Downloads and Free Reading Options

1Emma

By Jane Austen

Sherry reads Jane Austen’s sparkling comedy of manners with wit and vivacity, and brings the characters to life. Mr. Woodhouse worries and frets, Miss Bates chatters on, and Emma blithely manipulates and misunderstands her friends and family until she finally learns her lesson! (Summary by Kara)

2Northanger Abbey

By Jane Austen

Northanger Abbey is a hilarious parody of 18th century gothic novels. The heroine, 17-year old Catherine, has been reading far too many “horrid” gothic novels and would love to encounter some gothic-style terror — but the superficial world of Bath proves hazardous enough. (Summary by Kara)

3Pride and Prejudice

By Jane Austen

<em>Pride and Prejudice</em> is the most famous of Jane Austen’s novels, and its opening is one of the most famous lines in English literature - “It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.” Its manuscript was first written between 1796 and 1797, and was initially called <em>First Impressions</em>, but was never published under that title. Following revisions it was published on 28 January 1813 by the same Mr. Egerton of the Military Library, Whitehall, who had brought out <em>Sense and Sensibility</em>. Like both its predecessor and <em>Northanger Abbey</em>, it was written at Steventon Rectory.<br />(Summary from Wikipedia)

4Pride and Prejudice (version 2)

By Jane Austen

Jane Austen’s classic novel chronicles the events in the lives of the Bennet family. Take a family with five unmarried daughters and a lack of wealth, throw in a new wealthy neighbor or two, plus a whole regiment of soldiers in town, and add a heaping spoonful of pride and a pinch of prejudice. Mix it all together and you get a story full of tears and laughter, embarrassment and pride, and, of course, love. (Summary by Annie Coleman)

5Mansfield Park

By Jane Austen

Mansfield Park features Austen’s frailest and perhaps most scrupulous heroine, Fannie Price. As the eldest daughter in a poor family, Fannie is sent to rich relatives when she’s just old enough to fully appreciate the shame of her circumstances. Without pride or prejudice, Fanny sticks to principles in all matters. And matters certainly put her to the test. (Summary by Anita)

6Lady Susan (version 2)

By Jane Austen

Jane Austen demonstrated her mastery of the epistolary novel genre in Lady Susan, which she wrote in 1795 but never published. Although the primary focus of this short novel is the selfish behavior of Lady Susan as she engages in affairs and searches for suitable husbands for herself and her young daughter, the actual action shares its importance with Austen’s manipulation of her characters' behavior by means of their reactions to the letters that they receive. The heroine adds additional interest by altering the tone of her own letters based on the recipient of the letter. Thus, the character of Lady Susan is developed through many branches as Austen suggests complications of identity and the way in which that identity is based on interaction rather than on solitary constructions of personality. (Summary from Wikipedia)

7Sense and Sensibility

By Jane Austen

The two eldest Dashwood sisters, Elinor and Marianne, one of whom (Elinor) embraces practicality and restraint while the other (Marianne) gives her whole heart to every endeavor. When the Dashwoods - mother Mrs. Dashwood, Elinor, Marianne, and youngest sister Margaret - are sent, almost impoverished, to a small cottage in Devonshire after the death of their father and the machinations of their brother's wife, they accept their new circumstances with as much cheer as they can muster even though their brother and his wife have taken over the family estate and fortune. Marianne finds herself falling in love with the dashing Willoughby, who ends up being not all that he appears. Elinor, the more sensible of the two, falls for Edward Ferrars, a match that seems much more suitable. All of these pleasant connections are, however, soon disrupted. Willoughby leaves and ignores Marianne. Elinor finds out an unexpected secret about Ferrars that puts her on her caution in pursuing their relationship. As these complications develop, Marianne soon finds herself distraught despite having attracted another suitor, the reliable, but older, Colonel Brandon. Elinor steps into the breach to try to help her sister regain her equilibrium. Both learn what a broken heart can feel like and adjust in their own separate ways. Since this is an Austen novel and a romance, be assured that all comes right in the end. (Summary by Michelle Crandall)

8Lady Susan

By Jane Austen

Jane Austen demonstrated her mastery of the epistolary novel genre in <em>Lady Susan</em>, which she wrote in 1795 but never published. <br /><br />Although the primary focus of this short novel is the selfish behavior of Lady Susan as she engages in affairs and searches for suitable husbands for herself and her young daughter, the actual action shares its importance with Austen’s manipulation of her characters' behavior by means of their reactions to the letters that they receive. <br /><br />The heroine adds additional interest by altering the tone of her own letters based on the recipient of the letter. Thus, the character of Lady Susan is developed through many branches as Austen suggests complications of identity and the way in which that identity is based on interaction rather than on solitary constructions of personality. Lady Susan’s character is also built by the descriptions of the other letter-writers; but even though their opinions of this heroine coincide with the image that develops from her own letters, Austen demonstrates the subjectivity of the opinions by presenting them – primarily – in the letters of one woman to another, thereby suggesting the established literary motifs of feminine gossip and jealousy. Readers recognize these subjective motifs and examine all of the idiosyncrasies of the characters in order to create their own opinion of Lady Susan – as they would of any real acquaintance. (Summary from Wikipedia)<br /><br /> <strong>Cast:</strong><br /> Lady Susan Vernon – <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/28">Kristin Hughes</a></a><br /> Mrs. Vernon – <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/237">rachelellen</a><br /> Mr. De Courcy – <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/1611">Patrick Beverley</a><br /> Mrs. Johnson – <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/56">Kirsten Ferreri</a><br /> Sir Reginald De Courcy – <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/827">Simon Taylor</a><br /> Lady De Courcy – <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/20">Gesine</a><br /> Miss Vernon – <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/19">Kara Shallenberg</a><br /> Narrator of the Conclusion – <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/770">Justin Barrett</a><br /> Intros/outros – <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/1535">Robert Scott</a>

