37 pages • 1 hour read
Lady Susan
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Book Brief
56
Novel • Fiction
England • 1810s
1871
Adult
14+ years
Super Short Summary
Lady Susan by Jane Austen follows the exploits of a charming, manipulative widow, Lady Susan, who seduces and deceives multiple men and women to secure advantageous marriages for herself and her daughter, Frederica. The novella begins with Lady Susan visiting the Manwarings, causing domestic strife, and later moving to her brother-in-law’s home where she ensnares Catherine's brother, Reginald, turning him against his family.
Mysterious
Humorous
Contemplative
Romantic
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
47,709 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Jane Austen's Lady Susan showcases her signature wit and sharp social commentary through a compelling, epistolary narrative. Admirers praise its incisive character portrayals and cunning protagonist, but some find the plot hurried compared to Austen's later works. Despite these contentions, it remains an insightful and engaging read.
Who Should Read Lady Susan?
A reader who enjoys Lady Susan by Jane Austen would likely appreciate witty social satire, complex character studies, and epistolary novels. Fans of Austen’s other works or Pride and Prejudice will find similar themes of romance, societal expectations, and a strong, clever heroine. This book also appeals to readers who enjoy Dangerous Liaisons by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos.
47,709 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
56
Novel • Fiction
England • 1810s
1871
Adult
14+ years
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