Fans pick 46 books like Old Boots

By Grace Gibson, Janet Taylor (illustrator),

Here are 46 books that Old Boots fans have personally recommended if you like Old Boots. Shepherd is a community of 12,000+ authors and super readers sharing their favorite books with the world.

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Book cover of Speechless

Tiffany Thomas Author Of The Sins of Their Fathers: A Pride & Prejudice Variation

From my list on Pride & Prejudice variations set in Regency Times.

Why am I passionate about this?

I fell in love with Pride & Prejudice variations over a decade ago when I did a Google search for “Pride & Prejudice sequel” because I was desperate to read more of Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet. I’ve read hundreds, if not thousands, of variations and fan fiction over the years. Last year, I finally developed the courage to start writing my own which (I flatter myself) has been well-received by readers of JAFF (Jane Austen Fan Fiction). I write them in between running my blog, homeschooling my three children, recording my podcast, and surviving the hot Texas summers.

Tiffany's book list on Pride & Prejudice variations set in Regency Times

Tiffany Thomas Why did Tiffany love this book?

Another reason I love Pride & Prejudice variations is that the circumstances change, and we get to see the main characters struggle in other ways than the original story.

I fell in love with Speechless when I got to see Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy get stranded together at an inn. Darcy becomes badly injured and is unable to speak at all, so he and Elizabeth are forced to understand each other in less conventional ways.

The thing about this story that makes it so compelling are the humorous moments that entwine with the angst and pain.

By Jessie Lewis,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Speechless as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

If leaving this place meant never seeing her again, he wished the snow would never melt. Let it be winter forever.

COULD ANYTHING BE WORSE than to be trapped in a confined space with the woman you love, unable to speak to her?

Fitzwilliam Darcy knows his duty, and it does not involve succumbing to his fascination for a certain dark-eyed beauty from an unheard of family from Longbourn in Hertfordshire. He has run away from Elizabeth Bennet once already, yet fate has a wicked sense of humour and deals him a blow that not only throws him back into…


Book cover of Faults of Understanding: A Pride and Prejudice Variation

Tiffany Thomas Author Of The Sins of Their Fathers: A Pride & Prejudice Variation

From my list on Pride & Prejudice variations set in Regency Times.

Why am I passionate about this?

I fell in love with Pride & Prejudice variations over a decade ago when I did a Google search for “Pride & Prejudice sequel” because I was desperate to read more of Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet. I’ve read hundreds, if not thousands, of variations and fan fiction over the years. Last year, I finally developed the courage to start writing my own which (I flatter myself) has been well-received by readers of JAFF (Jane Austen Fan Fiction). I write them in between running my blog, homeschooling my three children, recording my podcast, and surviving the hot Texas summers.

Tiffany's book list on Pride & Prejudice variations set in Regency Times

Tiffany Thomas Why did Tiffany love this book?

My favorite trope for Pride & Prejudice variations is a forced or arranged marriage. In this book, Mr. Darcy’s infamously rude proposal to Elizabeth is overheard. Rumors quickly spread, and they are quickly forced to marry or else be ruined.

I really enjoy watching Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy working hard to make their marriage work. I admire her determination to make the best of the situation, and I love seeing Darcy fall in love with her all over again.

By Jennifer Altman,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Faults of Understanding as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

"I have faults enough, but they are not, I hope, of understanding." --Mr. Darcy, Pride and Prejudice

When Fitzwilliam Darcy makes an impetuous offer of marriage to Miss Elizabeth Bennet, he is convinced they have as good a chance as any for a harmonious life together. That is, until an overheard conversation changes everything, and Darcy realizes he is now joined in perpetuity to a woman who loathes the very sight of him.

Elizabeth Bennet’s expectations for matrimonial accord were never very high, having accepted Mr. Darcy’s proposal in a fit of pique, not love. Still, she is determined to…


Book cover of Nameless

Tiffany Thomas Author Of The Sins of Their Fathers: A Pride & Prejudice Variation

From my list on Pride & Prejudice variations set in Regency Times.

Why am I passionate about this?

I fell in love with Pride & Prejudice variations over a decade ago when I did a Google search for “Pride & Prejudice sequel” because I was desperate to read more of Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet. I’ve read hundreds, if not thousands, of variations and fan fiction over the years. Last year, I finally developed the courage to start writing my own which (I flatter myself) has been well-received by readers of JAFF (Jane Austen Fan Fiction). I write them in between running my blog, homeschooling my three children, recording my podcast, and surviving the hot Texas summers.

Tiffany's book list on Pride & Prejudice variations set in Regency Times

Tiffany Thomas Why did Tiffany love this book?

