Jane Steele

by Lyndsay Faye
Jane Steele cover
Good Books rating 4.5
Crime, Mystery, Thriller/Suspense
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  • ID: 10151
  • Added: 2026-01-16
  • Updated: 2026-01-16
  • ISBN: 9781410490797
  • Published: 2016-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

Jane Steele is a reimagining of Charlotte Bronte's classic Jane Eyre, but with a dark and humorous twist. Jane Steele is an orphan who suffers abuse at the hands of her aunt and cousin, then at a grim school where she fights for her life. After escaping, she leaves a trail of bodies behind her and hides from the law while writing macabre last confessions of the recently hanged. When she discovers an advertisement for a governess position at her childhood home, she takes it incognito to learn more about her past and the new master, Mr. Charles Thornfield. /n/n As Jane falls in love with Mr. Thornfield, she faces a terrible dilemma: can she possess him body, soul, and secrets without revealing her own murderous past? This satirical romance explores themes of identity, guilt, goodness, and the nature of lies, all wrapped up in a thrilling and darkly humorous narrative.

Reviews
Dear Author · 2019-07-30
enjoyable 4.25

The strong prose and characterization are highlights, and the unusual plot and setting enhance the reading experience.

The writing in this book is top-notch, with prose that is both elegant and engaging. The characters are well-developed and compelling, making it easy to become invested in their stories. The plot is unusual and the setting is richly detailed, which adds an extra layer of enjoyment. The author has a knack for creating characters that feel real and relatable, and the story is one that will stay with you long after you've finished reading. It's a book that showcases the author's talent and leaves you eager for more.

Quick quotes

    Strong prose and characterization go a long way with her

    though if they are combined with an unusual plot or setting, all the better

    The author has a knack for creating characters that feel real and relatable

Cannonball Read · faintingviolet · 2019-03-19
exceptional 4.75

The book is exceptionally good, with the reviewer struggling to express just how much they enjoyed it.

This book is a standout, with a quality that is hard to put into words. The reviewer found it to be exceptionally good and had a hard time articulating just how much they enjoyed it. The story is engaging and well-crafted, with a unique blend of elements that make it a memorable read. The reviewer's enthusiasm for the book is palpable, and they highly recommend it to others. It's a book that will leave a lasting impression and is sure to be a favorite for many readers.

Quick quotes

    This books is just flat out GOOD

    I am having trouble finding the words to say exactly how good it is

    so I'm going to stop trying after

Buried Under Books · 2018-09-14
entertaining 4.50

The book is greatly entertaining, especially when Jane describes other characters. It blends biography, romance, and mystery seamlessly.

This book is a delightful mix of genres that keeps you engaged from start to finish. The author's choice to have Jane narrate the stories of other characters adds a unique and captivating layer to the story. It's a testament to Faye's skill that she can weave together so many elements into a cohesive and enjoyable narrative. The characters are vividly brought to life, and the mystery elements keep you guessing. It's a book that's hard to put down, and one that will leave you wanting more.

Quick quotes

    Part biography, part romance, part mystery, this is a greatly entertaining read throughout

    but perhaps especially when Faye has Jane describe other characters

    The book is a testament to Faye's skill that she can weave together so many elements into a cohesive and enjoyable narrative

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