
Jane Austen Bedtime Stories
Fall asleep with the ultimate comfort bedtime stories: the works of Jane Austen! Each episode we'll read a section of Jane Austen's work aloud in a soothing voice, set to relaxation music, to help you get to sleep.
Episodes
Friday Favorites: Emma - An Intriguing Invitation
After just a few days in Highbury, Frank Churchill jets off to London for a day, merely to have his hair cut. To Emma, that conveys a bit of foppery, but all young people have their little whims, after all. At least Frank's absence gives her time to consult with the Westons about whether to accept an invitation to dinner at the Coles. The Coles made their fortune through trade, so it would be
Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 38
Things have settled down for Elinor and Marianne after the initial commotion upon the reveal of Edward and Lucy's engagement. A beautiful spring afternoon brings Elinor and Mrs. Jennings out to Kensington Gardens, where they meet up with the elder Miss Steele, who is eager to share the latest. According to her, Edward and Lucy will not break their engagement, despite Edward's loss of fortu
Friday Favorites: Emma - Emma and Frank Get Acquainted
Emma is joined by Frank and Mrs. Weston on a walk through Highbury, and it's the perfect opportunity for the two handsome young people to get to know each other better. Frank's delight with Highbury seems genuine, and Emma is thoroughly charmed. Frank even drops some juicy gossip about Jane Fairfax -- what more could Emma want? This week's Friday Favorites brings Emma and Frank closer,
Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 37
It's another quiet day in London, until Mrs. Jennings returns home with big news. Over at the Dashwoods, Miss Steele just revealed that her sister Lucy has been secretly engaged to Edward Ferrars! Elinor is relieved that the news is finally in the open, while Marianne is utterly shocked that her sister has been holding this emotional burden all by herself for four months. When their brother Jo
Friday Favorites: Emma - Meet Frank Churchill
Harriet visits the Martins, and the visit ends with a finality that makes Emma feel quite bad. Luckily for Emma, a run-in with the Westons brings the delightful news that the long-awaited Frank Churchill is finally on his way to Highbury. Within a day, Mr. Churchill has called with his father at Highbury, and Emma can meet him at last. She can tell that Frank knows how to please, but she's not
Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 36
Elinor and Marianne join their brother and sister-in-law for a night out, much to Fanny's chagrin. For Elinor, it's a chance to become acquainted with the one remaining member of the Ferrars family whom she hasn't already met, Edward and Fanny's brother, Robert Ferrars. Unfortunately, he's everything Elinor expected him to be. Meanwhile, Mr. John Dashwood is struck with the ide
Friday Favorites: Emma - Mr. Elton Returns
The newly-engaged Mr. Elton has returned to Highbury, and as a young person in an interesting situation, he is very kindly spoken of. That's unfortunate for Harriet, who is unable to be talked out of love as easily as she was talked into it. Though Emma is sure that Miss Augusta Hawkins won't hold a candle to her dear Miss Smith, that won't stop the immediate problem of Harriet continu
Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 35
After the unpleasant dinner with Mrs. Ferrars, Elinor finds herself almost grateful that she's not the one engaged to Edward. But Lucy Steele had a thoroughly different experience, and she's called on her "dear friend Elinor" to gloat about how much Mrs. Ferrars and Fanny liked her. While she's there, the two women receive another visitor: none other than Edward Ferrars himse
Friday Favorites: Emma - Mr. Elton is Engaged
Mr. Knightley is at Hartfield, and he has exciting news, but before he can reveal it, Miss Bates arrives and spills the beans: Mr. Elton is engaged. After four weeks in Bath, he has met a Miss Hawkins, and they are going to be married. Miss Bates is delighted at the prospect of a new neighbor in Highbury, while Emma is concerned about Harriet (and annoyed at Jane Fairfax's muted reaction to th
Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 34
When Fanny Dashwood finally meets Lady Middleton, it's a match made in heaven, and Fanny even likes Mrs. Jennings -- she likes them all so much that she invites them all to dine with her at their London home. The Miss Steeles are staying with the Middletons, so they'll be joining for dinner too, as will Fanny's formidable mother, Mrs. Ferrars. Fanny and Mrs. Ferrars warm to Lucy Steele
Friday Favorites: Emma - Meet Jane Fairfax
The much-discussed Jane Fairfax has arrived in Highbury, and Emma is determined to have a good opinion of her. Sure, everyone always assumes Jane and Emma are close because of their similar ages, and yes, Jane is superior at playing the piano, but she is very elegant, and Emma highly values elegance. Moreover, Jane's situation as an orphan destined to a life of governessing is truly pitiable.
Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 33
Marianne finally agrees to go out of the house with Elinor. On their shopping trip, they are surprised to run into none other than their older brother, John Dashwood. He is genuinely happy to see his sisters, and calls on them at Mrs. Jennings's house the next day (without his wife Fanny, of course). After meeting all of their new acquaintances, John Dashwood is pleased to see that they all ap
Friday Favorites: Emma - Jane Fairfax is Coming to Town
After another morning of hearing Harriet pine over Mr. Elton, Emma decides to change up their morning routine and call on the Bateses. While Mrs. and Miss Bates aren't Emma's favorites, she judges the visit to be better than Harriet's endless moping. Over tea, Emma learns that Miss Bates's niece, Jane Fairfax, will be on her way to Highbury very soon, for an extended stay of three
Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 32
With the truth about Willoughby's character now known, Marianne is adjusting to her new normal, and slowly healing -- she is even voluntarily speaking to Colonel Brandon. On the advice of their mother, Elinor and Marianne are remaining in London for a few more weeks to enjoy the change of scenery. The extended visit will allow them to see their brother and sister-in-law, and, unfortunately, al
Friday Favorites: Emma - Emma and Mr. Knightley Spar on Frank Churchill
Frank Churchill is not coming to Highbury. After all of Mr. Weston's excitement about his son's visit, Frank ended up postponing his plans. While Emma is too distracted to be too disappointed, when Mr. Knightley expresses critical opinion, she still feels compelled to defend Mr. Churchill. The resulting debate between the two is illustrative of both of their characters, and it's a perf
Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 31
As Marianne continues to recover from the sudden end of her relationship with Willoughby, Elinor receives a visit from Colonel Brandon, who feels compelled to share a history that he hopes will help Marianne get over her pain. After the tragic downfall and death of Colonel Brandon's first love, he took on her daughter as his ward. Last fall, he learned that this young girl had been seduced and
Friday Favorites: Emma - Mr. Elton's Proposal: The Aftermath
Mr. Elton's unexpected proposal has Emma reeling, and she needs to take time to reflect. Emma knows that his supposed feelings are more for Miss Woodhouse's status, rather than true love for her; and she realizes that it was an error for her to take such an active role in pushing Harriet towards him. Luckily, the weather prevents her from going to church and seeing Mr. Elton at Christmas,
Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 30
Marianne is still distraught over Willoughby's betrayal, especially after learning that he is to marry a Miss Grey, who has fifty thousand pounds. Mrs. Jennings, concerned for her young friend, is showing kindness the only way she knows how -- with good food, good wine, and cards -- but it's not enough to soothe Marianne's broken heart. To Mrs. Jennings, this is the perfect opportunity
Friday Favorites: Emma - Mr. Elton Proposes
The Christmas party at Randalls is interrupted by the news that it has begun to snow, putting the guests in a flutter about how to get home. In the commotion, Emma and Mr. Elton end up in a carriage alone together, allowing Mr. Elton the perfect opportunity to declare his feelings, not for Harriet, but for Emma! She is aghast; and once Mr. Elton discovers that Emma thought he was in love with Miss
Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 29
Willoughby's callous behavior towards Marianne has left the Dashwood sisters shocked, and the next morning, they receive even worse news. A letter from Willoughby confirms he is attached to another woman, and he has sent back all of Marianne's notes and her lock of hair. The rejection is so painful that Marianne can barely leave her bed, and even Elinor is distraught. Marianne reveals to E
Friday Favorites: Emma - A Christmas Conversation
