Tirzah Price is the author of the Jane Austen Mysteries, a YA series of standalone mystery retellings of Jane Austen’s beloved classics, by way of Agatha Christie. They can be read in any order, although the chronological order of the series is Pride and Premeditation, Sense and Second-Degree Murder, Manslaughter Park.

The Lizzie and Darcy Mysteries are a YA spin-off series, making In Want of a Suspect a direct sequel to Pride and Premeditation. Price recommends reading Pride and Premeditation first.

I agree.

Price does a great job of pulling readers in, but if you haven’t read its predecessor, In Want of a Suspect will have you asking lots of questions like: How did Lizzie become a solicitor? and Why is she so familiar with Darcy, who is also a solicitor?

At some point you just have to give in and enjoy the ride. Lizzie is a bright spark. Much of her character is in keeping with Jane Austen’s characterization. Lizzie is smart, strong and independent, but she also dreams of love. Darcy is less of an open book, but their banter is spot on.

Price strikes a nice balance between mystery and romance, making this an engaging read.

This book is seriously fun. I didn’t read the book that preceded it and it was still easy to follow and so enjoyable. It does ruin some plot points for book one— so read that first. But I’m looking forward to reading the first anyway..

This is an alternate universe with Jane Austen’s characters solving mysteries and murders and just generally getting up to lots of shenanigans. It’s fun, it feels comfortable and warm because you know the characters, but develops the story in such a way that lets you see them in a new light. Give it a read!

Thank you NetGalley and the publishers for this book! I really enjoyed reading another adventure of Lizzie and Darcy. This was just as fun as the others, and of course the end took me by surprise! The only thing I wasn’t crazy about was the storyline with Henry—it felt a bit forced. But I’d absolutely recommend this book!

Pride and Prejudice gets a new twist in this story where Lizzie is London's first female solicitor and is determined to solve cases with Darcy, a fellow solicitor and her love. Lizzie wants nothing more than to solve cases and be respected for her talents, and despite the fact that she might be in love with Darcy she definitely does not want to marry him if he is being forced to be society or if it means she'll lose everything she's worked for. Yet when Lizzie finds herself in a new case she can't help but drag Darcy into it with her.... yet this new case has them facing a woman whom Darcy had previously proposed too and now he's slightly panicked over what his actual relationship with Lizzie is. Darcy is in love with Lizzie... but they haven't exactly talked about where their relationship was going and with this new potential wrench in their relationship and her slowly distancing herself.... on top of his new horrible workplace pressure, can Darcy find a way to sort out his own life and chase after the woman who has stolen his heart or will everything and everyone get in the way before he can finally tell Lizzie he loves her. This is the first book in a new duology series that is both Pride and Prejudice and murder mystery fun. As a huge fan of murder mysteries and of Pride and Prejudice, this was such a fun twist and a great read. It's a light hearted read and it's got fun moments all throughout the story. The romance is sweet and the characters are a great interpretation of Lizzie and Darcy in a new light. I would absolutely recommend this for fans of the classic!

Release Date: November 12, 2024

Publication/Blog: Ash and Books (ash-and-books.tumblr.com)

*Thanks Netgalley and HarperCollins Children's Books | HarperCollins for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review*

“It was moments like this, when he was acting grave as he teased her, and when he showed more patience for her misadventures than any person ever had, even her beloved sister Jane, that Lizzie felt a swell of emotion bubble up inside of her. She let herself feel it, but not name it. Putting it into words felt risky somehow.”

A strong-willed lawyer at her father’s firm, the ever-ambitious Elizabeth Bennett is no stranger to a bit of adventure—but never before has she been recruited to solve a case so serious as arson. When a fire is started at the local warehouse, which happens to belong to one of Lizzie’s former clients, she teams up with her trusted friend and fellow solicitor: Fitzwilliam Darcy. Together, the two must find out who is responsible for the devastating fire that hurt her client and killed his brother. As Lizzie and Darcy are drawn into the case, secrets are revealed, relationships are thrown into question, and danger awaits the two at every turn. In a spin off from her Jane Austen Mysteries series, author Tirzah Price offers a refreshing and intriguing twist on a beloved classic.

