This book along with Northanger Abbey were at the top of my list for Jane Austin books to actually read. I was pleased with both. While I loved the honest & open communication and ease of the lead couple in Northanger Abbey, in Persuasion it is all about the PINING! SO MUCH PINING! It's a bit more somber of a book in general, but there is still humor, sharp social commentary, and great characters (to love and to loathe).