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Let’s be real—there’s just no getting over Darcy and Elizabeth.
Austen’s Pride and Prejudice is the ultimate classic romance, with all its misunderstandings, quick wit, and undeniable chemistry.
But if you’re craving even more of that magic, you’re in luck!
I’ve rounded up 34 unique retellings that take this classic love story to new places.
Get ready to revisit Pemberley, meet fresh takes on the Bennet family, and experience all kinds of imaginative adaptations of this timeless romance.
Best Pride and Prejudice Retellings to Read ASAP
1. Love and Loathing by Gigi Blume
This retelling keeps the electric tension between Beth and Will just like Elizabeth and Darcy in Pride and Prejudice.
You still get that same “I can’t stand you, but I might actually love you” energy that makes their dynamic feel so timeless and fun.
The backdrop of the theater world adds a fun twist, making the misunderstandings and chemistry feel fresh but familiar.
I loved watching these two navigate the on-and-off-stage push-and-pull, where their walls start coming down in unexpected ways.
It’s also satisfying to see Will Darcy’s journey from arrogant to swoon-worthy, and Beth’s spunk adds that Lizzie Bennet charm.
This is definitely a great read if you’re into modern takes with a dash of showbiz drama.
2. Swipe Right for Mr. Darcy by Amanda Kai
If Pride and Prejudice were set in a corporate world with a touch of online dating, it would look exactly like this.
Elizabeth and Darcy’s initial misunderstanding is all there, with plenty of added tension that feels right for our workaholic, swipe-right generation.
Amanda Kai does an amazing job updating their fiery banter and initial misjudgments to fit a contemporary setting.
I thought the chemistry between Elizabeth and Darcy was spot-on and so fun to read.
Elizabeth’s independence shines just like in the original, and Darcy’s pride shows up in all the right (and wrong) ways!
3. Pride by Ibi Zoboi
Pride takes the heart of Austen’s story and adds a fresh perspective with Zuri and Darius in modern-day Brooklyn.
Zuri’s fierce love for her community and her skepticism of change echo Elizabeth Bennet’s determination to stay true to herself, even in the face of Darcy’s wealth and status.
This version adds cultural richness and a new level of depth to the familiar themes of pride and prejudice.
I really enjoyed seeing Zuri’s journey and her gradual realization that there’s more to Darius than she first thought.
Ibi Zoboi’s writing is beautiful, and the way she brings in issues like gentrification and family expectations feels relevant and real.
This is a must-read if you want a Pride and Prejudice retelling with a powerful modern message!
4. Eligible by Curtis Sittenfeld
Sittenfeld’s Eligible is one of the most playful modern retellings of Pride and Prejudice.
The classic family dynamics and romantic misunderstandings are all here, but with fun, updated twists—think CrossFit, reality TV, and modern Cincinnati charm.
Liz Bennet and Darcy still clash in all the best ways, with Liz’s sharp wit and Darcy’s reserved nature creating that signature tension we all love.
I found it hilarious how Sittenfeld adapted each Bennet sister to modern quirks and flaws, while keeping true to the original family dynamic.
Darcy is delightfully frustrating, and Liz’s journey toward seeing him differently is just as satisfying as ever. This retelling feels fresh and relevant while honoring the heart of Austen’s story.
5. Pride and Prejudice and Other Flavors by Sonali Dev
This retelling adds a rich layer of cultural context with the Raje family and chef DJ Caine.
Dr. Trisha Raje is an intriguing take on Darcy—reserved and proud in her own way, yet with hidden vulnerabilities.
DJ, on the other hand, has Elizabeth Bennet’s spunk and a passionate drive that feels fresh and modern.
Their collision of pride and misunderstandings feels all too relatable.
I loved how Dev’s storytelling deepened each character’s background and motivations.
It’s Austen-inspired but carries its own unique voice, especially with the culinary and cultural elements.
And the chemistry between Trisha and DJ is electric, and their clash of values and worlds makes for a unique spin on Pride and Prejudice that’s definitely worth reading.
