Mr. And Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy~Two Shall Become One by Sharon Lathan...Review Part 2

Alright dear friends, please forgive me for being so late in my review of Sharon's novel....I wanted to wait until the excitement of the interviews, the book contest and Jen's review had time to sink in.



I must begin by saying a few things concerning my own personal experiences with Jane Austen pre-quels and sequels...and my background with Jane Austen.



I am a huge fan of Jane Austen, EMMA being my absolute favorite...Pride And Prejudice being a close second.

Being a fan of the original, I have always been reluctant to attempt to read a pre-quel or sequel to any of her books...that being said, I attempted to read Linda Berdoll's trilogy and only got through the first couple of chapters because it was too....well, I don't know, but it almost ruined P&P for me. Darcy and Elizabeth weren't that kind of people in my heart and mind.

So, when Jen told us of Sharon's book being published by Sourcebooks, I rushed over to her page and read up on Sharon and the Darcy Saga, finding the lady herself wonderful, and the site very pleasing....so I rushed to my local Target store on the day it came out and purchased my copy of MR. AND MRS. FITZWILLIAM DARCY~TWO SHALL BECOME ONE (oh, and since a new version of Pride And Prejudice was out right next to her novel, I picked it up...since my own copy has somehow flown the coop in my many moves, I wanted a reference...lol).

MR. AND MRS. FITZWILLIAM DARCY~TWO SHALL BECOME ONE sequel to PRIDE AND PREJUDICE. It is the continuation of the relationship of new lovers...the everyday life of a married couple...no drama, the only craziness is Mrs. Bennett, and that is normal for Elizabeth, and Mr. Darcy has come to discover this for himself.


We begin with the Darcy's newly married and contemplating their courtship and looking forward to their wedding night, there's a bit of a build up, but it is a sweet moment in my heart.

As I read of Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth's courtship, Sharon shocked me in many ways....over things that I would have never thought of in any lifetime...Darcy's purity was the first, and quite honestly, refreshing and adorable in my heart. It's one of the few remaining questions I would love to ask Sharon-why Mr. Darcy, a man of such command, is a virgin...but that is neither here nor there, it's a sweet thought.

The wedding night was adorable as well....no heaving busoms or throbbing whatevers...just two people in love sharing a special moment-the first.

The relationship throughout the novel is wonderful. It is the type of relationship all single grown women dream about...to have a man love you unconditionally and know that good times and bad times will come, but you will be together. This is the "Happily Ever After...add Mrs. Bennett and Life"...sorry Sharon, she is one of my favorite side characters, and she makes me laugh everytime!!


What made me giggle is how easily Sharon created a likeable Mr. Darcy. He is aproachable, and comes out of his shell quite easily with Elizabeth.

The easy banter between Lizzy and Darcy in this novel is touching and fun. You can see the two of them becoming closer every day.

I loved the novel, and had a hard time putting it down, and am now groaning in impatience because I have to wait until later in the year for the next installment of the life of the Darcys and their families and friends.

I enjoyed the first installment of the life at Pemberly, and I am looking forward to LOVING MR. DARCY~JOURNEYS BEYOND PEMBERLY coming out September 1, 2009 and THE DARCYS AT YEAR'S END to be released in January 2010.

I highly recommend MR. AND MRS. FITZWILLIAM DARCY~TWO SHALL BECOME ONE to any Jane Austen fan...for those of us who like the sweet side of the relationship between Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth, this is a perfect continuation.

Thank you Sharon for penning such an awesome book, and for making my first real foray into P&P sequels very enjoyable!

Happy reading everyone,

Karol

20 Questions with Sharon Lathan - Part 2

I’m back again for the remaining 10 questions. A multitude of additional thanks to the Awaiting Diana gals and readers who have so marvelously supported me. Hopefully my romantic, historical novel will not disappoint but will only bring you the joy and warmth that I intended.

Part 1 was posted on March 4 and can be read by clicking HERE - PART 1. OK, now for Part 2 of my interview with Jen……

11. Describe the Pride and Prejudice 'fandom' in three words.

Zealous. Diverse. Widespread.

