Persuasion (Masterpiece Library Edition)

I'm not one of Austen's biggest fans, but was very satisfied with this one. Many characters feel crafted as caricatures, the plotline feels a bit dated at times, but pulls together well towards the end. Not too long, either -- always good for those of us who read slower.

Just like whoever wrote the introduction for Sense and Sensibility (my first Jane Austen read), they describe her life as well as her writing perfectly. I even found the timeline interesting. I’m definitely going to check out the list of classics though. From my understanding, the beginning is about introducing the characters before diving further into the story. Books like that are comforting. The more I read, the better I understood what was going on. This is definitely one of those books you need to take your time with. I felt scared for Louisa but when everyone came to her aid, I was touched by that. I found it a little odd that whoever was interested in Anne had to go through Lady Russell first. Even though I didn’t really understand what I was reading till about the halfway mark, I really enjoyed myself. I’ve learned to fall in love with this book the more I read and I’m so very glad I took a chance when I bought this.

I ordered this book (Persuasion) and Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen and received the wrong cover for both. I was sent a replacement, but it still wasn't the book I ordered! I'm disappointed.

I read Persuasion out loud to my mom. I enjoyed it. Probably my 3rd favorite of Jane Austen's works. I really felt for the main character, Anne. She was miserable about the entire book! I thought Lady Russel was cool, though I was angry at her for preventing Anne and Captain Wentworth's marriage. I really think Anne and Captain Wentworth are one of the most powerful of Jane Austen's couples. Even after eight years, their love for each other remained strong. I will say that the ending felt abrupt. All in all, however, this book is pretty great. Besides, it contains the best Jane Austen quote ever, next to Mr. Darcy's iconic lines from Pride and Prejudice ("You are too generous to trifle with me," and "You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you") : "I am half agony, half hope." Captain Wentworth, Persuasion

Tender, lovely story, and I loved the quiet, kind, and perceptive main character. This was my second Jane Austen book and I intend to read more. My copy had a personal note and autograph from the editor/annotater to the previous owner, which was a pleasant surprise.

I have read just about all of Jane Austen’s works, and this is definitely a good one! It’s not my favorite - Sense and Sensibility, Pride and Prejudice, and Emma were better structured - but if you love Ms. Austen, you must include this on your reading list.