As an avid fan of both Jane Austen and mysteries, I was incredibly excited about starting this novel, and for the most part, Price’s writing met my expectations. Readers unfamiliar with the Jane Austen Murder Mysteries series by Price might initially be surprised by the amicable dynamic between Lizzie and Darcy, an unexpected diversion from their traditional, originally animus relationship that defined the first 75% of Pride and Prejudice. Additionally, while this book is the first in a spin-off series, coming into it with prior knowledge of the characters is, at times, significant in understanding parts of the narrative. Some backstory is offered, but there are many references to the development of different characters and their relationships that are hard to follow without having read Price’s other series. However, that being said, the friendship between the two main characters quickly grows on you even if you haven’t read the other books. The pair complemented each other well, especially as they navigated both internal and external turmoils together. I thought Lizzie’s characterization was exceptionally beautiful, particularly in the way that she balances a strong sense of self and fierce independence with a softness and desire for love, wonderfully reminiscent of Austen’s Elizabeth. I did find myself getting so caught up in the character relationships that I forgot about the mystery, which I think is a testament to both the strengths and weaknesses of the plot construction. All in all, the fast-pacing of the novel, combined with its cozy mystery vibes and tendency towards romance, makes for an enjoyable read that will hook you in and keep you guessing right alongside Lizzie and Darcy.

I discovered the Jane Austen Murder Mystery series earlier in the year. I will always give a Jane Austen inspired series a shot and the cover art for this series is gorgeous so I immediately purchased them. I was so happy to see a continuation of Lizzie and Darcy because Pride and Premeditation was my favorite of the series.

In Want of Suspect picks up shortly after the end of P & P and provides Lizzie and Darcy a new case to solve. This new story starts with a fire that quickly leads to a murder in broad daylight. As Lizzie and Darcy work to solve the mystery of the warehouse fire they quickly realize that there is something even more nefarious afoot. They must work quickly to figure out who started the fire, who murdered one of the informants all while navigating their personal relationships.

In Want of Suspect introduces us to a whole new host of characters including an adorably ill behaved dog. I really enjoyed this one, I love the Dashwood sister cameos and the hint of a potential new Austen inspired story with the brief introduction to another infamous Austen heroine. This was a fast paced, action packed, banter filled fun time. I hope the author continues this series!

Thank you to Harper Collins and NetGalley for my copy; all opinions are my own. In Want of Suspect will be available 11/12!

Short and Sweet Review

Lizzie has finally earned her place at Longbourn and as the first female solicitor she’s able to take cases that keep her busy and on occasion able to see Darcy. Lizzie goes to consult with a client but on arrival she finds that his warehouse was set on fire and his brother was murdered. When the only clue leads to a mysterious woman who was seen before the fire was set, Lizzie follows that clue and ends up meeting the last woman Darcy proposed to. Lizzie and Darcy have to navigate the careful line between personal and professional relationship and also follow the clues to solve this mystery that gets more complex by the minute.

In Want of a Suspect is the first book in the A Lizzie & Darcy Mystery series, and if you’ve read the Jane Austen Murder Mystery trilogy then you’ll be familiar with these characters. I do think it’s beneficial to read the Jane Austen Murder Mystery trilogy first just for background information on these characters and the cases they solved before. I didn’t read the third book in that trilogy so I felt like I was missing out on some things but I made it through this book just fine. I did like this book and I feel like Lizzie has grown a lot and I’m glad she’s finally a solicitor. Lizzie and Darcy are working together on this mystery which is fun because we get both characters POVs and we get to see the clues they find and how they approach solving the mystery. Lizzie and Darcy obviously have feelings for each other and while Lizzie likes Darcy she’s worried that if she settles down with him that she may not have the freedom to do what she wants because she’s living in a different time. Darcy on the other hand feels like Lizzie is keeping him at an arms length away. Eventually we see these two tackle these issues and I loved that moment because they truly had a heart to heart and Darcy is all for Women’s Rights before it was even a thing. Anyway the mystery starts off pretty simple, find the mystery woman and find out what she was doing near the warehouse at the time of fire. Unfortunately for Lizzie and Darcy this mystery woman is Josette, someone Darcy dated before. After meeting Josette the mystery becomes more complicated because there’s another murder and some smuggling going on. I think about halfway through the book I was able to figure out who one of the suspects was but, I didn’t realize I could be right and so wrong at the same time about how big this pool of culprits was. There was a person I wasn’t familiar with and I think they may have been mentioned in a previous book but I feel like they’ll have a bigger arc in future books. I will say I love that the Dashwood sisters were around to help Lizzie and Darcy, and we also get some helpful advice from Jane Bennet.

Overall, this was a good mystery. I love the setting of the early 19th century and how everything in the book feels true to that time period. I do think I would have loved this book more if I had read Manslaughter Park, which I plan on doing soon. It was fun following Lizzie and Darcy solve this mystery and I’m excited to see what’ll happen next for these two!

I actually haven't read Pride and Prejudice, but after this book, I really want to! I'm not normally a fan of the cozy mystery, I typically like high stakes in my books. So, when I went into this one, I was a little nervous that I wasn't going to like it because of that. It also helped that the premise was a murder case, because I enjoy true crime and I really like mystery novels, as long as they're fast paced, which this was!