Christmas at Randalls has commenced! The Woodhouses, Knightleys, and Mr. Elton have all joined the Westons for a night of holiday cheer, despite the impending snow. Mr. Elton is still acting too familiar for Emma’s taste, but she’s trying to avoid it, especially since there’s tempting talk of Mr. Weston’s son, Frank Churchill, finally coming to visit Highbury. This week’s Friday Favorites is a coz
Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 28
Elinor and Marianne accompany Lady Middleton to a party, where they are finally reunited with the elusive Willoughby. But what should be a happy moment of reunion is instead a moment of shock and confusion. Willoughby barely acknowledges Marianne, and certainly does not seem to return her affection. Neither Elinor nor Marianne understand what has caused so material a change, and Marianne is so sho
Friday Favorites: Emma - Christmas at Randalls Begins
An intimate party has been invited to join the Westons for Christmas at Randalls, and Emma is delighted. It's the perfect opportunity for Harriet and Mr. Elton to get closer. Only, there's a problem: Harriet is unable to attend because of a sore throat, and Mr. Elton...doesn't seem that upset about it? In fact, Emma's brother-in-law John Knightley seems convinced that Mr. Elton'
Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 27
The Dashwoods' visit to London continues, and Marianne is still writing to Willoughby and desperately awaiting his reply. Yet, he is nowhere to be seen. There's still time for socialization with plenty of their old friends, from the Middletons to the Palmers to Colonel Brandon. Elinor really feels for Colonel Brandon; she can see his pain, even as he tries to wish Marianne well. In fact, h
Friday Favorites: Emma - A Dinner at Hartfield
Mr. Knightley has joined the family at Hartfield for dinner, to meet his newly-arrived brother and sister-in-law and their children. It's the perfect opportunity for him and Emma to make up after their disagreement about Harriet and Mr. Martin, which is good news, because it will take both of them to ensure that Mr. Woodhouse and Mr. John Knightley don't rub each other the wrong way. Lucki
Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 26
Elinor and Marianne have arrived in London with Mrs. Jennings, and it soon becomes clear that Marianne's focus will be single-minded while she is in town. She's waiting for a letter, a note, or even a visit from Willoughby, and nothing will shake her, whether it is the return of Colonel Brandon, or an excursion with Mrs. Palmer. Elinor is concerned, but there's really very little they
Friday Favorites: Emma - Meet Mr. and Mrs. John Knightley
Christmas is approaching, and Mr. Elton and Harriet will have to wait, because Emma's sister is coming to town! Mr. and Mrs. John Knightley, along with their five children, have just arrived to spend the holidays at Hartfield, and the Woodhouses are delighted to see them. While Isabella's temper resembles her father's, Mr. John Knightley is a little sharper around the edges -- sometime
Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 25
It's January, and the Dashwood sisters have an exciting offer to help them get through the doldrums of winter: Mrs. Jennings has invited them to accompany her on a trip to London. Marianne is immediately on board with the idea, ready to overlook her objections to Mrs. Jennings in the hopes of finally reuniting with Willoughby. Elinor, on the other hand, is less enthused. But her mother and sis
Friday Favorites: Emma - Harriet and Emma Visit the Vicarage
Friday Favorites is returning to Highbury, as Emma Woodhouse and Harriet Smith find themselves on a very noble outing to help the poor. Though their minds are naturally filled with charitable thoughts, when they happen to run into Mr. Elton on the road back into town, Emma knows it's the perfect chance to engineer a one-on-one conversation between Mr. Elton and Harriet, complete with a trip to
Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 24
Ever since Lucy Steele revealed her secret engagement to Edward Ferrars, Elinor has had questions, and it's finally time for her to get some answers. It turns out Lucy has been wanting to talk to Elinor too, and the two of them have a lot to say about their common love. Lucy's plans to overcome the many barriers to her marriage seem woefully insufficient to Elinor, and her heart aches as s
Pride and Prejudice, Chapters 7-12 - Spring Bonus!
