Rampion asked Katherine Reay:

I have not yet read a Jane Austen novel. Would you recommend reading one/them before reading your books (particularly Dear Mr. Knightly)? And if so which one(s)?

Katherine Reay I supposed I would always recommend reading an Austen novel. ;) Not necessarily so you can read my books, though that's a great motivation, but because there's a reason she's considered one of the best of all time. She keeps her world small so we are forced to look at the truth in human nature -- the way people act -- right in their places of comfort, home. Emma is an exercise in humility -- and is often considered the best novel in English literature. Pride and Prejudice -- growing up, re-evaluating what you thought you knew and taking responsibility.

To start with one, I would recommend Pride and Prejudice. It's her most famous and very approachable. There a lots of movies too. :) Emma is a gorgeous story -- and that is where Knightley comes from. My favorite is actually Persuasion.

As for reading them to approach my books, I will say that it does make my stories more fun to have a little Austen knowledge. Knowing Austen does not inform the story. My novels are not retellings in anyway. Rather I use classic literature as a way to form a common language/touchpoint with today and yesterday. The allusions provide color and inside jokes, winks, and nods more than anything else.

If you do pick up an Austen, or one of mine, let me know... And Happy Reading!

flag