'This absorbing, meticulously researched investigation of a pivotal episode in literary history is a triumph. It illuminates the people involved in deft and nuanced ways, providing original and lucid insights into both Charlotte Brontė and her bravest champion. Watson has written the most gripping Brontė page-turner since Mrs Gaskells The Life.' - Sharon Wright, author of The Mother of the Brontės Meticulously researched, erudite and utterly engaging, The Invention of Charlotte Brontė is a compulsive read... deftly illustrating the slippery nature of any true narrative... Watsons book is both a labour of love and a magnificent addition to the canon of Brontė literature. - Karen Powell, author of Nero shortlisted Fifteen Wild Decembers Does much to rehabilitate Charlottes often vilified husband Arthur Nicholls and relates the dramatic background to the sensational biography which made the Brontės the most famous literary family in the world. Closely researched and compulsively readable, it is a worthy addition to the field of Brontė studies. - Liz Hodgkinson, The Lady What Bookstagrammers are saying:
Hooked me from the start A perfect read. @historian_ellis,
Brilliantly written That this is a debut is astounding. Insightful, well-researched and flows from the page. @vickipope1971
Admirable Careful and painstaking Thoroughly riveting. @redroomreflections
Gripping A fascinating and eye-opening narrative as readable as a novel. @katrina_m_robinson
Moving Eloquent and meticulous Compelling Not just a biography; its a celebration of creativity, perseverance, and the indomitable spirit of a woman who defied the odds to leave an indelible mark on literature. @annathebooksiread
Moving A poignant and thought-provoking account. @History_is_so_last_century
Incredibly well put together I felt like I was part of conversations between these women and their friends and families. @Chelsboooks
Watson plays myth buster leaving no stone unturned to uncover the truth about one of the most iconic authors of all time A masterful and thorough investigation Invigorating and convincing. @gothicbookworm
Wonderfully engaging and Im in awe A must! @Pawswithprose 'One great strength is Watsons attentiveness throughout to the psychological complexities of Charlottes burgeoning intimacy with Gaskell Gaskell problematically resolves to champion her but instantly betrays her confidence It would be tempting to cast Charlotte Brontė as victim, but Watson also is careful to point out that Charlotte herself seems to have indulged in self-mythologizing Watson offers up a measured, highly elastic, and refreshing interpretation of their dynamic, one which absolves neither of creative fabrication but also allows both agency in the gradual construction of Charlotte Brontės legacy Watsons narrative succeeds in conveying a sense of the great, unalleviated grief as well as burning female anger.' - Dr Lydia Craig, Brontė Studies Fascinating. * Daily Mail *
