Sneha Jaiswal's Blog, page 82

Tarot Review: Plays Old School Horror Cards

Sneha Jaiswal (Twitter | Instagram)

Look, look, look, “Tarot” is very old school; it uses the same “bunch of friends holidaying at a remote house, accidentally invoking evil spirits and dying one by one” formula, with a minor twist. It features average special effects, one or two good jump scares, but it also kept me pretty entertained until the end. I mean, did I wish it was scarier and had better character development? Hell yes. But with a tight 90-minute runtime and a six-person friend group, “Tarot” manages to be interesting and, well, somewhat unwittingly comedic in parts.

Directed by Spenser Cohen and Anna Halberg, “Tarot” is based on Nicholas Adams’ 1992 novel, “Horrorscope.” It starts off with a group of college kids celebrating their friend Elise’s (Larsen Thompson) birthday in a rental property booked by her girlfriend Paige (Avantika). While the property isn’t spooky, it does have a restricted room full of creepy artifacts. Paxton (Jacob Batalon), the jokester of the group, finds an ancient, hand-drawn tarot deck with grotesque imagery. The group convinces Haley (Harriet Slater), a tarot enthusiast, to do readings for all of them. Soon, the friends start dying one by one in ways that are grisly interpretations of their tarot readings.

The rest of the group comprises Haley’s cynical ex-boyfriend Grant (Adain Bradley), Lucas (Wolfgang Novogratz), and Madeline (Humberly González). Viewers are also served a tragic 18th-century lore about how the creepy tarot cards came to be cursed, a legend that could have used more space in the narrative. Haley’s readings for her friends were mostly cryptic and metaphorical, so it was low-key comical how their deaths were almost literal interpretations of their readings. For instance, Haley says to Lucas something along the lines of “You are a rule-breaker. The hermit’s light could lead you down the wrong track,” and he accidentally breaks a rule that leads to his death. I mean, sure, it wasn’t meant to be funny, but it was. Despite having college kids as central figures, the creators do not make the plot more technology-oriented. As a result, “Tarot” feels slightly dated compared to contemporary horror movies like “Talk to Me” (definitely check it out), which fantastically blends technology with its Gen-Z protagonists.

It’s pretty obvious that either all six friends are going to die in the end, or maybe some of them or at least one of them will find a way to survive the cursed readings. There is decent suspense over how they’d die, a few scene were quite scary, even though the ghostly figures appearing through the runtime looked AI-generated and weren’t ghastly enough to evoke a visceral reaction. The climax has a few conveniently unreal moments, but delivers an end that isn’t entirely predictable. If you don’t mind watching a formulaic horror movie, you could pick “Tarot” for a casual “horror movie” night.

Rating: 6 on 10. You can stream “Tarot” on Netflix/Zee5 or rent it on Prime Video.

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10 Entertaining Dating Shows Around The World

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Hey there! If you’re anything like us, you love a good binge-watch session. And what’s more binge-worthy than watching people fall in love (or crash and burn) on reality TV? From awkward first dates to steamy romantic getaways, dating shows offer a guilty pleasure like no other. Whether you’re a hopeless romantic or just in it for the drama, here are 8 entertaining dating shows from around the globe that you absolutely need to check out.

1. The Bachelor/Bachelorette (USA)

The OG of dating reality shows, “The Bachelor” and its counterpart “The Bachelorette” have been capturing hearts since 2002. Contestants compete for the affection of a single bachelor or bachelorette, navigating a series of dramatic rose ceremonies and romantic dates.

2. Love Island (UK)

This UK phenomenon drops a group of singles into a villa where they must couple up or face elimination. With constant twists and public voting, “Love Island” is a perfect blend of romance and reality TV chaos.

3. Too Hot to Handle (Global)

On this show, a group of attractive singles is put on an island with one major rule: no physical intimacy. Each kiss or flirtation costs them a chunk of the $100,000 prize. The temptation and drama make it a must-watch.