Sometimes a Pride & Prejudice variation begins extremely differently than in canon. This book has Elizabeth Bennet start out as an orphan and forced to be a companion to the Dowager Countless of Matlock. Mr. Darcy had married someone else after Elizabeth had refused his proposal, but he is now widowed and just as handsome as ever.

I love seeing Elizabeth navigate through their marriage when she is not in love quite yet. I admire her courage and determination to uncover the secrets of Mr. Darcy’s first marriage, and my heart breaks for the trauma that Mr. Darcy endured at the hands of his first wife.

By Julie Cooper,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Nameless as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

“This was not a man who would explode in a rage, or who would give way to shame or temper...which meant my choices were simple: either he had killed her in cold blood, or he had not killed her at all.”

ORPHANED AND ALONE IN THE WORLD, Elizabeth Bennet has found reasonable contentment as a companion to the Dowager Countess of Matlock, the affairs of 1811 and Fitzwilliam Darcy long forgotten. But the past intrudes upon her again, and Mr Darcy returns to her, handsome, wealthy, and widowed, and hiding many secrets beneath his solemn exterior.

BUT IF TIME HAD…


Book cover of Miss Bennet's Dragon

Tiffany Thomas Author Of The Sins of Their Fathers: A Pride & Prejudice Variation

From my list on Pride & Prejudice variations set in Regency Times.

Why am I passionate about this?

I fell in love with Pride & Prejudice variations over a decade ago when I did a Google search for “Pride & Prejudice sequel” because I was desperate to read more of Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet. I’ve read hundreds, if not thousands, of variations and fan fiction over the years. Last year, I finally developed the courage to start writing my own which (I flatter myself) has been well-received by readers of JAFF (Jane Austen Fan Fiction). I write them in between running my blog, homeschooling my three children, recording my podcast, and surviving the hot Texas summers.

Tiffany's book list on Pride & Prejudice variations set in Regency Times

Tiffany Thomas Why did Tiffany love this book?

One of my other favorite tropes is when fantasy and Pride & Prejudice combine. I love this version where Elizabeth Bennet can speak to dragons, which is a forbidden power. When Jane becomes ill, Elizabeth has to travel to Pemberley to help save her.

Not only is fantasy involved, but I really enjoy how history becomes involved in the form of England’s war with France and Bonaparte. I find it incredible to see Elizabeth break through protocol and rules all for the love of her sister, Jane.

By M. Verant,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Miss Bennet's Dragon as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Foreword INDIES Winner for Fantasy. Royal Dragonfly Award Winner for Fantasy. “A charming retelling”—Locus Magazine

An unforgettable fantasy retelling of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice that is romantic, funny, and more relevant than ever.

Elizabeth Bennet is hiding a forbidden power. She can speak to draca, the fire-breathing creatures kept as status symbols by English gentry. But Mr. Darcy has noticed, and he has his own dark secret.

When Elizabeth’s sister falls deathly ill, the cure lies in the mysteries of draca. Elizabeth, aided by her brilliant sister Mary, defies restrictive English society to hunt for lost draca lore. She…


Book cover of Fitzwilliam Darcy, Rock Star

Karen M. Cox Author Of 1932: Pride and Prejudice Revisited

From my list on that bring Jane Austen into modern times.

Why am I passionate about this?

Austen-inspired works are nothing new (think the movie Clueless or "The Lizzie Bennet Diaries" vlog) but unless you’re walking around the Austen fan world, you might not realize just how many books are out there. I became immersed in that world around 2006, and since then, I’ve written four Austen retellings, one Austen-inspired original novel, and several short stories. I’ve read countless other works (both published and on the internet,) and now run a little website called Austen Through the Ages. Below I list 5 Pride & Prejudice-inspired novels that ring true for me—they bring Austen’s themes and characters into modern settings, each putting a unique spin on the classic tale. 

Karen's book list on that bring Jane Austen into modern times

Karen M. Cox Why did Karen love this book?

I always preferred the title Heather chose for the original, unpublished story (Slurry) but I’m sure the publisher had a hand in that change. FD, Rock Star is chock full of sexy musicians with artistic temperaments. The Darcy and Elizabeth story leads the way; it’s great on its own, but the Richard/Charlotte B-story is fabulous as well. 

By Heather Rigaud,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Fitzwilliam Darcy, Rock Star as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Darcy's as hot as he is talented...

Fast music, powerful beats, and wild reputations—on and off stage—have made virtuoso guitarist Fitzwilliam Darcy's band into rock's newest bad boys. But they've lost their latest opening act, and their red-hot summer tour is on the fast track to disaster. Now Darcy and bandmates Charles Bingley and Richard Fitzwilliam are about to meet their match...

But she's about to rock his world...

