Me and Mr. Darcy

ME AND MR. DARCY is a humorous tale from the viewpoint of Emily Albright, a New York independent book shop, manager. She spends a lot of leisure time re-reading ‘Pride and Prejudice’ after a series of disastrous dates. To avoid going on a holiday of alcoholic binges and sex on legs, with best friend Stella, she books a Jane Austen Country tour instead. The bus is filled with elderly ladies and one single male, and the last thing she expects is to meet Mr. Darcy. Suddenly all her hidden desires and fantasies have come true and standing in front of her. The brooding, very handsome and correct Darcy is the total opposite to Spike Hargreaves, the aggravating, male passenger on the bus. The photo journalist is untidy in every way, from scuffed shoes, shirt hanging out, creased clothing and untidy hair, so no contest of who she prefers.

Like most women, this reviewer drooled over Colin Firth’s depiction of Mr. Darcy, but began to wonder why. I must admit after reading this tale, I realize he’s not quite right for this modern era. The plot has many conflicts and the unlikely hero tries to help the elderly ladies, while trying to get to know Emily. All he does is annoy and aggravate as all their secrets and fantasies are slowly revealed. The heroine seems to be a moron in some scenes, but entertaining, as she isn’t very polite in fact she’s down right rude sometimes. The other characters especially the tour leader, are beautifully drawn and very likeable. Add in some wonderful female characters that open Emily’s eyes in a nice way, about getting older.

The Austen era description was done well and the sub plot of a woman searching for her daughter was great. Along with Rose, the old time star of theatre it kept me page turning, as tales of past loves and how lives used to be was revealed. The mysterious Mr. Darcy played his role with vigor and aplomb, despite being annoying at times. My favorite scene was the ride in the moonlight and the aftermath, an ideal scene for a romantic fantasy.

August 2007