12. Would you give any consideration to selling the movie rights to any of your novels?

Sure! I can’t imagine that ever happening, but I would be a fool to not embrace the possibility. I would want to be involved to some degree; make sure my creation wasn’t messed up. And, of course, to meet Matthew Macfadyen in the flesh – he has to be Mr. Darcy after all. But beyond that, I haven’t even thought of it!

13. You have created several characters in your sequel. Which one is your favorite?

My absolute favorite does not appear until the next book, so be sure to ask me this question then! As for Mr. and Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy, that is a little tougher since most of the characters are from the source novel, seen briefly, or servants. Hmmm… I am very proud of how I enhanced the character of Colonel Fitzwilliam. He is very minor in Austen’s book. I expanded him, gave him a background, and made him fun. I really love him!

In this novel I created several friends of Darcy whose wives become friends to Lizzy. I love Amelia Lathrop, the sassy Scottish lass that visits over Christmas. And I love Harriet Vernor. I love her dry wit and irreverence that instantly appeals to Lizzy. And, to my own surprise as the saga unfolded, I really grew to love Samuel and Marguerite, the personal servants to Mr. and Mrs. Darcy. They took over to a large degree, exerting themselves until I finally gave them the spotlight more. *hints of what is to come* Some of my characters can be SO pushy!

14. Describe Sharon Lathan in three words.

Compassionate. Saved. Tenacious.

15. What is the one book you have read that made the biggest impact on you?

There is only one book that has completely impacted my life, and that is the Bible. The Words written therein literally changed who I am and since the Bible is alive, it never grows dull!

The next closest would be the novels of JRR Tolkien. I have had an over 30 year affair with Middle Earth, culminating in several years of exalting joy when the movies came out.

16. How much of your time is spent in research?

An enormous amount. I really could not say exactly, but I do know that I have gotten lost, frequently, for hours as I read through page after page of text. The number of websites I have bookmarked is phenomenal. I never take one slip of information, but always cross-check, dozens of times. Luckily I adore history and am a stickler for the facts, so it is never a burden. Additionally, my passion for understanding the Era and digging exhaustively has lead to me discovering a slew of historical tidbits that have ended up being whole sections or chapters! For instance, as I researched Christmas customs of the day I read about masquerade balls being a very popular way to celebrate Twelfth Night. From that came dancing the waltz, a way to introduce the citizens of Derbyshire, and the ominous encounter with the Marquis of Orman. Are you intrigued?

17. What do you like to do when you are not at work or writing? Any hobbies?

I think I have forgotten what a hobby is! With literally two full-time jobs, I sometimes feel like my head is going to explode! Of course, that is all the more reason why down-time is necessary, even when one loves their jobs as much as I do.

I am a serious TV junkie and would probably curl up and die without my DVR. Reading is still a passion and now that I am discovering the world of romance novels, it is even more exciting. Being with my family and going on dates with my darling husband is a necessary part of my life. We are all active in our church, something that balances me and keeps me focused.

18. Outside of your family, who is your biggest support?

My world-wide network of fans. Collectively and individually they have kept me going when the times got rough. The positive feedback, kind words, stories of how my novels have touched their hearts, friendship, encouragement, and cold-hard cash in buying my books has been vital in keeping me focused. I know, without a doubt, that there are several times I would have given up if not for the wealth of letters and forum comments to reinforce the necessity of what I am writing.

19. Will you ever give up nursing to write on a full time basis?

It is difficult for me to ever imagine it. For one, I make a very good living as an RN with 25 years experience! I would need to sell a load of books to surpass my current income. Even if that happened (And don’t get me wrong, I hope it does!) I love my profession too much to give it up entirely. I can see cutting back on my hours to be freer to write more! That would be wonderful.

20. Through out the whole writing process, which began for you in the fan-fic world, what is the greatest lesson you have learned?

To be true to my vision, to my desire, and to my gift. Criticism comes from all directions, and opinions will be offered freely and loudly. The simple truth is that I will never make everyone happy, so I can ultimately only write what I believe in. What is in my heart is all that truly matters.

