‘Pride and Prejudice’ (1813) by Jane Austen

Enduringly popular and a great introduction to Jane Austen, the novel is set in rural England in the early 19th century. It follows the Bennet family, which includes five very different sisters, as Mrs. Bennet anxiously seeks to see all her daughters married before their modest family estate is inherited by Mr Collins on the death of her husband. Spirited Elizabeth Bennet spars with the proud Mr Darcy in her quest to marry for love rather than material security.

Once read, you may want to view one of the television or film adaptations. The most popular TV adaptation was from the BBC (1995) and the 2005 film starring Matthew Macfadyen and Keira Knightley was also well-received.