Unlike many other works of fiction, if ANY character were to be removed from S & S the intricate plot and interwoven relationships would collapse like a house of cards. They are truly interdependent.

Miss Austen's brilliance is deftly hiding multiple clues in the great underground that yield answers to what is happening on the superficial surface. These complex clues with all their accompanying richness, attention to detail, and dialogues do not give up their treasures without a great deal of effort. Our group read has dug up some well-buried jewels haven't they? Bravo.