It's the first day of spring! As the weather gets warmer and the nights get shorter, getting a good night's sleep is more important than ever. That's why we're bringing you one more extended bonus episode with a full-length Jane Austen classic. This week, we're revisiting the entirety of Jane and Elizabeth Bennet's stay at Netherfield, from Jane traveling there on horseback
Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 23
Elinor has learned the truth about Edward Ferrars and Lucy Steele's engagement, and her mind is full of thoughts as she carefully considers and processes the news. She is sure that Edward's affection for her is real, but she also believes the veracity of Lucy's claims. Elinor has been asked to keep the news a secret, so she does, even from her own mother and sisters; she trusts herself
Pride and Prejudice, Chapters 1-6 - Sleep Awareness Week Bonus!
It's Sleep Awareness Week! In honor of this special week dedicated to promoting the connection between sleep, health, and well-being, we're releasing a bonus episode featuring an full-length Jane Austen classic. This extended episode brings us back to the Bennets, as we revisit the first six chapters of Pride and Prejudice. It's pure comfort, and the extra length is perfect to help you
Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 22
Marianne can't stand the Steeles, so it's up to Elinor to manage them. It's a task she soon regrets, for on an afternoon walk with Lucy Steele, Elinor learns something that shakes her to her core. It turns out that Lucy Steele has been secretly engaged for the past four years, to none other than Edward Ferrars. At first, Elinor cannot possibly believe it, but Lucy has all the evidence
Friday Favorites: Emma - Mr. Elton's Charade
Harriet is on a new mission, to collect a book of riddles and charades from all her friends in Highbury. Emma has the perfect person in mind to aid Harriet's quest: Mr. Elton, of course. And once he is asked, he certainly delivers. There can be no doubt that the charade he offers is one of love, and Emma is delighted at his budding affection for Harriet. Everything is falling into place just a
Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 21
The Palmers may have left, but the parade of visitors at Barton Park never ends. On a visit to Exeter, the Middletons find themselves getting acquainted with two young ladies who just happen to be their distant cousins, Miss Anne and Miss Lucy Steele. The Steele sisters are soon at Barton, and Sir John is eager to introduce them to the Dashwood sisters. But the two sets of sisters do not get on ne
Friday Favorites: Emma - Mr. Knightley and Emma Disagree
Mr. Knightley has called at Hartfield, and he has news that he's sure will excite Emma. Her little friend Harriet is about to be proposed to by Mr. Robert Martin. But Emma has one better, for she informs him that Harriet has already refused Mr. Martin's proposal. What follows is a vigorous disagreement between the two over the merits of Harriet marrying Mr. Martin. Though the sparring feel
Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 20
The Palmers are still at Barton Park, and their presence remains a distraction for Elinor and Marianne. Despite Mrs. Palmer's eccentricities, Elinor finds herself enjoying her conversation with her. Though Mrs. Palmer seems a little too certain of Marianne and Willoughby's engagement, Elinor is at least pleased with her warm and favorable impression of Willoughby, since the Palmers live in
Friday Favorites: Emma - Mr. Martin Proposes
Harriet has arrived at Hartfield with a dilemma: the charming farmer Mr. Robert Martin has sent her a letter with an offer of marriage. Emma has to give him credit; the letter is much better-written than she was expecting. Nonetheless, she can't imagine her dear little friend Harriet married to a farmer. Of course, Emma knows she mustn't influence Harriet's decision. It should be all h
Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 19
Edward's week at Barton Cottage comes to a close, though he doesn't seem too enthusiastic about leaving. His departure leaves Elinor plenty of time to contemplate his feelings, and her own. But before she can get too carried away, the Dashwoods are interrupted by the arrival of new guests: the Palmers. Mrs. Palmer is Mrs. Jennings's other daughter, and shares Mrs. Jennings's boiste
Friday Favorites: Emma - Emma Draws Harriet's Portrait