Have I covered everything? Seems like it, but then each interview I do has new questions. Chime in if there is anything else you want to know about me or my saga. Peruse my website at satisfy your immediate inquiries: The Darcy Saga Remember that Mr. and Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy ~ Two Shall Become One is available for purchase NOW!

As for the Book Giveaway: Leave a comment to be entered! Anything will do, but I would love to hear your thoughts, especially if you have already read the book. Every name will be placed into the hat and drawn by an impartial party (my daughter) on March 13. Come back here on the 14th to see if your name was chosen. Instructions will be given how to contact me (privately) for mailing information. Thanks and good luck! God bless, Sharon

Mr. and Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy by Sharon Lathan

We here at Awaiting Diana hope you have enjoyed Part One of our interview with author Sharon Lathan.  Please join us on March 10, 2009 for Part Two and don't forget to visit your book retailer to purchase your copy of Sharon's debut novel, Mr. and Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy.

Pride and Prejudice sequels and fill ins are a passion of mine. I have read almost all of them in existence - not all, but almost all. It is very true that I have said in the past that most Pride and Prejudice sequels are absolute rubbish and yet, I read every single one I can get my hands on. I can't seem to stop - and truthfully, it is a totally harmless guilty pleasure - fat free, carb free, alcohol and cholesterol free.....so why not?

What is the draw for me? Purely and plainly, it is the character of Darcy. I love him. He is a thinking girl's "Knight in Riding Boots" and Sharon's rendering of my favorite literary man is nothing short of nirvana for the Darcy lover.  Now, I know there are those out there who will disagree - and you can disagree all you want.  I want a Darcy who doesn't have a dark past, who doesn't have any illegitimate half siblings, who doesn't time travel..... you get my message here.  We each have our own image of Darcy.  Sharon delivers that to her reader - and then some.  That is one of my favorite parts about that character.  Miss Austen gave us just enough to go on - and we get to fill in the blanks.  

When Sharon discovered the character of Darcy and filled in her own blanks, she made him into a very masculine, romantic and passionate Darcy.  That is the driving force behind this book. Darcy is so wonderful and manly, you cannot help but to fall for him.  He and Elizabeth set out in their newly married life to explore and discover one another - and while they are both very dedicated to their 'studies', the romantic and passionate love between the two keeps the reader mesmerized.  It is a lovely rendering of a loving and passionate marriage.

This is not Pride and Prejudice rehashed and regurgitated with a few details changed.  This book is truly the continuing story of the lives of Fitzwilliam Darcy and his new bride Elizabeth.  There are quite a number of sensual scenes in this book - which is very true to life for the stage of marriage that Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth are in.  They have just discovered the pleasures of the flesh as it were.  If you want a story that will bring you intimately into the lives of the Darcys after they begin their married life together, this is the book for you.  

The continuing story of the lives of Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam is lovingly told by Ms. Lathan with great care and attention to detail.  The research and historical context is both romantic and enlightening for the reader.  You come away with a real sense of life in the late 19th century and a real sense of the lives of these two people who are deeply in love with one another.

In the end, you are uplifted by a story about love that is not riddled with odd plot points and dark themes.  This is, quite simply, a story about love an excellent example of marriage and happily ever after.  A wonderful read that is taylor made for the romantic at heart.

20 Questions with Sharon Lathan

I am so thrilled to be here and talk about my debut novel! Mr. and Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy ~ Two Shall Become One is now available everywhere. This sequel to Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice is the first in my three book (with more to come after that) Darcy Saga series being published by Sourcebooks. Details can be read at my website: The Darcy Saga

My publishing journey has been amazing. Being able to see and hold a book in my hand that was written lovingly by me is a joy that defies description. That alone would be enough to fill my heart with gladness, but I now have the additional pleasure of chatting about it to prospective fans all over the web! Jen, Karollyn, and Marja have graciously allowed me to publicize on Awaiting Diana, going even further by interviewing me. Jen came up with some fabulous questions that I had a marvelous time answering. I hope you all enjoy the experience of reading the interview as I did in partaking.

