I know what you mean about Jane Austen and agree with you. At school ( all girls) we had both Jane Eyre and Pride and Predjudice as set books. Practically everyone finished reading Jane Eyre within a week, and by the end of the book had fallen madly in love with Mr Rochester. (including me!)
Pride and Predjudice on the other hand was a chore to read. We slogged it out for a whole year. At the time, I remember it being all about manners a snobbism. Maybe we were too young at 12yrs?
Although I didn’t enjoy reading Pride and Prejudice, I always enjoy watching the film and tv versions of the book.
Oh, I meant to add... I know a man who enjoyed reading Jane Eyre. He liked her strong character.