Suzan Lauder has a new novel, and we are going to be talking about it today! We will also be revealing its cover and sharing an excerpt! Doesn’t that sound like fun? We are excited about this book, and hope everyone else is too! Before going any further, let’s read the blurb. Several have asked about it, so here it is!
Blurb
A pact that will change their lives forever…
Fitzwilliam Darcy is a successful young barrister with a bright future. His late uncle has guided his career, made him his heir, and even selected a bride for him—sight unseen—whom he’ll meet and marry upon her majority. Who could have predicted that making the acquaintance of Miss Elizabeth Bennet in Meryton would throw those careful plans into disarray?
Elizabeth Bennet doesn’t know what to make of “Fitz” Darcy, who intrigues and draws her notice like no other. Despite Fitzwilliam’s warnings, she allows Mr. George Darcy, Fitzwilliam’s older brother and master of Pemberley, to charm her. Little does she know that she, too, has been promised in marriage by her late father—to an unknown barrister, no less. What is she to do when her hopes to marry for love disappear in the blink of an eye?
Is George Darcy’s suit in earnest? Can this mysterious bridegroom of her father’s choosing become the husband of her dreams? With the danger of duels and deceit, what will come of the initial attraction between her and Fitzwilliam? Will she become the barrister’s bride?
Note: contains scenes with adult content.
Fitzwilliam is not only a second son, but a barrister, and already betrothed! Oh, the intrigue! What about George, Fitz’s older brother? Is he in earnest in his dealings with Elizabeth?
It has been a long time since Suzan has had a full-length novel! Shall we let her tell you more about this one?
From the Author
When asked what was the idea that sparked The Barrister’s Bride, I find it difficult to answer, since it was so long ago that I had the story idea. The plot bunny sat in my file of such ideas for four years before I found myself museless in the middle of writing a novella and decided that if I started something completely different, I would probably be able to complete the Regency romance I’d been working on. I thought I’d go back to my writing roots, and JAFF story line was just the thing.
I’m sure the plot bunny was one that came to me while writing The Mist of Her Memory and I quickly recorded the idea so I wouldn’t forget it—I keep Word documents of such short drafts. The content of this particular idea file was that Darcy was a second son and a barrister who had been promised in marriage to an unknown lady by his uncle, a judge. Mr. Bennet had passed away, but he had also made a provision for Elizabeth to marry an unknown gentleman at the time of her majority. I had written those few notes and drafts of the two pivotal letters in the novel, but no more. The entire start of The Barrister’s Bride, then titled “FMS Darcy as a Barrister,” was six pages long.
I wrote the 120k book in eight months, which is fast for me. I renamed it “A Union of a Different Tendency” while I wrote it, but became less enamoured of the clever title as time wore on. By the time Leigh Stewart was assigned as my editor, the novel was called The Barrister’s Bride. Leigh’s a stickler for perfection in detail, something I didn’t mind. Ellen Pickels had very little to proofread in the end.
My cover idea was to show Elizabeth with the two Darcy men since George Darcy, the older brother, figures prominently in the story. I sent Janet Taylor some artwork that I thought could be used and left it up to her magic to create the look. Cover lover that I am, I checked my email regularly for what seemed like ages hoping for my cover until finally, Janet offered not one, but several great covers showing what could be done with this idea. She showed the three with Hyde Park in the background using full height artwork of the men behind a close-up of Elizabeth, a similar arrangement using the original background that came with the painting of Elizabeth, and the one you see today, with the larger unframed portrait of Elizabeth and the two miniatures of George and Fitzwilliam. We agreed the latter uncluttered effect was the best front cover. I love the cover of The Barrister’s Bride, as I always do with Janet’s covers.
Janet tells me that the back cover art required only minor changes to make it into the scene where Darcy and Elizabeth find out who they are marrying. As usual, Janet Taylor’s back covers are as good as the ones on the front.
I’m confident you’ll find this cover reveal as pleasing as I did.
Are you ready to see the final front cover?