4. Married at First Sight (Australia)

Would you marry a stranger? That’s exactly what happens here. Couples are matched by experts and meet for the first time at the altar. They then navigate married life, deciding at the end if they want to stay together or divorce.

5. Dating Around (USA)

Each episode of “Dating Around” follows one single person on five blind dates. It’s simple, sweet, and offers a genuine look at modern dating, making it refreshingly real compared to more dramatic counterparts.

6. Terrace House (Japan)

Six strangers live together in a house, navigating work, friendships, and romance. “Terrace House” is slow-paced and focuses on genuine connections, offering a calm and cultural twist on the typical dating show format.

7. Heart Signal (South Korea)

This show places a group of men and women in a house for a month to see who falls for whom. Viewers, along with celebrity panelists, try to predict who will pair up, making it an interactive experience.

8. First Dates (UK)

Ever wanted to be a fly on the wall during a first date? “First Dates” captures the awkwardness and excitement of strangers meeting in a restaurant, offering a charming and often hilarious look at the dating world.

9. Are You The One? (Season 8, USA)

In this groundbreaking season of “Are You The One?”, all contestants are sexually fluid, meaning anyone could be their perfect match. This season brought a fresh and inclusive twist to the traditional dating show format, making it a must-watch for its diverse representation and heartfelt moments.

10. Finding Prince Charming (USA)

Dubbed as the gay “Bachelor,” “Finding Prince Charming” features one gay bachelor looking for love among a group of suitors. With all the drama, romance, and heartbreak you expect from a dating show, this series offers a unique perspective and a whole lot of charm.

Honorary Mentions: His Man (Korea) & The Boyfriend (Japan)

So, there you have it – ten dating shows from around the world that are sure to keep you entertained. Whether you’re into the high-stakes drama of “Love Island” or the heartfelt connections of “Terrace House,” there’s something for everyone. And with the addition of inclusive LGBT dating shows like “Are You The One?” and “Finding Prince Charming,” the world of dating reality TV has never been more diverse and exciting. Next time you’re in the mood for some romance and reality TV, give one of these shows a try. Happy watching!

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The Tormented Issue #4 Review

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Sneha Jaiswal (Twitter | Instagram)

The young and haunted Ryan Auster was totally right in not wanting to a stupid ghost-hunting show, because he isn’t prepared for the malevolent spirits about to make his life a living hell! The story follows Ryan’s twisted legacy as the son of famous paranormal experts, and how financial woes force him to take up a job that only spells more danger for him.

Also Read: The Tormented Issue #3 Review

Issue #4 of “The Tormented” by Chuck Austen (story) and Patrick Olliffe (art) begins with a small flashback revealing just how ‘tormented’ Ryan was as a little boy who could see grisly ghosts, and sort of explains why he hid his supernatural abilities from his parents, who were hugely disappointed with his lack of ‘powers’. The issue also finally reveals what happened with the La Llorona-style ghost who brutally massacres a couple having fun in their car at the end of “The Tormented” issue 2 and then starts ominously chanting Ryan’s name. That cliffhanger was pretty killer, but was completely forgotten in the last edition.

Twenty-five pages long, this chapter was a rollercoaster ride, featuring another surprise appearance from Ryan’s father, who turns out to be even more of an asshole after death. Ryan and his ghost-hunting crew are still at the haunted hospital, where Nurse Carstairs’ spirit takes on a grotesque form and threatens them with dangerous consequences. There’s a lot of blood, slight gore, and twists in this edition, and Patrick Olliffe’s art vividly captures all the surprising turns this horror tale takes.

This was a gripping penultimate issue, intriguingly bringing together several plot points of the story so far. Everybody’s life is in grave danger at this point, and I cannot wait to read the finale of “The Tormented.”

Rating: 4 on 5.