Both Harriet and Mr. Elton have been spending more time at Hartfield, and Emma has the perfect idea to bring them both together: she will draw Harriet's portrait for Mr. Elton. Emma has a great fondness for taking likenesses, and is very experienced, though none of her previous portraits were ever finished. That doesn't seem to bother Mr. Elton, who is highly complimentary of all of Emma&#
Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 18
Edward's visit to Barton continues, and his old comfort with the Dashwoods is slowly returning. As he discusses the rolling landscapes of Devonshire with Marianne and Elinor, Marianne spots a new accessory on Edward's finger: a ring containing a lock of hair. It's not the right color to be his sister's hair, so the sisters are sure it must be Elinor's. But when could he have go
Friday Favorites: Emma - Harriet and Emma Grow Closer
Emma is taken with Harriet Smith, and her intimacy at Hartfield soon becomes a settled thing. As their friendship deepens and Emma learns more about Harriet's life, the more opportunities she sees to impart her wisdom. When Emma learns of Harriet's intimacy with the Martins, and especially Harriet's attachment to farmer Robert Martin, she quickly sees an area where she can be of use. A
Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 17
Edward Ferrars is at Barton Cottage, and all it takes is some time in the presence of the warmth of the Dashwoods to (mostly) restore him to his former friendly self. After all, for the Dashwoods, this is the visit of a future intimate family member. Yet, as much as Edward begins to open up, there is still something different about him that Elinor just can't put her finger on. As Edward is wel
Friday Favorites: Emma - Meet Harriet Smith
With Mrs. Weston settling into her new home, Emma and her father are welcoming their other Highbury friends into their home for company: people like former vicar's widow Mrs. Bates and her chatty daughter Miss Bates, and proprietor of a local school Mrs. Goddard. When Mrs. Goddard asks if she can bring one of her students, Harriet Smith, Emma is delighted. Harriet is pretty, friendly, and defe
Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 16
Marianne's sorrow continues, nourished by her own sensibility, and her sense of what her feelings require of her. When Elinor finally convinces Marianne to join her sisters for a walk, they are met by a pleasant surprise: Edward Ferrars has arrived in Devonshire to visit the Dashwoods. But his manner is different than when they last saw him. He seems colder and more reserved, to the extent tha
Friday Favorites: Emma - Meet the Westons
Highbury is a cozy place, and as we settle in with Emma, it's time to get to know some of the inhabitants of her little town. Mr. Weston, her governess's new husband, is a warm and friendly neighbor. He lost his first wife many years ago, and his son, one Frank Churchill, was adopted by his late wife's brother and sister-in-law. Though Mr. Frank Churchill has never visited Highbury, th
Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 15
The Dashwoods' peaceful life at Barton Cottage has been upended - Willoughby has to make a sudden departure, and nobody knows why. It's clear to Elinor that there's more to the story than what he told the Dashwoods on his way out, but her mother is convinced it's simply a minor setback in Willoughby and Marianne's love story. Marianne, meanwhile, sees it as her duty to consign
Friday Favorites: Emma - Meet Emma Woodhouse
It's a new year and it's time for a new favorite novel to help you get to sleep. Emma Woodhouse is handsome, clever, and rich, and has made it through her nearly twenty-one years in the world with very little to distress or vex her. But that all begins to change when her dear governess Miss Taylor gets married and leaves Hartfield, the Woodhouse's home. Though the new Mrs. Weston's
Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 14
While Mrs. Jennings wonders and speculates about what could have pulled Colonel Brandon away to town, Elinor wonders about something more pressing: the true state of Marianne and Willoughby's relationship. While they're certainly acting like they're engaged, they haven't said a word to anyone about it. But there's no misinterpreting Willoughby's affectionate behavior - ever
Friday Favorites: Pride and Prejudice - The Conclusion
