Michelle's Reviews > Jane Austen: Seven Novels

"It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife."

--"Pride and Prejudice"

This famous opening may not hold true in this day and age, but I would definitely acknowledge the truth that Jane Austen is, hands down, a genius! I could now honestly say, that I have never encountered an "Austen" I didn't like (and since I've read all of them... NEVER!). All the novels accurately portray the realities of their day, the plotting and scheming for social or monetary advancement, the love triangles, and how true love can overcome all adversities even though life will always remain imperfect.

Austen was gifted with a keen observation of human nature and possessed a refined sense of the satirical, a master at setting off events with the clash of weak versus strong characters, and how all things will settle themselves for better or worse, depending on the choices each person makes. More so, Austen wasn't a radical, she wasn't suggesting that women burn their corsets and hold out for a better deal. She was just describing life as she saw it, with frankness and humor that can be rare in the genre nowadays. She knew that relations between men and women could be complicated, messy, and frustrating-- and that's just the way she liked it.

Her books are modest and witty, courageous and beautiful and who can resist the charm and simple sincerity of characters like Mr. Darcy? I believe the books are still relevant in today’s society. We can still very much relate to her stories. To say that I am a fan of Jane Austen is an understatement, I am over the moon for her!