There is some additional conflict as Darcy and Liz explore their romantic connection: The Meryton is at risk of closing, and rumors swirl around Darcy’s past. It’s a slow burn that keeps its momentum, even amid all the fun of King’s detailed, luxe descriptions of buzzing nightlife, sexy show performances and extravagant costumes. It’s a torturous delight watching her unravel the starchy Darcy.ĭespite that disastrous first impression, the pair keep crossing paths thanks to Jane and Charles’ whirlwind romance, graduating from acquaintances to confidants to something much more. Liz is a confident and saucy heroine, always ready with a sly innuendo or a sharp, witty remark.

He’s quite taken aback by Liz’s flirtatious nature, and when Liz overhears Darcy describe her as merely “tolerable,” the stage kitten shows her claws. Stuffy, buttoned-up wealth manager Will Darcy certainly isn’t prepared to attend a show at the Meryton but goes along with his friend Charles, who’s interested in investing in the club. Liz is a “stage kitten,” tasked with picking up after the performers and collecting their discarded bits of costuming. But at night, she’s at the Meryton, a burlesque club in Manhattan where Jane is employed as a singer. By day, Liz works as an executive assistant. Looking for a new start, she heads to New York City and quickly falls into a routine with Jane-in this retelling a Black, gay man who is Liz’s best friend and roommate. Liz Bennet had dreams of becoming an interior designer, but her career in Los Angeles crashed and burned before it really even got off the ground. The Jane Austen inspiration is clear, but debut novelist Vanessa King excels at infusing her own fresh voice and sparkling ideas into this contemporary romance. A Certain Appeal is a rompy and raunchy retelling of Pride & Prejudice-with a burlesque twist.

Vanessa king a certain appeal