A rich novel that stands on its own, Adele adds a breathtaking new dimension to Charlotte Bronte’s beloved tale. Emma Tennant vividly unfolds the blossoming relationship and consequent marriage of the shy governess Jane Eyre and Edward Rochester, as witnessed by Rochester’s ward, Adele. Set in the foreground is the compelling story of the young French girl herself as she grows into womanhood.

The daughter of celebrated Parisian actress Celine Varens, Adele describes her childhood in Paris and England and her discovery of Thornfield Hall’s terrible secret. Driven by unhappiness and the desire to find her mother, Adele eventually runs away to Paris, where she obsessively searches for Celine. Yet Paris reveals only further secrets, some hurtful and baffling to the young girl.

While Adele learns to master the arts of the circus and grows in self-confidence and understanding of her mother’s choices, Mr. Rochester struggles to find the daughter he has neglected and lost, and a moving reconciliation brings Adele back to Thornfield and a future with her beloved Jane. Poignant and evocative, Adele is a magnificent read no Jane Eyre fan should miss.