This review is only of Wide Sargasso Sea because I have not yet read the others in this compilation of Rhys work. Though based on this reading, I am sure to finish up the other stories in the book.

The novel is a re-telling of the lives of Mr. Rochester and his mad wife from Bronte's Jane Eyre from Mr. Rochester's perspective and that of his mad wife. The connections and history of the characters are more deeply explained and expounded upon here. The characters are well-drawn and interesting. And the setting in the setting, in the West Indies adds a whole new angle to the story. Save a couple of confusing moments in switching gears between narrators and character perspectives, I thoroughly enjoyed the book. I also enjoyed Jane Eyre years ago and this book makes me want to re-read it.

More on the other novels when I get to them. ( )