You finished reading all of Jane Austen’s books. Wondering what is the next step? Read them all over again! Just kidding, although you could if you wanted to. However, if you want to read books either similar to her writing style or books based in the same era, why not gives these a try:
Helen by Maria Edgeworth
An author admired by Austen herself, this book reminded me a combination of Northanger Abbey and Lady Susan. This gripping romantic drama will have you entertained for hours.
North and South by Elizabeth Gaskell
Elizabeth Gaskell is a fantastic writer and she was able to fuse an interesting story with two main characters that have similar characteristics to Elizabeth and Darcy. Just think Pride and Prejudice with a mixture of social concern thrown in.
Evelina by Frances Burney
A coming of age story told in epistolary format. Austen was an admirer of Burney and you can tell by the similarities between the both of them. Like Austen, Burney used her writing as an attack of the fashionable life late 18th century London. Enjoy Evelina’s adventure of her entry into this world-wind society.
Belinda by Maria Edgeworth
Another popular one by Edgeworth. This comical novel goes on Belinda’s journey of London’s high society. You’ll again find some similarities with Austen’s other works.
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë
Although this was written in a different time period and Brontë was never a fan of Austen’s work, this is a definite read after reading Austen. Their writings are so different but their ideals and characterization are so alike that you can’t go wrong with this next read.
A Room with a View by E.M. Forster
I never read anything by E.M. Forster before reading this. But I am so glad I took the chance. This book was amazing! Forster’s wit and humor reminds me a little of Jane Austen’s writings. And his use of imagery and symbolism is astounding. A very good read!
Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë
Although the theme of revenge plays a major part, a deeper discussion of passionate love’s affect on human nature plays a part. It doesn’t match with any of Austen’s books but some Austen fans might find it an enjoyable read.
The Mysteries of Udolpho by Ann Radcliffe
See why Austen made fun of this book in Northanger Abbey! This book and it might take a long time to get into but Austen will enjoy the descriptive imagery and the gripping plot. You can read my full book review, found here.
The Inheritance by Louisa May Alcott
Louisa May Alcott’s first story, this story has aspects that any Austen fan will enjoy: an English country manor, romance, deception, duplicity, and family secrets. You will definitely enjoy this unknown treasure.
Moll Flanders by Daniel Defoe
This novel is very different in comparison with Austen’s works but this strong, self-assured woman will be admired by most readers.
Discover more from cup of tea with that book, please
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Definitely agree with Evelina and North and South (I’d throw in Gaskell’s Wives and Daughters as well). I see why the Brontes would appeal to an Austen fan but they are very different, as you said. I’m adding a few of the books I haven’t read to my TBR. Helen looks really intriguing….
I’ll add recommendations for
Love in A Cold Climate and The Pursuit of Love by Nancy Mitford
Cold Comfort Farm by Stella Gibbons
I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith
Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand by Helen Simonson
All deal with similar themes to Austen: marriage, family, love, money, social class, status, etc.