9Persuasion

By Jane Austen

Anne Elliott, Jane Austen's only aging heroine, has devoted her life to caring for her financially irresponsible family. Just when she is growing content with her uneventful lifestyle, a long-lost flame re-enters the picture -- now as the beau of her significantly younger cousin. Anne is now faced with a choice: will she watch Captain Wentworth settle into life with another woman, or will she strive to win back his love and escape her family? (Summary by Kirsten Ferreri)

10Pride and Prejudice (version 5)

By Jane Austen

Pride and Prejudice, first published on 28 January 1813, is the most famous of Jane Austen's novels. It is one of the first romantic comedies in the history of the novel and its opening is one of the most famous lines in English literature —"It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife." [From Wikipedia]<br><br>Co-BC - Micah Sheppard<br>Cataloging - David Lawrence

11Love and Freindship

By Jane Austen

<i>Love and Freindship</i> [sic] is a juvenile story by Jane Austen, dated 1790, when Austen was 14 years old. <i>Love and Freindship</i> (the misspelling is one of many in the story) is clearly a parody of romantic novels Austen read as a child. This is clear even from the subtitle, "Deceived in Freindship and Betrayed in Love," which neatly undercuts the title.<br /><br />Written in epistolary form, it resembles a fairy tale as much as anything else, featuring wild coincidences and turns of fortune, but Austen is determined to lampoon the conventions of romantic stories, right down to the utter failure of romantic fainting spells, which always turn out dreadfully for the female characters.<br /><br />In this story one can see the development of Austen's sharp wit and disdain for romantic sensibility, so characteristic of her later novels.<br /><br />Summary revised from Wikipedia by Cori Samuel. Music from Schubert's <i>Fantasy in C Major</i>, at <a href="http://www.musopen.com/view.php?type=piece&id=141">musopen.org</a>.

12Pride and Prejudice (version 3)

By Jane Austen

Pride and Prejudice is the most famous of Jane Austen’s novels, and its opening is one of the most famous lines in English literature - “It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.” Its manuscript was first written between 1796 and 1797, and was initially called First Impressions, but was never published under that title. Following revisions it was published on 28 January 1813 by the same Mr. Egerton of the Military Library, Whitehall, who had brought out Sense and Sensibility. Like both its predecessor and Northanger Abbey, it was written at Steventon Rectory. (Summary from Wikipedia)

13Persuasion (version 2)

By Jane Austen

Eight years ago, Anne Elliot fell in love with a poor but ambitious young naval officer, Frederick Wentworth. The Elliots were dissatisfied with Anne's choice, feeling he was not distinguished enough for their family, and her older friend and mentor, Lady Russell, acting in place of Anne's deceased mother, persuaded her to break off the match. Now 27 and considered a spinster, Anne re-encounters her former fiance, now a captain, as he courts her spirited young neighbour, Louisa Musgrove. The self-interested machinations of Anne's older sister Elizabeth, of Elizabeth's friend Mrs. Clay, and of Anne's father's heir, William Elliot, constitute an important subplot. (Summary from Wikipedia).

14Sense and Sensibility (version 2)

By Jane Austen

This is a story of the English moneyed class and its eternal struggle for creating “sense and sensibility” in its world. A potential marriage prospect must make “sense” by bringing with it enough assets and income to permit the couple to continue to live in happy, idle leisure, complete with servants and a prestigious address. Provided one can find such a match among the eligible persons of the opposite sex, one then hopes for “sensibility”, or capacity for emotion, so that if love is not immediately to hand, it might come around later. And while these gentlemen and ladies make their hopeful pirouettes in the social eye, they must of course adhere to all the forms of civility.<br><br> Jane Austen writes of the family of a gentleman named Dashwood who dies and leaves most of his fortune to his son, with the understanding that he will “look out for” his mother and three sisters. When that son marries a grasping woman who convinces him that his sisters’ funds are suitable to their needs and so require no contributions from his inherited fortune, the sisters are left to play the game of “Sense and Sensibility” in earnest. <br><br> But all’s not fair in love. Carefully prepared “attachments” can and do go awry when gentlemen find other young women of greater fortunes than the Dashwood sisters. So, will they marry for love? Or money? Or perhaps, not at all? (Summary by Mark F. Smith)

15Northanger Abbey (version 2)

By Jane Austen

Northanger Abbey follows Catherine Morland and family friends Mr. and Mrs. Allen as they visit Bath, England. Seventeen year-old Catherine spends her time visiting newly-made friends, such as Isabella Thorpe, and going to balls. Catherine finds herself pursued by Isabella's brother John Thorpe (Catherine's brother James's friend from university), and by Henry Tilney. She also becomes friends with Eleanor Tilney, Henry's younger sister. Henry captivates her with his view on novels and his knowledge of history and the world. General Tilney (Henry and Eleanor's father) invites Catherine to visit their estate, Northanger Abbey, which, because she has been reading Ann Radcliffe's gothic novel The Mysteries of Udolpho, Catherine expects to be dark, ancient and full of fantastical mystery. (Summary by Wikipedia)

16Emma (version 2)

By Jane Austen

Emma is a comic novel by Jane Austen, first published in 1816, about the perils of misconstrued romance. The main character, Emma Woodhouse, is described in the opening paragraph as "handsome, clever, and rich" but is also rather spoiled. Prior to starting the novel, Austen wrote, "I am going to take a heroine whom no-one but myself will much like." (Summary by Wikipedia)

17Persuasion (version 3)

By Jane Austen

"All the privilege I claim for my own sex ... is that of loving longest, when existence or when hope is gone." In persuasion, her last novel, Austen explores the theme of postponed but enduring love, delayed by class boundaries and excessive pride. Anne Elliot, the story's aged (27 year old) heroine, suffers from a decision that was forced upon her several years ago—to break off a relationship with Capn. Frederick Wentworth, the man she deeply loved. As Austen examines the causes and consequences of this action, she sketches for us the social complexities of being part of the upper-middle-class in England at the beginning of the nineteenth century. (Summary by Moira Fogarty)

18Emma (version 4)

