Darcy Saga. This book picks up right where the third book left off, Darcy and Elizabeth have their precious baby boy, Alexander. Sharon Lathan takes us on a journey through the lives of the characters we love so much. In this book we get to experience Elizabeth and Darcy’s first baby and all the trials that come with it. She keeps the romance between Darcy and Elizabeth sizzling hot while dealing with many realistic situations that new parents often face. My absolute favorite part of this book is the side stories with Georgina, Kitty, and Col. Fitzwilliam. I loved learning more about their characters and the direction that Sharon Lathan takes them in. I hope Sharon writes more about them in the future. I also love Dr. Darcy. He is one of my favorite characters in this series. I wish I had an uncle like him. He is a great addition to the cast of characters. Sharon Lathan has done a great job with this series. I’ve read all four books and I have not been disappointed. Also in the back of my book was a preview to the upcoming novel, A Darcy Christmas, which looks very good. Keep a look out for it!

Review: Picking up one of Sharon Lathan’s books is like running into an old friend and sitting down for coffee and a catch up. Her books never fail to captivate me, they are deeply romantic, very sexy and thoroughly addictive. To get in the mood to read this book I watched the movie version of Pride and Prejudice as I know that Sharon was inspired by the movie to write the books. It is so easy to visualise Darcy and Elizabeth’s continued lives in Sharon’s books and whilst the movie was the inspiration for the books they are true to character of the original book as well. I truly believe that Jane Austen would have loved these books!

This book picks up as the Darcy’s are about to celebrate Christmas with their families and their new baby son whom they are besotted with. Each chapter is filled with the daily routine of their lives and the people around them. It tells you of their fears, their joy and the passion they have for each other. Lizzy is presented to the Prince Regent and whilst she is full of nerves, Darcy is full of pride for Lizzy and Georgiana who was also presented. Of course everyone remembers Anne, Lady Catherine’s daughter, who finds happiness, joy and is happily married and the list goes on. As usual this book has another beautifully romantic and tender ending.

This is a book of heartfelt love, romance and passion and every time I read one of Sharon’s books I get swept away in all the moments that make you just sigh. But at the same time it also makes me appreciate the love and romance I have in my own life and for that I am grateful.





In the Arms of Mr. Darcy marks author Sharon Lathan’s fourth Pride and Prejudice sequel. As we journey to Pemberley and revisit the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy, we take a slightly different path than her first three novels: In Mr. and Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy: Two Shall Become One, Loving Mr. Darcy: Journey’s Beyond Pemberley and My Dearest Mr. Darcy: An Amazing Journey into Love Everlasting, which chronicled the first year of their marriage. We now experience Lizzie and Darcy’s life from a wider perspective. Still deeply in love, but more mature in their relationship, Lathan weaves in new conflicts/surprises/events into the story and expands the roles of familiar characters such as Colonel Fitzwilliam, Georgiana Darcy, and Jane and Charles Bingley.

Picking up where My Dearest Mr. Darcy left off, the novel begins with the Darcy’s second Christmas celebration and the birth of their first son and heir to Pemberley, Alexander. Much to the chagrin of the “ton”, the Darcy’s refuse to employ a wet nurse preferring to care for their son themselves. Unfortunately, distressing news interrupts their joyous Christmas day celebration. A fire has broken out in one of the mills that Darcy is part owner of requiring his immediate attention. Much to Lizzie’s sadness, Darcy is forced to leave during the holiday, but promises to return for their son’s first month birthday.

As Darcy and Col. Fitzwilliam travel to the mill, we learn of Col. Fitzwilliam’s love for an old flame who has recently become a widow. Darcy is astounded that Col. Fitzwilliam believes he is ready to settle down and leave the military. The two share some wonderful moments together, truly showing what excellent friends they are, as well as cousins.

“Go easy on me Darcy. I think I am in love, yes, but I am caught up in my own Shakespearean tragedy.” … Timing is everything, I have come to believe. Certainly this is true in military matters, but also in life and love.”

On the way back from the mill, a blizzard erupts and Col. Fitzwilliam and Darcy find themselves amidst a murder mystery! I won’t tell you the particulars of the whodunit, but it was an interesting chapter to say the least. (I’m not sure if it’s because I recently read Elizabeth Gaskell’s North and South, but I felt like this chapter was influenced by that novel. There was much talk about the mill, the people who ran it, and their living and working conditions. It was a nice addition that added depth to the story).

