11 of the Best Captivating Books like Jane Eyre to Read Next

Literary enthusiasts, get ready to step into the timeless world of passion, mystery, and romance, because we’ve crafted the ultimate reading list for fans of “Jane Eyre.” 📚❤️ From brooding heroes to resilient heroines, our compilation of “11 of the Best Books like Jane Eyre” promises to sweep you off your feet and transport you to worlds where love and intrigue intertwine. Whether you’re a Brontë aficionado or just craving the next great love story, these novels are your ticket to captivating narratives that echo the timeless charm of Thornfield Hall. So, grab your reading nook, a cup of tea, and let the literary adventure begin!

Books like Jane Eyre

Rebecca (1938)

by Daphne du Maurier

“Last night I dreamt I went to Manderley again…”

“Rebecca” is a Gothic novel that tells the story of an unnamed young woman who becomes the second wife of a wealthy widower named Maxim de Winter. The novel unfolds through the eyes of the protagonist, who narrates her experiences and struggles as she tries to navigate the shadowy world of Manderley, Maxim’s grand estate in Cornwall, England. The story begins with the protagonist, a shy and inexperienced young woman working as a lady’s companion, meeting Maxim de Winter while in Monte Carlo. They quickly develop a relationship, and after a brief courtship, return to Manderley.

However, upon arriving at the estate, the new bride soon realizes that she is overshadowed by the lingering presence of Maxim’s first wife, Rebecca, who died under mysterious circumstances. As the protagonist settles into her new role as the lady of the house, she finds herself constantly haunted by the memory of Rebecca.

The narrative builds tension as the secrets surrounding Rebecca’s death come to light, and the true nature of the relationship between Maxim and her are revealed.

Similar to Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë, both novels features orphaned protagonists—Jane and the unnamed heroine of “Rebecca”—who navigate complex relationships with brooding, mysterious heroes, Mr. Rochester and Maxim de Winter, respectively. The settings of Thornfield Hall and Manderley share a gothic atmosphere, housing dark secrets and mysterious histories. Power dynamics, struggle for identity emerge and jealousy are central themes, as both heroines confront societal expectations and assert their independence.

The Eyre Affair (2001)

by Jasper Fforde

“The Eyre Affair” is a fantastical novel set in an alternate reality where literature holds immense power and influence. The story follows Thursday Next, a literary detective in the Special Operations Network (SpecOps) in an alternate version of 1985 England. In this world, time travel is possible, and literary characters can exist outside their books, interacting with the real world. Thursday’s main antagonist is Acheron Hades, a notorious criminal who has the ability to enter books and alter their plots, which can have real-world consequences.

However, Hades’ real target is the beloved Jane Eyre, and it’s not long before he plucks her from the pages of Bronte’s novel.

Thursday’s mission is to rescue Jane Eyre and recover the stolen manuscript, as well as stop Hades from causing further chaos in the literary world.

The story takes readers on a journey through various well-known literary works and introduces them to a cast of quirky characters, both fictional and real. As Thursday delves deeper into her investigation, she discovers a larger conspiracy that threatens the very fabric of literature and reality itself. Along the way, she encounters time-traveling colleagues and fictional characters.

Both books feature Jane Eyre as a central character. In “The Eyre Affair,” Jane Eyre is a character within the novel who is kidnapped, leading to the main plot of the story. Both stories feature strong female protagonists who are determined, independent, and defy societal norms. Jane Eyre in Brontë’s novel is known for her resilience, intelligence, and refusal to conform to societal expectations. Similarly, Thursday Next in “The Eyre Affair” is a fierce and capable character, working as a literary detective and actively pursuing justice.

The Moonstone (1868)

by Wilkie Collins

“The Moonstone” revolves around the mysterious theft of a valuable yellow diamond known as the Moonstone and the subsequent investigation to uncover the truth. The novel begins with the introduction of three Indian Brahmins who visit the house of Colonel Herncastle in England during the British occupation of India. The Brahmins attempt to reclaim the Moonstone, which they believe was stolen from a sacred temple. Colonel Herncastle, refusing to return the diamond, leaves it in his will to his niece, Rachel Verinder, on her 18th birthday.