6. First & Then by Emma Mills
Mills’s First & Then captures the emotional heart of Pride and Prejudice with a contemporary YA twist.
Devon’s reluctance to step out of her comfort zone mirrors Elizabeth’s independence, while the mysterious and aloof Ezra takes on Darcy’s intensity in a high school setting.
It’s a quieter, more introspective take on the classic, but the romantic tension still shines through.
I appreciated how Mills translated the themes of self-discovery and growing up into a high school context without losing that Pride and Prejudice feel.
Devon and Ezra’s relationship grows in a subtle but rewarding way, which makes this a sweet and relatable read for Austen fans looking for something youthful and heartfelt.
Must-Read Pride and Prejudice Variations
1. Longbourn by Jo Baker
Longbourn flips the classic Pride and Prejudice story by telling it from the perspective of the Bennet family’s servants.
Baker dives into the world “downstairs,” and shows the challenges and personal lives of those who worked behind the scenes.
While the romance is still there, it takes on a different tone, with Sarah the maid finding her own path to love amid the Bennet family’s chaos.
I found it fascinating to see Pride and Prejudice from this unique perspective.
It brings a whole new depth to the story and really makes you think about all the people in the background of Austen’s original.
The characters are wonderfully developed, and it’s a must-read if you want a fresh look at a familiar world.
2. Mr. Darcy’s Diary by Amanda Grange
Grange’s Mr. Darcy’s Diary gives us a rare peek into Darcy’s mind, as it shows us his thoughts and emotions in a way we don’t see in the original.
Told through diary entries, this version shows Darcy’s struggles with pride, his family’s expectations, and his growing love for Elizabeth.
It’s the perfect read if you’ve ever wondered what Darcy was really thinking throughout Pride and Prejudice.
Reading Darcy’s inner monologue brought a whole new layer of understanding to his character.
And Grange does a wonderful job of keeping Darcy true to himself, with a touch of vulnerability that makes him even more lovable.
For anyone who’s ever been curious about Darcy’s side of the story, this one’s a must-read.
3. An Assembly Such as This: A Novel of Fitzwilliam Darcy, Gentleman by Pamela Aidan
This retelling, the first in a trilogy, focuses entirely on Darcy’s time in Hertfordshire and his complex feelings for Elizabeth.
It dives into Darcy’s perspective, with detailed insights into his thoughts and motivations.
We also get to see his interactions with characters like Miss Bingley and George Wickham, and this adds layers to his character that aren’t visible in Austen’s original.
I loved how Aidan brought depth to Darcy’s experiences and relationships beyond just his time with Elizabeth.
The historical detail and rich inner dialogue make this a standout for Darcy fans, and it gives you a fuller picture of his journey toward realizing he’s in love with Elizabeth.
4. Death Comes to Pemberley by P. D. James
This mystery sequel brings an unexpected twist to Pride and Prejudice by introducing a murder at Pemberley.
Six years after Darcy and Elizabeth’s marriage, their peaceful life is interrupted by a shocking crime involving familiar characters.
As the investigation unfolds, readers get to see Elizabeth and Darcy’s relationship tested in new ways, which blends romance and suspense.
I found it really fun to see these beloved characters plunged into a mystery and how they worked together when faced with a crisis.
James captures the essence of Austen’s characters while adding her own dark twist, ao this retelling is perfect for fans who enjoy a bit of mystery mixed in with classic romance.
5. Confessions of the Scandalous Mrs. Darcy by Darcie Rochester
In this twist on the original, Elizabeth and Darcy marry in a rather unconventional way, thanks to an unexpected scandal.
Elizabeth finds herself suddenly thrust into life as Mrs. Darcy, and she must deal with both gossip and her own complex feelings.
Their relationship takes a bit of work, and watching Elizabeth charm her way into Darcy’s heart is a fun twist on the original love story.
I enjoyed seeing Elizabeth in this new role, which shows her resilience and wit as she navigates society’s expectations and Darcy’s reserved nature.
