Period drama enthusiasts have been captivated by The Other Bennet Sister, the sequel to Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, which has earned a stellar 92% score on Rotten Tomatoes. However, another BBC series, Miss Austen, is equally compelling and ideal for those seeking more historical fiction.
What Is Miss Austen About?
Based on Gill Hornby's novel, Miss Austen focuses on Cassandra Austen, Jane Austen's older sister. The series delves into Cassandra's life after Jane's death, as she uncovers letters that reveal hidden truths about her sister and family. Keeley Hawes stars as Cassandra, with Patsy Ferran portraying Jane Austen.
Critical Acclaim and Viewer Reactions
The series has received widespread praise. One Rotten Tomatoes reviewer wrote: "A series of substance and character! A refreshing tale with heart but also capturing that eternal dilemma of self vs duty." Another added: "The writing, casting and acting is excellent - especially Patsy Ferran as Jane and Synnove Karlsen as the young Cassandra."
However, some viewers noted that the present-day scenes (set in the 1830s-40s) occasionally lag compared to the flashbacks. Despite this, the series holds a remarkable rating.
Cast and Availability
Alongside Hawes and Ferran, the cast includes Alfred Enoch (known for Harlan Coben's Run Away and Harry Potter) as Mr Lidderdale. The series consists of four episodes, perfect for binge-watching in a single sitting or over a weekend.
All episodes of Miss Austen are currently available to stream free on BBC iPlayer. While no second series has been confirmed, rumours suggest it may be in development.
