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Casual: A Modern Pride and Prejudice Variation
Fitzwilliam Darcy is the CEO of Darcy Technologies and Elizabeth Bennet is his newest employee. After being thrown together so often by his best friend, Charles Bingley, and her sister, Jane, the two start a casual sexual relationship. Despite the fact that commitment-phobe Lizzy proclaims to hate the man, they continue to grow closer until it's time to make a decision whether to let herself be vulnerable with another person, or keep her independence. This is a modern Pride and Prejudice novella set in first person. It strays from the original plot line but keeps the Darcy/Elizabeth love story alive with very minimum angst or drama.
174 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 18, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
April 14, 2025
Despite the fact that this modern adaptation doesn't follow the very step of the original, it got the essence and that's what really matters [IMO].
The characters, somehow, were true to their canon counterparts. This Elizabeth is funny, wit, good humoured and brave and I was delighted. I still can't believe I enjoyed a modern adaptation that much.
The characters, somehow, were true to their canon counterparts. This Elizabeth is funny, wit, good humoured and brave and I was delighted. I still can't believe I enjoyed a modern adaptation that much.
September 30, 2020
Wonderful
Really loved the premise, Darcy as CEO of a software development company, Elizabeth as a new hire and very talented in her own right. Darcy is best friend of Dr Charlie Bingley, who is dating Elizabeth's sister, Jane, thus throwing Darcy and Elizabeth together a lot in social situations. Darcy and Elizabeth sort of accidentally start a sexual relationship, and things progress from there, although the connection has to be kept secret to avoid problems at the office.
The book is written in the first person, completely from Elizabeth's POV, and she's such an engaging character that this isn't a problem. The main gist of the story is Elizabeth overcoming many deep seated commitment issues stemming from her own parents' troubled marriage. She is extremely frank, and self aware, so her narrative on the progression of her interactions with Darcy are , at times, a bit raw, but always poignant and wonderfully entertaining. She's a bit of a mess, mentally, but still a loving and caring person, and very human. Her experiences feel very realistic and relatable, and the reader can't help but wish for her eventual happiness.
This is a wonderful portrayal of Darcy, a definitely swoon worthy Darcy, but a man whose own vulnerabilities come through clearly. This is one of the best versions of Darcy that I've read, and I've read a lot.
As much as I enjoyed reading this book, I had to deduct stars for the atrocious editing. There were words missing, or misspelled, or just used incorrectly. There were unfinished sentences and paragraphs. A few errors are fine, but this many is a distraction, and isn't acceptable.
Nonetheless, I really enjoyed this book, and would definitely recommend it.
Really loved the premise, Darcy as CEO of a software development company, Elizabeth as a new hire and very talented in her own right. Darcy is best friend of Dr Charlie Bingley, who is dating Elizabeth's sister, Jane, thus throwing Darcy and Elizabeth together a lot in social situations. Darcy and Elizabeth sort of accidentally start a sexual relationship, and things progress from there, although the connection has to be kept secret to avoid problems at the office.
The book is written in the first person, completely from Elizabeth's POV, and she's such an engaging character that this isn't a problem. The main gist of the story is Elizabeth overcoming many deep seated commitment issues stemming from her own parents' troubled marriage. She is extremely frank, and self aware, so her narrative on the progression of her interactions with Darcy are , at times, a bit raw, but always poignant and wonderfully entertaining. She's a bit of a mess, mentally, but still a loving and caring person, and very human. Her experiences feel very realistic and relatable, and the reader can't help but wish for her eventual happiness.
This is a wonderful portrayal of Darcy, a definitely swoon worthy Darcy, but a man whose own vulnerabilities come through clearly. This is one of the best versions of Darcy that I've read, and I've read a lot.
As much as I enjoyed reading this book, I had to deduct stars for the atrocious editing. There were words missing, or misspelled, or just used incorrectly. There were unfinished sentences and paragraphs. A few errors are fine, but this many is a distraction, and isn't acceptable.