On Rachel’s birthday the Moonstone mysteriously disappears from her bedroom, leading to a great deal of suspicion and intrigue among the household members and guests. The local police and a celebrated detective named Sergeant Cuff are called in to investigate the theft. As the investigation progresses, various characters become suspects, including Rachel’s cousin, who was entrusted with the diamond’s safekeeping.

The narrative is presented through multiple perspectives and includes a series of testimonies and personal accounts from different characters involved. The plot thickens with twists and turns, as the true nature of the theft and the motivations behind it gradually unfold. The narrative explores themes of deception, greed, love, and loyalty, while also delving into the social and cultural issues of the Victorian era.

Why you should read The Moonstone after Jane Eyre-

Both novels incorporate elements of Gothic literature. “Jane Eyre” is set in a gloomy and mysterious mansion, Thornfield Hall, while “The Moonstone” features an atmospheric country estate with hidden secrets. Both books explore themes of suspense, mystery, and the supernatural. They employ unique narrative structures. “Jane Eyre” is narrated in the first person by Jane herself, providing readers with her subjective perspective. “The Moonstone” utilizes a multi-narrative approach, featuring various testimonies and accounts from different characters involved in the diamond’s theft, offering multiple perspectives on the events.

Beloved (1987)

by Toni Morrison

The story in “Beloved” explores the lingering effects of slavery and the deep emotional scars it leaves on the characters. The narrative centers around Sethe, an African-American woman who escapes from slavery on a plantation called Sweet Home in Kentucky. Sethe is haunted by her past and the trauma she endured, particularly the death of her baby Beloved. And now her new house is troubled by the angry ghost of Beloved.

Years later, Sethe lives in Cincinnati with her daughter Denver, where they are visited by the ghost of Beloved, who manifests as a young woman. Beloved’s arrival disrupts their lives and brings buried memories and painful emotions to the surface. The community becomes intrigued by Beloved’s presence, and they are gradually drawn into the web of secrets and sorrows that surround Sethe and her past.

Why you should read Beloved after Jane Eyre-

Both novels delve into the complexities of identity formation. Jane Eyre questions her sense of self and wrestles with societal expectations, particularly in relation to her gender and social status. Sethe, on the other hand, confronts the haunting memories of her past and seeks to reconcile her personal identity with the collective identity of her community and race. Love and sacrifice play significant roles in both novels. Jane Eyre experiences a transformative love story with Mr. Rochester, but she also must make difficult choices that challenge her sense of morality and self-worth. In “Beloved,” Sethe’s acts are driven by her deep maternal love and desire to protect her children.

The Monk (1796)

by Matthew Gregory Lewis

Set in the late 16th century in Spain, “The Monk” follows the life of Ambrosio, a virtuous and respected monk. Ambrosio is revered by the people of Madrid for his piety and wisdom. However, he harbors dark and sinful desires beneath his saintly facade. He becomes infatuated with a young woman.

As the story unfolds, Ambrosio’s actions become increasingly sinister and he is involved in various acts of cruelty. The novel explores themes of lust, temptation, and the conflict between good and evil.

“Jane Eyre” and “The Monk” contain gothic elements in their storytelling. “The Monk” is a classic gothic novel, known for its dark and supernatural themes, while “Jane Eyre” incorporates elements of gothic fiction, such as eerie settings, mysterious occurrences, and secrets. Both books show protagonists who strive for independence and self-empowerment.

Northanger Abbey (1817)

by Jane Austin

Northanger Abbey is often referred to as Jane Austen’s “Gothic parody.” 

The story’s unlikely heroine is Catherine Morland, a remarkably innocent seventeen-year-old woman from a country parsonage. While spending a few weeks in Bath with a family friend, Catherine meets and falls in love with Henry Tilney, who invites her to visit his family estate, Northanger Abbey. Once there, Catherine, a great reader of Gothic thrillers, lets the shadowy atmosphere of the old mansion fill her mind with terrible suspicions. What is the mystery surrounding the death of Henry’s mother?

