Coronet signs ‘delightful’ Pride and Prejudice sequel from comedian Rachel Parris

Coronet has acquired Introducing Mrs Collins, a Pride and Prejudice sequel written by Rachel Parris, the comedian and founding member of the comedy group Austentatious.

Editorial director Anna Mrowiec acquired world all-language rights from Sophie Chapman at Sophie Chapman Talent, with publication scheduled for November 2025, ahead of Jane Austen’s 250th birthday in December and in the same year the BBC adaptation turns 30.

The publisher says: “Parris, like many Austen fans, has always puzzled over the character of Charlotte – intelligent, witty, sensible and in many ways similar to our heroine Elizabeth. And yet she says YES to odious Mr Collins!? In her debut novel, Parris revisits the story, starting with the point at which Charlotte says yes, but taking us far beyond the end of Austen’s tale – when Charlotte’s life in Kent of duty, routine and quiet contentment is upended by an unexpected visitor at Rosings Park. A spark is lit, an impossible longing awakened.”

The synopsis continues: “Torn between what she must do and what she truly desires, Charlotte finds herself at the centre of a story she never expected to be hers. A tale of love, loss and second chances, Introducing Mrs Collins is for anyone who has ever wondered if there was more to the sensible character we met in Pride and Prejudice. It is the story of a woman who had written herself out of her own life, only to learn it is never too late to find your own happy ending.”

Parris said: “As a lifelong Austen fan, I’ve been cheering on Charlotte Lucas since I first read Pride and Prejudice; a woman who is overlooked by most, who recognises society for what it is, who knows her mind and makes a bold choice for herself. I always wanted to know what happened next, so I’ve written it. I hope that it brings joy to fans of Austen and strikes a chord with anyone who has had to take an unusual path to find their happiness."

Mrowiec said: “I’ve never had so many excited replies from colleagues as when I circulated this proposal. Hodder and the world beyond are full of Austen fans desperate for more and particularly to give Charlotte a second chance. Rachel is the perfect person to write this novel. She touches on more modern themes and sensibilities that make this a thoughtful and affecting novel.”