Nonetheless, I really enjoyed this book, and would definitely recommend it.
October 15, 2018
A Good Modern
Nice update, a few clever tangents that seem very plausible: how Will deals with his sister's boyfriend, Lizzy getting hit on at work, etc.. Loose ends are left but honestly, in a modern variation, every character's story line getting neatly tied up would seem too contrived, so that aspect actually worked for me here. There's nothing here that leaves a reader breathless, but it's an okay way to fill an afternoon.
Nice update, a few clever tangents that seem very plausible: how Will deals with his sister's boyfriend, Lizzy getting hit on at work, etc.. Loose ends are left but honestly, in a modern variation, every character's story line getting neatly tied up would seem too contrived, so that aspect actually worked for me here. There's nothing here that leaves a reader breathless, but it's an okay way to fill an afternoon.
October 14, 2018
Loved it!
This is one of my all time favorite Darcy’s. What a wonderful character. Lots of sex, tastefully done.
There are surprises, some good, some not. But overall a keeper. I will definitely will read it again and recommended. Please give Charlotte a story she deserves!
This is one of my all time favorite Darcy’s. What a wonderful character. Lots of sex, tastefully done.
There are surprises, some good, some not. But overall a keeper. I will definitely will read it again and recommended. Please give Charlotte a story she deserves!
November 16, 2018
The best modern P&P
This was the truest to the original modernization I have read without trying to exactly repeat the original plot. Wonderfully good.
This was the truest to the original modernization I have read without trying to exactly repeat the original plot. Wonderfully good.
October 2, 2022
casual
This was such an easy read. Light hearted, not too much angst but enough development of characters that I’ll probably read it again in a year or so when I’ve forgotten the plot.
This was such an easy read. Light hearted, not too much angst but enough development of characters that I’ll probably read it again in a year or so when I’ve forgotten the plot.
July 29, 2020
I really, really wanted and expected to enjoy this story based on the other reviews and ratings. I generally really like steamy modern adaptations, but I just could not get into it AT ALL and was forcing myself to finish the last 30%.
There are two big problems for me. First of all, the author fell into the trap of heavily narrating the action in the story. As in, telling, not showing, what happened. I'm estimating at least half to 65% of the story is narrated in a "Richard and I had a conversation about xyz" and "Darcy and I spent the next few weeks doing ABC" fashion, instead of actually writing out conversations and interactions and such.
Related to this is the second problem, which is, the characters aren't properly introduced to us in the first place - we don't get to meet and learn about them as people in the same way the characters get to know each other. The story starts with "I began working at Darcy's company, and we clashed right from the start", and then basically continues with that relationship already in progress. We aren't acquainted with Lizzy first, and we don't see the first time she and Darcy meet. Because of all this, I have no emotional investment in the characters, and it makes all the steamy parts (which are well written) totally fall flat.
I'm really disappointed, because the author writes quite well. I've read lots of first person fanfic, and it is totally possible to write as showing, not telling, the author just didn't do so here.
There are two big problems for me. First of all, the author fell into the trap of heavily narrating the action in the story. As in, telling, not showing, what happened. I'm estimating at least half to 65% of the story is narrated in a "Richard and I had a conversation about xyz" and "Darcy and I spent the next few weeks doing ABC" fashion, instead of actually writing out conversations and interactions and such.
Related to this is the second problem, which is, the characters aren't properly introduced to us in the first place - we don't get to meet and learn about them as people in the same way the characters get to know each other. The story starts with "I began working at Darcy's company, and we clashed right from the start", and then basically continues with that relationship already in progress. We aren't acquainted with Lizzy first, and we don't see the first time she and Darcy meet. Because of all this, I have no emotional investment in the characters, and it makes all the steamy parts (which are well written) totally fall flat.
I'm really disappointed, because the author writes quite well. I've read lots of first person fanfic, and it is totally possible to write as showing, not telling, the author just didn't do so here.
