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La Sorcière de Thornfield
A gifted healer unravels the mysteries of a cursed estate—and its enigmatic owner—in a witchy retelling of Jane Eyre .
"Salt and broom, make this room
Safe and tight, against the night."
Trunks packed with potions and cures, Jane Aire sets out on a crisp, clear morning in October to face the greatest challenge of her sheltered girls’-school existence. A shadow lies over Thornfield Hall and its reclusive master, Edward Rochester. And he’s hired her only as a last resort. Jane stumbles again and again as she tries to establish a rapport with her prickly new employer, but he becomes the least of her worries as a mysterious force seems to work against her. The threats mount around both Jane and Rochester—who’s becoming more intriguing and appealing to her by the day. Jane begins to fear her herb healing and protective charms may not be enough to save the man she’s growing to love from a threat darker and more dangerous than either of them imagined.
"Salt and broom, make this room
Safe and tight, against the night."
Trunks packed with potions and cures, Jane Aire sets out on a crisp, clear morning in October to face the greatest challenge of her sheltered girls’-school existence. A shadow lies over Thornfield Hall and its reclusive master, Edward Rochester. And he’s hired her only as a last resort. Jane stumbles again and again as she tries to establish a rapport with her prickly new employer, but he becomes the least of her worries as a mysterious force seems to work against her. The threats mount around both Jane and Rochester—who’s becoming more intriguing and appealing to her by the day. Jane begins to fear her herb healing and protective charms may not be enough to save the man she’s growing to love from a threat darker and more dangerous than either of them imagined.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published December 1, 2023
5573 people are currently reading
32992 people want to read
About the author
Sharon Lynn Fisher
15 books566 followersSharon Lynn Fisher writes mash-ups of fantasy, mystery, and slow-burn romance set in lush and atmospheric worlds. Her current series of stand-alone novels (which began with Salt & Broom) features cozy gothic fantasies set in Victorian England.
Sharon's books have been published by Tor, Random House, Blackstone, and 47North. They've been praised and recommended by Booklist, Kirkus, Publishers Weekly, the Historical Novel Society, and RT Book Reviews, among others.
Sharon's witchy Jane Eyre retelling, Salt & Broom (47North), was selected as an Amazon First Read in November 2023 and became a Top 25 Kindle Store Bestseller. Grimm Curiosities, about a young woman who inherits her father's haunted curiosity shop in York, England, was a New York Times pick for holiday reads. Her next book, Tea & Alchemy, is scheduled for release Oct. 7, 2025.
When Sharon's not writing, you'll mostly find her wandering the Pacific Northwest woods looking for fairies and mushrooms.
For more information about Sharon and her writing, visit www.sharonlynnfisher.com.
Sharon's books have been published by Tor, Random House, Blackstone, and 47North. They've been praised and recommended by Booklist, Kirkus, Publishers Weekly, the Historical Novel Society, and RT Book Reviews, among others.
Sharon's witchy Jane Eyre retelling, Salt & Broom (47North), was selected as an Amazon First Read in November 2023 and became a Top 25 Kindle Store Bestseller. Grimm Curiosities, about a young woman who inherits her father's haunted curiosity shop in York, England, was a New York Times pick for holiday reads. Her next book, Tea & Alchemy, is scheduled for release Oct. 7, 2025.
When Sharon's not writing, you'll mostly find her wandering the Pacific Northwest woods looking for fairies and mushrooms.
For more information about Sharon and her writing, visit www.sharonlynnfisher.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,997 reviews
December 23, 2023
“Salt and broom, make this room
Safe and tight, against the night”.
What a way to end a hectic year than with a retelling of my all-time favourite book – Jane Eyre. A book that was different in a good way, with delightful storytelling and sincerity in the characters that were cast so differently from the original book, although with some recurring traits that we would be disappointed to not see in any retelling. Rochester with his brooding persona and Jane with her strong independent values and choices.
This time Jane is a teacher of herbal remedies not just for the sick but also the soul and particularly those that have not made the transition to the other world. Yes, a witch. However, this is by no means a spook-tacular take on Jane Eyre but one that allows us to see the mystery behind Thornfield as Jane seeks to rid the Victorian Gothic pile from its ill fate and once troubled residents.
