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An Appearance of Goodness: A Pride and Prejudice Variation (Excessively Diverted) Kindle Edition

4.3 out of 5 stars 1,006 ratings

Can a Derbyshire meeting lead to love or will Pemberley be plunged into mystery?

In the rainy summer of 1812, Mr Darcy returns to Pemberley with a large party in the hope that coming home will help him recover from his disappointment. He lost Elizabeth Bennet’s good opinion, but Darcy did all he could to rectify his errors. Meanwhile, Elizabeth hopes that travelling with a newly-wed Jane and Bingley will raise her spirits and distract her from thoughts of Darcy.

When a misunderstanding causes the Bingley party and Darcy’s to spend a fortnight together at Pemberley, both Elizabeth and Darcy wonder if the other could love them. When the season’s wet and cold weather causes flooding throughout Derbyshire, Darcy’s attention reluctantly shifts from his guests–and Elizabeth–to managing the tragedy.

But when someone drowns and Darcy refuses to believe their death was an accident from the storm, he and Elizabeth must work together to uncover the truth before his houseguests leave, and before anyone else gets hurt.
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Content note: mature content, mild violence.

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From the Publisher

mountains, blue sky, heather, Jane Austen, variations

Heather Moll writes romantic variations of Jane Austen’s classic novels. She is known for her historical details, unique plots, and characters true to the beloved originals. Whether you want a short read, a full-length novel, regency or something a little different, she has an Austenesque happy ever after for you.

An Affectionate Heart
An Appearance of Goodness
Rising Courage
Nine Ladies
His Choice of a Wife
Without Undue Pride: A Variation of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice
Customer Reviews
4.4 out of 5 stars 1,353
4.3 out of 5 stars 1,006
4.3 out of 5 stars 982
4.6 out of 5 stars 864
4.2 out of 5 stars 549
4.4 out of 5 stars 623
Price $4.99 $4.99 $5.99 $4.99 $4.99 $5.99
Post-Hunsford no data no data no data
Marriage of Convenience no data no data no data no data no data
Time Travel Romance no data no data no data no data no data
Forced Proximity no data no data no data no data no data
Altered Meeting no data no data no data
widowed Darcy or Elizabeth no data no data no data no data no data

Editorial Reviews

Review

"Imaginative, exhilarating, and stirring - An Appearance of Goodness is an inspiring Pride and Prejudice tale that has our beloved characters weathering brutal storms yet learning to navigate through the adversity and traverse any challenges in their path. Heather is a skilled storyteller and her understanding and admiration of Jane Austen's characters shines through on every page. I highly recommend!"

-Austenesque Reviews 4.5/5
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"With romance, drama, and a murder mystery, there is something for everyone. Moll explores another side, a kinder side, to the closed-off Mr. Darcy so get ready to have your heart warmed! [...] Heather Moll has created a story that made me grin with glee, cringe with second-hand embarrassment and hold my breath in suspense. I can't ask more from a book. "

-Sadiyah Bhamjee for Readers' Favorite 5 Stars

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B09T3R9JPZ
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Excessively Diverted Press
  • Accessibility ‏ : ‎ Learn more
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ October 1, 2022
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • File size ‏ : ‎ 1.8 MB
  • Simultaneous device usage ‏ : ‎ Unlimited
  • Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
  • Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 324 pages
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1735186689
  • Page Flip ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Part of series ‏ : ‎ Excessively Diverted
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.3 out of 5 stars 1,006 ratings

About the author

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Heather Moll
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Heather Moll is an avid reader of mysteries and biographies with a masters in information science. She found Jane Austen later than she should have and made up for lost time by devouring her letters and unpublished works, joining JASNA, and spending too much time researching the Regency era. She is the author of An Appearance of Goodness, An Affectionate Heart, Nine Ladies, and A Hopeful Holiday among others. She lives with her husband and son, and struggles to balance all of the important things, like whether or not to buy groceries or stay home and write.

Connect with her on social media and subscribe to her newsletter for a free story. https://www.heathermollauthor.com

Customer reviews

4.3 out of 5 stars
1,006 global ratings

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Customers say

Customers enjoy this historical romance for its engaging murder mystery plot and original storyline. The book features interesting characters, and one customer particularly appreciates the chemistry between the main characters.

