Period drama enthusiasts who enjoyed The Other Bennet Sister are turning to Miss Austen on BBC iPlayer. The series, which premiered last year, has earned a 92% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with viewers praising its depth and characterisation.
The show centres on Cassandra Austen, the elder sister of legendary author Jane Austen, and is adapted from Gill Hornby's novel. It follows Cassandra as she uncovers letters written by Jane, revealing family secrets and forcing her to confront painful memories.
Keeley Hawes stars as Cassandra, with Patsy Ferran portraying Jane Austen. The cast also includes Alfred Enoch, known for roles in Harry Potter and The Couple Next Door. The four-part series is available to stream for free on BBC iPlayer.
Fans have praised the series for its emotional depth and complex characters. One reviewer noted: 'A series of substance and character... it leaves you both smiling and in tears.' Another highlighted the excellent writing and acting, particularly by Ferran and Synnove Karlsen as young Cassandra.
While some critics questioned the authenticity of the fictionalised letters, many agreed the story captures the spirit of Jane Austen's family. A Los Angeles Times critic described the show as focusing on 'sisterly love and self-sacrifice, tangled with Austenesque questions of marriage and financial security.'
Speculation is mounting about a potential second series, though nothing has been officially confirmed. For now, viewers can binge all episodes of Miss Austen on BBC iPlayer.
