This is a prequel to _Jane Eyre_ by Charlotte Bronte. It imagines the life and character of Rochester's first wife, driven to madness. This book is very intense and sensual. I was not able to fully appreciate it until I read a reader's commentary on the book- which I would highly recommend.

A spirited and sensual young woman grows up on a plantation in Jamaica just after the British government has freed the slaves. Her father has died years before and she, her handicapped brother, and her mother must try to keep up appearances until her mother can find a new husband. A new marriage brings a few years of happiness, but sudden, unexpected violence drives the mother into a deep depression and ends up forcing the girl into an arranged marriage with an Englishman who wants her fortune. The Englishman is Rochester; the Mr. Rochester of 'Jane Eyre'. And the girl slowly becomes the 'mad woman in the attic' of Bronte's beloved classic.
Beautifully written, with an engaging heroine and an interesting story, this book suggests that the withdrawal of love and choice can lead to the destruction of a soul as surely as violence.

Was a little disappointed; the story was hard to follow at times. Not what I expected.

A modern classic, the retelling of "Jane Eyre" by the mad wife of Mr. Rochester.

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The book was good, but i wanted more from it. It is interesting that she talks about the west indies..not alot of books too. Not many books touch on the subject of obeah too...

Linked to the Jane Eyre classic

Different cover art.
What was Mr. Rochester's first wife like before her marriage?

Great to read with Jane Eyre. The story of Rochester's "mad" wife.

prequel to Jane Eyre. Poor Mrs. Rochester....

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