It’s a playful but heartfelt retelling, with all the charm of Austen’s characters but plenty of fresh challenges and romance.
Top Historical Romance Pride and Prejudice Retellings
1. Power and Prestige by Sarah L. McConkie
In this fantasy retelling, Darcy is a powerful mage and Cassia Retton (our Lizzie stand-in) isn’t all that impressed.
Their clash is equal parts magical and romantic, as Cassia discovers her own abilities and learns to trust Darcy.
McConkie adds a supernatural twist to the classic story, but the emotional core—pride, prejudice, and misunderstandings—remains the same.
I loved how the magic elements gave Darcy and Cassia’s relationship an extra spark (literally!), which made their attraction even more intense.
The world-building is intriguing, and the familiar tension between the characters feels fresh in this magical context.
It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a blend of romance, fantasy, and Austen-inspired drama.
2. So This Is Love by Laura Hile
This charming retelling focuses on Charlotte Lucas instead of Elizabeth, and it gives her a new love interest after her break from Mr. Collins.
The story’s lighthearted tone brings a refreshing change of perspective, as Charlotte finds unexpected romance with Captain Jack Blunt.
The Austen feel is there, but with an extra dose of fun and originality.
I found it so delightful to see Charlotte as the lead and watch her get her own happy ending.
Hile gives Charlotte her own unique journey and character development, and it’s incredibly satisfying to see her find true love. If you’ve ever wanted more for Charlotte, this is the book for you!
3. 1932 by Karen M. Cox
Set during the Great Depression, 1932 places Elizabeth and Darcy in rural Kentucky, where they come from very different worlds.
The historical backdrop adds a unique challenge to their relationship, which made it feel like an entirely new story while still echoing the core themes of Pride and Prejudice.
I loved how this retelling took Austen’s story and grounded it in a time period full of grit and resilience.
Elizabeth’s independence and Darcy’s reserved kindness feel right at home in this historical setting, and their slow-burn romance is just as satisfying.
4. The Forgotten Sister by Jennifer Paynter
This retelling finally gives Mary Bennet her moment in the spotlight, letting her story unfold alongside her sisters’ romances.
Mary’s introspective nature makes her a unique protagonist, and her journey to self-acceptance brings a refreshing new perspective to the Bennet family.
I found Mary’s story to be both heartwarming and relatable, and it was refreshing to see her find love and purpose in her own way.
Paynter does a wonderful job of capturing Mary’s quiet strength, which made her an endearing and memorable character.
Also See: 12 Steamy Historical Romance Novels That’ll Make You Warm All Over
Popular Young Adult Pride and Prejudice Retellings to Read
1. Pride and Premeditation by Tirzah Price
In this clever YA retelling, Elizabeth Bennet is reimagined as a fierce aspiring lawyer, and Darcy as her rival in a murder case.
This adaptation blends the wit and romance of Pride and Prejudice with the intrigue of a classic whodunit.
Lizzie and Darcy’s familiar tension is heightened by their competitive streak, which made for a fun twist on the enemies-to-lovers trope.
I loved how Price managed to weave in so many Austen-inspired elements while also creating a fast-paced mystery.
Lizzie’s quick thinking and stubbornness feel spot-on, and Darcy’s reserved nature as her competition makes their banter irresistible.
If you’re looking for a fresh take that adds suspense to the romance, this one is a great pick!
2. Prom & Prejudice by Elizabeth Eulberg
In Prom & Prejudice, Eulberg brings the classic story into the high school halls of Longbourn Academy, with prom fever replacing Regency England’s marriage obsession.
Lizzie Bennet is a scholarship student surrounded by wealth, and Darcy is just as aloof and seemingly snobby as ever.
The setup keeps all the beloved dynamics intact but gives them a lighthearted, YA twist.
Reading this book felt like revisiting Pride and Prejudice in the best way—Lizzie’s stubborn pride and Darcy’s awkward attempts to connect are still there, but in a more relatable high school setting.
