Villette - The Original Classic Edition. Brontë Charlotte

Having read this book 7 times over the past 15 years, I find that the story and characters just get better and better! As much as I idolize Jane Eyre, this story of the oft depressed and melancholy Lucy Snowe sparks the imagination. <p> Lucy is a Jane Eyre without the chutzpah, and with loads less self-esteem; but shares Janes strict code of conduct, and forces you to value her. In a way, I believe Lucy finds an even worthier match than Jane did–in M. Paul Emmanuel, passionate professor of literature. <p> In a way, the scenes between him and Lucy excite my imagination all the more, because theyre understated, AND because I already know how the story ends. The pain lends the love story incredible passion–the tame, orderly, parallel love story of Graham and Paulina just places that of Paul and Lucy in greater relief. <p> The two greatest actions in the book–a slap and a kiss–are so climactic and satisfying, that when I get to that section of the novel, I wont put it down until the end. <p> I am still reeling! Was it better to have loved and lost? Villette answers that question with a resounding affirmative.