By Jane Austen

<em>Emma</em>, by Jane Austen, is a novel about youthful hubris and the perils of misconstrued romance. As in her other novels, Austen explores the concerns and difficulties of genteel women living in Georgian-Regency England; she also creates a lively comedy of manners.<br /><br />Before she began the novel, Austen wrote, "I am going to take a heroine whom no one but myself will much like." In the very first sentence she introduces the title character as "Emma Woodhouse, handsome, clever, and rich." Emma, however, is also spoiled, headstrong, and self-satisfied; she greatly overestimates her own matchmaking abilities; she is blind to the dangers of meddling in other people's lives, and her imagination often leads her astray. (Summary by Wikipedia and Kara)

19Emma (version 5)

By Jane Austen

A cautionary tale about the evils of interference, matchmaking and good intentions turned awry, Emma is the study of a young woman raised without sufficient discipline or occupation. Handsome, clever and rich, Emma is the epitome of what a young woman should be in Regency England, except for the fact that her indulgent father and lack of a mother have left her spoiled and used to getting her own way. Emma's only true critic and voice of reason is Mr. Knightley, a gentleman whose opinion she values greatly. She delights in meddling in the romantic affairs of everyone around her, thinking celibacy is a privilege she alone can enjoy by virtue of her social standing. In the end, Emma is forced to acknowledge both her own lack of insight into the motives of others, and admit her need for a companion who can challenge her to become a better woman. (Summary by Moira Fogarty)

20Sense and Sensibility (version 3)

By Jane Austen

Sense and Sensibility, Jane Austen's first published novel, focuses on the lives and loves of two sisters, Elinor and Marianne Dashwood. The sensible Elinor and the sensitive Marianne both fall for men whose affections are otherwise engaged. The novel includes a wonderful cast of colorful supporting characters, as well as Austen's trademark dry wit and ironic narration. (Summary by Elizabeth Klett)

This fragment of a novel was written by Jane Austen in 1804 and remained untitled and unpublished until her nephew James Edward Austen-Leigh printed it in his <a href="http://librivox.org/memoir-of-jane-austen-by-james-austen-leigh/">A Memoir of Jane Austen</a> in 1871. The title is from him. <br /> <br />Mr Watson is a widowed clergyman with two sons and four daughters. The youngest daughter, Emma, has been brought up by a wealthy aunt and is consequently better educated and more refined than her sisters. But when her aunt contracts a foolish second marriage, Emma is obliged to return to her father's house. There she is chagrined by the crude and reckless husband-hunting of two of her twenty-something sisters. <br />(Summary from Gesine and Wikipedia)

22Persuasion (version 4)

By Jane Austen

Several years before the events of the novel, Anne Elliott fell in love with a young and handsome but poor naval officer. She was persuaded by her friends and family to refuse him when he asked her to marry him. Now she meets him again...

23Persuasion (version 5)

By Jane Austen

Persuasion is a regency Cinderella-esque tale of a young woman, the beautiful Anne Elliot, who is persuaded from marrying the Naval officer of her heart. It is now almost nine years since she rejected him. Bonaparte has abdicated and England's sailors return home covered in glory. Fredrick Wentworth is now a rich and highly eligible sea captain and the two are curiously thrown together. Will their forgotten affection blossom anew? Or has the captain found another? (Summary by rlowalrus)

24Mansfield Park (dramatic reading)

By Jane Austen

Mansfield Park is Jane Austen's 1814 novel focusing on Fanny Price, the daughter of a poor Portsmouth family, who is taken to live with her aunt and uncle Bertram's family on their estate at the age of ten. Surrounded by her wealthy and privileged cousins, and continually reminded of her lower status by her bullying Aunt Norris, Fanny grows up timid and shy, but with a strong sense of ethics, partly instilled by her kindly cousin Edmund. Fanny's gratitude and friendship for Edmund gradually grow into love, but the introduction of Mary and Henry Crawford, a captivating sister and brother, into the neighborhood of Mansfield Park, confuses and complicates the affections of the Bertram household. In this recording, LibriVox volunteers lend their voices to the colorful cast of characters in Austen's classic novel. (Summary by Elizabeth Klett)<br><br><strong>Cast</strong>:<br>Narrator/Mary Crawford: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/1259">Elizabeth Klett</a><br>Mrs. Norris: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6281">Beth Thomas</a><br>Lady Bertram: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/5649">hazelra</a><br>Sir Thomas Bertram: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/3699">Bruce Pirie</a><br>Edmund Bertram: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/1492">mb</a><br>Fanny Price: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/3536">Arielle Lipshaw</a><br>Julia Bertram: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/5269">Elizabeth Barr</a><br>Maria Bertram: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6240">Tina Danh</a><br>Mrs. Grant: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6131">Malane</a><br>Henry Crawford: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6037">Peter Bishop</a><br>Tom Bertram: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6035">Marty Kris</a><br>Mr. Rushworth: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/4705">Algy Pug</a><br>Dr. Grant: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/2825">Ernst Pattynama</a><br>Coachman/Baddeley/Mr. Price/Sam: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6035">Marty Kris</a><br>Mrs. Rushworth: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/2297">Philippa</a><br>John Yates: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6333">Max Korlinge</a><br>William Price: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/4535">Brett W. Downey</a><br>Rebecca: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/4009">Diana Majlinger</a><br>Mrs. Price: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6215">Janet248</a><br>Susan Price: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/5265">Susanna</a><br><br>Audio edited by Elizabeth Klett

25Emma (version 3)

By Jane Austen

Jane Austen famously described Emma Woodhouse, the title character of her 1815 novel, as "a heroine whom no-one but myself will much like." Yet generations of readers have loved Emma, as much for her blunders as for her wit and vivacity. Emma, "handsome, clever, and rich," has nothing else to do but try to pair off her friends, and she consistently mis-reads the relationships and situations around her as much as she mis-reads her own heart. The novel features a wonderful cast of characters, including Emma's hypochondriac father, the odiously prideful Mrs. Elton, the mysterious and reserved Jane Fairfax, and Miss Bates, who never stops talking. (Summary by Elizabeth Klett).

