Love and Freindship, and Other Early Works by Jane Austen is a delightful collection of the author's early writings that showcase her wit, humor, and keen observations on society. While these works may not have the depth and complexity of her later novels, they provide a fascinating glimpse into Austen's development as a writer.

The titular story, "Love and Freindship," is a satirical take on the conventions of romantic literature, filled with ridiculous characters and absurd plot twists. Despite its light-hearted tone, Austen's sharp wit shines through as she skewers the melodramatic excesses of her contemporaries.

Other stories in the collection, such as "Lesley Castle" and "Evelyn," offer similarly witty and entertaining glimpses into the foibles of the upper classes. Though these stories may lack the depth and emotional resonance of Austen's more mature works, they are still highly enjoyable reads for fans of the author.

Overall, Love and Freindship, and Other Early Works is a charming and engaging collection that will delight fans of Jane Austen's work. It offers a unique opportunity to see the early influences and themes that would later come to define her novels, making it a must-read for any lover of classic literature.

Book Description:
This book draws together some of Jane Austen's earliest literary efforts. It includes "Love & Freindship" and "Lesley Castle" both told through the medium of letters written by the characters. It also contains her wonderful "History of England" and a "Collection of Letters" and lastly a chapter containing "Scraps". In these offerings, we may see the beginnings of Miss Austen's literary style. We may also discern traces of characters that we encounter in her later works. G. K. Chesterton in his preface, for example, says of a passage in Love and Freindship; "... is there not the foreshadowing of another and more famous father; and do we not hear for a moment, in the rustic cottage by the Uske, the unmistakable voice of Mr. Bennet?" These works are certainly worth exploring for their own sakes and not simply as historical relics.