The 20 Questions will be split up into two installments, the second half posting on March 10. I encourage you to comment and ask questions! I promise to respond and join in the fun. But also I am planning to give away a signed copy of my novel! Everyone who comments will be entered. More on that later. For now, let’s begin…..

1. Were you a Jane Austen fan before you saw Pride and Prejudice in 2005?

Not overly, no. I had never read her novels, but I had seen some of the movie adaptations. I knew about Jane Austen from college classes, loved the romantic historical aspects of her stories, but it would be a lie to say I was a particular fan.

However, I have to stress that just because I came to her fandom recently, does not mean I am not a huge fan now. I shall even be so bold as to assert that I have immersed myself in more Jane Austen and Regency these past 3 years then the average reader does in a lifetime.

2. Some movies just inspire people and you and I have chatted about the fact that you are an avid movie and television fan. What was it about that particular movie that inspired you to write your first P&P fanfic?

I honestly do think that much of it boils down to timing – and the existence of fan fiction. The stories that would previously swirl through my brain and weave in my dreams never found an outlet, and I did not have the time to take it the next step. Plus, it never occurred to me to do so! But now I am in a place in my life - with my kids being older and only working part-time - that allows me to plunge into what I originally saw as a fun hobby. The existence of JAFF gave me the idea, the incentive, the arena, and the audience.

However, it certainly was the passionate love story of Lizzy and Darcy that captured me! I am an avowed cinephile and I know a masterful movie when I see one. Joe Wright’s vision is astounding. He is incredibly gifted as a director and it shows in Pride & Prejudice. People who can’t see past the fact that it leaves novel parts out to appreciate the brilliance are sadly missing out, IMHO. There is no way that a half-hearted, light romantic comedy would have captured me the way this movie did.

I mean, you don’t see me writing Star Wars or Buffy fan-fic, and I knew that existed! I am more of a romantic at heart then I realized. I simply could not let go of these characters. They burrowed into my heart and I had to tell their tale. It was a drive and obsession that I was unable to ignore.

3. Your story is very much centered on the relationship between Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam. There are no bombshell plot twists, time travel, dark pasts, illegitimate children, etc. Some readers have been quite critical of that and have gone so far as to say that there is no plot in your book. What is your reaction to that criticism?

From a certain point of view I agree with them!

But first, let’s remember that the dictionary definition of ‘plot’ is: Storyline; the theme, plan, and sequence of events in a literary work. My tale isn’t typical, I know that. I would agree that most novels, of any genre, do have a single conflict/resolution type plot. But the problem I have with this critical attitude is that not ALL books follow the standard format. Many very successful literary geniuses on down through time have written books and series that have a saga type theme. Such as Laura Ingalls Wilder, Louisa May Alcott, John Jakes, Stephen King, Diana Gabaldon, and even Stephenie Meyer! Sci-fi/fantasy is replete with serial novels. How I approach my life for the Darcys isn’t a bizarre, untenable phenomenon.

Furthermore, I respond by saying that I have made my thematic plot/essence very clear. Anyone who buys my novel expecting major angst or a dastardly Mr. Darcy just isn’t paying attention! Every writer down through time has brought his or her unique perspective and voice to what they create. Rules are broken over and over, if they even truly exist at all, and thank God for that or all novels would be precisely the same! Why not a story that is mostly angst-free and sweet? Why shouldn’t a reader be able to curl up with an engaging, romantic tale that will bring them joy without pain? Aren’t these more valid questions?

4. In your opinion, what is it about Mr. Darcy that makes women want him so much?

I could write an entire thesis on this. Good thing you stressed ‘my opinion’ because if there is one incontrovertible fact I have learned it is that no one agrees on who Mr. Darcy is! Oh, everyone thinks they got him wired and are dogmatic in their interpretation being the only one Austen would agree with. But line up 100 women and I can guarantee you they will all say something different.