What do you think? Isn’t Elizabeth pretty and doesn’t she have gorgeous hair? I love her shawl too. It is fun to see the miniatures of the Darcy brothers beside her. Which one do you think is Fitzwilliam? Maybe I should ask which one you hope is Fitzwilliam. 😊
Since Suzan mentioned the back cover, we will look at it next.
What more do you think this painting might represent? Suzan gave us a hint, but do you think Lizzy and Darcy are happy? Tell us in the comments. We would love to hear your thoughts.
I always love reading excerpts and getting a taste for a book. Would you like to read one now? Let’s do!
Excerpt
This excerpt takes place the morning after the Meryton Assembly. Mr. Bennet passed away six months ago, so Mrs. Bennet did not attend. We hear the story from Elizabeth’s point of view.
~~~
“Mr. Darcy is certainly a man blessed in his looks—so tall and handsome. He danced with our Lizzy for two sets,” said Charlotte.
Mama straightened in her chair, puffing up her chest. “Did he now? That is interesting!” A slight heat overcame Elizabeth’s cheeks. Her dances with Mr. Darcy had been a high point. The gentleman had recalled their first meeting and enquired of the Donne tome she had purchased. Later, he asked many pertinent questions about Meryton society. His steadfast attention signalled his interest in the topic, not to mention his refreshing respect for her knowledge and opinions. Even so, an unfamiliar and unknown awareness filled her senses during the dances—he had been more than a pleasant partner. They were synchronous, like the parts of a clock, and despite the barrier of their gloves, every time their hands touched, they moved as if they were a matched pair that had found their way home. She shook her head. What was she doing? This entire train of thought was foolish.
Her cousin’s head jerked up, and he swallowed loudly. “Mr. Darcy? Mr. Darcy of Pemberley?”
Elizabeth frowned and stared. Why would Mr. Collins ask? Indeed, those in attendance gaped or drew their brows together. No one seemed to have any idea of his reference. As a result, Charlotte enquired of what he was speaking.
“Mr. Darcy of Pemberley is Lady Catherine’s nephew. He is worth ten thousand a year.”
“This is another Mr. Darcy,” Elizabeth said, “A barrister. His name is Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy.”
Mr. Collins held up his fork. “Ah, he is the younger brother. Mr. George Darcy is the master of Pemberley. I have met Mr. Fitzwilliam before. He would visit Rosings Park with Mr. David Darcy, the judge, following the quarter sessions of the assizes in Kent. He is a quiet, serious young man.”
“He does seem to enjoy dancing,” Elizabeth replied, “as he stood up for several sets.”
Her mother leaned closer. “Did you find yourself partial to him, Lizzy?”
The heat that had already suffused her face intensified and spread. “He is interesting enough. He speaks of books in a ballroom.”
“Books—oh, good gracious.” Mama rolled her eyes and waved in a dismissive fashion. “Such a discussion would suit you; nevertheless, ’tis not the sort of conversation that would impress most ladies!”
Charlotte could not have said anything better to get Mrs. Bennet’s attention, could she? I love how she “puffed up her chest.” I could visualize this scene as I read. I also enjoyed Lizzy telling her mother that Fitzwilliam Darcy spoke of books in the ballroom! Mrs. Bennet’s reaction was priceless!
It won’t be long until we can read more of this delicious story. The blog tour begins May 9th and the book will be released the same day. There will be a post here and on the Meryton Press Facebook page with links to all the stops of the blog tour. We hope to see you there.
Giveaway
Meryton Press is giving away two eBooks of Suzan Lauder’s The Barrister’s Bride. The giveaway is international and will end on the 9th of May at midnight central time. To be entered in the giveaway, be sure to leave a comment below. Tell us what you think about the blurb, about the excerpt, about the cover, or all three. Good luck to everyone.
The Barrister’s Bride may be preordered at Amazon US and Amazon UK.
Other books by Suzan Lauder
These books are available at Amazon in eBook, paperback, audiobook, and Kindle Unlimited: Alias Thomas Bennet, Letter From Ramsgate, A Most Handsome Gentleman, The Mist of Her Memory, Schemes of Felicity.
wendy m luther
Wow I can’t wait
Meryton Press
We’re glad to hear it, Wendy! Hope you get to read it soon!