I didn't read the novel that came before it, so I definitely was missing some parts of the story, but after finishing it I don't think it's required to read the first one, and it can be read on its own. There was a good balance of mystery and romance (I usually read these kinds of books for the romance) and I took forever to pick it up, but once I did, it was hard to put down! I read it in two days. The mystery aspect of it kept me going, but the writing style matched my preference and the pacing just made me consume this one at a rapid pace. I know that the other books are probably spoiled a little for me now that I've read this one first, but I am putting Ms. Price on my backlist! I'd definitely read more of these when the mood strikes me for some cozy mystery with a romance plot!

age rating: 14+
spice rating: no spice

i adored pride and premeditation, so naturally, when i heard that lizzie and darcy were getting their own spin-off series, i couldn’t wait to get my hands on it.
and this book did not disappoint!!
the mystery and plot was executed flawlessly; i was second guessing and suspecting nearly everyone at some point.
*minor spoiler* i loved how elinor and marianne dashwood were brought in, and contributed so much towards the end!
i do wish we had a touch more romance (we only got one proper kiss between lizzie and darcy, sadly.) but the chemistry was there!

this beautiful book releases november 12th

thank you to netgalley and harpercollins children’s books for an e-arc copy.

Of all the authors to retell Pride and Prejudice, Tirzah Price keeps her title as one of the best with this second visit to Lizzie and Darcy. Price keeps the sass and charm of the characters we love while expanding their personalities in a way that only she can.

In Want of a Suspect takes place a year after the events of Pride and Premeditation and we follow Lizzie and Darcy on a new case. Lizzie is hired to investigate a deadly fire and while they look for their suspect, the case quickly evolves and envelopes more suspects, more suspicions, and more secrets.

I love this Lizzie and Darcy. They're fresh and original, and their banter is exactly what any P&P lover expects to find. This book was so fun to read, and I cannot wait for where Price takes these characters next.

In Want of a Suspect finds Lizzie investigating a warehouse fire, looking for the woman the owner thinks caused the fire and consequently his brother's death. Witnesses lead her to suspect Josette Beaufort or her cousin Leticia, who both fit the description of the woman seen at the warehouse. Coincidentally, years earlier Darcy’s proposal of marriage was turned down by Josette, making him uncomfortable with the investigation. When Leticia is murdered and Lizzie gets closer to the truth, the warehouse owner fires her, as he realizes his brother had been involved in a smuggling scheme. Darcy begins to understand that Lizzie’s safety is his most important concern, and he works closely with her to uncover the truth. This new element of the Jane Austen Murder Mysteries is sure to delight fans of the series.

I adored this book! The nods to the nuance of each of the Bennet family members… chef’s kiss. I loved the weaving in of the Dashwood sisters and Emma through the plot as well. So, so good!! I could not put this one down. Thank you to Netgalley and Harper Collins for the advanced copy.

It's been quite some time since I first read Pride and Premeditation, but I was so pleased to be back with Lizzie and Darcy. Hypothetically I think it's possible to read this book without having first read the original series (or at least the first two book in said original series) but coming from someone who is fairly far removed from the original series but still remembers bits and pieces I do believe it's best to read those books first (and also they're just a lot of fun, so). I will admit that it's been a few weeks since I read this book, and while I read it fast, and it was enjoyable, the details are already starting to fade, so it's nothing outstanding. If you read P&P I would definitely suggest you give this one a shot too, because it's always great to be back with old characters, it's like sliding into old friendships again, but it certainly wasn't anything that blew me away. I will still be picking up the sequel when it comes out (hopefully) next year, because I'll be curious to see how everything finally comes together, and I think Prince will certainly manage to craft another fun adventure for all to enjoy.

"The first book in a thrilling mystery duology that follows Lizzie Bennet and Mr. Darcy from the acclaimed Jane Austen Murder Mystery series!

It is a truth universally acknowledged, that London's first female solicitor in possession of the details of a deadly crime, must be in want of a suspect.

The tenacious Lizzie Bennet has earned her place at Longbourn, her father's law firm. Her work keeps her busy, but luckily it gives her plenty of reasons to consult (and steal occasional kisses) with Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy, a stern but secretly softhearted solicitor at Pemberley.

Lizzie is hired to investigate a deadly warehouse fire and to find the mysterious woman who was spotted at the scene moments before the flames took hold. But when the case leads to the sitting room of a woman Darcy once proposed marriage to, the delicate balance between personal and professional in their relationship is threatened.

Questions of the future are cast aside when the prime suspect is murdered and Lizzie's own life is threatened. As the body count rises and their suspicions about what was really going on in the warehouse grow, the pressure is on for Lizzie and Darcy to uncover the truth.