Is the family concealing a terrible secret within the elegant rooms of the Abbey? Can she trust Henry, or is he part of an evil conspiracy? Catherine finds dreadful portents in the most prosaic events, until Henry persuades her to see the peril in confusing life with art.

Little Dorrit (1857)

by Charles Dickens

The novel begins with the Dorrit family, residing in the Marshalsea. Little Dorrit has spent her entire life in the prison, acting as a caretaker for her father and living a humble existence. Her only comfort comes from her kind-hearted nature and her friendship with Arthur Clennam, who is himself returning to England after a long absence. As the story unfolds, Arthur Clennam becomes involved in a complex web of secrets and mysteries surrounding the Dorrit family.

The novel concludes with a message of hope and redemption, as characters find solace in personal growth and the importance of human connection. Throughout the novel, Dickens explores themes of social inequality, the effects of wealth and poverty, and the nature of imprisonment, both physical and psychological. He paints a vivid picture of the stark contrasts between the different social classes and satirizes the hypocrisy and shallowness of the upper classes.

Wide Sargasso Sea (1966)

by Jean Rhys

“Wide Sargasso Sea” is a prequel and reimagining of Charlotte Brontë’s classic novel “Jane Eyre.” Rhys explores the backstory of the character Bertha Mason, who becomes the infamous “madwoman in the attic” in Brontë’s novel. Set in Jamaica and Dominica during the early 19th century, the novel follows the life of Antoinette Cosway, a Creole heiress from a troubled family. The story is divided into three parts, each narrated by a different character.

The novel explores Antoinette’s childhood, her family’s decline in fortunes, and her eventual marriage to an Englishman, Mr. Rochester. As the narrative unfolds, readers witness Antoinette’s struggles with identity, her complex relationships, and the impact of societal expectations on her life.

The setting of the novel, particularly the lush and volatile landscape of Jamaica, plays an important part in shaping the characters and their experiences. Themes of colonialism, race, and cultural clashes are woven into the narrative, offering a perspective on the complexities of the human condition.

More importantly, the novel gives a much needed space to Bertha, who was relegated to the margins of the original narrative.

Little Women (1868)

by Louisa May Alcott

“Little Women” is a classic American novel that follows the lives of the four March sisters—Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy—in Concord, Massachusetts, during the Civil War era. The story revolves around the coming-of-age experiences and individual journeys of the four sisters, each with her distinct personality and aspirations. The eldest, Meg, is traditional and strives for a conventional life as a wife and mother. Jo, the second sister, is a tomboy with a fiery spirit, a passion for writing, and dreams of becoming a successful author. Beth, the third sister, is a gentle and kind-hearted girl who loves music and seeks solace in her piano. Finally, Amy, the youngest, is artistic and ambitious, desiring a refined and luxurious lifestyle.

The novel depicts the various challenges and joys the sisters encounter as they navigate the complexities of family, friendship, love, and societal expectations. They endure the absence of their father, who is serving as a chaplain in the war, and find support and guidance from their mother, affectionately known as Marmee. The sisters form strong bonds with one another and learn valuable lessons about loyalty, sacrifice, and the pursuit of their dreams.

Wuthering Heights (1847)

by Emily Bronte

The story unfolds in the desolate moors of Yorkshire, England, and spans several generations. The narrative is framed by the housekeeper, Ellen “Nelly” Dean, recounting the tragic tale to Mr. Lockwood, a newcomer renting a nearby estate.

The heart of the story revolves around the intense and tumultuous relationship between Heathcliff, an enigmatic and brooding orphan, and Catherine Earnshaw, his passionate and headstrong childhood friend. Despite their deep bond, their love is fraught with obstacles, including social class differences, family opposition, and personal vendettas.

The novel explores themes of revenge, social class, and the destructive power of unfulfilled love. The characters are complex and often morally ambiguous, contributing to the dark and gothic atmosphere of the narrative. Also, the novel has multiple narrators and flashbacks, adding layers to the storytelling.

Love and passion play central roles in both “Jane Eyre” and “Wuthering Heights”. They explore intense, unconventional, and sometimes destructive forms of love. The relationships in both books are marked by deep emotional connections, conflicts, and the power dynamics between the characters. Social class is a significant theme in both novels. The characters’ backgrounds and social standing shape their interactions and relationships. The divide between the lower and upper classes is explored, highlighting the challenges and restrictions faced by individuals from different social strata.