Suzan Lauder
Thanks, Wendy. I hope you pre-order to get The Barrister’s Bride faster!
Wendy
Also love the cover….and of coarse I love story lines such as these….
Meryton Press
I like this type of story line too, Wendy! Thanks for visiting and we’re happy you love the cover.
Glynis
Oh goodness me! Which one is Fitzwilliam? I think I prefer the bottom one but I’d need to see them closer. I definitely prefer his hair and I think he looks less of a rake? He also seems to be looking at Elizabeth??? It’s so hard as everyone has different tastes. She is very pretty and I love her hair!
I’m loving this storyline as I’m assuming Elizabeth’s secret barrister betrothed could be Fitzwilliam? I’m also hoping that she’s not actually attracted to either George!
I’m looking forward to more! Thank you.
Meryton Press
I like your response, Glynis! Glad you like Elizabeth! Suzan did good picking out her Lizzy! Fingers crossed on your assumption! 🙂 Good luck and thanks for stopping by!
Suzan Lauder
I love Elizabeth’s hair too. In addition, she had that “look” about her that said she was Elizabeth.
As for the men, I always thought George Catlin would make a great book hero, but he’s blond. Janet Taylor fixed that for my cover. I too like that he’s looking at Elizabeth. David Lyon looks like it’s all about him.
Thanks for the rich comment, Glynis!
Michelle David
Sounds very intriguing! Can’t wait to read it!
Meryton Press
Great! It won’t be long now! 🙂
Suzan Lauder
Oh, Yay! I wanted readers to be intrigued! Thanks so much, Michelle!
Lucy Knight
Sounds extremely intriguing, Suzan! I love a bit of law in the mix, too.
Meryton Press
Thanks for stopping by and supporting, Suzan. I think you will like this one, Lucy.
Suzan Lauder
Fitzwilliam Darcy will have an important case going on in the sidelines of this story that’s based on a read case that happened after the time-line of our story, but it won’t be that important in the scheme of things. You will be intrigued by other aspects, though. Enjoy, Lucy!
Sheila L. Majczan
Lovely cover. Cannot decide which man each picture represents. Looking forward to reading this. Thanks for sharing here.
Suzan Lauder
It can be up to the reader which man is represented on the cover, however, in the book, George’s hair is lighter than is Fitzwilliam’s. That’s your big hint! I hope you enjoy The Barrister’s Bride, Sheila!
Meryton Press
Thanks for you stopping by, Sheila. It’s fun to look at them and attempt to figure out who is who, isn’t it? We’re glad you like the cover.
Kelly Miller
Congratulations on your new release, Suzan! I love the cover, and I appreciate hearing the backstory of the plot and how the cover came to be. Janet Taylor’s artistic talent is amazing! I love the excerpt and look forward to seeing more!
Suzan Lauder
Yes, Kelly, you know as well as I how Meryton Press authors love Janet Taylor’s covers. We are lucky to be able to collaborate with her as she develops them too.
There will be more excerpts to entice you during the blog tour, which starts on May 9. Or you may decide to pre-order so you can start reading precisely on May 9 and still ride along the blog tour for fun. There will be some good prizes!
Thanks for commenting!
Meryton Press
It’s always neat to hear the backstory of a plot isn’t it? I love that too. It is a great excerpt. Thanks, Kelly!
Joan G Brand
Yes, I preordered the book as soon as I read the excerpt. I always love it when Darcy is a second son, but Wickham as the oldest son! Good gracious! I can hardly wait to read it!
Meryton Press
Yay! We’re happy to hear it, Joan! Thank you for telling us.
Suzan Lauder
Wickham’s not the oldest son, but he’s a George: George Darcy. He and Wickham are BFF’s. That’s all I’ll say for now. Glad you pre-ordered as I’m making an announcement soon regarding pre-orders.
Mihaela
Very promising! Looking forward to the release day. Love the green of the shawl and the hair… indeed gorgeous.
As for the gentlemen… I kind of hope FD is the one in the second photo, with the white cravat.
