Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from purchases made through the affiliate links included in this post. This means if you click on the link and make a purchase, I will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. All star ratings are based on Goodreads ratings unless stated otherwise.
Ever wondered about modern Pride and Prejudice books? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!
If you’re anything like me and can’t get enough of Jane Austen’s classic tale of love, misunderstandings, and societal quirks, then you’ve probably hunted down a few Pride and Prejudice retellings yourself.
As a long-time fan and someone who’s devoured a myriad of these modern twists, I’ve honed my expertise in distinguishing the gems from the duds.
Trust me, it’s been quite the journey through Goodreads lists and library reads!
That’s why I’m here to share the best clean reads that beautifully capture the spirit of Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet’s story while offering fresh, contemporary spins.
Whether you’re new to these retellings or a seasoned expert, these picks are sure to bring a smile to your face and a flutter to your heart.
So, sit back, grab a cup of tea, and let’s dive into the enchanting world of modern Pride and Prejudice retellings!
Top 3 favorite Pride and Prejudice inspired books
Love and Loathing by Gigi Blume
✅ One of my favorite retellings, fun characters and witty dialogue
Power & Prestige by Sarah L. McConkie
✅ Unique fantasy twist on this classic story
Ayesha at Last by Uzma Jalaluddin
✅ Muslim representation with characters you can’t help but love
There are tons of clean & sweet books waiting for you on Kindle Unlimited!
Looking for a reading adventure? With Kindle Unlimited, you can dive into countless books each month with just a click.
List of Pride and Prejudice retellings
1. Power and Prestige by Sarah L. McConkie
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.68 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Historical Fantasy, Romance | ✅ Read it!
High Mage Darkwood of Pemberley, wealthy and powerful, arrives at Netherfield with no intention of marrying, especially not the lowly Miss Cassia Retton. However, when his magic fails to affect her, frustration ensues.
Cassia, indifferent to magical abilities, feels a change at Rosings Park, possibly due to the land or Darkwood’s presence. Faced with her family’s ruin and her greatest challenge, Cassia must decide whether to summon her inner power and who will stand by her in the end.
Why should you dive into this retelling?
This fun and unique twist on Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice adds a magical flair with dragons and romance, making it an easy and enjoyable read. Plus, it’s the first book in a whole series inspired by other Austen novels!
2. Love and Loathing by Gigi Blume
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.90 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Contemporary Romance | ✅ Read it!
Beth Bennet is irked by the arrogant Will Darcy, a Hollywood type she can’t stand—despite his good looks. Needing the job, she tolerates their chemistry, even during toe-curling kisses. Will, doing the musical as a favor, is distracted by Beth’s spirited nature.
As their on-stage and off-stage romance heats up, they struggle with their undeniable attraction. When the show ends, they must determine if their romance is real or just an act.
Why should you dive into this retelling?
This book brilliantly combines the enemies to lovers trope with laugh-out-loud dialogue. I absolutely loved that it’s set around a professional theater show. The dual POV really adds depth to the story, making it even more engaging.
“In truth, I wouldn’t mind the spinster life. It’s kind of like the thug life but with more baguettes.”
― Gigi Blume, Love and Loathing
3. Pudge and Prejudice by A.K. Pittman
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.99 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: YA Christian Romance | ✅ Read it!
In 1984, Elyse Nebbit moves with her family to Northenfield, Texas, and struggles to fit into a new school dominated by social status and football. Her older sister, Jayne, dates the popular Charlie Bingley, sparking Elyse’s interest in his brooding friend, Billy Fitz.
Elyse’s insecurities about her body complicate her relationship with Billy, but with the help of Jayne and her blunt friend Lottie, Elyse learns to accept herself.
Why should you dive into this retelling?
I absolutely loved how the author brought the 80s to life (especially for a 90s baby like me!). The cultural references were so fun and made the book really immersive, yet it still had that Pride and Prejudice vibe that completed the perfect package.
The characters and their growth throughout the story were fantastic, and you’ll find yourself laughing right along with them.
4. Dear Mr. Knightley by Katherine Reay
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.94 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Christian Fiction, Romance | ✅ Read it!
Samantha Moore, a former foster child, survives by immersing herself in literature and adopting her favorite characters’ personas. After college, she receives a scholarship from the anonymous “Mr. Knightley” to attend the Medill School of Journalism, provided she writes to him regularly.
Through these letters, Samantha’s true identity emerges, helping her connect with others, including a troubled teenager and novelist Alex Powell. However, she soon discovers Alex has his own secrets, challenging her to confront her true self.
Why should you dive into this retelling?
This book, while not exactly like Pride and Prejudice, is packed with different Jane Austen retellings and feels more like a variation of Daddy Long Legs. It’s written in an epistolary style, which made it a really fun read. I especially loved seeing how much the character grew throughout the plot.
“And, Mr. Knightley, forget my theory about Icarus. If you don’t sail high, with the risk of crashing and burning, do you really live? Can you love? I doubt it. I’m ready to fly. Love, Sam”
― Katherine Reay, Dear Mr. Knightley
5. Pride and Premeditation by Tirzah Price
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.75 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: YA Historical Mystery | ✅ Read it!
Sixteen-year-old Lizzie Bennet seizes the chance to prove herself as a solicitor by solving a scandalous society murder. However, she faces competition from Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy, a stern young heir to a prestigious law firm.
Determined to outshine him, Lizzie must navigate their rivalry and collaborate with Darcy to catch the real killer and avoid becoming the next victims.
Why should you dive into this retelling?
Wow, this author nailed it with the setting and plot! The characters felt like a fresh take on the original novel, yet still unique and intriguing. The mystery was spot-on, and the dialogue was just superb!
