Jane Austen 's 250th Birthday Is Coming: Persuasion Review

It’s the end of the month, (or the beginning of the month by the time I've posted this!) so that means it’s book review time!  

As you're aware, I’ve been working my way through the Jane Austen collection in time for her 250th birthday celebration at the Jane Austen House this December.  

I have to admit, I totally picked Persuasion  this month not for any deep literary reason—but simply because it’s significantly shorter than the rest! Short it may be, but mighty it absolutely is.  

The story follows late-20s Anne Elliot, who lost the love of her life eight years earlier—not because the dashing Captain Wentworth rejected her, but because she rejected him after being persuaded they wouldn’t be a suitable match. Fast forward almost a decade, and sparks (and a little bitterness) are in the air when Captain Wentworth makes his dramatic return.

Persuasion was Jane Austen’s final completed novel, written when she was older and a little more reflective—and you can tell. It’s quieter and more mature than her other works, with a focus on regret, resilience, and the beauty of second chances. Anne isn’t your typical Austen heroine—she’s gentle, deeply introspective, and often overlooked. At times, I found her a little too passive (especially after coming straight from an opinionated heroine like Elizabeth Bennet), but that’s kind of the point. Watching her slowly come backto life and reclaim her voice is what makes her journey feel so powerful. And let’s not forget that letter—“You pierce my soul...”might just be the most romantic line Austen ever wrote.

Okay, so this Austen novel doesn’t crack as many jokes or deliver rapid-fire banter like her earlier hits—but hear me out. What it does serve up is razor-sharp insight into class, status, and the awkward dance of social mobility. Some might say it’s more subdued, but that’s part of its charm. Instead of charmers and witty heroines, we get depth, longing, and a beautifully quiet reunion years in the making. It’s Austen turning down the volume but turning up the emotion—with themes that feel timeless and deeply relatable. If you’re in the mood for something less overt humour and more soul-stirring, this one’s got you.

Now, there are two film adaptations I’d recommend—but my favourite by far is the Dakota Johnson version on Netflix. Sally Hawkins’ version is a close second (and yes, that’s Paddington’s mum!).

Memorable Quote: “I am half agony, half hope.”