The story, which takes place near Sacramento, California, centers around a book club consisting of five women and one man[1] who meet once a month to discuss Jane Austen's six novels (Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, Emma, Persuasion, Mansfield Park, and Northanger Abbey).

A film adaptation of the same name was released in autumn of 2007 starring Emily Blunt, Kathy Baker, Amy Brenneman, Jimmy Smits, Hugh Dancy, Maggie Grace, and Maria Bello.

In turn, each of Austen's novels parallels the individual characters' experiences lives with their relationships, family, and love.

"[1] A film adaptation of the book, written and directed by Robin Swicord, was released in the United States in the fall of 2007.

The film stars Maria Bello as Jocelyn, Emily Blunt as Prudie, Kathy Baker as Bernadette, Amy Brenneman as Sylvia, Maggie Grace as Allegra, and Hugh Dancy as Grigg.