3 x 60′ BBC4

Our very own Head Girl, Daisy Goodwin presents a thoughtful but affectionate look at one of the most successful and most denigrated of literary genres. From Jane Austen and Charlotte Brontë to the earliest days of Mills and Boon, and the enormous industry it has become today, this three part series explores the enduring appeal of romantic fiction and the integral part it plays in its readers’ lives

Over three hours for BBC4, Daisy investigates the effect of the promise of a happy ending and conducts a scientific experiment to discover if reading romantic fiction can benefit stress levels. She asks why nineteenth century heroes such as Darcy, Heathcliff and Rochester, have stood the test of time; and traces the rise of the heroine, from Elizabeth Bennett to Bridget Jones, discovering how romantic heroines have reflected the times and provided strong role models for women.

The series includes contributions from readers, novelists and screenwriters, including Jilly Cooper, Joanna Trollope and Andrew Davies.

Series Producer
Ann Elletson

Director
Ned Williams

Executive Producer
Michael Waldman