Modern Retellings of Pride & Prejudice
There’s something timeless about Pride & Prejudice, isn’t there? Jane Austen’s witty commentary on society, romance, and family dynamics has inspired countless adaptations and retellings, capturing readers’ hearts through generations. Whether you’re a die-hard Austen fan or just discovering the charm of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy, these modern retellings offer fresh perspectives on the classic tale.
If you’re in the mood to see Lizzy and Darcy’s world transformed by unique settings, intriguing twists, and contemporary dilemmas, this list has a little something for everyone. From rom-coms to unexpected genre crossovers, these books are perfect for anyone who loves Pride & Prejudice with a twist.
1. Eligible: A Modern Retelling of Pride & Prejudice by Curtis Sittenfeld
In Eligible, Sittenfeld brings Pride & Prejudice to modern-day Cincinnati, where Liz Bennet is a magazine writer and Mr. Darcy is a brain surgeon. With her trademark wit and sharp observations, Sittenfeld explores the challenges of dating, family expectations, and social status in a way that’s both familiar and refreshingly new.
2. Pride, Prejudice, and Other Flavors by Sonali Dev
Sonali Dev reimagines the Bennet-Darcy dynamic through an Indian-American family in Pride, Prejudice, and Other Flavors. With food as a central theme, this retelling follows Dr. Trisha Raje and chef DJ Caine as they navigate cultural expectations, family obligations, and the sizzling chemistry between them. Dev’s story is heartfelt, layered, and deliciously immersive.
3. Written in the Stars by Alexandria Bellefleur
Bellefleur’s Written in the Stars brings a delightful LGBTQ+ spin to the beloved romance. Darcy and Elle, two opposites with little in common, agree to a fake relationship to appease their families. As they navigate their differences, sparks fly, creating a charming and witty retelling that brings Lizzy and Darcy’s tension to a whole new level.
4. Pride and Prejudice and Zombies by Seth Grahame-Smith
For readers looking for something adventurous, Pride and Prejudice and Zombies mixes Austen’s Regency world with a dash of horror. Grahame-Smith’s parody pits Elizabeth Bennet against an army of undead, adding a quirky, action-packed layer to the classic story. This one is for fans of genre mashups and zombie-laden fun.
5. The Wrong Mr. Darcy by Evelyn Lozada
The Wrong Mr. Darcy places Austen’s love story in the competitive world of sports journalism. Hara Isari, a young reporter, meets Derek Darcy, a basketball player with a guarded heart. As misunderstandings and assumptions unfold, Lozada creates a fast-paced retelling that’s all about ambition, trust, and finding love in unexpected places.
6. Pride and Protest by Nikki Payne
Nikki Payne’s Pride and Protest is a modern retelling infused with themes of activism and social justice. This story features a passionate DJ Liza Bennett and Dorsey Fitzgerald, a real estate developer, whose worlds collide as they navigate gentrification in a Washington D.C. neighborhood. Payne’s fresh take on Pride & Prejudice adds depth and real-world relevance to Austen’s themes.
7. Only When It’s Us by Chloe Liese
Chloe Liese’s Only When It’s Us brings a unique slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers story to life with a Pride & Prejudice-inspired twist. Willa and Ryder’s chemistry, misunderstandings, and eventual romance echo Elizabeth and Darcy’s dynamic in this heartfelt romance that also sensitively explores themes of disability and communication.
8. Love, Lies, and Cherry Pies by Jackie Lau
Jackie Lau’s Love, Lies, and Cherry Pies offers a sweet and funny spin on the classic, set against a small-town backdrop. While loosely inspired by Pride & Prejudice, this novel captures the warmth, humor, and romantic tension we love in Austen’s story. It’s perfect for fans looking for a cozy, feel-good retelling.
Find Your Next Favorite Retelling!
These Modern Retellings of Pride & Prejudice breathe new life into Austen’s timeless story, bringing Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy’s world into the present with fresh settings, diverse characters, and relatable themes. So, whether you’re looking for romance, humor, or something completely out of the box, these books are sure to enchant and entertain.