“Do you purposefully misunderstand everything I say, Miss Bennet?”
“Do you purposefully overlook all inconvenient truths, Mr. Darcy?”
― Tirzah Price, Pride and Premeditation
6. Ayesha at Last by Uzma Jalaluddin
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.87 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Contemporary Romance | ✅ Read it!
Ayesha Shamsi, a teacher with dreams of being a poet, juggles her obligations to her loud Muslim family and her wealthy uncle. She resists arranged marriage but finds herself attracted to the conservative Khalid.
As Khalid becomes engaged to her cousin Hafsa, Ayesha grapples with her feelings and unsettling rumors about his family, leading her to confront truths about Khalid and herself.
Why should you dive into this retelling?
I absolutely loved the characters in this book! They were so well developed, full of witty dialogue, and had amazing growth throughout the story. Plus, the Muslim representation mixed with the contemporary settings was spot on, giving a fresh twist to a classic story.
7. So This Is Love by Laura Hile
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.44 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Historical Romance | ✅ Read it!
Charlotte Lucas, recently freed from an unwanted engagement, is uninterested in romance and leads a predictable life with her aging aunt. Her world shifts when Captain Jack Blunt, her uncle’s heir, rescues her from a robbery.
Despite his reservations about love, Jack is captivated by Charlotte’s honesty and charm. Though he thinks she would be a great match for one of his officers, he finds himself unexpectedly drawn to her.
Why should you dive into this retelling?
This regency England romance had everything I could dream of: compelling characters, swoon-worthy romance, and a perfectly paced plot. I absolutely loved the touch of action, and the setting was spot-on. A perfect happy ending!
8. Swipe Right for Mr. Darcy by Amanda Kai
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.75 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Contemporary Romance | ✅ Read it!
Elizabeth Bennet, a confident VP at Longbourn Rehabilitation Services, is more focused on her sister’s life than her own. When Jane dates a charming doctor, Elizabeth tags along and overhears his best friend, Fitzwilliam Darcy, insult her.
To her shock, Darcy is the president of Pemberley Medical Group, a key partner for her company. As their worlds intersect, Elizabeth’s dislike for Darcy is challenged as she learns more about his true character. Can Elizabeth move past her pride and prejudice to find love with Darcy?
Why should you dive into this retelling?
This is a classic enemies to lovers tale that mirrors the original Pride and Prejudice book. The characters are delightful, and at under 200 pages, it’s a perfect one-day read!
9. Engaging Mr. Darcy by Rachel John
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.65 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Contemporary Romance | ✅ Read it!
Elsie Bennet, after a tense encounter, deems Fitzwilliam Darcy her worst but best-looking customer. To her dismay, he’s also her new neighbor. Darcy, wealthy yet dissatisfied, becomes a third wheel in his friend’s relationship with Elsie’s sister, Jane.
As Elsie and Will clash, she’s warned by Jeff Wickham about Will’s difficult nature. Despite Jeff’s advice, Elsie finds herself drawn to Will, sparking a battle between her mind and heart.
Why should you dive into this retelling?
I absolutely loved the setting and main characters in this book! The Bennet sisters felt similar yet had their own unique charm. The romance? Totally swoon-worthy and a perfect love story read.
10. Pride and Preston Lin by Christina Hwang Dudley
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.92 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Contemporary Romance | ✅ Read it!
Lissie Cheng, the middle of three orphaned sisters, works in her family’s restaurant while pursuing her dreams. After accidentally serving shellfish to an allergic customer, she clashes with Preston Lin, a wealthy, self-righteous Stanford student.
Despite her initial disdain, circumstances continuously bring them together. Can Lissie overcome her pride and misgivings to find love with Preston?
Why should you dive into this retelling?
This brand new release for 2024 is set in the vibrant San Francisco Bay Area Asian American community. The characters are fantastic, with witty dialogue and great arcs. Honestly, I stayed up way too late finishing this book!
FAQs about Pride and Prejudice Variation’s
How faithful are these retellings to the original Pride and Prejudice?
These retellings often capture the essence of the original story, including key themes and character dynamics, but they bring a fresh, modern retelling of Pride and Prejudice. While some plots closely follow Austen’s story, others take creative liberties to update the setting and context for contemporary readers.
Do I need to read the original Pride and Prejudice to enjoy these modern retellings?
Not at all! While having read the original can enhance your appreciation of the nuances and nods to Jane Austen’s works, each retelling stands on its own as an enjoyable read. They are crafted to be accessible and entertaining whether or not you are familiar with the source material.
Do these books typically include the same romantic tension and misunderstandings found in Pride and Prejudice?
Definitely. The “enemies to lovers” trope and the evolving relationship between the protagonists remain central to the plot. Readers can expect plenty of witty banter, societal misunderstandings, and gradual realization of love, which are hallmarks of the original story.
Did you discover some amazing retellings of Pride and Prejudice?
There you have it—some irresistible modern retelling of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice that will surely capture your imagination and heart.
If you’ve enjoyed diving into these contemporary takes on Austen’s classic, why not share your thoughts and discover even more gems with like-minded readers?
Join my new Facebook group, Clean & Christian Readers Book Club, where we celebrate wholesome and inspiring literature.
I’d love to hear about your favorite retellings and any books you think we should add to the reading list.
Can’t wait to chat with you there!
Come join my new bookish community!
If you’re as passionate about reading as I am, why not take the next step and join my exclusive Facebook group, the Clean & Christian Readers Book Club?
It’s the perfect place to dive deeper into your literary journey, get personalized book recommendations, and share your favorite reads with a supportive community.
Looking for more romance novels?
Check out these book lists here!
