It probably has quite a lot to do with Fitzwilliam Darcy. Who could not live this man? Darcy is as close an analog to the Charming Prince of fairy tales as can possibly be imagined. He exemplifies the virtues of charm and desirability, while retaining a few flaws that humanize him.

Who could avoid falling head over heels for a gentleman in the truest sense of the word, who in unwaveringly faithful to those beloved to him? His moral compass is driven by a sense of honor, integrity, and duty that few men can match. The fact that he is wealthy, influential, and good looking certainly do not hurt. If the heart of the true romantic is not swayed by all the facts, we can add still more to his roster of virtues. Darcy fights to overcome his own inborn prejudices and makes changes to himself because of his love for an excellent woman. He keeps her from walking away, despite herself. Darcy only becomes more lovable as he reshapes himself through his relationship with Elizabeth Bennet.

Perhaps readers love the idea that despite his money and postion, he truly has need of Elizabeth’s influence in his life to make him the best man he can possibly be. The subtle undertone seems to be that we all have great value, that we have something to offer even to people that are above our own stations.

Which is not to say that Fitzwilliam Darcy is not a fascinating temptation all by himself. He is so beguiling to the modern reader and writer that he has become the center of many
sequels, both adventurous and mis-adventurous. And what delightful fun they are. JASequels sweep the whole range of genres, and are set in time periods ranging from the classic RegencyPride and Prejudice sequel to Modern.

If you are a fan of Austen’s copious body of work but have never yet any sequel Pride&Prejudice, do yourself a favor and pick up one of these highly entertaining works.