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Summer Night Ep 1 Review: Starts Bright

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Creators of the Thai series “Summer Night” want us to believe that the good-looking Phuwin Tangsakyuen, who’s already played primary leads in a bunch of other shows (Never Let Me Go/We Are), is an invisible ‘nobody’ in high school, so ordinary that even his classmates don’t know of his existence. C’mon, that’s just taking it too far, and the makeup team doesn’t even make any effort to make him look like a regular kid—no acne, great skin; he just looks like he walked out to model, maybe with a not-so-great hairstyle. But fine, let’s just play along, even if it’s not believable!

Directed by Captain Rawiphon Hong-ngam, the 10-part series is based on the webtoon “Summer Night ความลับในคืนฤดูร้อน” by Boran and Jormungan. It follows teenager Lune (Phuwin Tangsakyuen), who has just moved to a new school where everybody ignores his existence. Lune doesn’t mind being a nobody and has a massive crush on the school’s most popular girl, Star (Parn Nachcha Chuedang). So when Lune is befriended by the equally popular White (Dunk Natachai Boonprasert) and inducted into the popular clique, he has a real shot with Star. But in a twist, White also likes Star. “Summer Night” follows the love, friendships, and complications Lune faces when he decides to pursue Star.

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The first episode is narrated from Lune’s point of view, who introduces himself and his ‘nobody’ status at school, which of course is comically exaggerated. He sits inches away from the popular kids: the handsome all-rounder White, the beautiful all-rounder Star, tomboy Ivy (Lookjun Bhasidi Petchsutee), and playboy Jewel (Ryu Phudtripart Bhudthonamochai). Each of them gets quick intro scenes before we see Lune’s growing friendship with White and some potential sparks between Lune and Star.

“Summer Night” episode one has a pleasing, bright, summer-themed palette, so the cinematography is visually very engaging, especially given that this is a high-school romance. Dunk Natachai Boonprasert is still a fairly new actor, but unlike his previous roles, he looks more at ease in front of the camera and was at par with Phuwin Tangsakyuen in the episode. When I first saw Dunk in his debut lead role in Thai series “Star In My Mind”, I had written about how he reminded me of Phuwin, and it soon turned out that the entire GMMTV fandom was saying the same thing. Although, once you see them side by side, their personalities are pretty different.

Episode one does a good job of setting the tone for the main themes of “Summer Night.” The friend group is pretty cute, even though the personalities are very stereotypical at this point. So we’ll have to see the rest of the show to see how the characters grow. It does promise to be a breezy, fluffy show for now.

You can stream “Summer Night” on GMMTV’s YouTube channel.

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What If We Were 2 Review – Nat, Marie, and Madness

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Sneha Jaiswal (Twitter | Instagram)

Nathalie and Marie are childhood best friends who don’t believe in Santa but write him letters anyway, just in case he turns out to be real and stops sending them gifts. And because they believe in endless possibilities, their favorite game is called “what if we were,” where they simply imagine themselves in hypothetical scenarios and let their imagination run wild.

I didn’t think “What if We Were” by Axelle Lenoir would get a book two, but I am glad it did! The sequel is just as colorful, vibrant, vivid, magical, and joyous as the original. In fact, while the first one didn’t have any plot per se, except for the protagonists constantly imagining themselves in fun alternate universes, in “What If We Were” Book 2, a significant portion of the comic is dedicated to Nathalie and Marie finding themselves trapped in a not-so-nice fairy tale, where Nathalie is taken prisoner by an ugly ogre-like creature who wants to marry her, and Marie teams up with Jane Doe (Marie’s girlfriend) to rescue her.

Axelle Lenoir also throws in some really cute flashbacks of the girls growing up, including how they met for the first time as tiny kids. From playing princesses, robbing banks, and riding tigers, Nathalie and Marie create a limitless number of worlds for themselves. And while these games help the teen protagonist to happily escape their more mundane realities, in a surprising turn of events, towards the second half of the book, the girls discuss some serious, real-world emotions too.

Only 88 pages long, there’s so much happening in “What If We Were” that it feels longer. At the same time, it’s also a visual spectacle. I am a total fan of Axelle Lenoir’s expressive artwork by now, and I love how she keeps playing with her style throughout the book. Except for an abrupt ending, this book is a total joyride, and if you liked the first one, you’ll definitely like the sequel too.