Upon Darcy’s return to Pemberley we find Georgiana and Lizzie preparing for their introductions to society. Georgiana has begun her transformation into a proper young lady, discarding the blushes of her youth, for the bloom of an engaging young woman. We are also treated to the baptism of young Alexander and are given a great chapter showcasing how proud Darcy is of his son, and what a wonderful father he will grow to be. We are also given glimpses into the engagement of Caroline Bingley, Kitty Bennet developing her first crush and broken heart, and the birth of Jane and Charles’ first child, as well as some more lovely moments between Lizzie and Darcy.

Engaging, fast paced and searingly romantic, I highly recommend reading In the Arms of Mr. Darcy if you’re a true Lizzie and Darcy fan. Lathan creates multiple story-arcs in her novels and weaves the Darcy’s underlying love story through it all. Even though we experience a much more mature relationship between the Darcy’s, they are still infatuated with each other, and I am compelled to forewarn readers that there are many sexual scenes not only this novel, but Lathan’s first three as well. If you are not a fan of authors who take those kinds of liberties with Austen’s characters, then I say steer clear!

I have to say I enjoyed In the Arms of Mr. Darcy best of all of Lathan’s novels in the series because of how the supporting characters take a much stronger role. As much as I enjoy following Elizabeth and Darcy’s new life together, I was glad to see more of Col. Fitzwilliam, Georgiana, and Jane and Charles Bingley included as it added depth to the story. For me there are only so many times I can hear Darcy and Lizzie call each other pet names, or tell each other how much they love one another, and I was glad to be given a breather and thrust into the supporting characters lives.

4 out of 5 Regency Stars


I have to say, as good as all of the books in this series have been, In the Arms of Mr. Darcy is my favorite. While we continue to follow Darcy and Lizzy through their life together, we also get some interesting side stories in this current edition.


One of my favorite parts of this series is now watching Darcy with his son, Alexander. His taciturn ways are a thing of the past, though he’s still definitely Master of Pemberley when needed. But to watch Darcy open up to affection and love has been fun and emotional. He’s carefree in his loving of Elizabeth and a doting father to Alexander, and he’s not afraid to show it.

The story in the beginning revolves around the christening of Alexander. Family and friends gather, as well those under Darcy’s care, to share in the joy of the occasion. This also brings forth memories for Darcy and he enjoys passing them forward to his son for the future.

There are also a couple of tragedies that mar life for the Darcys, one of which affects Fitzwilliam quite a bit. There is a fire at one of his factories in which men die, thus forcing a separation for the happy couple. They’ve not been apart of any length of time and this proves to be very difficult for them, as does the effects of the tragedy.

As much as Darcy has come out of his shell in this relationship, Lizzy has also found her place as more than mother and lover. When Darcy is frantic to be on his way to his responsibility in the aftermath of the factory fire, it is Lizzy who puts her foot down and becomes of the voice of reason, making Darcy face the fact his headlong rush into danger may affect his family as horribly as fire and death has affected those waiting for him. He may be Master, but Lizzy takes her role as wife seriously and lets him know it. The man he is eventually wins out as he recovers his senses at her words.

We also get an inside look at some of the secondary characters’ lives and the loves they find. I’m especially taken with Caroline Bingley’s new relationship with a man who knows what he wants, takes it, and makes Caroline’s blood race. This little tidbit totally fascinated me. I’m hoping I might put a bug in Ms. Lathan’s ear to think about a book based on this relationship. I think it would make for some terrific reading.

Richard Fitzwilliam, Darcy’s cousin, is also in love and his foray into this new emotion doesn’t go as you would believe or expect. I’m a little surprised at his interaction with Georgiana at the end of the book. This took a direction I never anticipated. While I enjoyed Richard’s part of the story and the eventual outcome, I feel there wasn’t quite enough emotion from Georgiana at that resolution. She’s young, just beginning to blossom, and her heart didn’t seem to feel all that involved emotionally quite enough for me.

Whereas, the opposite is true for Kitty, Lizzy’s sister, who receives a very emotional lesson due to the mores of society of the times. It’s a terrible lesson for any woman, especially when she’s shielded from the truth, but it had to be more so during that era. Kitty is a delightful character and I enjoyed getting to know her in this book. I hope to see more of her in the future.