Congrats!
Meryton Press
That’s what we like to hear! We’re looking forward to release day too! I like that gentleman too, Mihaela! Thank you for visiting and good luck.
Suzan Lauder
It’s a pretty shawl. You picked the Fitzwilliam I’d pick, Mihaela. Best of luck on your new book, and thanks for popping by to comment!
DarcyBennett
I like the miniatures on the cover as I agree it’s less cluttered that way. Hope George doesn’t prove to be a big obstacle between ODC.
Meryton Press
It’s so nice to hear you like the miniatures. You are correct that it is less cluttered, and you can see the brothers’ faces better too. Whether George is a big obstacle or not, well, we can always hope! 🙂 Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
Suzan Lauder
George Darcy is a spoiled rich brat, yet it’s George Wickham that I still don’t like. Both have strong potential to be obstacles. But there’s that agreement with uncle and then Papa’s commitment? Thanks, Darcy!
Maria Maderi
Susan I think you have done it again. I find myself very intrigued with this little tease. Thank you and I look forward to reading this story.
Suzan Lauder
Come to the blog tour for more excerpts, Maria! Thanks for the comment!
Meryton Press
Maria, she has done it again! You will love this story! Thanks for commenting, and good luck!
Gail W
A very interesting premise. I look forward to reading this!
Suzan Lauder
I look forward to your reaction to the novel, Gail! Thanks for popping in!
Meryton Press
Hi Gail! Thanks for stopping by. You will love it. As usual, Suzan does not disappoint! 🙂
Glory
I can’t wait to see which one is Elizabeth’s Darcy. Sounds like a good read. The painting on the back makes me think it was the father’s planning for their kids but if it is Elizabeth & Darcy there then I will have to think more on what it could be. Will this book be made into an audiobook too?
Meryton Press
I like your thoughts, Glory. Good ideas on the back cover. Yes, it will be made into an audiobook.
Suzan Lauder
Elizabeth and Darcy both have others affecting their lives, including family members. Yes, as soon as we can find a great narrator, The Barrister’s Bride will be made into an audiobook. Thank you, Glory!
ForeverHis
What can be better than a new story by Suzan Lauder? Anxiously awaiting the release date so that I can dig into this intriguing tale. I like the cover with its beautiful colors and will have to decide which male miniature will be Fitzwilliam. Congrats on a new release!
Meryton Press
I agree, ForeverHis! We are all anxiously awaiting the release date for this one. Glad to hear you like the cover too. I guess you can have Fitzwilliam be the miniature of your own choosing! 🙂 Thanks for stopping by.
Suzan Lauder
You are a kind commenter, Forever His! You make this author happy. I hope you enjoy my novel. Thank you!
Jan Hahn
What a striking cover! I like Elizabeth’s hair, and I think Darcy is the bottom painting. As usual, his eyes are on Elizabeth. Congratulations to Janet on the cover and to Suzan on an exciting new book!
Meryton Press
That’s a good reason for thinking the bottom painting is Darcy! 🙂 I like that choice. We’re glad you like the cover. Thank you for stopping by and supporting Suzan.
Suzan Lauder
I love a comment by one of my most fave authors. Thanks, Jan. I like that his eyes are on Elizabeth too. Janet is an excellent cover designer.
SamH.
I am totally intrigued by this premise! Looking forward to reading it.
Meryton Press
That’s what we like to hear! Thank you, SamH!
Suzan Lauder
I look forward to knowing how you like it, Sam. Thanks for the comment.
Colleen
Ooooh! his looks exciting! Is George a substitute for Wickham? Is he a rake too. This looks like fun!
Suzan Lauder
Absolutely, this book is fun. You must read it, Colleen! But there are two Georges in it!
Meryton Press
Those are good questions, Colleen! Hope you get to read it soon and find out! It is exciting!
Lois
Interesting to see how Fitzwilliam’s character is different being a younger son.
Meryton Press
It truly is, but in essentials, he is still the same! It’s fascinating to read.