Rating: 4 on 5. “What If We Were” Book 2 is also on Kindle Unlimited.

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Ghostbusters: Afterlife Review – Something Strange in the Neighborhood

Rating: 3.5 out of 5.

Sneha Jaiswal (Twitter | Instagram)

“Ghostbusters: Afterlife” might be set in 2021, but it’s got a very 90s vibe and is made for fans who loved the older movies or the animated shows. I was introduced to the Ghostbusters’ universe through “Extreme Ghostbusters” on Cartoon Network as a kid and was an instant fan. So, I got goosebumps in a scene where one of the characters takes out The Ecto-1 (the special ghost-busting vehicle) for a ride, and water from a street fire hydrant gushes towards it, wiping out the dirt to reveal the iconic ghost sign.

Directed by Jason Reitman, who wrote the story with Gil Kenan and Ivan Reitman, “Ghostbusters: Afterlife” follows single-mom Callie (Carrie Coon), who learns about her father’s death and moves with her two kids, teen son Trevor (Finn Wolfhard) and 12-year-old Phoebe (Mckenna Grace), to his spooky house in a small dusty town. There, the kids learn that their grandfather was connected to the original Ghostbusters and was on a lone secret mission to keep sinister powers from taking over the world. It’s now up to the new kids to fight old demons.

Finn Wolfhard shot to fame with the Netflix series “Stranger Things”; fans of the show would recall his character dressing up as a Ghostbuster for Halloween. In “Ghostbusters: Afterlife”, he gets to suit up for real and chase monsters with his sister Phoebe. Mckenna Grace plays a slightly tweaked version of her character Paige Swanson from “Young Sheldon”—Phoebe is a little girl genius who wants to be a scientist and doesn’t know how to make friends. Logan Kim plays a funny-cute supporting character called Podcast, who loves ghost stories and befriends Phoebe in the new school. Paul Rudd is Mr. Grooberson, Phoebe’s teacher, who enlightens her about the legacy of the Ghostbusters.

“Ghostbusters: Afterlife” rehashes old ghosts, so fans get to see newer/cuter/tinier versions of the marshmallow ghosts. While the cast is fun, the jokes aren’t very funny, and even the special effects feel outdated, but it gives the film a nostalgic touch that will work for older fans and likely fail to impress those who are new to the Ghostbusters’ franchise. For instance, I am sure older viewers would love it when the original cast turns up in the climax in their ghost-busting gear. This is a feel-good, casual, family-friendly horror movie that you can stream with friends/family on a movie night.

Watch “Ghostbusters: Afterlife” on Netflix.

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‘A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder’ Ending Explained

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Plot Overview: “A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder” by Holly Jackson is a young adult mystery novel, now a Netflix series starring Emma Myers (“Wednesday”/“Family Switch”), centers around Pippa Fitz-Amobi, a high school student who decides to investigate a local murder for her senior project. Five years earlier, Andie Bell, a popular high school student, disappeared and was presumed murdered by her boyfriend, Sal Singh, who later died by suicide. The case was closed, but Pippa believes there is more to the story, especially since Anide’s body was never found. As she delves into the investigation, she uncovers secrets that suggest the real killer might still be out there.

Click here for our audio review of “A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder”

Ending Explainer:

So, by the end of the series, Pip’s investigation takes a dramatic turn. She discovers that Andie’s murder was not the straightforward case it seemed to be. It turns out that Andie had a lot of secrets, including blackmailing a few of her peers and teachers. This creates a web of suspects with various motives.

Pip’s dogged pursuit of the truth leads her to uncover that Andie’s death was caused by Mr. Ward, a beloved teacher at their school. He had been having an affair with Andie, and when she threatened to expose him, leading to an altercation during which he pushes her, leading to a head injury. Mr Ward claims Andie left his house, and he didn’t murder her, but since she goes missing after their meeting, he realizes the cops might trace her movements back to him. He also confesses that he knew his older daughter was involved in a hit-and-run case, and that could get exposed too. So, to cover his tracks, he framed Sal Singh, making his death look like a suicide and closing the case.

