An Assembly Such as This (Fitzwilliam Darcy, Gentleman: Book 1)

Rating:
Summary: An exceptional book!
Review: The book was excellent from the first page and I couldn't set it down until finished. It gives us a very good look at Mr Darcy and his thoughts and is very true to Jane Austen's writing of him. I cannot wait until the next two installments are out. Definitely buy this item if you are a lover of Pride and Prejudice and would like to see it all from Mr Darcy's point of view.

Rating:
Summary: Brilliant and whole-heartedly recommended
Review: The charm of Pride and Prejudice has lured many into attempting to write about this delightful love story, but in my opinion no such work can parallel the mastery of Pamela Aidan's novel.
Beautifully written, in exquisite austenesque language - so rare amongst Jane Austen's followers - Pamela Aidan's work is the only one worthy of standing alongside the original story, as its perfect companion.
If you wish to read only one of the many books written about Pride and Prejudice, I urge you, read THIS ONE. If you have read the original novel and were left yearning for more; if you have seen the remarkable 1995 BBC adaptation and wished it was not over; if you read other books claiming they were written in the spirit of Pride and Prejudice, but found that modern day language and mentality, as well as lame 21st century plots were clumsily patched onto the beautiful tapestry that was early 19th century England, allow Pamela Aidan to guide you beyond the cool reserve of Jane Austen's brilliant character to the 'other side of Pride and Prejudice'.
You will find the powerful emotions hidden beneath Darcy's reserved exterior and will be offered a glimpse into his world. If no reference to the events of her time can be found in any of Jane Austen's novels - which may be one of the reasons why her work is as relevant now as it was when it was written - Pamela Aidan's book is skilfully anchored in the realities of the era which, in my opinion, serves to further emphasise the gulf between the sheltered existence of the country miss, and the demands and expectations of 'the man of sense and education who has lived in the world'; and the absolutely remarkable way in which Pamela Aidan depicts how, in his mind, this gulf was bridged by Darcy's love for the delightful but so unsuitable Miss Elizabeth Bennet makes this book the best I have ever read, since Pride and Prejudice.

Rating:
Summary: It would be hard not to fall in love with Mr. Darcy!
Review: This book was obviously written with Colin Firth as Mr. Darcy and the BBC series "Pride and Prejudice" in mind. What a wonderful study of his character. Can't wait for the sequel!

Rating:
Summary: Masterpiece!
Review: This is the first of three books that tell the story of Pride and Prejudice from Darcy's point of view. Ever since I first read Jane Austen's version, I was left wanting to know more of what was going on inside Darcy's mind. Ms. Aidan does a superb job of fleshing out Darcy's character in this delightful retelling of the story.

Rating:
Summary: Mixed review
Review: This is the first Pride & Predjudice sequel I've read. Although I enjoyed reading the book I'm disappointed on 2 counts. First, the book is a teaser. You have to read all 3 (2 of which don't seem to be published yet) to get the whole story. Secondly, I find it hard to believe that a man really thinks the way this author has Mr. Darcy thinking. Perhaps a man should write a book of Mr Darcy's side of the story. The author has contributed some extra elements to the plot, but I'm not sure the servant's intrigues and the Christian view point are in keeping with Jane Austen's original. Too bad she didn't write a sequel herself.

Rating:
Summary: Great Pride & Prejudice Spin-off
Review: This is the first Pride & Prejudice spin-off (written from the point of view of Mr. Darcy beginning with the assembly room dance in Meryton) I have read . I enjoyed it immensely. I particularly commend Pamela Aidan for creating an interesting, funny, and lovable character: Fletcher (Darcy's valet). His recitation of poetry, foresight, and meddling in Darcy's affairs are wonderful.

Rating:
Summary: A "must have" for Austen fans.
Review: This is the fulfillment of "wish there was more" in the P&P saga. Austen fans will not be disappointed. Excellent character development, conflict, and resolution. Never tedious(yes, Austen CAN be tedious). Faithful to the last dotted "i" to the intent and illustration of Austen's work. As good re-reading as the first time through.

Rating:
Summary: THE must-have companion to Pride and Prejudice
Review: This is the love story of Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy as told from Darcy's point of view. It is a joy to read, and unlike so many P&P sequels, it stays absolutely true to Austen's work and her tone. The solemn, inscrutable Darcy proves to be what his fans always knew him to be...a man with a rich inner life and a volcanic heart! This is the only sequel I have wanted to keep and reread (and believe me, I have searched out most P&P sequels only to be very disappointed). I have purchased several copies as gifts, too. (Note that this is the first, and shortest, book of what the author promises will become a 3 volume series.)Buy it; I don't think you will be disappointed.

Rating:
Summary: A MUST for Austen Fans!
Review: This is truly a wonderful book! Being both a doctoral candidate in 18th-century literature and a hopeless romantic, I was extremely gratified to find that this book satisfied both of these aspects. It is rare that a modern author can emulate the style and expound on the story of such a great writer as Austen, but Aidan accomplishes this admirably. For devoted Austen fans as well as those who are new to her works, this book is a wonderful interpretation of Mr. Darcy, thus making it an excellent companion to Austen's original work. Aidan stays true to the spirit of Pride and Predjudice but also takes the reader on an exciting journey into Mr. Darcy's mind and actions, no little feat, considering the enigmatic nature of his character. This is definitely the best of all the Pride and Predjudice sequels/additions, and I would recommend it as the best book I have read in quite a while!

Rating:
Summary: Well done, Pamela!
Review: This is what a Pride and Prejudice follow-up should be. Pamela Aiden has captured the essence of the Austen and made it her own. Her attention to detail is exquisite. It was absolutely wonderful ... a joy to read.