Happy for all our nocturnal feelings is today, the day on which our story reaches its end, and the two most deserving Bennet sisters finally marry. This week's Friday Favorites concludes the tale of all of our beloved characters, from the new Mrs. Bingley and Mrs. Darcy to all their friends and loved ones. Snuggle up under the covers for pure comfort, as the end of our favorite novel helps you
Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 13
A large party has come together for an excursion to Whitwell, the estate of a friend of Colonel Brandon's, when a sudden letter from London changes the group's plans entirely. Colonel Brandon has been called away on urgent business, and he must leave immediately, unable to spare even an hour before he departs. His sudden exit means that the day's excursion is canceled in favor of a rid
Friday Favorites: Pride and Prejudice - Lizzy and Darcy Reflect
As the tension between Elizabeth and Darcy eases into comfort, the two reflect upon the beginning of their relationship, and Lizzy even feels comfortable enough to gently tease Darcy about his affections. The two of them also finish telling their families about their engagement, including letters to the Gardiners, Mr. Collins, Georgiana, and Lady Catherine. In this week's Friday Favorites, Eli
Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 12
Marianne and Willoughby's relationship is continuing to deepen at a pace that is somewhat alarming to Elinor. After convincing Marianne that Willoughby's gift of a horse is impractical (and beyond their means), Elinor learns from Margaret that Marianne has also given Willoughby a lock of her hair. With all of this closeness, Elinor is sure that the two must be engaged. But she's soon d
Friday Favorites: Pride and Prejudice - Lizzy Shares the News
Now that Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy are engaged, only one hurdle remains: telling her family. Jane is the first to learn the news, and she is incredulous - a wretched start, indeed. But eventually Jane comes around, and it's up to Darcy and Elizabeth to tell Mr. and Mrs. Bennet. Neither of them can believe it, either, but with Lizzy's reassurances, they each come to accept it in their own way
Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 11
Willoughby and Marianne continue to get closer, making her even more delighted with Devonshire. Unfortunately, Elinor's experience has been far less delightful than her sister's. She finds all of her company dreadfully insipid, except for Colonel Brandon, who is proving to be a friend. If only Marianne could see his redeeming qualities as well! Alas, for now it is only a wish. As the Dashw
Friday Favorites: Pride and Prejudice - Elizabeth and Darcy are Engaged
Mr. Bingley is back in town, and to Elizabeth's surprise, he's brought Darcy with him. After the fiasco with Lady Catherine, she was sure that Mr. Darcy would never want to see her again. Yet, as they set off on an afternoon walk together, Elizabeth and Darcy finally get the chance to clear the air and declare their true feelings for one another at last. His affections and wishes are uncha
Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 10
After Willoughby rescues Marianne from her sprained ankle on the moor, the two quickly become inseparable. They have so much in common: music, dance, books, poetry, not to mention his wonderfully good looks. Marianne is sure that Willoughby is everything she has ever wanted in a man, and even Mrs. Dashwood is enchanted by him. Elinor, though, is more cautious. In fact, she is convinced that Colone
Friday Favorites: Pride and Prejudice - A Letter from Mr. Collins
Elizabeth is still reeling from Lady Catherine's visit, when her father summons her for a most diverting distraction. He's received a letter from Mr. Collins asserting that Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy are engaged, and warning them to be careful of the disapproval of the gentleman's most esteemed and noble aunt. It's a wonderful joke, because Mr. Bennet is sure that Elizabeth and Mr. Da
Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 9
The Dashwoods are growing more comfortable in Devonshire, and one of their many employments is enjoying the many beautiful walks in the surrounding countryside. It is during one of these beautiful walks that Marianne and Margaret find themselves caught in the rain, and while running back down the hill to their cottage, Marianne finds herself taken down by a sprained ankle. Luckily for her, there&#
