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period drama Miss Austen has been praised by viewers who have branded it a "perfect" watch. The series, inspired by Gill Hornby's novel, delves into the aftermath of Jane Austen's death, spotlighting her sister Cassandra Austen's infamous decision to burn Jane's private letters. leads the cast as Cassandra, while Scottish actress Synnøve Karlsen stars as the younger version of the character.

The programme, released in February, also features Rose Leslie, Jessica Hynes, and Phyllis Logan in pivotal roles, bringing to life the much-admired characters of the Jane Austen world. It was created by Andrea Gibb, who starred in the original series of All Creatures Great and Small and wrote several episodes of Call the Midwife. Miss Austen has a 91% score on Rotten Tomatoes and has fans saying it is the "BBC at its best".

Flocking to praise the show on social media, one wrote: "What a marvellous adaptation Miss Austen on the BBC with Keeley Hawes was. A perfect adaptation of the book, superbly acted! A fantastic bit of regency escapism."

Another said: "Oh God. On a busy train. Sobbing at the final episode of Miss Austen. Superb TV. The BBC at its best. As ever the divine Keeley Hawes was sublime."

A third echoed: "Keeley Hawes her usual inspirational self. Rose Leslie perfect in her role but the most awesome casting is Patsy Ferran as the iconic Jane. She is just as l imagine Jane Austen to be. Perfect Sunday night viewing. The at its best."

Celebrity chef Nigella Lawson also gave the show her seal of approval, sharing: "It is a work of quiet genius. Andrea Gibb has adapted it faultlessly, and the acting is unshowily exquisite. Of course Keeley Hawes is wonderful, as is Rose Leslie."

Another penned: "Binged-watched the @BBC production of Miss Austen based on the book by Gill Hornby. I absolutely loved it. Sure, there's some fictional bits, but the production is lovely, especially considering their anniversary year."

Miss Austen begins in 1830, several years after Jane's death. Cassandra hurries to see Isabella, the niece of her deceased fiancé, who is on the brink of losing her home following her father's passing.

Cassandra's apparent reason for visiting is to assist Isabella, but her true intention is to locate a concealed bundle of private letters which she fears could tarnish Jane's reputation if they fall into the wrong hands. Upon finding them, Cassandra is overcome with emotion as she is taken back to her younger days.

Through flashbacks, fans are introduced to Young Cassandra and Jane as they navigate through romantic obsessions, family disputes and shattered dreams that shaped their lives and laid the groundwork for Jane's timeless tales.