The climax is intense as Pip confronts Mr. Ward, who tries to silence her to keep his secret safe. However, he is arrested and, while he owns up to Sal’s murder, he insists that he didn’t kill Andie. Pip goes through all her gathered evidence again and realizes that a CCTV footage showing Andie was actually her younger sister Becca Bell. As she digs deeper, she discovers Becca was sexually assaulted the same week Andie went missing. When Pip questions Becca, the sister reveals that when she approached Andie to go with her to the police to report the assault, Andie refused to support her and instead asked her to keep quiet because, in a tragic twist of fate, it was Andie who sold the date-rape drug to Becca’s perpetrator. This incident took place right after Andie came home with a head injury. Unaware of the wound, Becca pushed her sister in anger during their discussion, causing Andie to hit her already bleeding head again, leading to her death. Becca then hides Andie’s body and tries to kill Pip, but her attempt is foiled, and she is arrested too.

The truth comes to light, clearing Sal’s name posthumously. The resolution of the story not only brings justice for Andie and Sal but also marks a significant personal growth for Pip. She learns about the darkness people can hide and the importance of seeking the truth, no matter the cost. The book closes with Pip reflecting on the events and the impact they had on her and the community.

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The Tormented Issue #3 Review

Rating: 3.5 out of 5.

Sneha Jaiswal (Twitter | Instagram)

If there’s one thing readers know for sure by now about Ryan Auster, the protagonist of the 5-part horror comic series “The Tormented”, it’s the fact that he is literally haunted by the ghosts of his past, not simply metaphorically like the rest of us regular humans (as if just metaphorically isn’t traumatic enough). And creators Chuck Austen (story) and Patrick Olliffe (art) keep adding new supernatural spirits in his life.

Also Read: The Tormented” Issue #2 Review

While issue #2 of “The Tormented” ended with a malevolent monster looking for Ryan, whose parents were famous paranormal experts, issue #3 begins with Ryan and his crew recording their new ghost-busters show at a haunted hospital. This chapter was heavy on conversations, with an interesting focus on the creative differences between Ryan and his team over use of fake sounds and special effects to spook the viewers. While his producer Brad just wants to a slip-shod hack job that will get them good ratings, but Ryan wants to help Nurse Carstairs, the spirit haunting the hospital. Although, Nurse Carstairs’ intimidating spirit doesn’t look like she needs any human intervention in her afterlife…

This issue wasn’t as fun as the first two of “The Tormented,” but it’s swift, entertaining, and over in a blink. Some characters in the comic book keep saying how Ryan has a lot of charm and personality, which is why the Network only wants him to host the show (also because of his famous dead parents), and I quite like his character too. The guy seems to have a lifetime’s worth of trauma, with vicious ghosts continually finding their way into his life, yet despite all the crazy things happening around him, he manages to retain a good heart. As the story keeps progressing, I still feel like this is a pretty fun comic and maybe 5 issues isn’t enough!

Rating: 3.5 on 5.

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His Man Season 3 Review – Dates, Drama, Situationships

Sneha Jaiswal (Twitter | Instagram)

When the production team for Korean dating reality show “His Man” (also known as “Someone Else’s Romance/남의연애 시즌) dropped the poster for season 3, the photo looked like it was for a K-pop band. So if nothing else, fans knew even before the series began streaming that there would be plenty of eye candy in store.

Following the same format as His Man Season One & Two, Korea’s first gay dating reality series, His Man 3 features eight contestants living in the same house for a week, going on dates in the hopes of finding their next romantic partner. Spanning 14 episodes, the participants of “His Man 3” meet each other on blind dates, and like previous seasons, every night they are given an opportunity to make a phone call to the person they want to go on future dates with. Interestingly, even Japan’s first show of its kind, titled “The Boyfriend” was airing around the same time on Netflix, but it features 9 men spending time in a beach-house for a month.