I didn’t approach my story with a life-long crush on the Mr. Darcy mystique. Some think that fact means I shouldn’t touch him at all, but I disagree. I had no pre-conceived ideas of The Man. I judged my interpretation on first impressions enhanced by my own reading of the novel, without the endless debates and philosophical dissections clouding my judgment. In the end I took my heart’s impressions, using the raw material so to speak, and enhanced Mr. Darcy to be the man I wanted him to be.

For me it wasn’t the idea of Lizzy’s persuasion somehow changing this arrogant jerk into Mr. Wonderful. Not at all! I saw Darcy, as portrayed in the movie and understood further in my own reading, as fairly fantastic already, but misconstrued. Why else would our heroine realize she loved him? I am personally much more intrigued by a man who is independent and balanced all on his own without needing me to fix him. My knowledge of history involving the landed gentry of that day coupled with the hints we have of Mr. Darcy as Master of Pemberley, lead to the conclusion that he was a strong, capable, respected, decent man. Add to that the reticent intensity, stunning handsomeness, raging virility, and massive pocketbook, and you pretty much have a perfect package!

5. What does your husband think of his wife, The Novelist?

Ha! My husband is so proud and enthusiastic that it is driving us all crazy! He says that he is not surprised, considering how much of an avid reader I have always been. I am blessed to be married to a man who knows each of my faults intimately, yet also thinks me exceptional. His constant support and undying love is continual fuel for my romantic flame.

6. Do you have a favorite scene in Mr. and Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy?

Ooh, that is tough. I am still very proud of the entire wedding night. The blend of newness and familiarity, shyness and communication, humor and seriousness, all culminating in blissful bonding is written precisely as I imagined it. Another favorite is when Lizzy sneaks to Darcy’s office, reading his journals and examining his memorabilia. For me this was a pivotal moment when we see the deeper soul of Darcy. And then I really love the duel. My first action scene! I poured over my fantasy books and several movies to get a fresh feel for the moves, plus reading endless articles on historical duels, and learning about fencing! I did not take the decision to write a duel lightly, I assure you. It was wonderful fun and I think it turned out a nail-biter.

7. You are very generous with your fans. Have any of the conversations/comments you have had with any of them inspired anything in your books?

Not directly, as far as I can recall. But without a doubt the overwhelming praise and approval for the story’s tone, level of sensuality, characterization, and everything else has kept the inspiration flowing. My fans have been very generous to me, so it is only proper to return the favor. I am definitely the winner in the equation.

8. Do you think anything else could inspire you as much as Joe Wright's version of Pride and Prejudice?

Oh sure. The truth is that I have frequently had dreams inspired by movies or books or my own ideas; visions swirling through my mind. But as I said, this one hit me just right; had all the perfect elements. To be honest though, I don’t think I want to be inspired so directly again. If I ever leave the Darcys behind, or take a hiatus, it will be with my fresh ideas.

9. Have you ever read any other Pride and Prejudice sequel or fill in? What did you like about it? Dislike about it?

I have never read any of the previously published sequels, no. In my early search for a sequel to fit the vision in my head I read thousands of stories on the various JAFF sites. There were many short stories that offered tantalizing glimpses or came close, but either they were too brief or missing the highly romantic tone I craved. The one that was closest to my desire for the Darcys is a novella titled “Summer at Pemberley” written by Lucy, and can still be read at Austen Interlude. It is beautiful. A happy Lizzy and Darcy who are deeply in love. Exactly what I wanted, but reading it just made me hunger for more.

10. What is the one bit of advice you would give to an aspiring writer?

Be persistent and be patient! This is not an easy business to crack into, and once you do it is confusing and requires hard work. Secondly, believe in yourself and your creation. No matter who you are or how fabulous your story, there will be criticism and rejection. You can’t please everyone and there are many folks who delight in speaking their minds, often for the express purpose of wounding. A tough skin is required! But do not give up because seeing your work on a shelf is the best feeling in the world.

This ends Part 1. Thanks Jen for making me think! Seriously, it was so fun. Now, everyone comment, even if it is just to say hi. Feel free to ask questions and I will answer as soon as I can. Remember, a signed novel is at stake. Tune in on the 10th for the remainder where I disclose the location of the Bat Cave….just kidding!