mabelcharlotte 's review for:

Mr. Rochester by Sarah Shoemaker

5.0

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Probably the best - or certainly one of the best - books I’ve read this year so far, and I’ve read some brilliant books this year! Not only a brilliant and imaginative retelling of Charlotte Brontë’s ‘Jane Eyre’ from Mr Rochester’s perspective, but the character of Mr Rochester has really been brought to life through an in depth telling of his life story. From when he was a child through to adulthood, and the fantastic climax of when he meets and develops his relationship with Jane, Sarah Shoemaker develops a believable and fantastic interpretation of Mr Rochester. He is written with sympathy and detail that explores his relationship and similarities with Jane even when she is not there, and gives insight readers may not have otherwise considered. Overall producing a fresh, new text that at the same time complements and cooperates with the original. Shoemaker has expertly developed the characterisation of many (including Rochester himself) and perfectly matched the literary style of the story’s context to truly capture Rochester’s own voice.

A thrilling, heartbreakingly devastating and enjoyable read that provides a fresh outlook of a beloved character’s life and mind. I reread ‘Jane Eyre’ every year as it is my all time favourite book, and I daresay I shall be rereading this alongside it in the future also.