Meryton Press is happy to be releasing the sixth novella in the “Skirmish & Scandal” Series. As you will discover, this story definitely fits the theme. Brigid Huey’s Spies of Our Acquaintance has both skirmish and scandal. Would you like to know more about the story? Take a look at the blurb.
Spies of Our Acquaintance Blurb
French spies in Meryton!
Can the beloved characters of Pride and Prejudice “keep calm and carry on” when Napoleon’s war comes to their neighborhood?
After Mr Darcy apologizes for insulting her at the Meryton Assembly, Elizabeth Bennet begins to see another side to the gentleman she has sworn to hate forever. As their acquaintance grows into friendship, Elizabeth finds herself intrigued by this man from Derbyshire.
Darcy, meanwhile, cannot stop thinking about Miss Elizabeth. After the nefarious Wickham appears in Meryton, Darcy resolves to warn her of the man’s previous offenses. Matters become more urgent when Wickham proves to be involved in espionage for the French!
When Darcy and Elizabeth are captured by a French spy, they must work together to find a means of escape. With reputations and hearts at risk, what consequences will result from their perilous adventure?
Hmm…sounds intriguing, doesn’t it? Reputations at risk? Oh my! If Darcy and Lizzy are alone with each other— after being captured— yes, that would create some scandal! Delicious, don’t you think? I can’t wait to find out more. (Hint: Brigid shares an excerpt)
From the Author
I have always loved adventure stories. Robin Hood was my favorite Disney movie, and I read C.S. Lewis’s The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe series more times than I can count. When I was a child my Barbies would go on incredible adventures to the top of mountains (the couch) and have all sorts of trouble. But then, of course, they would make it home safely.
When I started to dream up my latest Darcy and Elizabeth story, I was certain that they, too, would arrive home safe and sound, if not a little tousled by their adventure. I love a good romp of a story, but only if success is assured. I have strict rules about the stories I read, (e.g. they must end happily) and I apply those rules to my writing as well!
I started to daydream about why and how Darcy and Elizabeth might have an adventure together. How would they encounter intrigue in Longbourn? Who might their enemy be? And how would it affect their relationship?
Spies of Our Acquaintance is full of dashing heroes, daring escapes, and even a sprint across the fields of Longbourn. Old and new rogues cause trouble for our dear couple, but never more than they can bear. I hope you enjoy the story!
Excerpt
It was clear that Denny was in charge. Wickham gestured to the ladder. “Miss Elizabeth, after you.”
Elizabeth glared at Wickham but moved towards the ladder all the same. She glanced at Darcy, who tried to give her a reassuring look. No doubt the ropes around his wrists detracted from any comfort he might impart.
She climbed up the ladder nimbly, and Wickham gestured for Darcy to follow. How he was to manage with his wrists bound, he knew not. No doubt they wished to see him fall, but Darcy would not give them the satisfaction. Using his elbows to steady himself, he climbed the ladder. He flopped inelegantly on his belly once he was at the loft so as not to fall backwards. Elizabeth came forward and took his shoulders in her small hands, guiding him forward.
“Can they escape out the window?” Denny asked Wickham.
“Not likely. Not those two. It’s too far off the ground,” Wickham replied dismissively.
“You try to escape, we shoot you. Understand?” Denny called from below. Darcy did not respond. Wickham and Denny commenced a tense conversation in hushed voices, and Darcy took the opportunity to scoot closer to Elizabeth.
“Are you unharmed?” he whispered.
“I am well enough,” she replied. “What are you doing here?”
“I was on my way to the village when I saw you being pushed along by that blackguard. I left my horse and meant to apprehend them, but Denny caught me unawares. A rather poor job of rescue,” he said with chagrin.
“I thank you for the effort, nonetheless. We are in real danger here, sir. I do not believe Denny has much restraint. He will harm us both if given the opportunity.”
“I agree. We must be cautious.”
“Be quiet up there!” Denny barked.
They fell silent. Darcy feared for Miss Elizabeth. She was a gentle-born lady. She must be absolutely terrified. Although, Darcy had to admit to himself that he was worried for more than just Miss Elizabeth. Denny had made it pellucidly clear that he would have no qualms about shooting Darcy.