26Gevoel en Verstand

By Jane Austen

Nederlandse vertaling (uit 1922) van "Sense and Sensibility" door Gonne Loman-van Uildriks (1863-1921). Dit is Jane Austen's eerste gepubliceerde roman, over twee zussen, Elinor en Marianne Dashwood en hun geluk en verdriet in de liefde en alle verwikkelingen van dien - vol van Austen's gebruikelijke droge humor en ironische blik op de (toenmalige) maatschappij. <BR><BR>Proef-luisteraars: Marcel Coenders en Ans Wink.

27Pride and Prejudice (version 4)

By Jane Austen

Pride and Prejudice is Jane Austen's classic comic romance, in which the five Bennett sisters try to find that most elusive creature: a single man in possession of a large fortune. Sparks fly when sweet, pretty Jane meets their new neighbor, Mr. Bingley, but her sister Elizabeth is most offended by his haughty friend, Mr. Darcy. This is Austen at the height of her powers: the ironic narration, hilariously drawn supporting characters, and romantic suspense make this her most enduringly popular novel. (Summary by Elizabeth Klett)

28Sense and Sensibility (version 4)

By Jane Austen

When Mr Henry Dashwood dies, with his estate entailed to his son and grandson, his wife and three daughters are left in reduced circumstances. In their new home at Barton Cottage, the two older sisters, Elinor and Marianne, experience both romance and heartache. Will they find true love? (Introduction by Karen Savage)

29Jane Austen's Juvenilia

By Jane Austen

Before becoming the author of such classics as Sense and Sensibility, Pride and Prejudice, and Emma, Jane Austen experimented with various writing styles as a teenager in the early 1790s. This is a collection of her juvenilia, including the epistolary novels Love and Freindship, Lesley Castle, and Lady Susan, as well as her comic History of England and some shorter pieces. (Summary by Elizabeth Klett)

30Mansfield Park (version 2)

By Jane Austen

Miss Frances, the youngest Ward sister, "married, in the common phrase, to disoblige her family, and by fixing on a lieutenant of marines, without education, fortune, or connexions, did it very thoroughly. She could hardly have made a more untoward choice." Some years later, pregnant with her ninth child, Mrs. Price appeals to her family, namely to her eldest sister and her husband, Sir Thomas Bertram, for help with her over-large family. Sir Thomas provides assistance in helping his nephews into lines of work suitable to their education, and takes his eldest niece, Fanny Price, then ten years old, into his home to raise with his own children. It is Fanny's story we follow in Mansfield Park. (Summary by Karen Savage with text from Mansfield Park)

31Pride and Prejudice (version 6, dramatic reading)

By Jane Austen

Pride and Prejudice is a novel by Jane Austen, first published in 1813. The story follows the main character Elizabeth Bennet as she deals with issues of manners, upbringing, morality, education and marriage in the society of the landed gentry of early 19th-century England. Elizabeth is the second of five daughters of a country gentleman, living near the fictional town of Meryton in Hertfordshire, near London.<br /><br /> In this reading, Librivox volunteers lend their voices to dramatize Jane Austen's classic and well-loved novel. (Summary by Wikipedia and wildemoose)<br><br><strong>Cast:</strong><br>Mrs. Bennet: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6281">Beth Thomas</a><br>Mr. Bennet: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/152">Andy Minter</a><br>Jane Bennet: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/1259">Elizabeth Klett</a><br>Elizabeth Bennet: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/3536">Arielle Lipshaw</a><br>Mary Bennet: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6240">Tina Danh</a><br>Catherine "Kitty" Bennet: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/5890">GabrielleC</a><br>Lydia Bennet: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/5375">BumbleVee</a><br>Mr. Bingley: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/5719">John Fricker</a><br>Mr. Darcy: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6037">Peter Bishop</a><br>Charlotte Lucas: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/1066">Laurie Anne Walden</a><br>Young Mr. Lucas: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6281">Beth Thomas</a><br>Sir William Lucas: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6264">Robert Scheid</a><br>Miss Caroline Bingley: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6489">Liz Bennington</a><br>Mrs. Hurst: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/5269">Elizabeth Barr</a><br>Mr. Hurst: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/3664">Barry Eads</a><br>Mr. Collins: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/1492">mb</a><br>Mr. Wickham: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/4705">Algy Pug</a><br>Denny: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6246">David Richardson</a><br>Mrs. Gardiner: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/3157">TriciaG</a><br>Mr. Gardiner: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/2911">David Lawrence</a><br>Maria Lucas: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/4667">Maria Therese</a><br>Lady Catherine de Bourgh: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/2026">Mil Nichols</a><br>Colonel Fitzwilliam: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/4267">Ric F</a><br>Mrs. Reynolds: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/205">Esther</a><br>Mrs. Hill: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/3698">Nadine Eckert-Boulet</a><br>Butler: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/3664">Barry Eads</a><br>Mrs. Phillips: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/5949">debolee</a><br><br><strong>Narrator:</strong> <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/1166">Debra Lynn</a><br><br><strong>Audio edited by:</strong> Arielle Lipshaw

32Sense and Sensibility (version 5 dramatic reading)

