Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

This is just a first impression of the book, and with it being such a prestigious novel, I have an automatically high expectations for it.
So far in the book, we've been introduced to the Bennet family- Mr and Mrs Bennet, Elizabeth (Lizzy), Jane, Lydia and Catherine (Kitty). As well as Mr Bingley and Mr Darcy, and their entourage at the ball.

The initial feelings I had towards the Bennet's was that Mr Bennet was and will be an amusing character, described as having a "... sarcastic humour". Especially alongside Mrs Bennet who struck me as a classic fretting mother, who's maybe a shade on the irritating side, who's manner clashes with her husband's.
Not a lot was revealed about the daughters, 'Lizzy' is the center of the novel and obviously this means she differs from her sisters which is evident. Jane, the eldest, is so far the object of Mr Bingley's affections as she was asked to dance twice at the ball. Mr Bingley is, seemingly, a complete gentleman for the fact that he was very polite and friendly at the ball, danced with the girls and even offered to hold another at his home, however in stark contrast to him is his friend, Mr Darcy. Mr Darcy is portrayed at the start as being horrid and impolite, deeming Lizzy "... tolerable, but not handsome enough to tempt me.". This however I think is set to change, if my instinct and very basic knowledge of Pride and Prejudice is anything to go by. I think he'll become a much kinder and warmer character, and actually fall for Elizabeth.

The novel comes across to me as a softer read, with strong themes of romance. The fact it's an old book, published in 1813, adds to this feeling. The older way of talking is present but doesn't hinder the coherence of it, in fact the association with the time period and classic romance really adds to the overall effect for a modern reader.
This genre of book is hugely different to what I'd normally choose to read, but so far I'm enjoying it, whether this will last I'll have to wait and see.