BFL40 - Forever Jane: An Austen Celebration

A trio of Janeites, Rachel Parris, Cariad Lloyd and Jessica Bull, take an affectionate look at the enduring appeal of the creator of Pride and Prejudice. Her books were full of obstinate, headstrong girls and acutely observed human behaviour. As founding members of improvisational comedy group Austentatious Rachel and Cariad mined the rich seam of humour inspired by her writing, and both Jessica and Rachel have written novels borne out of their love of Austen’s genius.

Comedian Rachel Parris’ novel Introducing Mrs Collins explores what happens after Charlotte Lucas marries Mr Collins in Pride and Prejudice. Jessica Bull’s latest novel, Sense, Sensibility and Scandal, sees Miss Austen turn amateur sleuth in a grand country house. 

Jessica Bull is best known for her historical mystery series, Miss Austen Investigates. Her debut novel, featuring a young Jane Austen as a detective, was shortlisted for the 2025 CWA John Creasey First Novel Dagger. Her latest novel, Sense, Sensibility and Scandal, sees Miss Austen turn amateur sleuth in a grand country house. 

Cariad Lloyd is a British comedian, actor, writer, and podcaster known for her improvisational work in Austenatious and creating the award-winning podcast Griefcast. She is the author of You Are Not Alone, and frequently appears on QI and Have I Got News For You. 

Comedian Rachel Parris’ novel Introducing Mrs Collins explores what happens after Charlotte Lucas marries Mr Collins in Pride and Prejudice. Rachel lives and breathes all-things Austen as a founding member of the critically acclaimed touring improv comedy group Austentatious, She also wrote and presented a Jane Austen comedy programme, Austensibly Feminist, about how to view Jane Austen as modern feminists. A BAFTA-nominated comedian, musician, actor and improviser,  Rachel’s TV appearances include Live at the Apollo, Would I Lie To You, QI and Mock the Week. She is a regular guest on BBC R4's The Now Show and I’m Sorry I Haven’t Got a Clue.  She co-hosts the popular podcast How Was It For You with her husband Marcus Brigstocke.