Jane Austen, (1775-1817) was an English novelist known for her realism. Her family was part of the lower level gentry. She lived with her family and was active in church and the social activities of her gender and station. Jane used biting social commentary, satire and irony in her works. Lady Susan is an early Austen work. Lady Susan is a victim of a vicious scandal. She is forced to live with her brother-in-law and his family. Susan uses her gentility and flirtations to seduce her sister-in -law's husband. Before Susan has accomplished her goal a former lover shows up on the scene.