By Jane Austen

The story is about Elinor and Marianne, two daughters of Mr Dashwood by his second wife. They have a younger sister, Margaret, and an older half-brother named John. When their father dies, the family estate passes to John, and the Dashwood women are left in reduced circumstances. The novel follows the Dashwood sisters to their new home, a cottage on a distant relative's property, where they experience both romance and heartbreak. The contrast between the sisters' characters is eventually resolved as they each find love and lasting happiness. Through the events in the novel, Elinor and Marianne encounter the sense and sensibility of life and love. In this dramatic reading, Librivox volunteers lend their voices to bring Jane Austen's classic story to life. (Summary by Wikipedia and wildemoose)<br><br><strong>Cast</strong>:<br>Narrator: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/3816">Bev J. Stevens</a><br>Fanny Dashwood: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/4174">Availle</a><br>John Dashwood: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6965">Noel Badrian</a><br>Elinor Dashwood: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6281">Beth Thomas</a><br>Marianne Dashwood: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/3536">Arielle Lipshaw</a><br>Mrs. Dashwood: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/3157">TriciaG</a><br>Edward Ferrars: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/2825">Ernst Pattynama</a><br>Sir John Middleton: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/4267">Ric F</a><br>Mr. Willoughby: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6333">Max Körlinge</a><br>Colonel Brandon: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/3912">Bob Neufeld</a><br>Margaret Dashwood: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6689">Tiffany Halla Colonna</a><br>Mrs. Jennings: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6914">Katalina Watt</a><br>Lady Middleton: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6173">Carol Box</a><br>Mrs. Palmer: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/5269">Elizabeth Barr</a><br>Mr. Palmer: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/4705">Algy Pug</a><br>Lucy Steele: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/1259">Elizabeth Klett</a><br>Anne Steele: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/3615">Lucy Perry</a><br>Servant/Thomas: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6754">ToddHW</a><br>Mrs. Ferrars: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6339">Michelle Remington</a><br>Robert Ferrars: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/2911">David Lawrence</a><br><br><strong>Audio edited by:</strong> Arielle Lipshaw

33Pride and Prejudice: A Play

By Jane Austen and Mary Keith Medbery Mackaye

Pride and Prejudice, a comedy of manners and marriage, is the most famous of Jane Austen's novels. In this dramatic adaption by Mary Keith Medbery Macakaye some liberties are taken with the storyline and characters, but it is still a fun listen or read. Perhaps a good introduction for someone not ready to tackle the complete novel ~ and for the reader familiar with the work, a laugh can be had at the changes that were made in order to adapt it to the stage (Summary by Maria Therese)<br><br><strong>Cast</strong>:<br>Mr. Darcy: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/4705">Algy Pug</a><br>Mr. Bingley: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/7040">Chris Marcellus</a><br>Colonel Fitzwilliam/Harris/Martin: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6754">ToddHW</a><br>Mr. Bennet: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/7247">Robert Hoffman</a> and <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/7786">Kevin W. Davidson</a><br>Mr. Collins: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6965">Noel Badrian</a><br>Sir William Lucas: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6930">Nolan Fout</a><br>Colonel Forster: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/5637">Anthony</a><br>Mr. Wickham: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/7079">Chuck Williamson</a><br>Mr. Denny: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/7010">VikingJames</a><br>Mrs. Bennet: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6548">Kristingj</a><br>Jane Bennet: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6689">Tiffany Halla Colonna</a><br>Elizabeth Bennet: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/1259">Elizabeth Klett</a><br>Lydia Bennet/Lady Lucas: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/1328">Duan</a><br>Charlotte Lucas: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6544">Amanda Friday</a><br>Miss Bingley: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/7171">April Gonzales</a><br>Lady Catherine De Bourg: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/7122">Nathanial W.C. Higgins</a><br>Hill (The Housekeeper at Longbourn): <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/7396">KerrieRae Clarke</a><br>Martha (The Maid at Mr. Collins's Parsonage): <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/4174">Availle</a><br>Narrator: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/7410">Lauren Burwell</a><br><br><strong>Audio edited by Maria Therese</strong> ,/p>

34Emma (version 7 Dramatic Reading)

By Jane Austen

Emma is a novel about youthful hubris and the perils of misconstrued romance....As in her other novels, Austen explores the concerns and difficulties of genteel women living in Georgian-Regency England; she also creates a lively comedy of manners among her characters. Before she began the novel, Austen wrote, "I am going to take a heroine whom no one but myself will much like." In the very first sentence she introduces the title character as "Emma Woodhouse, handsome, clever, and rich." Emma, however, is also rather spoiled, headstrong, and self-satisfied; she greatly overestimates her own matchmaking abilities; she is blind to the dangers of meddling in other people's lives, and her imagination and perceptions often lead her astray. (Summary by Wikipedia)<br><br><strong>Cast</strong>:<br>Narrator, Volume 1: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/3816">Bev J. Stevens</a><br>Narrator, Volumes 2 and 3: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/7138">CaprishaPage</a><br>Mr. Henry Woodhouse: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/7247">Robert Hoffman</a><br>Emma Woodhouse: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6544">Amanda Friday</a><br>Mr. George Knightley: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/3470">Jason Mills</a><br>Harriet Smith: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/7131">Eden Rea-Hedrick</a><br>Mrs. Anne Weston: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6689">Tiffany Halla Colonna</a><br>Mr. Philip Elton: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/7040">Chris Marcellus</a><br>Mr. John Knightley: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6965">Noel Badrian</a><br>Mrs. Isabella Knightley: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/7138">CaprishaPage</a><br>Mr. Weston: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/4705">Algy Pug</a><br>Miss Bates: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/3536">Arielle Lipshaw</a><br>Mrs. Bates: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/7396">KerrieRae Clarke</a><br>Jane Fairfax: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/7171">April Gonzales</a><br>Frank Churchill: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6333">Max Körlinge</a><br>Mrs. Augusta Elton: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6947">Grace</a><br>Mrs. Cole: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/6907">Carmen H</a><br>Mrs. Isabella Knightley: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/7138">CaprishaPage</a><br>Mrs. Ford: <a href="http://librivox.org/reader/1259">Elizabeth Klett</a><br><br>Audio edited by Amanda Friday, Phil Chenevert, David Lawrence, Chuck Williamson, bala, CaprishaPage, Charlotte Duckett

35Emma (Version 6)

By Jane Austen

Emma, by Jane Austen, is a novel about youthful hubris and the perils of misconstrued romance. As in her other novels, Austen explores the concerns and difficulties of genteel women living in Georgian-Regency England; she also creates a lively comedy of manners among her characters.<br><br>Before she began the novel, Austen wrote, "I am going to take a heroine whom no one but myself will much like." In the very first sentence she introduces the title character as "Emma Woodhouse, handsome, clever, and rich." Emma, however, is also rather spoiled, headstrong, and self-satisfied; she greatly overestimates her own matchmaking abilities; she is blind to the dangers of meddling in other people's lives, and her imagination and perceptions often lead her astray. (Adapted from Wikipedia)

