Heather’s Bookshelf: The Mysterious Disappearance of Mr. Darcy
Author: Kelly Miller
Released: 07/26/24
Genre: Classic retelling; romance
“The Mysterious Disappearance of Mr. Darcy” is a classic retelling variation following Elizabeth Bennet on a summer visit.
While visiting the beach with her dog, Rory, a chance encounter with Georgiana Darcy leads to an uncomfortable and presumptuous introduction to her brother, Mr. Darcy. A second chance introduction at an invitation-only dinner resets expectations and leads to an unexpected romance. Mr. Darcy is handsome, caring, and seemingly too good to be true.
The budding romance soon turns into a happy marriage- that is until Mr. Darcy disappears. Mrs. Darcy finds herself surrounded by people claiming to be looking out for her best interests. With rumors and secrets galore, Elizabeth finds it hard to know who’s actually trying to help. Will Mr. Darcy be found? If he returns, will the truth come out and will their relationship be strong enough to overcome it?
Trigger Warning: classism/sexism consistent with the time period, mention of assault, sexual situations
Overall, I really enjoyed this tale. Elizabeth is such an endearing and lovely protagonist. She loves with her whole heart but sticks to what she believes in. I found the “meet cute” and consecutive encounter with Rory to be adorable. (Essentially Florence Nightingale syndrome but involving a little puppy dog) and the whole first half of the book to be a lovely rendition of a romance. The book then transitions into a mystery that reads like a who-dun-it. The witnesses, suspects, and family members moving through interviews does well in pushing along plot, developing Elizabeth’s character, and giving backstory to Mr. Darcy. I enjoyed the interview-style discovery and character development. Elizabeth especially shines as she has to stand up for herself and her relationship to a few suspect and/or “unwell” wishers. The pacing of the book is well done - consistent and smooth in both descriptions and prose. The ending wraps everything up with all questions being answered. This isn’t one of those stories where the reader can figure out the truth before the author reveals it, but the solution makes sense once you are able to look back at what happens. The tone also pulls the whole book back together giving it a feeling of completeness and satisfaction.
I received a copy of this audiobook in exchange of a fair and honest review. The narrator has a clear and welcoming tone to her voice- a perfect fit for the tone of this book.
OVERALL REVIEW:
A romance retelling with an endearing protagonist that transitions into a mystery turned who-dun-it.
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