There was nothing for them to do now but wait. He tried as best he could to look around without attracting the attention of the men below. There was a window in the loft, but it was small and nearly twenty feet above the ground. Wickham and Denny had stationed themselves below the ladder. It would be impossible to climb down without them noticing. Their only chance for escape was if Denny or Wickham left the barn. Darcy was certain he could take one of them on, if only he could release his hands.
“Jane will send help,” Elizabeth said, so quietly that Darcy could barely hear.
“Bingley also,” he mouthed, and she nodded her understanding.
The afternoon dragged on, and neither of the men left. They argued occasionally about what to do with their captives, and Darcy only hoped that they would delay their decision for as long as possible. The longer he and Elizabeth were gone, the more likely it was that they would be rescued. Together.
A thought occurred to Darcy and he looked across the loft at Elizabeth. She was staring out the window as if studying the sky. They were together in a hay loft and had been for hours. It would matter not that it was through no fault of their own. Their reputations would be compromised. The consequence was either marriage or disgrace. Darcy would be able to survive the scandal, of course. Elizabeth, however, would be followed by the shadow of this event her whole life—unless, of course, he married her.
He stared at her. Her face was still turned away from him. Her profile was absolutely beautiful. From the hay in her hair to the shape of her fingers as they clasped together around her knees, she was altogether bewitching. He thought of their conversation in the library. Was that really just a few days ago? Her intelligence, her wit, and the very quality of her soul called out to him. Even now, he knew he wished to protect her, not only because she was vulnerable but also because he…because he…
She turned away from the window and caught him staring. Rather than look away, however, she stared back. He knew not what emotions were displayed upon his face. Shock, perhaps? Shock at finding himself the captive of a French spy in a hayloft with the woman he loved.
With French spies and espionage, Darcy and Lizzy are in for quite an adventure. It sounds delightful, doesn’t it! I love that last sentence in the blurb! What about you! When Darcy begins to realize he is in love, it makes for wonderful reading! Thank you, Brigid, for painting this scene for us. You brought it to life, and I felt I was there experiencing it with them.
The novella, Spies of Our Acquaintance, may be purchased on Amazon US and Amazon UK. It is available as an eBook, a Paperback, and through Kindle Unlimited. The audiobook, narrated by Stevie Zimmerman, should be released in six to eight weeks.
Giveaway
We have two giveaways for this post. One giveaway is by the author, Brigid Huey. The other giveaway is by Meryton Press. Both are international and will end Thursday, August 26th at midnight central time.
Brigid Huey Giveaway:
One pair of Pride & Prejudice socks; one Pride & Poetry Magnetic Poetry Kit
Meryton Press Giveaway:
Two eBooks of Spies of Our Acquaintance
To enter the giveaways, leave us a comment. What did you think of the excerpt? Do you like spy stories, especially when they have Darcy and Lizzy in them? We are eager to hear your thoughts.
Remember, only comments here on the Meryton Press Blog for this post, Spies of Our Acquaintance, will be entered in the giveaway.
Brigid will be visiting a few other blogs this week, and there will be more chances to win eBooks. The blog stops will be listed each day on the Meryton Press Facebook page and other social media.
Other Books by Brigid Huey
A Chance Encounter in Pemberley Woods and Interrupted Plans are available on Amazon.
Glynis
Captured! Thank goodness they are together though. At least Darcy now knows he loves her and really needs to marry her. Elizabeth seems to definitely like him now and at least any talk by Wickham would lead to her liking Darcy more?
I don’t suppose plaiting straw would provide a strong enough rope to climb out of the window? But surely Elizabeth could at least attempt to untie Darcy?
I love my Darcy and Elizabeth stories no matter where or when they’re set, as long as they’re together 🥰
Meryton Press
Yes, thank goodness is right! That allows for some time to talk and realize true feelings, doesn’t it! Whether it would be strong enough or not, plaiting straw would be an idea. I’m with you on loving Darcy and Lizzy stories no matter what, as long as they have a HEA.
Brigid Huey
A plaited straw rope is genius! I wish I’d thought of it 😉 Thank you for your interest!
Mary Preston
I do love spy stories and this sounds wonderful.
Meryton Press
I do too, and this is wonderful! I think you will love it!
Brigid Huey
Me too! I hope you enjoy it!