30 customers mention "Romance"28 positive2 negative

Customers enjoy the romance in the book, which features an engaging murder mystery that holds readers' attention.

"...people of Lambton after a devastating storm, but the mystery didn’t detract from the story and actually fit quite well into the story...." Read more

"...There are a few new characters who are cleverly interwoven in this story to enhance Elizabeth’s realization of the man Fitzwilliam Darcy truly is..." Read more

"...But it is the truth. The story takes place at Pemberley, some months after Jane and Bingley have married. Lizzy lives with them at Netherfield...." Read more

"...But I did enjoy the story." Read more

17 customers mention "Readability"17 positive0 negative

Customers find the book delightful and fun to read, with one customer noting the author's skill at keeping readers engaged.

"...But I truly loved this variation and would happily read it again. Definitely recommend. 10/10" Read more

"...However, the remarkable and satisfying element in this variation is how much affection and love Elizabeth felt for Mr. Darcy before he proposed the..." Read more

"...What can I say? This was very, very good, and I do not give five stars without reason. It made me look up more books from the same author." Read more

"...This book is so sweet and delightful with the right amount of humor and love. And the intrigue is perfect...." Read more

11 customers mention "Story quality"11 positive0 negative

Customers enjoy the story of this Pride and Prejudice variation, finding it original and well-written, with one customer describing it as witty.

"...It had all the makings of a truly 5 star book. The writing was excellent as it always is by Miss Moll, but I was again struck by how very true to..." Read more

"...The mystery was pretty good, the writing was excellent...." Read more

"This was so well written...." Read more

"...This book is so sweet and delightful with the right amount of humor and love. And the intrigue is perfect...." Read more

9 customers mention "Character development"9 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the character development in the book.

"...as it always is by Miss Moll, but I was again struck by how very true to character she writes ODC and how wonderfully she tells a story...." Read more

"...Indeed all the new characters are such big personalities that in the hands of a less experienced author might have stolen the show...." Read more

"...The plot is intriguing and the characters are endearing...." Read more

"...I also loved the addition of the new characters and the lack of Wickham, Mrs Bennet, Collins and Lady Catherine as villains...." Read more

3 customers mention "Chemistry"3 positive0 negative

Customers enjoy the chemistry between the characters, with one mentioning lovely insights into Darcy's character.

"...In true P&P fashion, ODC finally reunite and it is lovely to read their chemistry, their love, everything!..." Read more

"...The subsequent meeting of our beloved couple is interesting and novel...." Read more

"Lovely insight into Darcy..." Read more

When tragedy brings them closer…
5 out of 5 stars
When tragedy brings them closer…
When circumstances take a dire turn, will love find a way out of the tragedy surrounding them … I loved this story of what if Darcy did not return with Bingley and thus did not offer again for Lizzie before his friend’s wedding, coupled with a mystery, it makes a much entrancing tale. With Darcy’s heavy-handed proposal behind them, part of their misunderstandings has been cleared, the narrative is then low on angst, as they mostly need to readdress their change of characters and Elizabeth’s altered feelings. Darcy has acknowledged that his behavior regarding his place in society did not endear him to the woman inhabiting his dreams and his heart, Elizabeth, too, has come to realize how much she too wronged him by letting her first impression cloud her attitude, so it is mostly shame that holds her back when they come finally face to face. I liked the story introduce new characters, two not very gentlemanly fellows, both envious of Darcy’s wealth, the widow sister of one, a woman who tends toward reservation to avoid rejection. I was at first a bit surprised by this Elizabeth, especially when she has to be pinpointed the reason of Caroline Bingley’s dislike of the widow attending Darcy’s party. After some reflection, I realized Elizabeth had no prejudice against people from different origins why she did not realize at first the reason behind Miss Bingley’s slight on Mrs Lanyon’s character. Darcy, here, is shown to his full measure, a compassionate landlord, who thinks about those under his supervision before himself, ready to sacrifice his well-being to offer others means to make do. He also a man in love, with high respect for the woman he loves, why he leaves in her hands their fate. Mindful of her feelings and respectful of her choices. Darcy and Elizabeth’s romance is mostly impeded by the events preventing them to find alone time together, so when matchmakers enter the game, it is up to them to use it to their advantage. I loved the added mystery and how they band together to unmask the culprit. With their different points of view and perspectives, they patch together the key lines of the culprit’s course. An other lovely achievement. 5 stars 𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen lovemaking scenes I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
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Top reviews from the United States

