Carrie Bebris
| Frequently Asked Questions |
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Where did the idea for a Mr. and Mrs. Darcy mystery series come from?
From the Darcys themselves. Austen’s works lend themselves well to the mystery genre (in fact, bestselling mystery writer
P.D. James has made a case for reading Emma as a mystery) and as I contemplated the possibility of a mystery series based
on Austen’s novels, the Darcys emerged as natural protagonists. Though they would never think of themselves as
“detectives,” Elizabeth and Darcy make a great team when it comes to solving problems and piercing the armor of people
they encounter. In Pride and Prejudice, Elizabeth is a sharp observer of human nature and foibles, a witty conversationalist,
a woman who relies on her instincts. Darcy, in contrast, is a deductive reasoner and a man who knows how to move about
in the world. She predicts her sister’s scandalous elopement, and Darcy ferrets out the missing couple. And that was before
they got together as a couple—only think what they could accomplish after. But not only do they complement each other
intellectually, they have a wonderful dynamic between them that has captivated readers for two centuries. With their
signature banter, they are just plain enjoyable to watch, and I thought the opportunity to spend more time with these
characters—to see their quick intellect and hear their lively dialogue applied to cooperative endeavors—was too appealing to
pass up. I hope readers agree.
Were you intimidated by trying to follow in Jane Austen’s literary footsteps? She has some very devoted fans.
I know—I’m one of them! Pride and Prejudice is my favorite novel of all time. In writing the Mr. & Mrs. Darcy series, I
do not attempt to imitate Austen, as no one could ever duplicate her genius. I try, rather, to be respectful of her creations
while telling my own stories. Austen herself read popular novels and defended their value as entertainment; she also amused
her family members with hints about what happened to some of her characters after her novels ended. So I like to think she
herself might take pleasure in my books.
Do all of the Mr. & Mrs. Darcy Mysteries contain supernatural elements?
The first two books (Pride and Prescience and Suspense and Sensibility) have supernatural elements in them. The third
book, North by Northanger, has hints of a benign ghost, but everything can also be explained by ordinary means so it is left
up to the reader to determine whether a ghost was indeed present. The newest novel, The Matters at Mansfield, has no
supernatural elements and is the most classic whodunit of the four.
Are the Mr. & Mrs. Darcy Mysteries available in audio or large print format?
Unfortunately, none of my books are presently available in audio or large print format. But I would love to see them in such
editions. Not only are they useful for older or visually impaired readers, but I find them a good way to sneak more reading
time into my own busy schedule. Large print is easier on the eyes while riding in cars or using exercise equipment, and
audiobooks can make even the most tedious chores more tolerable. My agent and publisher are working to generate interest
among audio and large print publishers, so I am ever hopeful. If such editions of my books ever do become available, I will
post the news on my website and also in my e-newsletter.
What are you working on next?
The Darcys and I have been spending a considerable amount of time in Highbury lately. The now-married Emma and Mr.
Knightley send you their regards, as do Frank Churchill, Mr. Woodhouse, Miss Bates, and all of your other favorite (and not-
so-favorite) characters from Emma.
From the Darcys themselves. Austen’s works lend themselves well to the mystery genre (in fact, bestselling mystery writer
P.D. James has made a case for reading Emma as a mystery) and as I contemplated the possibility of a mystery series based
on Austen’s novels, the Darcys emerged as natural protagonists. Though they would never think of themselves as
“detectives,” Elizabeth and Darcy make a great team when it comes to solving problems and piercing the armor of people
they encounter. In Pride and Prejudice, Elizabeth is a sharp observer of human nature and foibles, a witty conversationalist,
a woman who relies on her instincts. Darcy, in contrast, is a deductive reasoner and a man who knows how to move about
in the world. She predicts her sister’s scandalous elopement, and Darcy ferrets out the missing couple. And that was before
they got together as a couple—only think what they could accomplish after. But not only do they complement each other
intellectually, they have a wonderful dynamic between them that has captivated readers for two centuries. With their
signature banter, they are just plain enjoyable to watch, and I thought the opportunity to spend more time with these
characters—to see their quick intellect and hear their lively dialogue applied to cooperative endeavors—was too appealing to
pass up. I hope readers agree.