Enter Elizabeth Bennet, fiercely independent star of girl-band Long Borne Suffering. Elizabeth, her sister Jane, and friend Charlotte Lucas have talent to spare and jump at the opening band slot. Elizabeth…


Book cover of Pemberley: Mr. Darcy's Dragon

Angela Guajardo Author Of Mia Evers and the Demon's Curse

From my list on YA fantasy full of rich alternate worlds and characters.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’m a former middle school teacher and high school athletics coach. I’ve spent so much time trying to nurture many students as they try to navigate growing up and figuring out who they are. I draw from their tragic stories in hopes of showing students that they’re not alone in their struggles. I also draw snippets from my challenging childhood that, in recent years, I realized I had to cut my father and stepmother out of my life because of how psychologically abusive and manipulative they are. The upside is my self-worth has significantly improved. I hope to empower others through my books.

Angela's book list on YA fantasy full of rich alternate worlds and characters

Angela Guajardo Why did Angela love this book?

You don’t need to have read any Jane Austen books to fall in love with Maria Grace’s fantastical spin on the old classic.

You can’t go wrong with adding dragons to a good story, especially when they exhibit catlike behavior from time to time. Her stories are rich in detail and backstory that really make her books sing.

By Maria Grace,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Pemberley as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

England is overrun by dragons of all shapes and sizes. Most people are blissfully unaware of them and the Pendragon Treaty that keeps the peace between human and dragon kind. Only those born with preternatural hearing, like Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet are able to hear and converse with dragonkind.When the first firedrake egg laid in a century is stolen from Pemberley, the fragile dragon peace teeters on collapse. Darcy has no choice but to chase down the thief, a journey that leads him to quaint market town of Meryton and fellow Dragon Keeper, Elizabeth Bennet. Elizabeth shares a unique…


Book cover of The Trials of the Honorable F. Darcy: A Modern Pride & Prejudice

Karen M. Cox Author Of 1932: Pride and Prejudice Revisited

From my list on that bring Jane Austen into modern times.

Why am I passionate about this?

Austen-inspired works are nothing new (think the movie Clueless or "The Lizzie Bennet Diaries" vlog) but unless you’re walking around the Austen fan world, you might not realize just how many books are out there. I became immersed in that world around 2006, and since then, I’ve written four Austen retellings, one Austen-inspired original novel, and several short stories. I’ve read countless other works (both published and on the internet,) and now run a little website called Austen Through the Ages. Below I list 5 Pride & Prejudice-inspired novels that ring true for me—they bring Austen’s themes and characters into modern settings, each putting a unique spin on the classic tale. 

Karen's book list on that bring Jane Austen into modern times

Karen M. Cox Why did Karen love this book?

One of the sexiest Darcys I’ve ever read: the change from dour judge in California to hot lord of the manor in England nearly gave me whiplash, but I loved the ride! Sorry (not sorry) for all the broken crystal and china in Darcy’s suite at the London Ritz. ;) They go through some real angsty times back in California, but all’s well that ends well.

By Sara Angelini,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Trials of the Honorable F. Darcy as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

A sexy, bold adaptation of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice that re-paints favorite characters in twenty-first century colors
Judge Fitzwilliam Darcy, a legal expert on both sides of the Atlantic, is ready to hang up his black robe and return to the life of a country gentleman-until he meets Elizabeth Bennet, a fresh-faced attorney with a hectic schedule and no time for the sexy but haughty judge.
Tempers and sparks fly in Judge Darcy's courtroom- and outside, in a series of chance encounters that give each of them pause-as the two match wits and try to fight their overwhelming attraction.…


Book cover of Fitzwilliam Darcy in His Own Words

Amanda Kai Author Of Not In Want of a Wife: A Pride and Prejudice Variation

From my list on Jane Austen fanfiction.

Why am I passionate about this?

I've been hooked on Jane Austen ever since my mom took me to see the movie Pride and Prejudice in theaters. After watching the movie, I bought all of her books and devoured them. I still wanted more, but what do you do when your favorite author has been dead for over 200 years? Well, you turn to fanfiction! After reading numerous sequels, twists, and retellings of my favorite novels, I began writing my own stories. As a stay-at-home mom of three kids, I've been blessed to be able to pursue my passion for storytelling while raising a family. Jane Austen continues to be my primary source of inspiration for my historical and contemporary romances.

Amanda's book list on Jane Austen fanfiction

Amanda Kai Why did Amanda love this book?

In Shannon Winslow’s Regency retelling of Pride and Prejudice, we finally get to experience the story from Darcy’s perspective. The story closely follows the original novel, but with some added scenes that fill in the gaps during the time when Darcy is apart from Elizabeth. Ms. Winslow cleverly added an original character as a rival love interest for Darcy. I enjoyed seeing a totally different side to Austen’s most famous novel and witnessing Darcy’s character growth as he struggles to overcome his own pride and prejudice and find true love.

