For Barry,

my very own Mr Darcy,

with all my love

 

and

 

For my mum,

Valerie,

who taught me love to books

and always told me great stories.

Vive la famille Foote

 

and

 

For all the Janeites, Austenites, Austen readers, Austen scholars,

and all those who love watching

Colin Firth as Mr Darcy,

this book is for you.