Ms. Lathan’s writing is lyrical and perfect for this genre. I enjoy reading romance that has a hero and heroine working together to combat conflict instead of letting that conflict break them apart for any length of time. Darcy and Lizzy’s life/lives have turned out beautifully from the pen of Sharon Lathan. I said it once it before in my review of her books, but it bears repeating.

Jane Austen would be proud to read how her characters have flourished, lived, and loved in this continuation of her beloved story.



One of the first books to be reviewed on Books Like Breathing was Mr. and Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy by Sharon Lathan. I was a bit iffy about it and, therefore, I was a bit worried about this one. Would it just be composed only of Mr. Darcy chasing Lizzy around Pemberley extolling her beauty and general awesomeness with some plot thrown in here and there? Don’t get me wrong I liked the previous book but I was hoping for more substance with this one.

Well, I got my wish. In The Arms of Mr. Darcy was a great read. There was plenty of affection between Lizzy and Darcy but there was also plenty of plot. Lathan gave her versions of Lizzy and Darcy a chance to shine and develop. I loved seeing them as parents and Alexander was just adorable. Darcy as a parent was especially amazing. He was so affectionate and attentive to Alexander. I had to pause my reading and bask in the adorableness of father/son bonding quite often. Alexander comes in second only to Gregory from Marsha Altman’s series as my favorite Darcy child and he hasn’t even grown up yet.

The ancillary characters also got plenty of screentime. This was one of my favorite versions of Colonel Fitzwilliam. We very rarely get to see him as anything but Darcy’s close relative, so, it was nice to get more from him. I did not, however, like who he ended up with. He belongs with Georgiana. Georgiana is always one of my favorite character. I love it when authors give her something to do other than being Darcy’s meek younger sister. She was wise and willful in this one and I really appreciated that. I do ship Georgiana with Colonel Fitzwilliam, so, I was a bit disappointed but I can live with it.

I had no idea this was a part of a series when I read it and now I have the irrational urge to purchase the previous books even though I just went on a book binge. It never ends...


As I have probably mentioned several times, I love reading historical fiction and Pride and Prejudice and all of Jane Austen’s novels are among my favorites. Then I discovered the world of sequels and I was even more hooked! I enjoy reading about all the different possibilities for the characters created by Jane Austen. The drawback in that though is that after a while, you start getting the situations and characters mixed up. The big picture in my mind starts getting convoluted as to who married whom, who had an affair, who got killed, who complained about the funeral cost, who got bit by a vampire and who got turned into a zombie… yeah, it can get kind of weird. But in a good way! I kind of like it and it’s fun.

In the Arms of Mr. Darcy is the first novel by Ms. Lathan that I have read and I want to read more of her books. For one, the plot actually makes sense. The story line and characters do not deviate too far off from what is plausible of the original cast and setting. I like that in this book, Darcy and Elizabeth are portrayed to be more intimate. That is, they talk more to each other unlike in Pride and Prejudice where a lot of things between them were unsaid and caused a lot of confusion and misunderstandings. The story lines of the other characters, Richard Fitzwilliam, Georgina Darcy, Kitty Bennet, and Caroline Bingley to name a few, were more developed in this novel too. Even though at times it may seem like the story is deviating too far from Darcy and Elizabeth, the author always managed to draw it all together so they all become part of the tapestry. If all of Ms. Lathan’s books are like this one, I look forward to reading the others in this saga.


I have stated before that at heart I am a Pride and Prejudice purist and yet I have immensely enjoyed and continue to enjoy Sharon Lathan’s take-offs or continuations of Pride and Prejudice. In her latest release, In the Arms of Mr. Darcy, Lathan continues to bring the Regency period to life, not only through her eloquent and descriptive writing, but also through her characters well known to any Pride & Prejudice fan. Elizabeth and Darcy continue to shine and as spring turns a young man’s thoughts to fancy, it also holds true for women and in the novel, love is in the air. In the Arms of Mr. Darcy flew by all too quickly as I was swept up by the romance, the seasons, and the Regency period. Beloved Lizzy and stoic Darcy wind their way through society and all the glorious and not so glorious merriment, romantic notions, flirtations, and maybe just make it through the season intact. I heartily recommend In the Arms of Mr. Darcy to those who enjoyed Pride & Prejudice and have always wanted to know what may have happened next.



