Are you looking for a literary love-match?

Finding an eligible bachelor these days is not a simple task - especially during the height of a lockdown - and Lockdown Three has exposed people falling in love left right and centre, without breaking any social distancing rules.

How, one might ask?

Between the covers of a good book. Out there in the world of fiction, there is a man for everyone (and maybe even a Duke of Hastings for Bridgeton fans). Read on to find your fictitious love match, and discover some of literature’s most eligible bachelors.

Mr Darcy (Pride and Prejudice)

Perhaps a participant in the first game of 'hard to get' – before it was a game.

A façade of impertinence, that once peeled back provides a humble man, worthy of a second chance. He may start off disliked, but there is nothing his low buttoned white chemise, and floppy brown hair cannot solve – a definite one snap up before Elizabeth comes along.  

Star sign – Libra | Most suited to: Gemini, Aquarius

Edward Ferrars (Sense and Sensibility)

The opposite of a commitment-phobe, Edward is a man of his word. Content in a life out of society and wealth, he is definitely worth consideration.

Star Sign: Sagittarius | Most suited to: Aries, Libra, Leo, Aquarius

Theodore Lawrence (Little Women) 

It is hard not to fall for young Theodore (Known as ‘Laurie’ by close friends). A man so comforted by the company of the four March sisters; he would definitely go down a treat with the parents. Charm, good looks and a strong character – it's hard not to hop into H.G Well’s time machine and snap him up. 

Star sign: Virgo | Most suited to: Scorpio, Capricorn, Taurus, Cancer

Mr Knightly (Emma) 

Something of a rock, George Knightly is there to lead the way should one ever feel at a loss (a common feeling during lockdown). A mature man who prizes virtue and good manners.

Star Sign: Virgo | Most suited to: Scorpio, Capricorn, Taurus, Cancer

Pierre Bezukhov (War and Peace)

Often taken advantage of, Count Bezukhov has a large heart, and a desire to please. Although an undeniable introvert, what he lack in social skills, he makes up for in intellect. A quiet calendar and a good book lie in the centre of this bachelor’s world. 

Star Sign: Gemini | Most compatible:  Aries, Libra, Leo, Aquarius, Sagittarius 

Maxim De Winter (Rebecca)

Mr De Winter is not for everyone. In fact, many people may find him intimidating. But while Maxim has a dark past, he shows himself as one of the elite through his ability to change – and develop into a man of esteem and care. 

Duke of Hastings (Bridgeton)

 Something of a media star in the 21^st century, this duke has an affinity for nudity, and is not shy about his boxer’s physique. He can be tough to crack, but once inside castle Clyveden you can be assured he is full of sensitivity.  Keep an eye out for Lady Whistledown’s judgment should this Duke take your fancy. 

Star Sign: Scorpio | Most compatible: Cancer, Pisces, Virgo

Peeta Mellark / Gale Hawthorn (The Hunger Games)

Forget Freud’s Oedipus complex, lets think about the Mellthorn problem. Are you team Gale or Team Peeta? Do you prefer timidity or a fighter's spirit? Well that’s one’s up to you, but Susan Collins has given us a real dilemma in the dating world.

Star Sign Peeta: Aquarius | Most compatible: Gemini, Libra Sagittarius 

Star Sign Gale: Aries | Most compatible: Gemini, Leo Sagittarius, Aquarius

Connell (Normal People)

Connell is used to the waiting game, and he knows how to get what he wants. Don’t be put off by his desire to reject his feelings, he is always around the corner when you most need him. 

Star Sign: Aquarius | Most compatible: Gemini, Libra Sagittarius

A new dating app has appeared in the height of lockdown’s frustrations – Tinder and Hinge definitely better watch their backs. After all, are they really able to offer their customers a Dukedom, or a vast estate in Derbyshire? I think not.  

Note: This list is not exhaustive.