my take: I recently watched the newest movie version of Jane Eyre … and liked it a lot … so my little brain was ready for Gemma.
This is a retelling of Jane Eyre set in 1950’s Great Britain. Gemma (pronounced with a J sound) adds and subtracts from the original plot in very satisfying ways. It doesn’t seem as dark as the Gothic version.
Even if you haven’t read Jane recently (or ever) I think you’ll agree this has a great plot with great characters and a bit of adventure. Gemma flees from situation to situation with a host of birds surrounding her. (Those who know about birds might find symbolism in the selections).
I read this in a day on a houseboat – a wonderful way to lounge the day away.
my source: Other people’s lists (Oprah’s website, Amazon suggestions)
my verdict: Excellent.
abookchick.com 
Alas, I was a bit disappointed with this one. Which was a shame because I was so excited and it started out so promisingly. I was fine with some deviations from the Jane Eyre plot, but I thought Gemma's reason for leaving her Mr. Rochester character at the altar just didn't work… Jane's makes sense, because she CAN'T marry him, but Gemma's was a matter of principle only (that he was a liar), but then she goes on and lies and makes up a whole new life. So the rest of the book just dragged for me because I couldn't get over her dumb choice in leaving him! I did love the bird motifs though.
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