Thanks to the roommate romance between make-up artist Shun Sung Ho and the reserved Lee Jun Seoung, “His Man” Season 2 often felt like a K-drama love story. Season 3 starts off in a way that suggests viewers might get another “roommate to lovers” tale. With each season of “His Man,” the drama keeps escalating, a contestant in season 2 had revealed that his ex-boyfriend was in the first installment. Season 3 ups the ante by featuring two men—studio owner Son Young Joon and actor Cho Myeong Gyun—who were in what is now referred to as a ‘situationship.’

A funny scene occurs towards the second half of the series when the two have a confrontational conversation, and everyone else in the house tries to eavesdrop, showcasing their eagerness for gossip. Both of them have vividly different personalities, while Young Joon is a cheery, extroverted person who is quite communicative, Myeon Gyun struggles with putting his thoughts into words. Kim Yo Ho, a part-time model, expresses keen interest in Young Joon, while acting major student Hwang Min Seon develops a crush on Myeong Gyun.

Seven days still feels too short to truly know someone, but there’s significant drama, tears, and heartache in “His Man” Season 3. This season features a strong love triangle involving the oldest participant, Kim Jae Seung, a model and business owner; Kim Hwi, a university student; and Bae Seong-min, a Korean language tutor. As in each season, there’s always a likable introvert who struggles with interacting and expressing themselves. This time, it’s the youngest participant, 21-year-old professional dancer Kim Seung-jin. The friendships forged between some of the men is sweet, especially between Seung-jin and Kim Hwi, who are the youngest members on the show and often simply space-out together when they feel troubled.

The ever-evolving feelings of the contestants, fun café dates, outdoor activities, and house parties make “His Man” season 3 a pretty entertaining watch. In the end, there isn’t much suspense over who chooses whom, but the 14th episode comes as a surprise because the show actually ends in the 13th episode, with three couples choosing each other! The 14th episode is a shorter episode shot after a few weeks, providing updates to the viewers on two couples: one breaks up, while the other makes things official. Given the rising popularity of the series, the producers of “His Man” should consider increasing the number of participants, and if not that, then at least the number of days its spread over, maybe at least 10 days, if not a whole two weeks.

You can watch “His Man 3” on iQIYI and Wavve.

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Regency to Modern Romance: 10 Fresh Takes on Pride & Prejudice To Read

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Pride & Prejudice has been a beloved classic for over 200 years, captivating readers with its witty dialogue, memorable characters, and timeless romance. It’s no wonder that modern authors continue to draw inspiration from Jane Austen’s masterpiece, creating fresh takes on the beloved story. Here are ten popular modern romance novels that re-imagine Pride & Prejudice, each bringing something unique and entertaining to the table:

1. Eligible by Curtis Sittenfeld

Curtis Sittenfeld’s “Eligible” is a contemporary retelling of Pride & Prejudice set in Cincinnati. Liz Bennet is a magazine writer, and her sister Jane is a yoga instructor nearing 40. The arrival of Chip Bingley, a charming doctor who starred in a Bachelor-style reality show, stirs up their lives. With sharp wit and modern sensibilities, Sittenfeld captures the essence of Austen’s characters while tackling contemporary issues like reality TV culture, social media, and family dynamics. The humor and modern twists make this a delightful read for both Austen fans and newcomers.

2. Pride by Ibi Zoboi

In “Pride,” Ibi Zoboi brings a fresh perspective by setting the story in Bushwick, Brooklyn, and featuring Afro-Latinx characters. Zuri Benitez, fiercely proud of her Afro-Latinx heritage, clashes with the wealthy Darcy family who move in across the street. As gentrification threatens her neighborhood, Zuri navigates her evolving feelings for Darius Darcy. Zoboi’s vibrant prose and cultural insights make this an engaging and timely retelling that addresses themes of race, class, and community.

