5 Modern Books Inspired by Classic Novels

From Jane Eyre to Frankenstein: 5 Fresh Takes on Classic Stories Written by Women

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As a reader, pretty much all the classic novels I’ve ever read were when I was a student in high school and college. And I hadn’t returned to this genre until very recently! Last year, I listened to Pride and Prejudice as an audiobook and enjoyed it once I adjusted to the long, flowing sentences.

It’s a much different experience reading a classic now that I’m older. I definitely have a greater appreciation for these books and how they’ve withstood the test of time. I’m looking forward to listening to or reading another classic soon!

Plus, pairing a classic with reading a new book based on it also doubles the reading fun! It’s a great motivator to pick up a classic if you’re like me and a bit reluctant to do so!

Beth Is Dead by Katie Bernet

Classic Inspiration: Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

This YA thriller reimagines one of the most heartbreaking moments in Little Women by asking, “What if Beth’s death wasn’t an illness … but a murder?”

After the sudden death of her beloved sister Beth, a modern-day Jo refuses to believe it was an accident and begins investigating what really happened. As long-buried family secrets come to light, the story transforms Louisa May Alcott’s beloved classic into a gripping mystery full of twists and emotional stakes. (Amazon | Bookshop.org)

Like *Little Women, this novel also includes themes of sisterhood, family bonds, and grief. But before you pick it up, read 5 on Five host Deborah Linn McNemee’s [mixed thoughts about Beth is Dead* here](https://deborahlinn.substack.com/i/199332079/beth-is-dead-by-katie-bernet)!

Anne of Manhattan by Brina Starler

Classic Inspiration: Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery

This charming contemporary romance imagines what Anne Shirley’s life might look like if she grew up in modern-day New York City.

Anne has traded the rolling hills of Prince Edward Island for college life in Manhattan. Now, she’s chasing big dreams, navigating adulthood, and trying to ignore the familiar sparks flying between her and longtime rival Gilbert Blythe. Readers enjoy that it’s full of humor, heart, and plenty of banter. (Amazon | Bookshop.org)

While the setting is so different from *Anne of Green Gables, *Anne’s imagination, optimism, and unforgettable romance with Gilbert still remain wonderfully intact.

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The Wife Upstairs by Rachel Hawkins

Classic Inspiration: Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë

Rachel Hawkins transforms Charlotte Brontë’s Gothic romance into a modern psychological thriller packed with secrets and suspense.

Jane is a dog walker trying to build a better life when she falls for the wealthy and mysterious Eddie Rochester. But strange disappearances, whispered rumors, and the lingering presence of Eddie’s missing wife suggest there’s far more to the story than Jane first realizes. (Amazon | Bookshop.org)

Fans of *Jane Eyre* will enjoy the familiar characters, themes, and, of course, the eerie atmosphere. Readers say they like how the story is cleverly reimagined into a page-turning thriller!

Behind Five Willows by June Hur

Classic Inspiration: Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Inspired by Jane Austen’s beloved romance, this historical mystery blends slow-burn chemistry with insightful observations about family and society.

Set in Joseon-era Korea, the novel follows a determined young woman searching for answers. The more she digs, the more she becomes drawn into a dangerous mystery and a complicated relationship with a man she never expected to trust. It’s got that page-turning mix of suspense and heartfelt romance. (Amazon | Bookshop.org)

This book is different from the many, many … many, many recent retellings of *Pride and Prejudice*. It scored high ratings from readers for its ability to capture Austen’s wit, emotional tension, and enemies-to-lovers trope.

Adam, Mine by K. Ancrum

Classic Inspiration: Frankenstein by Mary Shelley

This upcoming novel (Publication date is September 8, 2026) reimagines Mary Shelley’s groundbreaking story. This book offers up a fresh, emotionally charged take on identity, belonging, and what it means to be human. It’s alive! (Sorry, I couldn’t help myself!)

When Adam’s carefully controlled life begins unraveling, he’s forced to confront difficult truths about love, creation, and the person he’s becoming. Part psychological horror and part character-driven drama, this novel explores the line between obsession and connection. (Amazon | Bookshop.org)

Like *Frankenstein*, this modern retelling asks timeless questions about humanity, loneliness, and the consequences of trying to control what we create.

Shop for the books I recommend on Bookish AF at my Bookshop on Bookshop.org

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Originally published at https://bookishaf.substack.com.