Suzan Lauder
Yes, as a younger son, he’ll be in the shadow of George, and perhaps not so arrogant and proud as the master will be. We shall see, right, Lois?
Cheryl Kepler
Nice covers, but wish that the Darcys looked more like Colin Firth. Very interesting plot possibilities and I look forward to reading it.
Meryton Press
Oh, wouldn’t that be nice if they did? lol Thank you for visiting, and I hope you get to read the book soon! It won’t be much longer now!
Suzan Lauder
Oh, yes, Colin Firth is my fave Darcy too! But Cheryl, you must admit that Fitzwilliam is too handsome!
Robin G.
This looks very interesting. Thank you for revealing the cover, the excerpt and the giveaway. Congrats and best wishes on the new release!
Meryton Press
You are welcome and thank you for stopping by and commenting! Good luck in the giveaway!
Suzan Lauder
Thanks, Robin. I hope you find the book as interesting as the cover.
tgruy
What an interesting plot! I would be adding it in my TBR pile as soon as I finish this comment. Maybe I would get lucky and get one of these!
Meryton Press
Maybe you will get lucky! Thanks for visiting and commenting.
Suzan Lauder
I wish you luck on winning so you can read soon!
J. W. Garrett
I love cover reveals and especially seeing that fabulous back cover. What fun. Congratulations, Suzan on this new project. I wish you all the best. Thanks to Meryton Press for the generous giveaway. Good luck to all in the drawing. Happy Mothers’ Day to all mothers reading this whether your children are from your body or of your heart… Blessings.
Suzan Lauder
Thanks for the warm comment! Best wishes to you as well!
Meryton Press
Thanks for stopping by, Jeanne. We’re always glad to read your comments. Good luck in the giveaway.
Maura
Sounds like another good one from Suzan. Love the background cover of the book and Elizabeth’s shawl is beautiful. I also chuckled when I read Mrs. B saying “Books—oh, good gracious.”
Suzan Lauder
I always have to leave a chuckle if I can, and Mrs. Bennet is a good person to give the line to. I love that shawl, too, Maura. Thanks!
Meryton Press
You are right, Maura. It is another good one! Isn’t Elizabeth’s shawl lovely! Glad you liked the background. Yes, Mrs. Bennet’s comments was so her! 🙂
Betty Campbell Madden
As an attorney, will I like this? I know I will, for it’s one of yours.
Suzan Lauder
I hope I didn’t make any legal mistakes, Betty. Other than that, barrister just happens to be his job on the side of the main story, with a real life case that I stole from a few years after canon. It’s the story that will entertain, and it has lots of romance.
Meryton Press
You will like it, Betty! 🙂 Thanks for visiting.
Buturot
Congratulations on your new book. OOhhh rivalry between brothers. Interesting Mr Fitzwilliam loves to dance and talking of books, captivating for Lizzy. Thank you for the chance to win a copy. Looking forward to reading this new story
Meryton Press
We’re so glad you stopped by Buturot! You will enjoy this book. Good luck!
Suzan Lauder
Thanks for your comment, Buturot. I’m glad you’re taken by the comparison between the brothers.
Lúthien84
Congratulations on the release of The Barrister’s Bride, Suzan! The premise sounds intriguing. Looks like Elizabeth is already engaged to Fitz Darcy but she doesn’t know it yet and neither does he. If it is possible, I would love to see and compare the alternate covers that Janet has designed for this novel. I bet they are beautiful too!
Suzan Lauder
Good guesses, Lúthien. The alternate covers were beautiful. Janet has a lot of talent.
Meryton Press
It’s great to read that you feel the premise sounds intriguing! How nice that you would like to see the other covers. Your words are much appreciated. Maybe someday you will get to see them.
J. W. Garrett
Congratulations to everyone on the launch of this new work. I love the colors on the cover. What is it about back covers? Y’all do such a good job with that. Sometimes I like them even better than the front. Oops! Perhaps I shouldn’t admit to that. This twist in our P&P story sounds interesting. I’m looking forward to seeing what mess Elizabeth and Darcy get themselves into. Blessings, everyone. Stay safe and I wish you much success.