I have a decent ability to forgive the inherent misogyny in period works but — shockingly, for Austen — I found such anachronism uncharming in this work. It's hard to believe you wouldn't just move on from a man who is already engaged — and, for goodness sake (I'm not one to be scandalized by such a thing but) 35 and 16 is an age gap that is hard to appreciate. Times were a-different.
It's not that this wasn't an enjoyable read. But it wasn't half as deliciously salacious as Northanger Abbey nor as movingly passionate as its sister title Pride and Prejudice. I ought to watch the film and see if that re-colors my view.