Classic characters with an enthralling twist - Lizzie and Darcy, as introduced in the hit novel Pride and Premeditation, are back for more suspense, danger, and romance!"

I mean who can resist a Pride and Prejudice twist? I can't.

So happy to revisit this version of Lizzie and Darcy, solicitors-at-law/investigators. This Darcy is the perfect match for the headstrong Lizzie, letting her lead and supporting her choices. And Lizzie is self-aware enough to know that her non-traditional lifestyle could potentially make their lives difficult/more interesting moving forward. And the idea of Catherine de Bourgh as a pirate thrills me to no end. Can’t wait for more adventures!

I wish that I would have realized this was a spin-off series (even though it is right there in the blurb, that's what I get for not reading the whole thing) before starting this book. 😕 There are, unfortunately, spoilers from the other three books, being very necessary for plot development. This definitely can be read as a stand-alone, but if you don't want spoilers, start with Pride and Premediation.

Loved this book so much. The cozy mystery is so well done, and I especially love the romance part. Lizzie is a solicitor working for her father and doesn't really know if she wants to marry Darcy. Not that she thinks he would ever make her stop working or anything, just knowing he legally could. I can't imagine that.

10 out of 10 would recommend. ❤️ 💙 💜

I got this arc a while ago but completely forgot to read it until now but I’m really glad I saved it for a long flight because this gave me the opportunity to read it all in one go. This book had me excited about the case that Lizzie needs to solve while also kicking my feet at her and Darcy’s interactions. I loved pride and premeditations and I’m just so happy I decided to pick this book up as well. The author is quickly becoming my favourite author when it comes to historical fiction!!

YA Historical Mystery Retelling (Pride and Prejudice) set in Regency-era England in which a female solicitor works with a stern but secretly soft-hearted fellow solicitor to investigate a deadly warehouse fire.

4/5 stars: This is the first entry in Price's Lizzie and Darcy Mystery Duology, which is a YA Historical Mystery Jane Austen Re-imagining of Pride and Prejudice that takes place in Regency-era England and features Lizzie Bennet, London’s first female solicitor, as she teams up with Mr Fitzwilliam Darcy, a stern but secretly soft-hearted fellow solicitor, to investigate a deadly warehouse fire and find the mysterious woman spotted at the scene. When their prime suspect's murdered, Lizzie’s life's threatened and their suspicions about what was really going on in the warehouse grow, the pressure is on for Lizzie and Darcy to uncover the truth. With plenty of twists and turns, Price has deftly crafted a mystery that balances the suspects, clues and red herrings and will leave you pondering the whodunit until the final reveal. Additionally, Price's writing and character work are excellent; the characters are well-rounded and complex while remaining incredibly likable. Lizzie and Darcy are great and it's a joy to get more of the sleuthing duo. Price does a great job at keeping to the heart of Austen’s classic characters while modernizing them. I also really enjoy the Jane Austen “universe” approach and getting to see Austen's characters interacting together. While this is the first is a duology, you'll gain so much more by reading the Jane Austen Murder Mystery series first; so be sure to pick up book one, Pride and Premeditation (which features Lizzie and Darcy's introduction.)

I received this eARC thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins Children's Books | HarperCollins in exchange for an honest review. Publishing dates are subject to change.

It's amazing to me how the characters created so long ago by Jane Austen continue to live on in today's literary world. Not only are her novels still widely read and extremely popular among the classics, but they are getting new life through the countless retellings on offer from current authors. This new series, beginning with In Want of a Suspect, promises to be another exciting glimpse of familiar faces set in a new context. In this first installment, we are back with Lizzie Bennet as she and Mr. Darcy attempt to solve a case of arson and murder while still working for different law firms. In addition to their sleuthing, they must contend with their budding romance and all the implications that go along with it.

This is an easy, cozy read where we get to catch up with several of Jane Austen's characters. It's fun and fanciful, and I enjoyed it quite a lot. I thought the author captured the personalities and essences of Lizzie and Darcy fairly accurately; although, I will say that the timeline of this narrative does contradict with the original novel. I think casual Austen fans will be okay with the liberties taken here, but diehard fans of Pride and Prejudice might not be as generous. However, this is a great addition to the Lizzie and Darcy universe of works, and I am looking forward to continuing with the series.

I absolutely adored this book! Tirzah does such a fantastic job of fleshing out these characters, making them struggle, grow, and develop. One of my favorite parts of this series is the interiority of the characters. What is Mr. Darcy thinking about Lizzie? Just wait, he'll tell you and you'll love it. This is a series I will happily re-read along with the original text.