52 pages • 1 hour read
Longbourn
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Book Brief
448
Novel • Fiction
England • Early 19th century
2013
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Longbourn by Jo Baker follows the lives of the servants in the Bennet household from Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, primarily focusing on housemaid Sarah, housekeeper Mrs. Hill, and mysterious footman James Smith. Their lives unfold against the backdrop of the events in Austen's novel, exploring themes of romantic love, marriage, personal satisfaction, and the harsh realities of the lower class in Austen's period. The book includes mentions of wartime trauma and inappropriate relationships.
Contemplative
Bittersweet
Melancholic
Nostalgic
Reviews & Readership
69,200 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Longbourn by Jo Baker offers a refreshing perspective on the classic Pride and Prejudice from the servants' viewpoint. Readers praise its rich historical detail and compelling narrative that enhances the original story. However, some find the shift in focus disappointing, feeling it lacks the charm of Austen’s work. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking read.
Who Should Read Longbourn?
A reader who enjoys Longbourn by Jo Baker appreciates historical fiction with rich character development and a fresh perspective on classic stories. Fans of Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen and The Housekeeper and the Professor by Yoko Ogawa will find delight in its nuanced view of the servants' lives in the Austen era.
69,200 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
James Smith
James Smith
An enigmatic character and Sarah’s love interest, James starts as a servant at Longbourn and wrestles with his past while striving to belong and find peace.
Margaret Hill
Margaret Hill
The housekeeper of Longbourn, Mrs. Hill manages the household and harbors complex relationships and memories from her past, maintaining a practical approach to her situation.
Polly
Polly
A child from the parish workhouse who finds a home at Longbourn, Polly brings a sense of innocence and curiosity into the household dynamics.
Ptolemy Bingley
Ptolemy Bingley
A footman in the Bingley household, Ptolemy is characterized by his gentlemanly demeanor and aspirations of social mobility, presenting an initial romantic interest for Sarah.
448
Novel • Fiction
England • Early 19th century
2013
Adult
18+ years
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