Tonight, we shall read the next part to “Persuasion”, the last novel fully completed by Jane Austen, and published in 1817. The story concerns Anne Elliot, an Englishwoman whose family moves in order to lower their expenses, by renting their home to an Admiral and his wife.
In the last episode, Anne is stunned to learn of Louisa Musgrove’s sudden engagement to Captain Benwick. The pairing seems unlikely—Louisa being lively and high-spirited, Benwick reserved and mournful—but Anne quickly attributes their attachment to circumstance: close proximity and shared vulnerability. Reflecting on it, Anne concludes their union makes sense and could bring mutual happiness.
Anne also feels an unspoken joy at the idea that Captain Wentworth is now free—though she barely dares to examine those feelings. Meanwhile, Sir Walter and Elizabeth are indifferent to the news, concerned only with social status, and reluctant to associate with the Crofts. Anne, in contrast, finds quiet joy in observing Admiral and Mrs. Croft’s warm, equal companionship. A chance meeting with the Admiral in a print shop reveals his usual charm and humor, further endearing him to Anne.
— read by 'V' —
Sign up for Snoozecast+ to get expanded, ad-free access by going to snoozecast.com/plus!
--------
30:00
--------
30:00
Persuasion pt. 18
Tonight, we shall read the next part to “Persuasion”, the last novel fully completed by Jane Austen, and published in 1817. The story concerns Anne Elliot, an Englishwoman whose family moves in order to lower their expenses, by renting their home to an Admiral and his wife.
In the last episode, starting at chapter 17, Anne visits her old school friend, Mrs. Smith, who now lives in modest circumstances due to her husband's debts and death. Despite her hardships, Mrs. Smith is cheerful and spirited. Anne values their renewed friendship, though her family looks down on the connection.
The chapter highlights Anne’s increasing clarity: while Mr. Elliot offers social security and admiration, it is not the kind of love she desires. Her renewed bond with Mrs. Smith also underscores her loyalty and sensitivity to genuine character over status. We will pick up mid-conversation between Lady Russell and Anne. Lady Russell is trying to persuade Anne to consider marrying Mr. Elliot.
— read by 'V' —
Sign up for Snoozecast+ to get expanded, ad-free access by going to snoozecast.com/plus!
--------
32:51
--------
32:51
Persuasion pt. 17
Tonight, we shall read the next part to “Persuasion”, the last novel fully completed by Jane Austen, and published in 1817. The story concerns Anne Elliot, an Englishwoman whose family moves in order to lower their expenses, by renting their home to an Admiral and his wife.
In the last episode, concluding chapter 16, Mr. Elliot continues his frequent visits to Camden Place, charming Sir Walter and Elizabeth with his polished manners and apparent desire to reconnect with the family. Lady Russell, once indifferent to him, now views him as a highly suitable match for Anne.
Anne, however, remains cautious. Though she acknowledges Mr. Elliot’s attentiveness and refinement, she is not fully at ease with his motives. His flattery feels calculated, and she senses a lack of emotional sincerity.
She compares his composed charm with the deeper, more genuine feeling she once shared with Captain Wentworth. As Mr. Elliot’s admiration grows more obvious, Anne is left feeling both flattered and wary of his true intentions.
— read by 'V' —
Sign up for Snoozecast+ to get expanded, ad-free access by going to snoozecast.com/plus!
--------
29:09
--------
29:09
Persuasion pt. 16
Tonight, we shall read the next part to “Persuasion”, the last novel fully completed by Jane Austen, and published in 1817. The story concerns Anne Elliot, an Englishwoman whose family moves in order to lower their expenses, by renting their home to an Admiral and his wife.
Anne receives a letter from her sister Elizabeth informing her that Mr. Elliot, their estranged cousin and heir to Kellynch Hall, is in Bath and has been paying regular visits to their father, Sir Walter. His sudden attentiveness is surprising, as he had previously distanced himself from the family. Lady Russell, initially uninterested in Mr. Elliot, is now curious and eager to meet him. Anne, less excited, acknowledges she would rather see him than many others in Bath.
Upon arriving at Camden Place, Anne finds her father and Elizabeth in high spirits, boasting about their grand house and increasing social prominence. They are delighted with Mr. Elliot, who has explained away his past neglect and is now eager to reconcile.
That evening, Mr. Elliot arrives unexpectedly. His charm and intelligence impress Anne, and the evening passes surprisingly well.
--------
30:00
--------
30:00
Persuasion pt. 15
Tonight, we shall read the next part to “Persuasion”, the last novel fully completed by Jane Austen, and published in 1817. The story concerns Anne Elliot, an Englishwoman whose family moves in order to lower their expenses, by renting their home to an Admiral and his wife.
We will pick up at the tail end of chapter 14, where we ended last, and where Anne and Lady Russell visit the Musgroves for Christmas. The two have very different opinions on the gathering. Anne finds the chaotic but cozy antics of many young children pleasant and soothing. Lady Russell, on the other hand, finds it overly loud and agitating. Here, we are watching Anne’s inner growth, her evolving relationships, and her growing clarity about her feelings and the people around her.
— read by 'V' —
Sign up for Snoozecast+ to get expanded, ad-free access by going to snoozecast.com/plus!
Welcome to Snoozecast's ongoing series, "Persuasion", the last novel fully completed by Jane Austen. It is read in a manner to help you fall asleep by the end of the episode. We will read a brief recap of the previous episode at the start of the next episode. Be sure to check out our primary podcast feed for Snoozecast, where we release three episodes per week in a variety of genres. Be sure to check out our primary podcast feed for Snoozecast, where we release three episodes per week in a variety of genres. Learn more about Snoozecast+, our premium listening subscription that provides ad-free listening to our expanded catalog, including unlocking all of our completed standalone sleep story series!
New Zealand