Were you intimidated by trying to follow in Jane Austen’s literary footsteps? She has some very devoted fans.
I know—I’m one of them! Pride and Prejudice is my favorite novel of all time. In writing the Mr. & Mrs. Darcy series, I
do not attempt to imitate Austen, as no one could ever duplicate her genius. I try, rather, to be respectful of her creations
while telling my own stories. Austen herself read popular novels and defended their value as entertainment; she also amused
her family members with hints about what happened to some of her characters after her novels ended. So I like to think she
herself might take pleasure in my books.
Do all of the Mr. & Mrs. Darcy Mysteries contain supernatural elements?
The first two books (Pride and Prescience and Suspense and Sensibility) have supernatural elements in them. The third
book, North by Northanger, has hints of a benign ghost, but everything can also be explained by ordinary means so it is left
up to the reader to determine whether a ghost was indeed present. The newest novel, The Matters at Mansfield, has no
supernatural elements and is the most classic whodunit of the four.
Are the Mr. & Mrs. Darcy Mysteries available in audio or large print format?
Unfortunately, none of my books are presently available in audio or large print format. But I would love to see them in such
editions. Not only are they useful for older or visually impaired readers, but I find them a good way to sneak more reading
time into my own busy schedule. Large print is easier on the eyes while riding in cars or using exercise equipment, and
audiobooks can make even the most tedious chores more tolerable. My agent and publisher are working to generate interest
among audio and large print publishers, so I am ever hopeful. If such editions of my books ever do become available, I will
post the news on my website and also in my e-newsletter.
What are you working on next?
The Darcys and I have been spending a considerable amount of time in Highbury lately. The now-married Emma and Mr.
Knightley send you their regards, as do Frank Churchill, Mr. Woodhouse, Miss Bates, and all of your other favorite (and not-
so-favorite) characters from Emma.
Do readers need to be familiar with Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice to enjoy the
Mr. & Mrs. Darcy Mysteries? And must they be read in order of publication?
It helps, but isn’t essential. Like any sequels, part of my novels’ appeal lies in seeing how
established characters and relationships grow and develop in response to new events.
Knowing more about the characters’ histories creates a richer reading experience, and readers
familiar with Austen will enjoy catching references from her books. But Pride and Prescience
and each of the other mysteries that follow stand on their own. Their plots are self-contained,
necessary background details are explained, and the Darcys are a fun couple to spend time
with no matter when you meet them.
How many Mr. & Mrs. Darcy Mysteries will there be?
The answer to that question is partially up to you. The series is open-ended, which means that
as long as readers are interested and sales are strong, it can continue indefinitely. I am
currently contracted through book #5, and it seems only natural for there to be at least 6
books—one for each of Austen’s major novels. Beyond that? Austen’s works contain no
shortage of interesting and troublesome characters, certainly enough to keep the Darcys
occupied and readers entertained through more adventures. So if you enjoy the series, tell a
friend about it. (Better yet, tell several!)
Mr. & Mrs. Darcy Mysteries? And must they be read in order of publication?
It helps, but isn’t essential. Like any sequels, part of my novels’ appeal lies in seeing how
established characters and relationships grow and develop in response to new events.
Knowing more about the characters’ histories creates a richer reading experience, and readers
familiar with Austen will enjoy catching references from her books. But Pride and Prescience
and each of the other mysteries that follow stand on their own. Their plots are self-contained,
necessary background details are explained, and the Darcys are a fun couple to spend time
with no matter when you meet them.
How many Mr. & Mrs. Darcy Mysteries will there be?
The answer to that question is partially up to you. The series is open-ended, which means that
as long as readers are interested and sales are strong, it can continue indefinitely. I am
currently contracted through book #5, and it seems only natural for there to be at least 6
books—one for each of Austen’s major novels. Beyond that? Austen’s works contain no
shortage of interesting and troublesome characters, certainly enough to keep the Darcys
occupied and readers entertained through more adventures. So if you enjoy the series, tell a
friend about it. (Better yet, tell several!)
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