Cyndy
Ooh, I loved the excerpt. I wonder what Elizabeth does see in Darcy’s face. I haven’t read any P&P books with spies in them yet, so I look forward to reading this one.
Meryton Press
We’re happy you loved the excerpt! It would be nice to know what Elizabeth saw in his face, wouldn’t it? We hope you get to read it soon! Good luck!
Brigid Huey
Thank you, Cyndy! I hope you get to read it soon!
Eva E
I could also feel the heat between Elizabeth and Darcy when they are in the hayloft. I, also, like adventures of ODC, and French spies are logical. I can almost hear Mrs. Bennet screeching – not of spies but of compromise! Thank you for the excerpt and giveaway.
Meryton Press
The heat between them was charged wasn’t it! Wow! You are so right on Mrs. Bennet! I think Darcy “may” beat her to it! Good luck and thanks for stopping by!
Brigid Huey
I can hear her, too! Compromised in a barn, no less! Thanks for your interest!
Sheila Majczan
I would definitely be interested in reading this story. I have enjoyed other spy stories in the JAFF world…some were modern ones. Thanks for a chance to win the e-books. I did read, enjoy and review both of Brigid’s other books.
Meryton Press
We’re so glad to hear you read and enjoyed both of Brigid’s other books. Reviews are always appreciated, too! That’s wonderful! I think you will love this story too! Thanks for visiting and good luck!
Brigid Huey
Thanks so much, Sheila! I hope you enjoy this one too!
Elaine Barr
I love this author and look forward to reading her latest book.
Meryton Press
That’s wonderful to hear, Elaine. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us. Good luck in the giveaway!
Brigid Huey
Thank you so much, Elaine! I appreciate your kind words, and I hope you enjoy this story!
Jan Hahn
Wickham and Denny provide the skirmish and Darcy and Elizabeth thrown together in a hayloft provide the scandal. Add in Brigid’s writing, and this sounds like a great addition to MP’s novella series. I’m intrigued!
Meryton Press
You are spot on, Jan! Thanks for commenting and supporting Brigid. Happy to hear you are intrigued! This novella is another perfect addition to the MP series!
Brigid Huey
Thank you, Jan!
Joan G Brand
Definitely an adventure that I don’t want to miss!
Meryton Press
Great! We hope you get to read it soon! Good luck.
Brigid Huey
Thank you, Joan!
Kelly Miller
Congratulations, Brigid on your latest release! The premise sounds exciting! 🙂
Meryton Press
Thanks for stopping by Kelly and supporting Brigid!
Brigid Huey
Thanks, Kelly!
Suzan Lauder
Congratulations on a new novella, Brigid, and thanks for the enticing excerpt. How are they going to get out of there? It’s great to see a new edition under Skirmish and Scandal!
Meryton Press
Hi Suzan! Thank you for your show of support to Brigid and for taking part! You started off this series, and we have at least one more to go after this one! They have been fun and good! You are going to love how they get out. 🙂
Brigid Huey
Thank you, Suzan!
Linda Gonschior
Congratulations Brigid!
A naughty Denny. There is a first for me to see. Wickham; we can believe practically nothing is too low for him. 😉
And Bingley and Jane arranging help for the captured pair. Timing will be everything, of course. Not too soon so Darcy and Lizzy can come to a good understanding. 😀
Meryton Press
Hi Linda,
Isn’t Denny naughty! That is a different twist, isn’t it! Lots of good intrigue and interesting things abound. Hope you get to read it soon. Thank you for your supporting Brigid and her new novella.
Brigid Huey
Thank you, Linda! Yes, timing is everything! I hope you like my new Denny!
Chris Sanchez
Many congratulations on a new release! Sounds great! A heartless and dangerous Denny. ODC captured and held in a hayloft…hmmmm :0). Always appreciate a different twist for Darcy and Elizabeth. Spies and capture/kidnapping makes it more enjoyable because they put their intelligent minds together to thwart the villians AND fall in love in the process. Stevie to narrate!!!! Oh I’m picking your book up on audible for sure!!!! Thank you thank you!