The Thirteenth Tale (2006)

by Diane Satterfield

“The Thirteenth Tale” is a Gothic mystery novel that weaves together elements of family secrets, storytelling, and a haunting past. The story revolves around Margaret Lea, a young woman who works in her father’s antiquarian bookstore, and her encounter with a famous yet reclusive author named Vida Winter. Vida Winter, known for her enchanting and imaginative novels, approaches Margaret with a unique proposition. She wishes Margaret to write her biography, revealing the truth about her life that she has concealed through various fabricated stories over the years. Intrigued by the offer, Margaret agrees to the task, and the two women embark on a journey to uncover Vida Winter’s hidden history.

As Margaret delves deeper into Vida Winter’s past, she unravels a captivating and dark tale involving twins, ghosts, and a decaying mansion called Angelfield.

As the layers of mystery are peeled away, Margaret finds herself entangled in the haunting world of the Angelfield family, drawn closer to the enigma that is Vida Winter and her own personal connection to the story. The Thirteenth Tale weaves a complex web of secrets, literary allusions, and the transformative power of storytelling, ultimately leading to a startling revelation that ties together the lives of its characters.

Why you should read The Thirteenth Tale after Jane Eyre

“Jane Eyre” and “The Thirteenth Tale” both revolve around the uncovering of family secrets and the impact these revelations have on the characters’ lives. The protagonists are drawn into the mysteries of their own families and must confront the truths hidden in their pasts. “The Thirteenth Tale” pays homage to classic literature, and “Jane Eyre” is one of the books that serves as an inspiration for the narrative. Both novels reference and draw upon other works of literature, creating a sense of intertextuality.

“Jane Eyre” has left an indelible mark on the literary landscape, and readers continue to seek out books that capture the same allure and depth found in Charlotte Brontë’s classic. Whether it’s the haunting atmosphere, the exploration of female agency, or the themes of love and resilience, the books mentioned above—such as “Rebecca”, “Wide Sargasso Sea” and “The Thirteenth Tale”—offer compelling narratives that resonate with fans of “Jane Eyre.” These books will transport you to worlds filled with mystery, passion, and the intricate complexities of the human spirit, providing a gratifying reading experience reminiscent of Brontë’s enduring masterpiece.

Conclusion to Books like Jane Eyre

And that concludes the list for books like Jane Eyre!

As we bid adieu to the enchanting books like Jane Eyre, let the echoes of timeless romance and unforgettable characters linger in your literary heart. 📖💖 We’ve curated a collection that ensures your journey into the world of passionate love stories doesn’t end here. From Gothic settings to indomitable spirits, these novels are more than just stories—they are invitations to explore the enduring magic of classic romance. So, bookmark your next chapter, dear readers, and let the legacy of love stories continue to unfold in the pages of your reading adventures. Happy reading, and may the echoes of timeless romance resonate in your literary wanderings!

However, if you want more books like Jane Eyre beyond the list above, you should consider-

1. Jamaica Inn by Du Maurier
2. Tess of the D’Urbervilles by Thomas Hardy
3. Howard’s End by E. M. Forster
4. The French Lieutenant’s Woman by John Fowles
5. The Turn of the Screw by Henry James
6. The Lady of the Camellias by Alexandre Dumas
7. The House of Mirth by Edith Wharton
8. Ethan Frome by Edith Wharton
9. Bellefleur by Joyce Carol Oates
10. Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno Garcia
11. Pachinko by Min Jin Lee
12. The Woman in White by Wilkie Collins
13. Romola by George Eliot
14. Mr Rochester by Sarah Shoemaker
15. Reader, I Married Him: Stories Inspired by Jane Eyre by Tracy Chevalier
16. The Madwoman Upstairs by Catherine Lowell
17. Rochester: A Memoir by Cora Holmes
18. Nine Coaches Waiting by Mary Stewart
19. Mistress of Mellyn by Victoria Holt
20. My Plain Jane by Cynthia Hand