In Jane & Edward, her first novel, Melodie Edwards delivers an endearing, irresistible version of Jane Eyre. The story begins with Jane Raine, a tenacious young woman who grew up in foster care after the death of her father. Jane works as a waitress and, after scrimping and saving to put herself through courses at a community college, is on the eve of starting her new career as a legal secretary. To her astonishment, one of Jane's teachers refers her for a job at a prestigious downtown Toronto firm, working for the intimidating Edward Rosen. Everyone else in the firm is scared of Mr. Rosen's bluster, but over the next few months Jane finds herself growing fond of Mr. Rosen--while experiencing blossoming friendships with other coworkers--until one terrible day when a secret from Mr. Rosen's past is revealed. Jane is forced to reevaluate her new life.
Jane & Edward is a reimagining, not a retelling, of Charlotte Brontë's classic Jane Eyre. It does not hew as closely to that plot as most retellings would (and, thankfully, does not dwell for any length of time, as the original does, on Jane's dire beginnings), but the broad strokes are the same. And Edwards captures Jane's delightful stubbornness extremely well. Smart and witty Jane Raine, sure to captivate readers, has a sharp mind and a gentle spirit. Jane & Edward is perfect for Brontë readers or anyone looking for a romance with depth. --Jessica Howard, freelance book reviewer