Having never seen an adaptation of Pride and Prejudice but knowing the story almost completely through conversation and the media, my first impression of the book has always been based upon preconcieved images. The first thing that springs to mind would be good old Mr. Darcy - the handsome rogue who sweeps people off their feet and makes them swoon. Despite this idea that is floating around in the real world, I was not at all disappointed when I read the book: it was a refreshing entry into the Austen world and I would recommend anyone start with this book if they are keen on giving Austen a go.

My very first Austen book I have read is 'Emma', which is suitably similar in storyline and plot, but the directions that Austen takes you makes them perfectly acceptable as different. They are beautifully styled as you would expect any 19th Century novel to be, particular so since it was written by a female writer, and you can clearly tell with the fluent way it is written. Saying this, there are similarities between other 19th Century writers, such as Elizabeth Gaskell, but Austen's polite and gentle hand is clearly marked in both Pride and Prejudice and Emma, with the comforting humour that leaks out through the pages, though is not altogether too strong for the type of book that it is. ( )

I was inspired to read it after watching the film. I think it is a wonderful satire on the social customs of the time.

The novel displays Austen’s sharp mind through all the characters.I also found the dialogue witty and intelligent. ( )

It took me a while to get used to the extremely long dialogues but once I did, I quite enjoyed the story.
Five Bennet sisters and their love lives in a very good if not a trifle long story. In particular, fitzwilliam Darcy's subtle pursuit of Elizabeth Bennet is amusing. Social mores and customs are well described and the privileged life of the gentry is fascinating ( )

In this comedy of manners, Elizabeth Bennet, a spirited heroine, doesn't always agree with her opinionated beau, Mr. Darcy.

For some reason before I read this book, it had never occurred to me that people had a sense of humour in 1813. Helped me to understand my place in the grand scheme of things. A revelation AND funny -- it's hard to top that. ( )