  • Reviewed in the United States on December 12, 2022
    I loved this variation. It had all the makings of a truly 5 star book. The writing was excellent as it always is by Miss Moll, but I was again struck by how very true to character she writes ODC and how wonderfully she tells a story. This starts with Lizzy following the Bingley’s on vacation after a few months of marriage. Elizabeth has rejected Darcy in Kent and all is true to the original except when Bingley returns it only brings him and not Darcy. So Lizzy has not seen Darcy since Kent.

    The story really gets interesting when they all meet at Pemberley for a brief stop before eventually going on to his family in Scarborough. At the house party you have all the Bingley’s and Hursts, Darcy’s, Elizabeth and three new characters which I felt went very well with the story.

    While at the house party Elizabeth’s heart and feelings are slowly turned toward Darcy. And Darcy is consumed with trying to make sure he shows Elizabeth he’s listened to her reproves and is worthy of her love if he can engage her heart. I loved the way their romance unfolded and how supporting characters helped (and didn’t help) them along. In true P&P fashion, ODC finally reunite and it is lovely to read their chemistry, their love, everything! Heather Moll was also able to include much humor despite the story turning from a slightly angsty story about couple finding love in each other to a murder mystery.

    Now normally most “murder mystery” variations I’ve read are over the top, wildly outrageous and have very convenient endings with the characters not much affected by the tragedy. This one however felt very true and real for our characters and not contrived at all. Maybe it was because it was in the midst of true tragedy for Pemberley’s master and for the people of Lambton after a devastating storm, but the mystery didn’t detract from the story and actually fit quite well into the story. Even the aftermath and the epilogue felt very real in terms of how people might feel after truly experiencing such a tragedy.

    I will only add that if you like truly clean variations this is not the book for you. Darcy and Lizzy do anticipate their wedding vows (twice and have several other cute moments together) but to them, they are already married in their eyes and see each other as husband and wife. So if that offends you don’t read it. But I truly loved this variation and would happily read it again. Definitely recommend. 10/10
    11 people found this helpful
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  • Reviewed in the United States on April 21, 2023
    When Elizabeth Bennet is forced under special circumstances to see in close proximity the true character of the man she rejected in Hunsford, her feelings takes a swift drastic change. While Mr. Darcy, faced with the realization that he cannot live life without Elizabeth Bennet, is resolved to show her he can be a better man for her, if only the timing is right. But circumstances and events surrounding him makes it difficult to declare himself.

    There are a few new characters who are cleverly interwoven in this story to enhance Elizabeth’s realization of the man Fitzwilliam Darcy truly is and her growing esteem, respect and eventually, love for him.

    However, the remarkable and satisfying element in this variation is how much affection and love Elizabeth felt for Mr. Darcy before he proposed the second time, and how she was all too willing to go all the way to prove her love to the man she previously declared as the last man she will ever marry. Many of the lovers’ thoughts and hidden personal feelings are expressed enough to affect this reader, and their exchanges are heartwarming and romantic.

    The author is rather wordy though, and detailed on inconsequential matters. In other words, this variation could have been shorter without taking away its essence. But the details describing places and events are appreciated.
    3 people found this helpful
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  • Reviewed in the United States on December 12, 2022
    Thinking of the last book I read of hers-An Affectionate Heart-I that headline above seemed nearly impossible. But it is the truth. The story takes place at Pemberley, some months after Jane and Bingley have married. Lizzy lives with them at Netherfield. When they join a group of Bingley’s friends and tour northern England they make a stop at Pemberley much to Elizabeth’s surprise and unease. She was so uncomfortable with the idea that she was tempted to spend the entire fortnight in the carriage.

    But Derbyshire and Pemberley has suffered a disaster. Flooding has destroyed his tenant’s homes, crops and has even caused death from drowning loved ones. Darcy has a frightening load of responsibility on his shoulders. Elizabeth sees not only a changed Darcy but also the responsibility and the honorable way he cares for his people. Her heart, already changed by the infamous ‘letter,’ alters much more seeing the real man he is.