Friday Favorites: Pride and Prejudice - Lady Catherine Visits Longbourn
There's an unfamiliar carriage pulling up the drive, and it's none other than Lady Catherine de Bourgh. Her ladyship is on a mission - to stop Elizabeth Bennet from marrying her nephew. Elizabeth is astonished, and then incensed, at such a visit, especially since she and Mr. Darcy are not engaged. Lady Catherine may not be used to brooking disappointment, but she may have met her match in
Sense and Sensibility, Chapters 7-8
Freshly arrived in Devonshire, the Dashwoods are off to dine at Barton Park and meet the rest of their new neighborhood acquaintances. There's Lady Middleton's teasing and slightly vulgar mother-in-law, Mrs. Jennings, and Sir John's quiet friend, Colonel Brandon. Mrs. Jennings, who is fond of pairing people up, is soon convinced that Colonel Brandon is in love with Marianne, but she
Friday Favorites: Pride and Prejudice - Jane and Bingley are Engaged
Mr. Bingley has become a regular visitor at Longbourn, and his reasoning for doing so soon becomes clear - he has proposed to Jane, and she has accepted! At last, Mrs. Bennet can stop winking and bask in the joy of her successful schemes. Meanwhile, Jane and Bingley seem to know no end to their happiness, and Elizabeth is delighted for her sister and soon-to-be brother-in-law. It's a triumphan
Sense and Sensibility, Chapters 5-6
It's been decided: the Dashwoods are relocating to Devonshire. They have decided to take up their cousin Sir John Middleton's offer to take up residence in Barton Cottage, and soon set off from Norland to make their way to their new home. The cottage is smaller than they are used to, but Mrs. Dashwood is full of ideas to make it more homey (if she can save the money for it). They also make
Friday Favorites: Pride and Prejudice - A Dinner at Longbourn
Now that the gentlemen are back in Hertfordshire, it's the perfect time for Mrs. Bennet to invite them both to dine with the family. Mr. Bingley and Jane are seated next to each other, of course, and Elizabeth tries her best to converse with Mr. Darcy, but is foiled again and again. Yet, he does seem to be looking in her direction more than usual. Elizabeth runs over each part of their interac
Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 4
Elinor and Edward's relationship is growing closer, but they are not actually engaged, much to Marianne's surprise. In fact, Elinor herself isn't sure of the degree of Edward's attachment to her. But the attachment is enough to catch the eye of Fanny Dashwood, who makes it clear in no uncertain terms that her family has high hopes for her brother's marriage - hopes that don'
Friday Favorites: Pride and Prejudice - Mr. Bingley Returns
Lydia and Wickham are off to Newcastle, which is a disappointment to Mrs. Bennet, but she's soon comforted by the news of the arrival of a familiar neighbor - Mr. Bingley is back in town. What's more, he's brought Mr. Darcy with him. The gentlemen call at Longbourn, and both Jane and Elizabeth's emotions are in a flutter. It's all too much for the two eldest Bennet girls, as th
Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 3
The Dashwoods remain at Norland while they search for a place that will fit their new financial situation. Living with Fanny Dashwood is not pleasant, but there is one bright spot: her brother, Edward Ferrars. He has been staying with the family at Norland, and by all accounts to be forming an attachment with Elinor - she esteems him, which is high praise. Marianne finds Edward lacking in his unde
Friday Favorites: Pride and Prejudice - Lizzy Learns the Truth
After a tantalizing slip of information from Lydia, Elizabeth has been eager to learn why Mr. Darcy was at the Wickhams' wedding, and a letter from her aunt Gardiner has arrived that answers all her questions and more. It turns out that Mr. Darcy was the one who arranged the entire thing, from finding Lydia and Wickham in London, to paying off Wickham's debts to secure the marriage. It'
Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 2
Mr. John Dashwood is still determined to help his sisters after the tragic early death of their father. But his wife, Mrs. Fanny Dashwood, has a few questions. After all, how much money do four single women really need? And surely Mr. Dashwood's deathbed promise to his father didn't mean financial support to his sisters? What if their own child were to ever need the money? It's all sou
