Bay Area Jane Austen Book Club

Every now and then, even the most devoted Jane Austen readers enjoy venturing beyond the drawing room! Join the Jane Austen Book Club as we take a delightful detour into Gothic fiction with Dracula, Bram Stoker's legendary tale of mystery, suspense, and the supernatural.

While Dracula may be a world away from Austen's country estates and witty courtships, it shares with her novels a rich cast of memorable characters, keen observations of society, and themes that have captivated readers for generations. Together, we'll explore the novel's eerie atmosphere, enduring influence, and the reasons this classic continues to inspire countless adaptations more than a century after its publication.

Whether you're a longtime fan of Gothic literature or reading Dracula for the very first time, you'll find a warm and welcoming group ready for a lively discussion. Bring your favorite passages, your questions, and your curiosity—we promise an evening of engaging conversation, with just a touch of the macabre!

NOTE: The Zoom link will be shared as we get closer to the Meetup. Be sure to RSVP to stay updated!

Before there was Northanger Abbey, there was The Heroine! Join the Jane Austen Book Club as we explore Eaton Stannard Barrett's delightfully clever satire of Gothic fiction, first published in 1813, the same year as Pride and Prejudice.

Meet Cherry Wilkinson, a young woman determined to live as the heroine of a Gothic novel, no matter how ordinary her surroundings may be. Her wildly imaginative adventures, dramatic misunderstandings, and unwavering commitment to romance make for a hilarious send-up of the literary trends that captivated readers during the Regency era.
Perfect for Austen fans, The Heroine offers a fascinating glimpse into the literary world she knew and gently pokes fun at many of the same conventions she would later lampoon in Northanger Abbey. Whether you're discovering this hidden gem for the first time or revisiting it with fellow readers, you'll enjoy a lively discussion about satire, Gothic fiction, and the enduring appeal of stories that don't take themselves too seriously.

NOTE: The Zoom link will be shared as we get closer to the Meetup. Be sure to RSVP to stay updated!

You are cordially invited to celebrate the birthday of Jane Austen!

Join the Jane Austen Book Club for a delightful in-person gathering honoring the beloved author whose wit, wisdom, and unforgettable stories continue to enchant readers around the world.

We'll celebrate with lively conversation, birthday treats, literary games, and plenty of Austen-inspired merriment. Whether you've read every one of her novels countless times or are just beginning your journey into her world, this is the perfect opportunity to meet fellow Janeites, share your favorite characters and quotations, and enjoy an afternoon in the company of kindred spirits.
Regency attire is warmly encouraged (but never required), so feel free to wear your favorite gown, bonnet, waistcoat, or cravat—or simply come as you are. The only requirement is a love of Jane Austen and good company!

Come raise a teacup to Jane, celebrate her extraordinary legacy, and enjoy a birthday party worthy of Pemberley itself. We can't wait to celebrate with you!

NOTE: Be sure to RSVP so we can plan for refreshments and ensure there's enough birthday cheer for everyone!