36Letters of Jane Austen

By Jane Austen

This recording includes a selection of Jane Austen's letters, edited by Susan Coolidge and chosen from the collection of Austen's great-nephew, Edward, Lord Brabourne. The letters are mostly addressed to Austen's sister Cassandra, with whom she was very close. There are also some letters written to two of her nieces, Anna Austen Lefroy and Fanny Knight. They include some references to her published work, including Sense and Sensibility (abbreviated "S and S"), Pride and Prejudice (also called First Impressions, or P and P), Mansfield Park ("MP") and Emma. They are also replete with details about her family life, including the extended families and careers of her brothers, James, Edward, Frank, Henry, and Charles. (Summary by Elizabeth Klett)

37Persuasion (version 6 dramatic reading)

By Jane Austen

More than eight years before the novel opens, Anne Elliot, then a lovely, thoughtful, warm-hearted 19 year old, accepted a proposal of marriage from the handsome young naval officer Frederick Wentworth. He was clever, confident, and ambitious, but poor and with no particular family connections to recommend him. Sir Walter, Anne's fatuous, snobbish father and her equally self-involved older sister Elizabeth were dissatisfied with her choice, maintaining that he was no match for an Elliot of Kellynch Hall, the family estate. Her older friend and mentor, Lady Russell, acting in place of Anne's late mother, persuaded her to break the engagement. Now 27 and still unmarried, Anne re-encounters her former love when his sister and brother-in-law, the Crofts, take out a lease on Kellynch. Wentworth is now a captain and wealthy from maritime victories in the Napoleonic wars. However, he has not forgiven Anne for rejecting him. While publicly declaring that he is ready to marry any suitable young woman who catches his fancy, he privately resolves that he is ready to become attached to any appealing young woman except for Anne Elliot. (Summary by Wikipedia)<br><br><b>Cast List</b><br>Narrator: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/3912">Bob Neufeld</a><br>Sir Walter Elliot: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/4705">Algy Pug</a><br>Lady Russell: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/7679">Libby Gohn</a><br>Mr. Shepherd / Mr. Musgrove: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/6754">ToddHW</a><br>Mrs. Clay: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/7026">Michele Eaton</a><br>Sir Basil: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/8435">Richard Friday</a><br>Anne Elliot: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/5269">Elizabeth Barr</a><br>Mary Musgrove: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/6544">Amanda Friday</a><br>Elizabeth Elliot: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/7131">Eden Rea-Hedrick</a><br>Mrs. Musgrove: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/8051">Maria Kasper</a><br>Charles Musgrove: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/3470">Jason Mills</a><br>Henrietta Musgrove: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/3157">TriciaG</a><br>Louisa Musgrove: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/7315">Charlotte Duckett</a><br>Captain Frederick Wentworth: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/6333">Max Körlinge</a><br>Mrs. Croft: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/8009">Frances Brown</a><br>Admiral Croft: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/8425">Larry Wilson</a><br>Charles Hayter: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/4570">Bill Mosley</a><br>Innkeeper / Sir William Elliot: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/6281">Beth Thomas</a><br>Waiter / First Lady: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/1259">Elizabeth Klett</a><br>Captain Harville: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/1492">mb</a><br>Mrs. Harville: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/8012">WoollyBee</a><br>Lady Dalrymple: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/6914">Katalina Watt</a><br>Mrs. Smith: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/7839">Loveday</a><br>Second Lady: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/6548">Kristin Gjerløw</a><br>Third Lady: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/7766">Maryanka</a><br><br>Edited by Michele Eaton

38Northanger Abbey (version 3 Dramatic Reading)

By Jane Austen

Northanger Abbey follows seventeen-year-old Gothic novel aficionado Catherine Morland and family friends Mr. and Mrs. Allen as they visit Bath. It is Catherine's first visit there. She meets new friends, such as Isabella Thorpe, and goes to balls. Catherine finds herself pursued by Isabella's brother, the rough-mannered, slovenly John Thorpe, and by her real love interest, Henry Tilney. She also becomes friends with Eleanor Tilney, Henry's younger sister. Henry captivates her with his view on novels and his knowledge of history and the world. General Tilney (Henry and Eleanor's father) invites Catherine to visit their estate, Northanger Abbey, which, from her reading of Ann Radcliffe's Gothic novel The Mysteries of Udolpho, she expects to be dark, ancient and full of Gothic horrors and fantastical mystery. - Summary by Wikipedia <br><br> Narrators: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/7800">Arie</a> and <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/1259">Elizabeth Klett</a><br>Catherine Morland: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/8012">Woolly Bee</a><br>Henry Tilney: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/3470">Jason Mills</a><br>Isabella Thorpe: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/6281">Beth Thomas</a><br>Mrs. Allen: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/7026">Michele Eaton</a><br>Eleanor Tilney: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/6544">Amanda Friday</a><br>General Tilney: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/4705">Algy Pug</a><br>John Thorpe: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/6097">Phil Benson</a><br>James Morland: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/8582">BeniaminoMassimo</a><br>Mrs. Morland: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/7730">Fiddlesticks</a><br>Mr. Allen: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/8532">Norman Elfer</a><br>Mrs. Thorpe: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/9155">Natalie Paula</a><br>Mr. Morland: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/9179">inflected</a><br>Footman: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/8862">Glenn O'Brien</a><br>Captain Tilney: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/9311">Ivory Ballard</a><br>Sarah Morland: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/8009">Frances Brown</a><br>Mrs. Hughes: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/7925">Etel Buss</a><br>Anne Thorpe: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/6319">thestorygirl</a><br>Maria Thorpe: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/8883">Lydia</a><br> <br> <b>Audio edited by:</b> Elizabeth Barr and Elizabeth Klett