Eulberg’s writing is fresh and fun, which only makes this one perfect if you want a breezy, teen-friendly take on the classic romance.
3. Being Mary Bennet by J.C. Peterson
In this story, Marnie Barnes, a teenager who sees herself as the “Mary Bennet” of her family, tries to reinvent herself as the main character in her own life.
This YA retelling gives a new, self-reflective twist on Pride and Prejudice by exploring what it means to embrace who you really are instead of trying to change for others.
I loved seeing Mary Bennet’s role turned into an empowering journey of self-discovery.
Marnie’s character growth is both heartfelt and relatable, especially for anyone who’s ever felt like the overlooked sibling.
Peterson’s modern spin on Mary’s story is fresh, inspiring, and gives a well-deserved spotlight to an often-forgotten character from Austen’s world – Here’s My Review!
4. Epic Fail by Claire LaZebnik
In this witty retelling set in a modern high school, Elise and Derek’s relationship mirrors Elizabeth and Darcy’s, complete with misunderstandings and attraction.
Elise initially misjudges Derek as arrogant, but as they spend more time together, her feelings shift in true Austen fashion.
This book takes Austen’s classic romance and gives it a playful, YA twist with all the charm and drama of high school life.
I really enjoyed the way LaZebnik translated Darcy’s aloofness and Elizabeth’s sharp wit into a teenage setting.
Elise’s journey from annoyance to admiration for Derek feels true to the original, but with plenty of lighthearted teen romance.
5. Debating Darcy by Sayantani DasGupta
Debating Darcy reimagines Lizzie as Leela, a fierce high school debater who clashes with the arrogant Firoze Darcy in competition.
This version captures the tension and rivalry of the original but in a modern, debate-team setting that gives the story a unique energy.
The fierce competition adds a fun twist that makes Leela and Firoze’s dynamic even sharper.
I loved seeing Austen’s classic banter adapted into a high-stakes debate rivalry.
Leela’s determination and wit feel so true to Elizabeth, while Firoze brings that signature Darcy intensity.
6. Accomplished by Amanda Quain
This story shifts the focus to Georgiana Darcy, and it gives her a fresh start and a new perspective at Pemberley Academy after a tough scandal involving Wickham.
As Georgie tries to rebuild her reputation and navigate family expectations, we see her grow in confidence and maturity.
With a subplot involving her matchmaking efforts for her brother Fitz and Lizzie Bennet, this retelling explores both romance and self-discovery.
I loved watching Georgiana come into her own in this version.
Quain’s focus on Georgie’s journey adds a new dimension to the Darcy family’s story, with plenty of charm and wit.
The high school setting and Georgie’s personal growth make this a refreshing twist on Austen’s world, and a treat for fans curious about Georgiana’s character.
Read Next: 20+ Addictive YA Romance Books That’ll Make You Fall In Love
Must-Read Queer Pride and Prejudice Retellings
1. Most Ardently by Gabe Cole Novoa
In this unique retelling, Oliver Bennet is a trans man in Regency England, navigating his love for Darcy while balancing society’s expectations and his desire to live authentically.
This queer retelling adds depth and resonance to the classic, exploring themes of identity, love, and acceptance that Austen’s story hinted at but never fully explored.
I found this version incredibly moving, as Oliver’s journey toward self-acceptance echoes the emotional struggles in the original story but with even more poignancy.
The chemistry between Oliver and Darcy feels true to Austen, but the added layers of identity and vulnerability make it a standout.
If you’re looking for a retelling that both honors and expands upon the original, this one is beautifully done.
2. Pride and Prejudice and Pittsburgh by Rachael Lippincott
When modern-day Audrey is transported back to Regency England, she’s thrust into a world of corsets, balls, and social norms—all while dealing with her feelings for Lucy, a young woman facing her own societal pressures.
This time-travel twist on Pride and Prejudice combines romance, humor, and a bit of culture shock, creating a unique love story with echoes of Austen’s world.
I loved the blend of time-travel adventure and classic romance in this one.