This book is actually part of a series, and you know what, there are two books I have missed. I think I am loosing my series OCD. I have read the first one and it’s easy to just jump in, but I do want to know how Mary met her man. I must go back for that book.

In this one Lizzy had given birth to a highly beloved son. It’s Christmas and the whole family has come. Mary with her fiancé (how did that happen?), and all the rest. Colonel Fitzwilliam is aching for someone he always has cared for, Georgiana is introduced into society, Kitty falls in love and Caroline Bingley feels passion. Among a lot of other little things happening at Pemberley.

Even Anne de Burgh has found someone so yes, need those two previous books to see how this happened. Lathan slowly makes people fall in love, get married, and live their lives. And I meet all my beloved PP characters again.

Lizzy and Darcy are at it like rabbits, they are first passionate, and really loving and cute. Darcy is wonderful in this book, he adores his wife and the way he is with the baby makes my heart melt. The passion between them just makes it more loving.

Still a lot of things to come, not all people meet happy endings here so more to come, and I do want to know. Lathan has found her own way and introduces new characters that feels true to the Austen world.

This book also shows that a PP series is possible, there are always things that might happen, but what is constant is the love Darcy and Lizzy feels for each other, it is heartwarming.

Having read many different takeoffs and mash ups of Austen’s novels, I continue to hold Lathan’s at the top of the list. There is something so fanciful and romantic about Sharon Lathan’s depiction of Darcy and Elizabeth that I can’t quite get enough! I was happy to see that in this installment the couple have really settled into their roles as man and wife, and are letting go of previous insecurities they might have had previously. While they have settled into their lives together, their passion and love for one another have only deepened. Yes, we are privy to their passionate relationship as it continues to unfold, but it is done in a beautifully mature sort of way. Let’s be honest here, who wouldn’t want to continue to have a passionate relationship with the love of one’s life? If one is willing to suspend a certain belief that this iconic couple have been cemented into the pages of Austen’s novel, then these books will allow the couple to live and breathe on into a beautiful, complicated and lovely future.

Although the story mainly centers on Darcy and Elizabeth, we learn much more about the people in their lives, such as their single sisters and friends. Caroline Bingley makes an appearance in this installment and strikes out to find a match for herself. Honestly, I wanted to hear more about her search for love, not enough to fill chapters at a time, but was genuinely interested in her struggles enough so that a few more mentions of her would have been well received. I also was surprised at how much I wanted to read on about Darcy’s sister Georgiana and Elizabeth’s sister Kitty. Usually I’m annoyed when a writer takes away from our main characters, but I didn’t feel this at all in this novel, partly because our time with them is so judiciously spent. I will say though that considering the turmoil that poor Georgiana experiences at the end of this installment, I have a feeling that more is to come for this sweet character.

As with each of Lathan’s previous novels, the language and style of her writing has a melodic charm to it that carries you through each line and chapter. The sweetness of the writing adds depth to the story and leaves you wanting to escape into it more. There are still the characteristic meanderings, journeys, and felicitous lounging to please any lover of Regency style and romance. This happy, romantic couple is at no loss of love or happiness in the novel to keep any reader sighing along with them.


In the Arms of Mr. Darcy is the latest installment in Sharon Lathan’s joyous celebration of married love, Regency style.

A year has passed since Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s wedding. The story opens with a Christmas party at Pemberley where they introduce their brand-new son, Alexander. Compared to their tumultuous courtship, Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s lives are now mainly happy, with, of course, a little sturm und drang along the way.

Darcy must deal with the business and emotional fallout of a death that occurred when a cotton mill he owns burns down. A nervous Elizabeth and Georgiana suffer through the gyrations required for their presentation at court. The Darcys enjoy a trip to the Peaks District, except when a falling boulder threatens Elizabeth and Alexander. Darcy, true hero that he is, whisks them to safety.

Although Elizabeth and Darcy revel in domestic bliss, other members of their family are not so lucky. Elizabeth’s sister, Kitty, enjoys and suffers through her first fluttering of love. And Col. Fitzwilliam’s tentative romance with a lady who caught his eye years ago resurfaces. I love Col. Fitzwilliam’s story. I’ve added him right next to Mr. Darcy on my Favorite Heroes list.