This book draws together some of Jane Austen's earliest literary efforts. It includes "Love & Freindship" and "Lesley Castle" both told through the medium of letters written by the characters. It also contains her wonderful "History of England" and a "Collection of Letters" and lastly a chapter containing "Scraps".<br /><br /> In these offerings, we may see the beginnings of Miss Austen's literary style. We may also discern traces of characters that we encounter in her later works. G. K. Chesterton in his preface, for example, says of a passage in Love and Freindship; "... is there not the foreshadowing of another and more famous father; and do we not hear for a moment, in the rustic cottage by the Uske, the unmistakable voice of Mr. Bennet?" These works are certainly worth exploring for their own sakes and not simply as historical relics. - Summary by Noel Badrian

40Northanger Abbey (version 4)

By Jane Austen

If it is a truth universally acknowledged that a good-looking girl cannot fail of attracting a clever young man does it follow that the reverse is also true? If the man comes of a terrifyingly dysfunctional family and the girl in question likes to see spooks and horrors round every corner, yes. Morland by name, Lackland by nature, Catherine, not altogether addicted to the heroine role in general, finds this greatness thrust upon her in the (fortunately, principally financial) fantasies of her would-be inamorato's father, the General. When the General finds she is the artless, simple girl that she appears and not the creature of his frankly heartless imaginings of her, he thrusts her - but I leave the event to your fevered, no doubt Gothick, even, imagination to determine<br /><br /> A deliberate parody of the horrific strand in popular culture, as Jane Austen no doubt herself would observe if she could see the burgeoning cult of the Undead in Unliterary culture - It is as if Northanger Abbey had never been written! Hear it and laugh. - Summary by Tony Addison

Emma, "belle, intelligente et riche" a une fâcheuse tendance a vouloir marier les autres. Ce qu'elle va d'abord faire pour sa sœur, puis sa gouvernante, miss Taylor. Mais la voilà seule, avec son père âgé, veuf et très craintif, voir hypocondriaque. Son ami, M. Knightley essaie de la raisonner en l'empêchant d'avoir cette manie de marier ses proches. Pourtant, ses plans semblent relativement bien fonctionner. Qui sera donc sa prochaine protégée ? Et elle, songera-t-elle à se marier un jour ? - Summary by Laurette

Una de las novelas famosas de Jane Austen. - Summary by kathrinee

Anne Elliot, a young Englishwoman of 27 years, whose family is moving to get out of debt, rents their home to an Admiral. The brother of the Admiral's wife, Captain Frederick Wentworth, had been engaged to Anne years earlier and now they meet again. Both are still single and unattached. This sets the scene for a second chance at love for the two of them.

Orgullo y prejuicio (en inglés, Pride and Prejudice), publicada por primera vez el 28 de enero de 1813 como una obra anónima, es la más famosa de las novelas de Jane Austen y una de las primeras comedias románticas en la historia de la novela. Su primera frase es, además, una de las más famosas en la literatura inglesa: «Es una verdad mundialmente reconocida que un hombre soltero, poseedor de una gran fortuna, necesita una esposa». Es una novela de desarrollo personal, en la que las dos figuras principales, Elizabeth Bennet y Fitzwilliam Darcy, cada uno a su manera y, no obstante, de forma muy parecida, deben madurar para superar algunas crisis y aprender de sus errores para poder encarar el futuro en común, superando el orgullo de clase de Darcy y los prejuicios de Elizabeth hacia él. Summary by Phileas Fogg.

Orgullo y prejuicio (en inglés, Pride and Prejudice), publicada por primera vez el 28 de enero de 1813 como una obra anónima, es la más famosa de las novelas de Jane Austen y una de las primeras comedias románticas en la historia de la novela. Su primera frase es, además, una de las más famosas en la literatura inglesa: «Es una verdad mundialmente reconocida que un hombre soltero, poseedor de una gran fortuna, necesita una esposa». Es una novela de desarrollo personal, en la que las dos figuras principales, Elizabeth Bennet y Fitzwilliam Darcy, cada uno a su manera y, no obstante, de forma muy parecida, deben madurar para superar algunas crisis y aprender de sus errores para poder encarar el futuro en común, superando el orgullo de clase de Darcy y los prejuicios de Elizabeth hacia él - Summary by Phileas Fogg

46Lesley Castle (Dramatic Reading)

By Jane Austen

Lesley Castle is a melodramatic epistolary novelette written by Jane Austen when she was sixteen years old. Although the novels Austen became known for were not published until she was in her thirties, she was an active writer from the age of twelve, frequently composing epistolary works such as Lesley Castle. Austen eventually compiled 29 of her early writings in three notebooks that became known as the Juvenilia and that she called “Volume the First”, “Volume the Second”, and “Volume the Third”, including Lesley Castle in “Volume the Second”.<br> Lesley Castle is set contemporaneously to Austen’s writing and consists of a series of ten letters by five characters, all of whom are women of high society living in Great Britain. In this short work, Austen employs a mock serious tone to humorously critique her peers on subjects such as self-absorption and jealousy. Austen acknowledged in a prefatory note that she left Lesley Castle unfinished; it includes several interconnected storylines, but no overarching plot or clear conclusion. - Summary by David Purdy <br><br> Jane Austen: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/15644">Michelle Purdy</a><br>Henry Thomas Austen: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/16463">Jake Malizia</a><br>Margaret Lesley: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/7026">Michele Eaton</a><br>Charlotte Lutterell: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/13852">Kelly S. Taylor</a><br>Susan Lesley: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/14210">Magda Wilde</a><br>Eloisa Lutterell: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/14470">Amatullah Talks</a><br>Mrs. Marlowe: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/15580">Joanna Michal Hoyt</a><br>William Fitzgerald: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/10542">David Purdy</a><br>Mr. Lesley: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/10789">Tomas Peter</a><br>Narrator: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/16372">WillForbis</a><br>

47Collection of Letters (Dramatic Reading)

