When a book causes me to reflect on my reading history and the impact reading has had on my life and possibly some of my life choices then this one deserves high praise.

Ruth's journey and her telling through literature, most particularly the Jane Austen novels, felt like a breath of fresh air ... I was, for most of the book an observer but there were occasions I was drawn in and found myself clearly identifying when some of her considerations and insights.

Jane Austen wrote with wit, insight, control and a sense of fun .. while also reflecting a time and a timelessness to her story telling.