<DIV><DIV>Inspired by <I>Les Liaisons Dangereuses,</I> and written in a similar epistolary form, <I>Lady Susan</I> is one of Jane Austen's earliest finished works. In it, she reveals all the caustic wit and brilliant social satire of her later novellas. The victim of a vicious scandal, the impoverished Lady Susan is obliged to take up residence with her brother-in-law and his family. Refusing to resign herself to the role of placid houseguest, she conspires to baffle her hosts, seducing her sister-in-law's brother in the process by means of her impeccable gentility and some well-judged flirtation. Yet before her victory is complete, she must first contend with the untimely appearance of a former lover. The author of <I>Pride and Prejudice</I> and <I>Emma, </I>Jane Austen is one of the best-loved novelists of all time.</DIV></DIV>