By Jane Austen

A Collection of Letters is an epistolary short story collection written by Jane Austen when she was fourteen years old. Although the novels Austen became known for were not published until she was in her thirties, she was an active writer from the age of twelve, frequently composing epistolary works such as A Collection of Letters. Austen eventually compiled 29 of her early writings in three notebooks that became known as the Juvenilia and that she called “Volume the First”, “Volume the Second”, and “Volume the Third”, including A Collection of Letters in “Volume the Second”.<br><br> A Collection of Letters is set contemporaneously to Austen’s writing and consists of a series of five letters, each written by a woman of high society living in Great Britain. Unlike Austen’s later epistolary works, A Collection of Letters is not a novelette; each of these five letters tells a self-contained story, with no characters appearing in multiple letters. Nonetheless, the collection is unified in its lighthearted, humorous tone. Austen dedicated A Collection of Letters to her cousin Jane Cooper, who married famed Royal Navy officer Thomas Williams two years later and who died in a horse accident before the end of that decade; Williams went on to marry again twice, reputedly because his first marriage was so happy. Ironically, there are multiple parallels between Cooper’s later life and the second letter of this collection. - Summary by David Purdy <br><br> Cast List: <br> Jane Austen: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/7026">Michele Eaton</a><br>A. F.: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/15373">WendyKatzHiller</a><br>Augusta: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/16999">Krista Zaleski</a><br>Sophia: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/13140">Jenn Broda</a><br>Miss Jane: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/13661">Lynette Caulkins</a><br>Maria Williams: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/13904">Hannah Dormor</a><br>Mrs Williams: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/16484">Therese Lindholm</a><br>Lady Greville: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/16957">Dawn Sutton</a><br>Ellen Greville: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/16913">Kaye Burke</a><br>Impertinent young lady: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/11790">TJ Burns</a><br>Miss Grenville: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/3776">Bethany Baldwin</a><br>Henrietta Halton: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/15644">Michelle Purdy</a><br>Tom Musgrove: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/10542">David Purdy</a><br>Lady Scudamore: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/16152">Anna Maria</a><br>Narrator: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/16205">James R. Hedrick</a><br>

48Love and Freindship (Dramatic Reading)

By Jane Austen

Love and Freindship [sic] is a melodramatic epistolary novelette written by Jane Austen when she was fourteen years old. Although the novels Austen became known for were not published until she was in her thirties, she was an active writer from the age of twelve, frequently composing epistolary works such as Love and Freindship. Austen eventually compiled 29 of her early writings in three notebooks that became known as the Juvenilia and that she called “Volume the First”, “Volume the Second”, and “Volume the Third”, including Love and Freindship in “Volume the Second”. Love and Freindship is set contemporaneously to Austen’s writing and consists of a series of fifteen letters, most of which are written from the perspective of the protagonist, Laura, who recounts her extraordinary personal history to her friend Isabel’s daughter. The novel satirizes sentimental novels, which were a popular genre at the time. Austen’s early works are frequently published with the original spelling errors unaltered, a practice that is particularly conspicuous in the case of Love and Freindship because of the spelling error in the title. Austen dedicated this novelette to her cousin Eliza de Feuillide, who is believed by literary critics to have inspired multiple characters in Austen’s writings, including the titular character in the novel Lady Susan. In 2016, Lady Susan was adapted into a film that borrowed the title Love & Friendship, albeit with the spelling corrected. - Summary by David Purdy <BR><BR>Cast List:<BR><BR> Laura: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/17841">Irene Rubio</a><br> Sophia: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/11084">Devorah Allen</a><br> Edward Lindsay: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/8425">Larry Wilson</a><br> Isabel: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/17928">rosefiasco</a><br> Augusta: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/13140">Jenn Broda</a><br> Gustavus: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/10789">Tomas Peter</a><br> Polydore: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/10542">David Purdy</a><br> Claudia: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/15644">Michelle Purdy</a><br> Sir Edward: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/13577">Adrian Stephens</a><br> Augustus: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/17752">redrun</a><br> Philippa: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/18293">Norah Nelson</a><br> Lord St. Clair: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/4705">Algy Pug</a><br> Janetta: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/17923">deaspoke</a><br> MacDonald: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/6754">ToddHW</a><br> Servant: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/8011">Greg Giordano</a><br> Postilion: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/11395">Rich Brown</a><br> Innkeeper: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/15042">John Payton</a><br> Narrator: <a href="https://librivox.org/reader/16205">James R. Hedrick</a><br>

49Watsons (Dramatic Reading)

By Jane Austen and L. Oulton

The Watsons is one of two novels that Jane Austen left unfinished at her death in 1817. The premise of The Watsons was known to Austen’s family, and her niece Catherine Hubback wrote a novel using this premise entitled The Younger Sister that was published in 1850, albeit with considerable differences from the novel fragment Austen left behind. In 1871, Austen’s nephew James Edward Austen-Leigh published a revised and enlarged edition of his 1869 biography of Austen, and this second edition included the previously unpublished manuscript of The Watsons along with an introduction by Austen-Leigh.<br><br> In 1923, The Watsons appeared in print again, this time with the story continued by an author identified as L. Oulton. Unlike Hubback’s The Younger Sister, this publication is a true continuation of Austen’s The Watsons, including Austen’s text as she wrote it. Although Austen had not indicated chapter divisions in her text, Oulton’s continuation includes Austen’s text as the first five and a half chapters and supplements these with an additional thirteen and a half chapters as well as Austen-Leigh’s 1871 introduction. Austen’s text comprises just over half of the novel because Oulton’s chapters are so much shorter. With nineteen chapters total, this version of The Watsons is shorter than any of the novels Austen completed in her lifetime. Almost nothing is known about L. Oulton, not even what “L.” stands for nor whether this name is a pseudonym. The Oulton continuation of The Watsons fared poorly among the critics, but it has the distinction of being the first true continuation of The Watsons in a long line of The Watsons continuations; the trend of writing continuations of The Watsons has become increasingly popular with the rise of Jane Austen fan fiction, particularly in the 21st century. - Summary by David Purdy

50Northanger Abbey (Version 5)

By Jane Austen

What could be more entrancing than Northanger Abbey? Catherine quite fears the Abbey. Find out why! - Summary by Victoria Bell