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I wanted to give this 4.5 stars but definitely deserved more than 4. It's a book I'll go back and read again. Rachel provides fresh insights into the Austen world that will appeal to lay fan and academic reader. It will certainly make you want to go back and revisit the books too. The lengthy quotes at the beginning of each chapter are helpful (as are the book synopses at the start) but there was no need therefore to repeat further sections in the 2 to 3 page reflections. Austen is so good as her observations of people it's easy to critique other people we also like or dislike. Rachel's comments are a good director to self reflection. Some of her summary prayers may not be the angle or expression I'd take but they're a good starting block for personal growth and group discussion as I've met with friends to discuss the book.