‘I read Jane Austen's novels over and over again. When I finish one I immediately start another! They are so full of humour, charm and life. Who can ever be tired of Austen?’
Katherine Sears, Bath
‘Persuasion is my favourite book because most women have had those 'what if’ moments in their lives, where we wish we could turn back the clock or make a different choice. Anne lives out our dream and shows us that a second chance is not only possible but should be grabbed with both hands.’
Karen Mannering
‘Jane Austen's works can only be described as masterpieces. Cutting satire, refreshing wit and subtle romantic undertones make her novels relevant even in today's society. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the ever-popular Pride and Prejudice, proving it a true classic in every sense. Add a brooding, arrogant hero, a fresh and unique heroine and mix them together with some prejudice, misunderstandings and a touch of love, and you've got a delightful story that will capture the heart of even the most hardened reader.’
Ebony Wheeldon, Australia
‘Why do I love Jane Austen? It's a bit of a Marmite thing since I used to hate her and think she was a bitch who didn't like anyone but the older I get the more I realise that real love is described in her books with understated complexity and humanity. She is critical of human failings and a bit of a bitch about everyone, but maybe she's right to be.’
Anjali Pratap, London
‘Why do I love Jane Austen? I'm not sure how she'd have felt about this but I'd love to go for a drink with her. She knows how exactly how women really think. We all like to imagine we're emancipated but all we actually want is a gorgeous man to adore us for who we are and not how we look.’
Sarah Morrison, Scotland
‘My favourite book of all books in the world is Persuasion by Jane Austen. It is such a satisfying book and appeals to anyone who ever fell in love, or felt disappointed in love, or was slighted by their family, or was badly advised and wishes they had rejected that advice.... in fact I envy anyone who has not read it yet, because there is SUCH a treat in store! Lock the door, switch off the mobile phone and computer, sit down in comfort and just enjoy yourself. The proposal is worth waiting for...’
Joyce Leyland, Newcastle
‘Like millions of others, I grew up with Pride and Prejudice. As an eighteen year old schoolgirl, I despised Mrs Bennett as an interfering, domineering, manipulative mother who should butt out of her daughters' love lives. As a fifty year old mother, with a breadth of experience showing the importance of an appropriate marriage as an indicator of future security and happiness, I have become Mrs Bennett. It is Austen's multi-layered appeal to all generations which ensures her continued popularity.’
Margaret Schwartz, Chalfont-St-Peter
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