We posted previously about the book Flirting with Pride and Prejudice: Fresh Perspectives on the Original Chick-Lit Masterpiece, edited by Jennifer Crusie. The publisher’s Web site has an excerpt of the book, and they sent along some more information about the book:

Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice has continued to enchant readers and audiences since its publication centuries ago. In addition to being the inspiration for Bridget Jones, the 21st century’s version of an Austen heroine, the story has been the basis for the wildly popular BBC miniseries, countless sequels and several modern-day film adaptations from a variety of countries, including the upcoming September release starring Keira Knightley in the coveted role of Elizabeth. As one of the most beloved novels of our time, Pride and Prejudice has transcended the literary world to earn a spot on every woman’s nightstand.

So what exactly about Austen’s novel has captivated generation after generation? Twenty-four of the hottest writers in chick-lit, romance, fiction and SF and fantasy explore this exact question in the new anthology Flirting with Pride and Prejudice: Fresh Perspectives on the Original Chick-Lit Masterpiece. Edited by New York Times bestselling author Jennifer Crusie, Flirting takes a sexy, enjoyable and, oftentimes, humorous look at Austen’s classic tale of high society, men vs. women, love and the happily ever after.

Flirtatious interludes include:

• Karen Joy Fowler, bestselling author of The Jane Austen Book Club, explores the genius of Austen’s works, delights in their appeal to the truly feminine and marvels at the timelessness of her tales
• Renowned historical romance author Cheryl Sawyer tells the little known tale of Jane Austen’s chance encounter with the infamous Lord Byron
• New York Times bestselling author Teresa Medeiros explains the unfathomable allure of the ever-stoic Mr. Darcy
• Popular Salon.com television critic Joyce Millman ponders the implications of a new reality show: Pride and Prejudice
• Bestselling fantasy writer Mercedes Lackey puts a fantastical twist on the matchmaking ploys of the newly married Elizabeth
• Acclaimed Buffy and Firefly screenwriter Jane Espenson sheds light on one of the most lightly drawn characters of Pride and Prejudice: Mr. Darcy’s enigmatic little sister, Georgiana
• Bestselling romance author Jill Winters retells Pride and Prejudice to reveal the untold story of Mary’s secret life
• Celebrated chick-lit, romance and comedic novelist Michelle Cunnah considers how cell phones would have drastically changed the courtship of Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy

The publisher’s representative said the book won’t be published until September, but it looks like it’s available now from Amazon.