Miss Austen

BBC's Miss Austen is a beautifully crafted period drama that captures the heart and depth of Gill Hornby's novel with elegance and emotional weight. This adaptation brings to life the untold story of Cassandra Austen, Jane Austen's devoted sister, exploring love, loss, and the sacrifices made in a society bound by duty and expectation.

Among the stellar cast, Rose Leslie delivers an outstanding performance as Isabella Fowle. She brings an exquisite blend of warmth, vulnerability, and quiet strength to the role, making Isabella a deeply compelling character. Leslie's ability to convey layers of emotion-sometimes with just a glance or a subtle shift in expression-adds remarkable depth to her portrayal. Whether in moments of joy or sorrow, she commands the screen with an authenticity that makes her character's journey feel incredibly real and poignant.

Her chemistry with the rest of the cast is effortless, and her nuanced performance elevates the drama, making Isabella not just a supporting character but a vital part of the narrative's emotional core. Leslie's portrayal ensures that Isabella's presence lingers in the viewer's mind long after the credits roll.

Another stunner from the BBC!!! Well done 👏

This was an excellent drama. I have a suspicion that my 8 rating is a little harsh. This is because I think some of the plot nuances were lost on me, and I believe a second viewing of the complete series would push me to score it 9 or even 10.

It would help if you had some familiarity with Jane Austen's life or her novels. I had neither, but the show makes me want to find out more. The acting is outstanding throughout and despite the rather fast moving and complex plot it held my attention very well. The story unfolds on two timelines, with some important parallels, and that contributes to making it a little hard to follow. But I would not want to discourage anyone from watching. Excellent.

The casting of this well-written production is brilliant - especially the Cassandras, very similar in looks and mannerisms. The letters and novels are interwoven well and the modest, cross-generational content nicely in keeping with the works of Jane Austen, so suitable for most ages etc, both for fans and novices alike. All the visual and audio contribution is also on point - nothing over the top, but sensitive to the era, scenarios and real people / characters. Whilst retaining interest, this is a very calming and comforting timeless series I will watch over and over again. Thank you for such an excellent addition to the world of Miss Austen.

This charming series is a treat for all those of us who love a well-written period drama and, in particular, the works of Jane Austen. It was a delight to see this portrayal of Jane as a person, and her loving bond with her sister Cassandra.

There are funny nods to some of Jane's best-loved characters. The Austen parents, played by real-life couple Phylis Logan and Kevin McNally, were clearly Jane's inspiration for Mr. & Mrs. Bennett - with her constant talk about her ailments and desire to match make, and his benevolent patience! Also, when a would-be suitor for Cassandra tells her his home is in Derbyshire, she smiles as this reminds her of her sister's perfect romantic hero, Mr. Darcy, and the beautiful Pemberley.

Every actress in this gives a brilliant performance - it's just a treat from start to finish. It's poignant but also amusing and I enjoyed every minute.

Having visited the Jane & Cassandra's Chawton house last year I was thrilled with the aesthetic of this series. The subtle hues of the costumes and set were perfect. Once again the BBC have shown what true class is when delivering a period drama.

I loved the way the stories from the books were woven into the narrative of this series, especially Persuasion, which as Cassie states is certainly Jane Austen's best book (personally opinion, don't come for me).

The dual story line was beautifully portrayed by both sets of cast. I especially loved how many of the characters were as written and played in a way I can imagine them being created by Jane herself.

Series recorded and saved forever.