A review by mozbolt
The Tenant of Wildfell Hall by Anne Brontë

5.0

Finally! After two months of chipping away at this amazing novel, I'm finished. I loved this book so much. There were some slow bits, especially toward the end, but the overall story and epistolary style was amazing. The realism in this piece blew me away, especially regarding how progressive the story is. The idea of a woman leaving her abusive husband in the 1800s was taboo and improper, which was so messed up considering how horrible Helen's circumstances became over time. The balance of youth and desire against suffering and guardedness was tangible and accessible in her character. I relate so much to Helen, especially as a mother, and the complexity of her character rivals both Charlotte and Emily's heroines in regard to personality, depth, and accomplishments. I loved the presence of a strong, emotional, grounded woman, who was nurturing, loyal, and fiercely independent, even when she felt trapped by her circumstances. I will most likely read this again someday. Loved it!