I loved the writing style in the original book but this I imagine will appeal to more people. Some people have recommended this as a standalone for anyone who has not read Jane Eyre. However, for me its intrigue and substance are because it is a retelling of Jane Eyre, otherwise its content and storyline would be light. For example, why would a witch going to Thornfield be of any interest if you didn’t know who Mrs Rochester was.
Anyway, a wonderful take on the beauty that is Jane Eyre. An interesting portrayal of some famous encounters and well!!! the chemistry between Jane and Edward is always something to behold.
Her coming was my hope each day, her parting was my pain.
The chance that did her steps delay, was ice in every vein.
—Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë
Safe and tight, against the night”.
What a way to end a hectic year than with a retelling of my all-time favourite book – Jane Eyre. A book that was different in a good way, with delightful storytelling and sincerity in the characters that were cast so differently from the original book, although with some recurring traits that we would be disappointed to not see in any retelling. Rochester with his brooding persona and Jane with her strong independent values and choices.
This time Jane is a teacher of herbal remedies not just for the sick but also the soul and particularly those that have not made the transition to the other world. Yes, a witch. However, this is by no means a spook-tacular take on Jane Eyre but one that allows us to see the mystery behind Thornfield as Jane seeks to rid the Victorian Gothic pile from its ill fate and once troubled residents.
I loved the writing style in the original book but this I imagine will appeal to more people. Some people have recommended this as a standalone for anyone who has not read Jane Eyre. However, for me its intrigue and substance are because it is a retelling of Jane Eyre, otherwise its content and storyline would be light. For example, why would a witch going to Thornfield be of any interest if you didn’t know who Mrs Rochester was.
Anyway, a wonderful take on the beauty that is Jane Eyre. An interesting portrayal of some famous encounters and well!!! the chemistry between Jane and Edward is always something to behold.
Her coming was my hope each day, her parting was my pain.
The chance that did her steps delay, was ice in every vein.
—Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë
March 2, 2024
Hmm... I need to think on this one a min- RTC.
A Jane Eyre retelling with magic and witches?! Say NO more. 🖤
A Jane Eyre retelling with magic and witches?! Say NO more. 🖤
January 6, 2025
What an enchanting retelling of Jane Eyre!!!
The author did an excellent job of bringing the story of Jane Eyre into this witchy retelling. It held true to a lot of the details and historical musings of the original book and added a flare of witchy fantasy.
I found the story to start slow out of the gate and it took me a little while to get into it. Once the story blossomed however, I throughly enjoyed the scenery and looked forward to reading page after page. I subtracted one full star for the pacing and for some of the writing being a little lack luster.
Overall, I thought this was a perfect shorter read at just under 300 pages with a lovely hint of romance in the sweetest way. I’ve read other witch novels that provided more of a magical realism feel, but this one missed the mark on believability for me.
Overall? It was a feel good read with a fun little mystery that had an upscale romance and happy ending. If you’re looking for a cozy read, this one may be the ticket.
ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review!!
The author did an excellent job of bringing the story of Jane Eyre into this witchy retelling. It held true to a lot of the details and historical musings of the original book and added a flare of witchy fantasy.
I found the story to start slow out of the gate and it took me a little while to get into it. Once the story blossomed however, I throughly enjoyed the scenery and looked forward to reading page after page. I subtracted one full star for the pacing and for some of the writing being a little lack luster.
Overall, I thought this was a perfect shorter read at just under 300 pages with a lovely hint of romance in the sweetest way. I’ve read other witch novels that provided more of a magical realism feel, but this one missed the mark on believability for me.
Overall? It was a feel good read with a fun little mystery that had an upscale romance and happy ending. If you’re looking for a cozy read, this one may be the ticket.
ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review!!
September 11, 2025
Historical and witchy! I liked it, but didn’t love it.
October 31, 2025
3.5 stars
This was a quick, witchy read. I enjoyed the mystery behind the main storyline, but I was a bit disappointed by the love story. Definitely seemed rush and not entirely flushed out, but it definitely had its moments. Overall, I think it could have been longer and delved more into the romance and the storyline to really get the reader immersed.
