Jane Eyre

I adored this book and I'm not sure how I hadn't read it sooner. Where Wuthering Heights left me frustrated and disappointed, Jane Eyre soothed my soul. Not only was Jane a likable and oftentimes relatable character, but the romance was genuine.

I know many people fail to see the romance between Jane and Rochester, and that's their prerogative. I personally did not see any romance in Wuthering Heights despite the universal claim. But something about the rapport between Jane and Rochester reminded me of my boyfriend and myself. Two independent, stubborn people who respect each other enough to enjoy a conversational back-and-forth. They share little inside joke insults but share a tenderness for each other that is rare for them.

Something about this book exudes womanhood, and I loved it.