    The house party that should have broken up as soon as it was evident that their host had too much on his hands continued despite or in some cases because of it. What an odd group that was. The Bingley’s decide to leave but another member of the party has become friends with Elizabeth and begs her to stay. Her new friend has seen how Elizabeth and Darcy look at each other when the other isn’t aware. Mrs Lanyon thinks to give them the opportunity to come together. What a fascinating character Moll has created in this woman. Indeed all the new characters are such big personalities that in the hands of a less experienced author might have stolen the show.

    Before I spoil the story I have to say that I loved this book and recommend it highly. For those who are concerned about these things, there is a lot of premarital sexual content. 5+*****
    5 people found this helpful
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  • Reviewed in the United States on April 29, 2025
    This was an interesting variation of Pride and Prejudice, with so much going on most of the time, that I felt at times that I was a little off kilter. But I did enjoy the story.

Top reviews from other countries

  • R. Ziv
    5.0 out of 5 stars highly enjoyable
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on March 16, 2024
    This was a great read that I started and finished in a single day! Loved the new characters, the gothic style weather and of course the murder mystery.
  • CFra
    5.0 out of 5 stars Another excellent plot and book from Heather Moll
    Reviewed in Canada on June 17, 2023
    What a great author! I am glad to have found her work.

    This was another well written story, full of intrigue and dramatic situations, but also composed of deeply intricate characters and lovely scenes.

    Elizabeth ends up visiting Pemberley with Charles and Jane, Caroline, the Hurts, and some other friends from Darcy: a widow, her brother, and another friend. Although she was distraught at first, she got to know his personality better and after a few days, the awkwardness started to give way to admiration. After a violent thunderstorm, flooding around Pemberley and in the villages created a catastrophic situation for Darcy to manage. Charles and his family decided to leave and Elizabeth stayed with the widow and Georgiana. At that point, Elizabeth already felt for him and was sad to leave him behind in the midst of the crisis. Worse yet, someone died and the only people who could have killed them was one of his friends. While investigating the murder and tending to the crisis, Elizabeth and Darcy come to an understanding (how great was that part!).

    I loved how decisive Elizabeth was in this book, how she wasn’t afraid of showing him passion and love since she trusted and wanted him. I also really liked Mrs Lanyon’s personality and the author’s take on prejudice in that society.

    All characters were similar in personality to the original story (even though Jane wasnt so attuned to her sister), which I always appreciate.

    The book was also well edited. Sure, the predictable outcome of it being one friend or the other to commit murder was perhaps simple, but it was well written, so it was still very interesting.

    Loved it!
  • Dorotea Maria Fulde Benke
    5.0 out of 5 stars Surprising suspense
    Reviewed in Spain on November 15, 2022
    There is a real suspense scenario waiting for you between the pages of a good lovestory. A lovely Darcy and a fascinating Elizabeth or the other way round if you prefer... Enjoy!
  • Lynette
    3.0 out of 5 stars Not for young, easily influenced readers. See review below.
    Reviewed in Australia on May 12, 2025
    I enjoyed the mystery, the new characters and the writing style. I detracted two stars because, in the middle of a well-written mystery and romance between our dear couple (ODC), was an explicit bedroom scene and anticipation of their wedding vows, that seemed entirely inappropriate and out of character. It was not heat-of-the-moment passion but a planned, premeditated assignation. Between the decision and the act there was no clear thinking and no thought to the consequences. There had been mention of the difficulty Elizabeth might face in society as the new Mrs Darcy but imagine the ostracism if she was found pregnant months before the wedding. I can just see Lady Catherine accusing Elizabeth publicly of using her arts to force a compromising marriage. I don't see why the author put this scene in as it adds nothing to the story. The worst was the emotional blackmail of the line,"If you love me you will...." to convince the other of sex before marriage. Something I would believe Wickham would say to Lydia but not from ODC and certainly not influencing an admiring young reader as perfectly acceptable to emulate. Disappointing.
  • GORDON Steadman
    4.0 out of 5 stars Enjoyable
    Reviewed in France on March 24, 2025
    What a nice change of villain! None of the usual annoying characters but a different and enjoyable situation.

    Lizzy seemed a bit knowing for an ‘innocent’ virgin but at least the naughty bits were restrained and subtle enough without the usual unnecessary details.

    Well worth a read. Not sure if it will get reread but who knows?

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