December 3, 2025
⭐ 4/5 Stars ⭐
Casual: A Modern Pride and Prejudice Variation is a delightful, lighthearted read that puts a modern twist on the beloved classic. At just the right length, it delivers everything you’d want from a reimagining—charming characters, witty dialogue, and plenty of romantic chemistry.
The story is sweet and engaging, offering a fresh take on Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy's relationship in a contemporary setting. While it doesn't dive too deeply into complex themes, the focus on their evolving connection is both heartwarming and fun. The pacing is quick, making it an easy read for those looking for a short escape into a modern version of this iconic romance.
The characters are well-represented, with Elizabeth and Darcy maintaining their core qualities while also fitting into a more casual, modern world. Their playful banter and slow-building romance will have fans of the original feeling right at home.
Overall, Casual is a perfect pick if you're in the mood for a short, cute, and sweet romance that still carries the charm of Pride and Prejudice. It may not be groundbreaking, but it’s certainly enjoyable and a great way to revisit these classic characters in a modern light.
Casual: A Modern Pride and Prejudice Variation is a delightful, lighthearted read that puts a modern twist on the beloved classic. At just the right length, it delivers everything you’d want from a reimagining—charming characters, witty dialogue, and plenty of romantic chemistry.
The story is sweet and engaging, offering a fresh take on Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy's relationship in a contemporary setting. While it doesn't dive too deeply into complex themes, the focus on their evolving connection is both heartwarming and fun. The pacing is quick, making it an easy read for those looking for a short escape into a modern version of this iconic romance.
The characters are well-represented, with Elizabeth and Darcy maintaining their core qualities while also fitting into a more casual, modern world. Their playful banter and slow-building romance will have fans of the original feeling right at home.
Overall, Casual is a perfect pick if you're in the mood for a short, cute, and sweet romance that still carries the charm of Pride and Prejudice. It may not be groundbreaking, but it’s certainly enjoyable and a great way to revisit these classic characters in a modern light.
January 23, 2019
Enjoyable story, but needs editing.
October 27, 2023
I love this author! It would make me very happy if he or she were to publish again someday. Their other novel, "Undercover," I like a lot, and I also enjoy their shorter stories, like "It was a Hot one" on fanfiction.net. But "Casual" holds a special place in my heart. I think they know how to capture the essence of the characters without relying on a retelling of the original story. Instead, they adapt them entirely to the modern reality, and the characters feel alive with their virtues and flaws.
This is one of my favorite variations of "Pride and Prejudice," one of the few I've reread (and I think that says a lot).
This is one of my favorite variations of "Pride and Prejudice," one of the few I've reread (and I think that says a lot).
August 11, 2025
Very Good Modern
I first read this modern P&P variation back in 2019, but for some reason, I only rated it without a review. It’s a “Darcy and Elizabeth's relationship starts solely from lust” trope. Elizabeth has commitment issues of which Darcy is aware, so he doesn’t press for more than a casual relationship. With this premise there definitely is mature content, but it’s not extremely graphic in my opinion. The story also includes Jane and Charles, and Richard and Charlotte. Caroline and Wickham are just incidental.
The story and writing are good, but spoiled a bit due to proofreading misses. I do recommend it for those who enjoy modern JAFF.
I first read this modern P&P variation back in 2019, but for some reason, I only rated it without a review. It’s a “Darcy and Elizabeth's relationship starts solely from lust” trope. Elizabeth has commitment issues of which Darcy is aware, so he doesn’t press for more than a casual relationship. With this premise there definitely is mature content, but it’s not extremely graphic in my opinion. The story also includes Jane and Charles, and Richard and Charlotte. Caroline and Wickham are just incidental.
The story and writing are good, but spoiled a bit due to proofreading misses. I do recommend it for those who enjoy modern JAFF.
January 24, 2021
Surprisingly good, especially the first half of the book.
Well written.
5* for the first half
2.5 for the rest
It drags on and on at the end, I much preferred the falling in love phase than the dating phase, which became a bit boring after a while.
Well written.