By Shannon Winslow, Micah D. Hansen (illustrator),

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Fitzwilliam Darcy in His Own Words as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

What was Mr. Darcy’s life like before he met Elizabeth Bennet? – before he stepped onto the Pride and Prejudice stage at the Meryton assembly? More importantly, where is he and what is he doing all the time he’s absent from the page thereafter? And what is his relationship to a woman named Amelia?

With "Fitzwilliam Darcy, in His Own Words," the iconic literary hero finally tells his own story, from the traumas of his early life to the consummation of his love for Elizabeth and everything in between.

This is not a variation but a supplement to the original…


Book cover of Hope For Mr. Darcy

Amanda Kai Author Of Not In Want of a Wife: A Pride and Prejudice Variation

From my list on Jane Austen fanfiction.

Why am I passionate about this?

I've been hooked on Jane Austen ever since my mom took me to see the movie Pride and Prejudice in theaters. After watching the movie, I bought all of her books and devoured them. I still wanted more, but what do you do when your favorite author has been dead for over 200 years? Well, you turn to fanfiction! After reading numerous sequels, twists, and retellings of my favorite novels, I began writing my own stories. As a stay-at-home mom of three kids, I've been blessed to be able to pursue my passion for storytelling while raising a family. Jane Austen continues to be my primary source of inspiration for my historical and contemporary romances.

Amanda's book list on Jane Austen fanfiction

Amanda Kai Why did Amanda love this book?

I would have to say, hands down, that this is the best Jane Austen variation I have read so far. The story begins with Elizabeth Bennet having a near-death experience. The description of Heaven during this experience was so striking and poignant, it brought tears to my eyes and made me think that this was exactly how Heaven ought to be. Throughout the story, Ms. Ellsworth’s message of hope and purpose was inspirational. For me, personally, it was a wonderful reminder of the hope that I have in God and the plans that He has for my life. The story is incredibly romantic, and a very unique approach to the Darcy and Elizabeth drama which I have not seen in any other novel. I also liked that she gave alternate outcomes for Lydia and Charlotte than the fate that Austen originally gave them. A must-read for fans of Regency-era variations…

By Jeanna Ellsworth,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Hope For Mr. Darcy as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Still shaken from his horrible proposal, Elizabeth Bennet falls ill at the Rosings Parsonage upon reading Fitzwilliam Darcy’s letter. In her increasingly delirious state, unfathomable influences inspire her to write an impulsive response. The letter gives Mr. Darcy hope in a way that nothing else could.

As her illness progresses, Darcy is there at her side, crossing boundaries he has never crossed, declaring things he has never declared. A unique experience bridges them over their earlier misunderstandings, and they start to work out their differences. That is, until Elizabeth begins to recover.

Suddenly, Elizabeth is left alone to wonder what…


Book cover of Dating Mr. Darcy

Laura Wolf Author Of The Billionaire's Regret

From my list on sweet romances to make you swoon.

Why am I passionate about this?

Known for my sweet billionaire romance novels, I am a purveyor of book boyfriends and happy endings. I absolutely love romance stories as you know exactly what you’re in for when you pick them up. You know there will be a Happily Ever After no matter how dire things get at any given point in the story so you can really just sit back and enjoy the ride. As an author I always write epilogues and I’ve built up a growing universe where characters pop in and out of each other’s books. It’s my happy place and as an author I love sharing that world with others.

Laura's book list on sweet romances to make you swoon

Laura Wolf Why did Laura love this book?

This light-hearted romcom is guaranteed to be a hit with Pride and Prejudice fans. The heroine, Emma Brady, is cast in a Jane Austen-themed reality TV dating show… Only she isn’t there looking for romance. Unlike the other contestants, her ulterior motive is to get exposure for her activewear brand so her business will thrive. Only things get complicated when she falls for Mr. Darcy after all – and he is committed to the show for reasons Emma can’t comprehend. Full of twists and turns, characterful contestants, and a truckload of Pride and Prejudice references, this story is an absolute riot.

By Kate O'Keeffe,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Dating Mr. Darcy as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Is it a truth universally acknowledged, that a single girl must compete on reality TV to win a modern-day Mr. Darcy's heart?

Cast in a reality dating show, Emma Brady isn’t looking for love. She knows it could be the big break her new activewear line desperately needs. But is putting up with a Mr. Darcy wannabe worth it?

Sebastian Huntington-Ross is straight out of an Austen novel, and his looks are perfect for the show’s spotlight. But it’s hard to focus on his chiseled jaw, broad shoulders, and wickedly sexy accent when all Emma can see is his pride,…


Book cover of Speechless
Book cover of Faults of Understanding: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Book cover of Nameless

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