Persuasion by Jane Austen

This wonderful book felt vaguely familiar. I thought I was reading it for the first time, but maybe not!? I must have read it before, because I anticipated many of the events. Still, it was an enjoyable, idyllic read.

Reading this one, though short, was more effort than I remember in most of my Austen reading. Her long sentences and word choices gave me frequent pause. It's not a fast and easy read; it's a challenging read. Like all of Austen's work, though, it's well worth the effort!

The overlooked and undervalued sister who unselfishly serves without thought of reward is an admirable character. That the love of her youth would remain steady over eight years was a heartening example of devotion! I think I love Austen because she loves what I love: nobleness of character, loyalty, and integrity.