5* for the first half
2.5 for the rest
It drags on and on at the end, I much preferred the falling in love phase than the dating phase, which became a bit boring after a while.
November 19, 2021
Loved this book. Very well written, with a great Darcy.
February 4, 2025
2 1/2 Stars - I wouldn't say this book was great, but I did enjoy it. It didn't have the same beats and the original. Elizabeth is afraid of commitment because of her parents terrible marriage, which doesn't seem unreasonable in a modern world given what we know about Mr. & Mrs. Bennett. The characters felt true to the essence of the original, and watching the story unfold was fun.
Some of the plot points needed more detail to feel like they were having the impact they should on the story. There were also a decent number of typos.
Some of the plot points needed more detail to feel like they were having the impact they should on the story. There were also a decent number of typos.
March 17, 2025
Well done
- The author did an excellent job showing the interactions and growth between Darcy and Elizabeth, which ultimately led to their HEA.
- I enjoyed all the characters and the storyline.
- There are many intimate moments, but I liked the author'sapproach. The author provides just enough detail without going overboard.
- The author did an excellent job showing the interactions and growth between Darcy and Elizabeth, which ultimately led to their HEA.
- I enjoyed all the characters and the storyline.
- There are many intimate moments, but I liked the author'sapproach. The author provides just enough detail without going overboard.
September 11, 2019
Very light and fun. Really liked it.
January 21, 2025
Assumptions were made,
bridges burned with quiet haste—
truth lay in error.
bridges burned with quiet haste—
truth lay in error.
September 1, 2022
Well written and very much in the spirit of the original, yet realistic to modern life. I liked that the author made lack of communication a plot point that made sense, not just a device. It was lovely to watch Lizzy’s growth.
I also really liked that this was Lizzy’s story first and foremost, just like the original, and we hear it all from her point of view with only occasional input from Darcy. Again like the original, it is only later in the story that Lizzy realises (and allows the reader to see) that her interpretation of Darcy’s behaviour isn’t always the right one.
I was impressed how often the author managed to refer to sex (them being in a purely sexual relationship at first) without being graphic or becoming boring. It’s always relevant, never gratuitous. I don’t think I’ve ever read another book with so much sex in it that hasn’t made me roll my eyes and skip scenes. I know some people dislike sex in JAFF but for those that are more on the fence, I highly recommend trying this. It is certainly not a PWP. It’s usually referred to, especially early on, in a funny way - like, oh no how did that happen!
The one downside was the occasional missing end to a sentence or extra word that shouldn’t be in there, which began after about 70% I think - so further editing needed. You can guess what is meant but is prefer not to when I’ve paid for a book. Also a small niggle but it’s Jane Austen, with an E, not Austin like the capital of Texas.
I also really liked that this was Lizzy’s story first and foremost, just like the original, and we hear it all from her point of view with only occasional input from Darcy. Again like the original, it is only later in the story that Lizzy realises (and allows the reader to see) that her interpretation of Darcy’s behaviour isn’t always the right one.
I was impressed how often the author managed to refer to sex (them being in a purely sexual relationship at first) without being graphic or becoming boring. It’s always relevant, never gratuitous. I don’t think I’ve ever read another book with so much sex in it that hasn’t made me roll my eyes and skip scenes. I know some people dislike sex in JAFF but for those that are more on the fence, I highly recommend trying this. It is certainly not a PWP. It’s usually referred to, especially early on, in a funny way - like, oh no how did that happen!
The one downside was the occasional missing end to a sentence or extra word that shouldn’t be in there, which began after about 70% I think - so further editing needed. You can guess what is meant but is prefer not to when I’ve paid for a book. Also a small niggle but it’s Jane Austen, with an E, not Austin like the capital of Texas.
January 3, 2020
Not really a p & p modernization. I think the novel would stand better on its own with different character names. A fun story, I smiled a lot but the story had depth too.
February 20, 2021
This is one of my favorite modern adaptions of Pride & Prejudice. It uses the original characters as inspiration, but it is not a exact replica and I think that is what makes is so good.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews