Lady Susan is one of Jane Austen’s less popular novels. It was surprisingly a short read, a 36-page for the e-book that I had. It’s epistolary, as the novel is written through a series of letters from different characters. I honestly enjoyed the story form. It’s interesting to follow and see how the story progressed from Lady Susan’s letter to her friend, sister-in-law, and many others.
The other way to see it is like reading a novel through gossiping through exchange of letters. I found myself laughing out at some point. I enjoyed the descriptions, details, formation and transition of judgment for Lady Susan as she tried to manipulate the people around her including her daughter. I like this novel for its difference with the other writings of Austen. The main femme character is true-blooded deceitful and can compete to the reel and real world’s bitches.
As Mrs. Vernon wrote to her brother,
Well, my dear Reginald, I have seen this dangerous creature, and must give you some description of her, though I hope you will soon be able to form your own judgment she is really excessively pretty.
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I agree with Sinta that October’s novel, Mansfield Park film adaption is a lot better than the novel. On the other hand, JMom and I preferred Fanny Price’s than Emma’s characterization.
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This December we are taking a break from the monthly reading. It’s time to chill out for some Jane Austen items. We will do a twist. Yes, that’s how the December contest will look like. I’ll be announcing the mechanics in the next post.
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