Brightly Burning by Alexa Donne
Published: 2018
Genre: YA Fantasy/Sci-Fi, Retelling
Synopsis From Goodreads:
Seventeen-year-old Stella Ainsley wants just one thing: to go somewhere—anywhere—else. Her home is a floundering spaceship that offers few prospects, having been orbiting an ice-encased Earth for two hundred years. When a private ship hires her as a governess, Stella jumps at the chance. The captain of the Rochester, nineteen-year-old Hugo Fairfax, is notorious throughout the fleet for being a moody recluse and a drunk. But with Stella he’s kind.
But the Rochester harbors secrets: Stella is certain someone is trying to kill Hugo, and the more she discovers, the more questions she has about his role in a conspiracy threatening the fleet.
My Take:
I have been a fan of Alexa Donne’s YouTube Channel for many years. Her knowledge and advice about the writing craft are invaluable! When her debut YA novel came out, I knew I had to give it a shot. To be honest, I wasn’t expecting much due to the genre. I couldn’t have been more wrong.
While Sci-Fi is not exactly my cup of tea…ok, I hate it…I went in with an open mind. I read the description. Come on, Jane Eyre in space? Really? Anything ever written by any of the Bronte sisters is at or near the top of my favorites list. To say the least, I was excited and dove right in.
I thought the beginning was a bit slow, but that was only because of my dislike of Sci-Fi. It wasn’t long before I was totally hooked. While not exactly Jane Eyre, it was close enough to make me smile. Her choices of names and circumstances were brilliant. I found myself thinking on many occasions that the story Alexa created was much better than Charlotte’s. More believable plot line, more likeable characters. I never “got” let alone liked Mr. Rochester, but Hugh Fairfax was cleverly written and comes off as genuine. While not always likeable, he never behaves in a flippant or “mean to be mean” kind of way.
If you are a fan of Jane Eyre, you will love this book. Even if you detest Sci-Fi, have a go. You won’t be disappointed. It is relatively clean, although there is some colorful language and a few mildly amorous scenes that may offend some looking for a novel with absolutely no objectionable material.
All in all, this is one of my favorite books, and yes, my favorite version of Jane Eyre.
Language:
Swearing is lightly sprinkled throughout the novel, usually in understandable circumstances, but fairly rare.
Sexual Content:
Characters are attracted to one another and this comes through in their thoughts. There are a few kissing scenes, but it is fairly clean.
Drug/Alcohol Use:
One of the main characters drinks heavily but is discouraged. Medicinal drug use related to space travel.
Violence:
Infrequent violence. A few attack scenes with resulting injuries and a ship crashes. Nothing graphic.
Plot/Storytelling:
An absolutely thrilling, well-written rewrite of a classic. You will experience a roller-coaster of emotions as you follow the characters in this novel. Twists and turns abound. Don’t miss this one!