Becoming Jane Austen

Written in the epistolary format, 'Lady Susan' revolves around the character of Lady Susan Vernon, a recent widow known for her beauty, charm, and manipulative nature. The story unfolds through a series of letters, detailing Lady Susan's attempts to marry off her daughter Frederica to a wealthy but insipid man, Sir James Martin, while she herself pursues various romantic and financial interests. The novel explores themes of deception, societal norms, and the complexities of relationships, all set against the backdrop of late 18th-century English society. Despite her scandalous reputation, Lady Susan's charm and wit temporarily deceive those around her, including her brother-in-law's younger brother, Reginald De Courcy, until her true character is eventually revealed.

The novel follows Fanny Price, a young girl from a poor family who is sent to live with her wealthy uncle and aunt, Sir Thomas and Lady Bertram, at Mansfield Park. Fanny navigates the complexities of her new environment, dealing with the mistreatment by some family members and the kindness of her cousin Edmund. The story unfolds with the arrival of the charming but morally dubious Crawfords, leading to a series of scandals and moral dilemmas. Ultimately, Fanny's integrity and compassion guide her through the challenges, and she finds love and a sense of belonging with Edmund.