Audrey’s modern outlook clashes with Regency rules, which makes for plenty of funny and heartfelt moments as she bonds with Lucy.
It’s a fresh twist that brings the romance and charm of Austen’s story into a completely new light.
3. The Story of Lizzy and Darcy by Grace Watson
In this modern, same-sex retelling, Lizzy Bennet and Darcy Williams start off disliking each other, but slowly develop a friendship that blossoms into more.
Watson’s adaptation keeps the essence of Pride and Prejudice while adding a fresh take on the love story, exploring modern themes of acceptance, identity, and love.
I really enjoyed seeing the familiar tension and attraction between Lizzy and Darcy translated into a contemporary same-sex romance.
The story stays true to the emotional journey of the original but feels fresh and relevant.
If you’re looking for an LGBTQ+ twist on Pride and Prejudice, this one is both heartwarming and engaging.
Super Spicy Pride and Prejudice Retellings
1. Bargain With The Devil by Enid Wilson
This steamy retelling flips the original on its head, with Elizabeth agreeing to a scandalous bargain with Mr. Darcy in exchange for his help.
Wilson adds a bit of spice and wit, which makes this version perfect for readers who want to see Elizabeth and Darcy’s chemistry taken to new heights.
The tension and banter are all there, but with a decidedly daring twist.
I loved seeing Elizabeth hold her own against a more intense, passionate version of Darcy.
Their interactions are just as electric, but with an added edge that makes this retelling stand out.
If you’re open to a bolder take on Austen’s classic, Bargain With The Devil is both entertaining and spicy.
2. A Night With Mr. Darcy To Remember by P.O. Dixon
When Mr. Darcy accidentally finds himself in Elizabeth’s bed, they’re both forced to confront their attraction in this short but steamy retelling.
Dixon gives a playful twist to their relationship, adding a “what if” element that spices up the tension between them.
It’s a quick read, but it packs in plenty of chemistry.
This retelling takes the familiar tension between Darcy and Elizabeth and turns it into a fun, unexpected encounter.
I enjoyed seeing how one night could change everything, and Dixon’s version captures their chemistry in a way that feels both fresh and true to the original.
3. Really Angelic by Enid Wilson
Really Angelic takes Pride and Prejudice into the paranormal realm, with angels, demons, and other supernatural twists influencing Elizabeth and Darcy’s journey.
The otherworldly forces add an adventurous layer to the classic romance, which makes this version unique and unexpected.
The supernatural elements bring an imaginative twist to the story, with Elizabeth and Darcy battling not only their prejudices but also magical obstacles.
Wilson’s daring interpretation adds a fun, mystical dimension that made it a refreshing read.
4. Mr. Darcy’s Undoing by Abigail Reynolds
In this bold variation, Reynolds explores what might happen if Elizabeth accepted another man’s proposal before realizing her feelings for Darcy.
Set in an alternate path after Darcy’s proposal at Hunsford, the story intensifies the tension as a heartbroken Darcy faces the possibility of losing Elizabeth forever.
His determination to win her back, even at the risk of scandal, creates a passionate and tumultuous retelling.
I loved how Reynolds took Darcy and Elizabeth’s dynamic to a new level of angst and desire.
The emotional depth of Darcy’s pursuit and Elizabeth’s inner conflict make this retelling a rollercoaster of feelings, so if you’re up for a more intense and dramatic take on Pride and Prejudice, this one brings all the heat and heart.
5. Slightly Dangerous by Mary Balogh
In this Regency romance inspired by Pride and Prejudice, Balogh introduces Wulfric Bedwyn, the Duke of Bewcastle, who embodies Darcy’s aloofness and formality.
When Wulfric meets the lively Christine Derrick at a country house party, sparks fly despite their differences, echoing the dynamic tension between Elizabeth and Darcy.
Their attraction grows as they confront their biases and learn to see beyond first impressions.
I found Wulfric and Christine’s relationship to be a delightful parallel to Elizabeth and Darcy’s.