If most of these events sound ordinary, it’s because they are. Ms. Lathan’s genius is to spin the everyday occurrences of married life into a page-turner. In a world full of strife, this book full of happiness is a treat for all.

Sharon Lathan will guest here on Monday, October 4. Leave a comment on her post for a chance to win one of two copies of In the Arms of Mr. Darcy. US and Canada residents only are eligible for the book giveaway.


Sharon Lathan shows us her knowledge of Darcy and Elizabeth in one of the most romantic novels about the eternal lovers. We get an indepth look into their passionate lives and the deep and everlasting love they share for each other. Jane Austen would approve of this depiction of her characters; Austen fans will continue to love them, as well. As a collector of Austen sequels, I feel this is one of the best yet written and highly recommend it. Congratulations to the author! 5 stars*****

This book is based on Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. Lizzy and Darcy are happily married and have a son. This book continues their story but also focuses on some of the more secondary characters of Austen’s book—namely Darcy’s cousin Richard Fitzwilliam, his sister Georgiana and Lizzy’s sister Kitty. These characters finally get a storyline of their own and become further developed and begin romantic relationships. I always enjoy seeing how Lizzy and Darcy’s "happily ever after" looks to an author different than Austen. This book stays true to Austen’s writing style and her vision of these characters. It is interesting to see how many books in today’s market use Austen’s works as a basis of their plot. Guess there is a reason that her books are still being read and used as a foundation today.

A continuation of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, Sharon Lathan’s fourth book, In the Arms of Mr. Darcy, brings us into the daily lives of Fitzwilliam Darcy and his wife, Elizabeth, as they learn to cope with the trials and joys of parenthood.



Set in Derbyshire, in 1817, the Darcy’s scandalize their more conservative housekeeping staff by actually spending time with their firstborn child, rather than relegating him to the nanny.


Many adventures surround this new family, causing pangs of worry, and at times, deep angst when business delays ensue, keeping Darcy away from his family far longer than expected.


As the Darcy’s cope with their trials, the single siblings of immediate family and closest friends seem to awaken to their own passionate needs that have been long since buried.


Inspired by the continuing passion and love of the Darcy’s, as well as the obvious transformation of Darcy’s otherwise taciturn nature, cousin Richard Fitzwilliam is reminded of what he thought was a long-lost love; sister Georgiana Darcy blossoms into a young woman with untapped romantic talents; Kitty Bennett learns the highs and lows of her first crush; and Caroline Bingley surprises everyone, including herself, of the depths of her passionate nature!


A titillating, yet amorous look into the privileged lives of England’s gentry as they travel back and forth from countryside estates to the London "seasons" of society, with all the protocol, pomp and circumstance that comes with the responsibilities of their positions.

Devotees of Jane Austen’s Pride And Prejudice will be interested to see what author Sharon Lathan has done with these characters in her sequel book, In The Arms Of Mr. Darcy. Lathan has written several books in this series; Mr. and Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy: Two Shall Become One; Loving Mr. Darcy: Journey Beyond Pemberley and My Dearest Mr. Darcy.

In this edition, the reader visits the Darcy’s the winter after their son and the heir to Pemberley has been born. Both parents dote on their newborn, as do all their relatives and friends. Although it is considered a bit strange that Elizabeth chooses to nurse her son rather than employ a wet nurse, no one dares to voice any surprise that the fond parents want to see to their son’s care themselves.

In addition to the relationship between Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam Darcy, there are others who are entering the courts of love. Darcy’s sister Georgina is entering her debutant days, as is Kitty Bennett, Elizabeth’s sister. We see them at a splendid ball, and get a sense of the manners and norms of courting. Darcy’s good friend, Richard, home from the military, has fallen in love with a widow and asks Darcy’s advice. There are other relationships that develop, some surprising in their intensity and some remaining safely contained in the shoals of society’s strictures.

The reader is transported to the start of the Industrial Revolution in England. It is a land of titled nobles and servants and a group of professionals, but most of the power, money and influence is concentrated in a few noble hands. The daily life in large manor houses is amazing for modern readers to contemplate, and Lathan does an excellent job of outlining what such a daily routine consisted of. This book is recommended for readers who loved Austen’s work and are interested to see the story continue.