A Healing Hand: A Pride and Prejudice Variation

By Portia Appleton

In the aftermath of a devastating riding accident that leaves her shaken and uncertain, Elizabeth Bennet longs to regain her confidence in the saddle. Determined to reclaim her love for horses one summer, she finds herself with an unexpected ally by her side.

 

As fate would have it, Mr. Darcy is visiting his friend Charles Bingley at his nearby home for the season. Learning of Elizabeth's desire to ride again, he offers his assistance, pledging to come to Longbourn every day to help her in her quest.

 

Can these former foes see past their differences and unite to inspire Elizabeth's faith in herself anew?

Set against the backdrop of the enchanting English countryside, join ODC in this exciting Pride and Prejudice variation and let the romance sweep you away!

• Language: English
• Publisher: Daisy Chain Publishing
• Release date: Jul 22, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223919353

Book preview

A Healing Hand

A Healing Hand

A PRIDE AND PREJUDICE VARIATION

PORTIA APPLETON

Daisy Chain Publishing

Copyright © 2023 by Daisy Chain Publishing

All rights reserved.

No portion of this book may be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher or author, except as permitted by U.S. copyright law.

Contents

Prologue

Chapter 1

One Year Later

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

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Prologue

It was an unusually quiet afternoon in my family home as I searched for a novel I had been engrossed in earlier that morning. My youngest sisters, Lydia, Kitty, and Mary, had all taken refuge elsewhere from the summer heat, though I knew not where. It had been an hour or more since I saw Jane, my eldest and dearest sister. But I suspected she was in the kitchen, aiding our housekeeper with making jam.

Jane, I called out one afternoon as I entered the kitchen, eager to find her. Have you seen my latest book? I cannot seem to locate it.

Your book, Jane replied, her face lighting up with a warm smile as she glanced up from a simmering pot of berries. I believe I saw Lydia with it earlier. Perhaps she has finally taken an interest in literature?

Or perhaps more likely, she is in the garden, using it as a makeshift fan, I responded, raising an eyebrow in jest. We shared a knowing laugh, acknowledging the unlikelihood of such a change in our younger sister's interests.

Regardless, Jane continued, setting aside her wooden spoon and walking to the table, we must locate your book. Mrs. Hill told me to cease my fussing over the strawberries, so I suspect she will be happy to be rid of me.

As we traversed the halls and rooms, it became obvious that not only was my book missing, but so was the rest of our family. It seemed as if everyone had disappeared at the same moment, leaving us with Mrs. Hill in the unbearably warm house.

Well, if anyone disappeared with my book, it was likely Papa, I said as we reached the front door.

And if anyone convinced the entire family to go dip their bare feet in the pond at the edge of the meadow, it was likely Lydia, Jane replied with a smile. It is too hot to walk all the way there. What would you like to do instead?

I glanced over at the stables, and my horse Mirabelle, who appeared anxious to feel the wind in her mane. Suddenly, I was overcome with the same impulse.

Would you like to go for a ride? I asked Jane.

I could scarcely feel the heat of the sun as Jane and I rode our horses briskly along the meadow's edge. The wildflowers danced in the breeze, their vibrant hues a testament to the beauty of nature's artistry. As we galloped side by side, I could not help but feel contentment wash over me. These moments spent with my beloved sister were among my most cherished treasures.

After some time, Jane gestured for me to slow down to a canter. I immediately missed the feel of the wind against my skin.

Elizabeth, Jane began, her voice soft and melodic as the songbirds that accompanied our ride, have you given thought to attending the assembly in Meryton this Friday? It seems like it might be a lively affair.

I smiled at her query, knowing well that the excitement of such events paled in comparison to the tranquil pleasure we both derived from our more quiet pastimes. 

Indeed, I have considered it. Though, as you know, I am not as enamored with the exhilaration of assemblies as Lydia and Kitty might be. I must confess that I do look forward to an evening spent in the company of our friends and neighbors.

Ah, yes, Jane agreed with a gentle laugh, "our younger sisters do seem to find an endless source of delight in the prospect of dancing and making new acquaintances. Yet, I too must admit that there is a certain appeal to this assembly. I have heard