3. The Other Bennet Sister by Janice Hadlow

Janice Hadlow’s “The Other Bennet Sister” focuses on Mary Bennet, often overlooked in Austen’s original. This novel gives Mary a compelling narrative, exploring her journey from self-doubt to self-discovery. As Mary steps out of her sisters’ shadows, she finds her own path to happiness and love. Hadlow’s deep character development and rich historical detail make this an immersive and satisfying read for those who always wondered about the quieter Bennet sister.

4. The Austen Playbook by Lucy Parker

Lucy Parker’s “The Austen Playbook” is a delightful romance set in the world of theater. Freddy Carlton, a stage actress, finds herself working with the grumpy theater critic James Ford-Griffin on an Austen-themed play. Sparks fly as their professional collaboration turns personal. Parker’s witty dialogue, charming characters, and insider look at the theater industry make this a captivating read. The blend of Pride & Prejudice elements with backstage drama and romance offers a fresh and entertaining twist.

5. Unmarriageable by Soniah Kamal

“Unmarriageable” by Soniah Kamal reimagines Pride & Prejudice in Pakistan. Alys Binat, an English teacher, and her sisters navigate societal expectations, family pressure, and romantic entanglements. The story remains faithful to Austen’s themes while offering a fresh perspective on class and gender in contemporary Pakistani society. Kamal’s witty writing and cultural insights make this a compelling and thought-provoking retelling.

6. Prom & Prejudice by Elizabeth Eulberg

Elizabeth Eulberg’s “Prom & Prejudice” is a young adult retelling set in a prestigious boarding school. Lizzie Bennet is a scholarship student at the elite Longbourn Academy, where she encounters the arrogant and wealthy Will Darcy. As the school’s prom approaches, Lizzie navigates the social hierarchy, friendships, and budding romance. Eulberg’s lighthearted and engaging narrative captures the essence of Austen’s story while making it accessible and relatable for a younger audience. The high school setting and prom drama add a fun twist to the classic tale.

7. Bridget Jones’s Diary by Helen Fielding

Helen Fielding’s “Bridget Jones’s Diary” is a beloved modern classic that loosely adapts Pride & Prejudice. Bridget, a single thirty-something in London, chronicles her misadventures in love, work, and self-improvement. Her entanglement with the dashing Mark Darcy mirrors Elizabeth and Darcy’s dynamic. Fielding’s humorous and relatable portrayal of Bridget’s life has endeared this book to readers worldwide, making it a fun and lighthearted read.

8. First & Then by Emma Mills

Emma Mills’ “First & Then” combines high school life with the charm of Pride & Prejudice. Devon Tennyson navigates her senior year with a mix of cynicism and hope. The arrival of her cousin Foster and star athlete Ezra complicates her life. Mills captures the spirit of Austen’s wit and social commentary while addressing modern teen issues like identity, family, and friendship. The blend of classic elements with contemporary high school drama makes this a delightful read for young adults.

9. The Secret Diary of Lizzie Bennet by Bernie Su and Kate Rorick

Based on the popular web series “The Lizzie Bennet Diaries,” this novel by Bernie Su and Kate Rorick offers a modern, multimedia take on Pride & Prejudice. Lizzie Bennet, a graduate student, documents her life through video blogs, capturing the attention of viewers (and readers) with her sharp observations and witty commentary. The book expands on the series, providing deeper insights into the characters and their motivations. The innovative format and engaging storytelling make this a unique and entertaining adaptation.

10. Pride and Premeditation by Tirzah Price

Tirzah Price’s “Pride and Premeditation” is a clever mashup of Pride & Prejudice and a murder mystery. Set in Regency-era London, Lizzie Bennet is an aspiring lawyer who becomes embroiled in a murder case involving Mr. Darcy. Price’s inventive plot and strong-willed heroine offer a fresh twist on the classic story, blending romance and suspense. The novel’s intriguing premise and fast-paced narrative make it an exciting read for fans of both Austen and mystery novels.

These modern adaptations breathe new life into Jane Austen’s beloved classic, each offering a unique perspective and fresh take on the timeless romance of Pride & Prejudice.

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