Turning thoughts into words can be a frustrating experience, but writing’s not all torment, torn hair, and mountains of comfort food.

For me, a particular joy comes from creating scenes involving the intellectual giant, expert dancer, and balm to the souls of the Hunsford parish that is Mr William Collins. (Did you know he enjoys the patronage of the Right Honourable Lady Catherine de Bourgh?)

One reason for this secret pleasure is the fascinating nature that Jane Austen gave the chara...