Thank you, Author’s Lounge! In my latest release, Accusing Mr. Darcy, I incorporate a murder mystery into the plot of a Regency romance. Although this novel features the beloved Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy from Pride & Prejudice, this book has an entirely new and complete story arc, so readers need not have any prior knowledge of Jane Austen’s classic work. I expect fans of either historical fiction, romance, or mystery will enjoy this story.
I sought to write a story that Jane Austen and Agatha Christie might have collaborated on. Like many of Christie’s mysteries, Accusing Mr. Darcy has a number of possible suspects and a clever investigator who matches wits with the killer.
As with my previous two published books, I restricted myself to the language and customs of the Regency period, employing swift pacing to appeal to the modern reader. I hope readers of Accusing Mr. Darcy will be captivated both by the romance of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy and the mystery of the killer’s identity. What I most want for my books is for them to be read by as many people as possible who will enjoy them.
Could Fitzwilliam Darcy harbour a shocking, sinister secret?
Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet count themselves among the many guests of the Kendall family, whose estate lies amidst the picturesque hills, gorges, and rocky slopes of the Peak District in Derbyshire.
Elizabeth’s cousin Rose Kendall believes her dashing brother-in-law, Captain James Kendall, is Elizabeth’s ideal match. Rose’s husband, Nicholas, hopes his good friend Darcy–a rich, proud, and taciturn gentleman with a spotless reputation–will fancy one of the other eligible lady guests.
News of a brutal killing at a neighbouring estate sends a wave of shock through the genial group of friends and family. When one of the Kendalls’ guests is attacked. All of the gentlemen become suspects, but the former Bow Street runner tasked with investigating the crime finds the evidence against Mr. Darcy particularly compelling.
In this romantic mystery, the beloved couple from Jane Austen’s “Pride & Prejudice” cross paths with a ruthless killer. When faced with dire warnings against Mr. Darcy, will Elizabeth heed them or follow the dictates of her heart?
“Miss Bennet!”
Elizabeth froze, and her contented smile evaporated. The voice was unmistakable. Of all people, of all times—why did he interfere with her walk? As his footsteps drew nearer, her promise to Rose came to the forefront of her mind. Damn! She would be polite and make her escape as soon as possible. With a controlled breath, she spun around and spoke with affected cheer. “Good morning, Mr. Darcy.”
The gentleman reached her with a few extended strides of his long legs. He had not been visible when she walked by. He must have been hidden by one of the trees along the river. “Good morning, Miss Bennet. It seems you formed the same notion as myself. I thought to walk before breakfast. Shall we proceed together?”
She floundered. Her usual adroitness at producing plausible excuses or witty repartee at a moment’s notice failed her. In the absence of a polite way to decline his offer, her jaw stiffened. “I must warn you that most people who agree to accompany me on my morning walk end by bowing out. Despite my slight stature, I prefer to move at a quick pace and can maintain it for a long time.”
Mr. Darcy’s lips edged up. “I shall take my chances. I believe I shall manage to keep up.”
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About the Author:
Kelly Miller is a native Californian and Anglophile, who made her first visit to England in 2019. When not pondering a plot point or a turn of phrase, she can be found playing the piano, singing, and walking her dogs. Kelly Miller resides in Silicon Valley with her husband, daughter, and their many pets.
Accusing Mr. Darcy is her third novel published by Meryton Press. Her previous books are: Death Takes a Holiday at Pemberley, a Pride and Prejudice Regency romantic sequel with a touch of fantasy; and Mr. Darcy’s Perfect Match, a Pride and Prejudice Regency romantic variation.
Kelly’s blog page is found at www.kellymiller.merytonpress.com, her Twitter handle is @kellyrei007, Instagram: kelly.miller.author, and she is on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Author.Kelly.Miller
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