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The Mysteries of Udolpho
The Mysteries of Udolpho
Ann Radcliffe | 2017 | Fiction & Poetry
10
9.3 (3 Ratings)
Book Rating
The Mysteries of Udolpho is commonly known as the first 'Gothic Novel', and is cited in Jane Austen's Northanger Abbey. I wish that in British Literature/HS European Literature classes in the USA taught this instead of Jane Eyre.
This book is very long, which may seem daunting, but I believe it's worth it. I enjoy Radcliffe's writing style as well. You can really see why this book is used as a template for many gothic novels/films, like Crimson Peak.
Again, this won't be to everyone's taste, but if you like classic literature, I consider it a must-read.
  
Emma Brown
Emma Brown
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
When Charlotte Brontë, author of the classic novel "Jane Eyre", died in 1855, she left behind 20 pages of a manuscript of a new novel, along with some other scraps of pieces she had been working on. Almost 150 years later in 2003, Irish author Clare Boylan took it upon herself to complete what Charlotte had begun. You can read my review of this novel here https://tcl-bookreviews.com/2015/03/03/completing-charlotte-brontes-manuscript/
  
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Suzanne Vega recommended Jane Eyre in Books (curated)

 
Jane Eyre
Jane Eyre
Charlotte Brontë, Stevie Davies | 2006 | Fiction & Poetry
8.2 (58 Ratings)
Book Favorite

"Before there was “Wuthering Heights,” there was “Jane Eyre.” I will never forget reading the first chapter and the shock of recognition — the narrator is a young girl living with a family she is tangentially related to, and she longs for freedom. In time, she becomes independent (after a series of hardships which she endures stoically) all the while earning her living and finding love in the end. I love her for her plain, sturdy, sensible character. I identify with her."

Source
  
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Suswatibasu (1701 KP) rated Jane Eyre in Books

Oct 10, 2017 (Updated Oct 10, 2017)  
Jane Eyre
Jane Eyre
Charlotte Brontë, Stevie Davies | 2006 | Fiction & Poetry
4
8.2 (58 Ratings)
Book Rating
Struggled with her so-called pioneering female character
I know, it's rather shocking - I am not a big fan of Jane Eyre. Having read it at school and analysed it to death, it made me realise how much I hated her character (apologies to the fans). She is seen to be 'ahead of her time' for leaving and attempting to forge her own life, yet she falls for Rochester's charms, allowing his wife (the mad woman in the attic) to burn to death. To be fair, I struggle with most period books because of its lack of pro-feminist content.
  
Wide Sargasso Sea
Wide Sargasso Sea
6
7.0 (5 Ratings)
Book Rating
Not what I expected
I was recommended this book by a friend as I enjoyed Jane Eyre. Was not sure what I was expecting when I started this but I have to say I was disappointed. Whereas the premis was good and it was an interesting thought to explore 'Mrs Rochester' the bok was far too short and I felt what could have been a great exploration of a character fell way short. The narrative was all over the place using first and third perspectives. Worth a read if you want something quick to pass the time.
  
Pamela;  or, Virtue Rewarded
Pamela; or, Virtue Rewarded
Samuel Richardson | 1740 | Fiction & Poetry
9
9.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
This novel is commonly known as the first true English novel, as well as the first epistolary novel. I've taken numerous British and English Literature classes, but had not been introduced to this novel until I studied in England and took an English novel class taught by a German professor who learned English solely so he could read Shakespeare in the vernacular. I'm glad that this prof included this wonderful novel. It was a nice change from just assigning Jane Eyre and Great Expectations.
It's an interesting study on Pamela, and spawned so many great, satirical novels. This is definitely a must read if you like classic literature and enjoy reading the novels that shaped the literature of today.