Balogh captures the essence of Austen’s romance but adds a fresh layer of humor and heart through Christine’s free-spirited nature.
It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a romance that brings the emotional depth of Pride and Prejudice with new twists, witty banter, and a unique Regency flair.
Best Paranormal Pride and Prejudice Book Retellings
1. Pride and Prejudice and Zombies by Jane Austen and Seth Grahame-Smith
This quirky retelling blends classic Regency romance with zombie-fighting action, giving us a fierce, sword-wielding Elizabeth Bennet.
The story stays true to Austen’s plot but with an added twist of zombies roaming the English countryside, which makes for a hilarious and action-packed adventure.
I had a blast reading this over-the-top version, where Elizabeth’s strength takes on a whole new (and literal) meaning.
The mix of Austen’s humor and zombie-fighting drama makes for an entertaining, tongue-in-cheek twist that’s perfect if you’re looking for something completely different.
2. Mr. Darcy’s Enchantment by Abigail Reynolds
In this magical retelling, Darcy is a powerful mage with a strict sense of duty, and Elizabeth is a forbidden magic practitioner hiding her abilities.
As they navigate their unusual powers and the secrets between them, their romance takes on an enchanting new layer.
Their magical world mirrors Austen’s original themes of pride, prejudice, and social status, but with added fantasy elements that make the story even more captivating.
I loved seeing Darcy and Elizabeth as magical beings with unique abilities that align with their personalities—Darcy is powerful yet controlled, and Elizabeth is fiercely independent with hidden talents.
The fantasy setting adds a fresh spin while staying true to the essence of Austen’s characters.
If you’re into magic and romance, this retelling brings an exciting twist that deepens their dynamic in delightful ways.
3. Dangerous Magic by Monica Fairview
In Dangerous Magic, Elizabeth Bennet is forced into an arranged marriage with Darcy, a skilled mage, to harness their combined powers against Napoleon’s army of magical threats.
This retelling blends historical romance with fantasy, creating an unusual alliance between two reluctant partners who must learn to trust each other despite their differences.
The magic and wartime backdrop bring a sense of urgency to Elizabeth and Darcy’s relationship that’s unique yet familiar.
I enjoyed how Fairview wove the themes of pride, duty, and prejudice into a fantasy setting where Darcy and Elizabeth’s bond is both a magical alliance and a heartfelt romance.
4. Haunting Mr. Darcy by KaraLynne Mackrory
This paranormal adaptation begins with Elizabeth’s spirit mysteriously tethered to Darcy’s home after an accident.
The two must navigate this unusual courtship as they learn to communicate across realms.
The story balances spooky elements with the classic romance we know and love, as it adds a supernatural layer to Darcy and Elizabeth’s connection.
I found this ghostly twist refreshing and touching, as Elizabeth’s spirit reveals Darcy’s softer side while they grow closer in ways neither expected.
Mackrory’s version offers a delightful combination of the supernatural and the romantic, which captures the wit and warmth of Austen’s characters.
5. An Unnatural Inheritance by Virginia B. Brand
Set in a world where magic is as much a part of inheritance as wealth, An Unnatural Inheritance sees Elizabeth and her sisters as witches navigating society’s expectations.
When Darcy, a man wary of magic, enters her life, Elizabeth must weigh her loyalty to her family’s legacy against her unexpected feelings for him.
The story’s magical element enriches the themes of class and tradition from Pride and Prejudice.
I enjoyed how Elizabeth’s strength and independence were expressed through her magic, with Darcy’s skepticism adding a new level to their tension.
Brand’s magical world feels natural yet captivating, with rich details that make Austen’s classic tale of love and conflict feel refreshingly new.
Fans of historical fantasy will appreciate this enchanting retelling that still honors the heart of the original.
How many of these Pride and Prejudice retellings will you add to your TBR? Let me know which ones you loved in the comment section.
And, if you’ve got a hankering for retellings, be sure to check out my post on the best Snow White book adaptations – Bonus: there’s also something for the Peter Pan lovers.