Meryton Press
Chris, we enjoyed reading all your thoughts on the excerpt! It is definitely nice when our dear couple can fall in love while working together to thwart villains! It is exciting to read that you will be wanting the audiobook! It will be awesome with Stevie’s narration. This is the sixth novella in the “Skirmish & Scandal” series. After this one, Stevie has narrated four of them. The other two were from Darcy’s POV and Harry Frost narrated them. Be sure to check them out, if you have not! Thanks for stopping by and good luck.
Brigid Huey
Thank you, Chris! I’m excited about Stevie narrating too!!
DarcyBennett
Enjoyed the excerpt and am glad they are together. I’m sure working together, they’ll come out okay. I am a fan of spy stories as long as Elizabeth and Mr Darcy are involved.
Meryton Press
That’s so nice to hear, DarcyBennet. Thank you for visiting and for letting us know you are a fan of spy stories…as long as Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy are involved. They always make things more interesting, don’t they? Good luck in the giveaway.
Brigid Huey
Me too! I love a good adventure, but only with happy endings!
Michelle H
I really didn’t want that excerpt to end, I really liked it. Intriguing new story plot. Looking forward to reading this soon. Best of luck on the launch of your new book baby, Brigid.
Meryton Press
I understand, Michelle. I wasn’t ready for it to end either. We are so glad to hear that you really liked it and hope you get to read it soon! Good luck!
Brigid Huey
Thank you so much Michelle! I hope you enjoy the book!
Buturot
Congratulations on your new Book Ms Huey. Thank you for the nice excerpt. Though ODc is in dire circumstance, I enjoyed the last part when Mr Darcy was looking at Elizabeth and (Voila) epiphany!!! (I wonder what Elizabeth saw???His true emotions or something else)
Thank you for the giveaways.
Meryton Press
We are so happy you stopped by, Buturot. We love reading your thoughts! I’m especially glad that you liked the last part like I did! Wow! Good luck in the giveaway.
Brigid Huey
Thank you! I love that moment too. It was one of my favorite bits to write!
Lois
Thanks for the excerpt. Please check the Amazon (U.S.) link. it goes to a Microsoft sign-in page instead of to Amazon.
Meryton Press
Thank you, Lois. It should be the correct link now! Good luck in the giveaway.
Brigid Huey
Thank you!
Jen D
That was most fun, seeing Lizzy and Darcy trying to come up with a plan for escape and hope their friends will rescue…in fact, their minds here were so full of plans, even romantic ones, if tinged with scandal. Thank you for sharing this exciting excerpt!
Brigid Huey
Thank you, Jen! I’m glad you enjoyed it!
Meryton Press
It was neat, wasn’t it? We’re glad to hear you enjoyed the excerpt. Thanks for stopping by and commenting. Good luck!
Betty Campbell Madden
I enjoy this series.
Meryton Press
That’s so good to hear, Betty. It has been an enjoyable series for me too. I think many readers have enjoyed the themed novellas. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
Betty Campbell Madden
If the prize list is also a found list, one of those socks looks like one of mine that disappeared in the laundry. The one who stayed home will be so happy for her return if I win.
Meryton Press
I love it, Betty! That sounds like my house. We declare the washing machine eats our socks! If you win, you will then have one extra! Good luck! Maybe it will be a found list for you. 🙂
Brigid Huey
Ooo, double good luck to you then!
Patty Edmisson
Congratulations to you on this release. I look forward to reading this book.
I have enjoyed the previous skirmish books.
Meryton Press
That’s wonderful to hear, Patty. The series has been fun. The authors enjoyed writing their novellas, and I had great fun reading them all. Thank you for letting us know that you have enjoyed the other “Skirmish & Scandal” books. I think you will love this one too. We definitely have one more, maybe two. Good luck in the giveaway.
Brigid Huey
Thank you, Patty!
Lúthien84
I like a good spy story where the heroes or heroines save the day and the villains got their comeuppance. But portraying Darcy and Elizabeth as the hero and heroine respectively is the icing in the cake.
Congratulation on the release of yet another P&P variation, Brigid! If given the chance, I would love to read the novella.
Meryton Press
Hi Sylvia, it’s great to have you stop by. I hope all is well with you. Thank you for sharing your thoughts about spy stories, in general, and especially those with Darcy and Lizzy as the icing on the cake! I loved reading that, and I agree with you! Good luck in the giveaway.