Friday Favorites: Pride and Prejudice - Lydia and Wickham visit Longbourn
Lydia and Wickham are married, and the scandalous newlyweds have arrived at Longbourn to visit the Bennet family. The two are as brazen as ever, while Elizabeth and Jane seem to feel more than enough shame for both of them. During one of their conversations, Lydia lets and important detail slip - Mr. Darcy was at their wedding. Elizabeth is astonished, and quickly writes to her aunt Gardiner, know
Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 1
It's time to get acquainted with our new protagonists: the Dashwoods. Long settled at Norland Park in Sussex, the family is shaken up by the unexpected death of patriarch Mr. Henry Dashwood, leaving the estate in the hands of his well-to-do son from his first marriage, Mr. John Dashwood. His second wife and their three daughters are left with little. The two eldest daughters, Elinor and Marian
Friday Favorites: Pride and Prejudice - Lydia and Wickham are Married
After reflecting on the lack of economical thinking that brought him here, Mr. Bennet speedily agrees to the terms that Mr. Gardiner has secured for Lydia and Wickham's marriage. But he is determined to hold strong on one point - they shall not be allowed to enter Longbourn. That is, until Elizabeth and Jane convince him to allow a visit as the newlyweds are on their way to Wickham's new p
Announcing Our Next Novel
We've made it through another novel, and we're back in your feed to announce what's coming next! We're so grateful for your continued support as we made our way through Persuasion, and we're thrilled to announce that our next bedtime stories novel will be: Sense and Sensibility! We're taking this Monday off to prepare (even Bedtime Stories needs a rest!), and will be back n
Friday Favorites: Pride and Prejudice - Lydia is Found
Longbourn is aflutter with the arrival of an express from London - Lydia has been found at last! She and Wickham are not yet married, but soon will be, as long as Mr. Bennet agrees to the terms of the agreement that Mr. Gardiner has secured. The cost to the Bennets is much less than they were expecting, leading them to suspect that their dear uncle has paid more money to Wickham than they can ever
Persuasion, Chapter 24
Anne and Captain Wentworth have declared their love for each other, and who can be in doubt of what followed? The two are to be married, and the friends and family around them all react to the news in their own characteristic ways. But all that matters to Anne is that she is happy at last; warm, content, and secure in her new role as a sailor's wife. As Anne Elliot and Captain Frederick Wentwo
Friday Favorites: Pride and Prejudice - The Search for Lydia
Mr. Bennet and Mr. Gardiner are both in London, doing their best to uncover where Lydia and Wickham may be hiding. No one knows of any of Wickham's friends or relations - all they have been able to uncover is lots and lots of gambling debts. A letter from Mr. Collins offers nothing more than his unhelpful opinions, and eventually Mr. Bennet makes his way home, leaving the Gardiners to continue
Persuasion, Chapter 23, Part 2
Such a letter as Captain Wentworth's is not soon to be recovered from. But Anne is trying her best, and with a little effort, she finds herself walking together with Captain Wentworth as he escorts her back to Camden Place. At last, eight years of resentments, misunderstandings, and broken hearts are cleared away, and the two lovers are finally free to declare their true feelings to one anothe
Friday Favorites: Pride and Prejudice - Longbourn Reacts to Lydia
Elizabeth and the Gardiners make their way back to Longbourn, where they are quickly brought into the Bennet family fold and learn how everyone's been holding up since learning of Lydia's flight from Brighton. Jane has been holding down the fort, while Mrs. Bennet has confined herself to her room and is convinced that Mr. Bennet and Mr. Wickham will fight in a duel. Meanwhile, Kitty is sub
Persuasion, Chapter 23, Part 1
It's a new morning and Anne is with the Musgroves, this time in the company of Mrs. Croft, Captain Harville, and Captain Wentworth. While Anne and Captain Harville have a lively conversation about whether men or women are more constant in love, Captain Wentworth is occupied with intensely writing a letter in the corner of the room. As the two men depart, Anne is amazed to find that the letter Capt
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