Would recommend for anyone needing a fast read!
Thank you NetGalley and 47North for this copy in exchange for an honest review!
This was a quick, witchy read. I enjoyed the mystery behind the main storyline, but I was a bit disappointed by the love story. Definitely seemed rush and not entirely flushed out, but it definitely had its moments. Overall, I think it could have been longer and delved more into the romance and the storyline to really get the reader immersed.
Would recommend for anyone needing a fast read!
Thank you NetGalley and 47North for this copy in exchange for an honest review!
January 26, 2024
4.5/ 5⭐
0/5 🌶️
Salt & Broom is a magical retelling of Jane Eyre, perfect for fans of classic and gothic literature. Set in winter with ghostly elements, it brings a cozy cottage core/fairy core vibe. Follow the story of a gifted healer uncovering mysteries in a cursed estate with witches and magic. It beautifully captures the essence of Jane Eyre, adding an interesting twist to the chemistry between Jane and Edward (Mrs. Rochester).🖤
The story revolves around a gifted healer who unravels the mysteries of a cursed estate and its enigmatic owner. Magic and witches interweave seamlessly in this captivating adaptation of Jane Eyre, presenting a wonderful take on the beauty of the original tale. 🖤
Quotes: 🖤
"Her coming was my hope each day, Her parting was my pain; The chance that did her steps delay Was ice in every vein. —Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë"
"I smiled despite my self-inflicted peril; it was a half-wild, magical place."
“Pretty words, dark-hearted deeds. Men’s tongues will run like bedeviled steeds.”
“So the man has decided to be a martyr—that need not deter you. He’s in love with you, and you’re in love with him, even if you haven’t realized it yet. The rules between you have changed. It puts you on equal footing.”
0/5 🌶️
Salt & Broom is a magical retelling of Jane Eyre, perfect for fans of classic and gothic literature. Set in winter with ghostly elements, it brings a cozy cottage core/fairy core vibe. Follow the story of a gifted healer uncovering mysteries in a cursed estate with witches and magic. It beautifully captures the essence of Jane Eyre, adding an interesting twist to the chemistry between Jane and Edward (Mrs. Rochester).🖤
The story revolves around a gifted healer who unravels the mysteries of a cursed estate and its enigmatic owner. Magic and witches interweave seamlessly in this captivating adaptation of Jane Eyre, presenting a wonderful take on the beauty of the original tale. 🖤
Quotes: 🖤
"Her coming was my hope each day, Her parting was my pain; The chance that did her steps delay Was ice in every vein. —Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë"
"I smiled despite my self-inflicted peril; it was a half-wild, magical place."
“Pretty words, dark-hearted deeds. Men’s tongues will run like bedeviled steeds.”
“So the man has decided to be a martyr—that need not deter you. He’s in love with you, and you’re in love with him, even if you haven’t realized it yet. The rules between you have changed. It puts you on equal footing.”
December 3, 2023
Salt & Broom is a witchy retelling of Jane Eyre. I actually haven’t re-read it as an adult, but I was obsessed with the classics as a child/teenager. Sharon Lynn Fisher is evidently such a talented writer.
So, if you love classic and gothic literature as much as I do, this is a read for you! It is perfect for this time of year (winter) with mentions of ghosts with a cozy cottagecore/fairycore feel too.
5 stars! 🔮✨👻🧚♀️🍄❄️🖤
”Salt and broom, make this room
Safe and tight, against the night.”
This was my November Amazon First Reads choice. I want to try and catch up with some (if not all) of the monthly books I skipped throughout the year, as a little reading challenge! It should help inspire me to read some different genres and pull me out of the slump I’ve been in with a goal to work towards before the end of the year.
So, if you love classic and gothic literature as much as I do, this is a read for you! It is perfect for this time of year (winter) with mentions of ghosts with a cozy cottagecore/fairycore feel too.
5 stars! 🔮✨👻🧚♀️🍄❄️🖤
”Salt and broom, make this room
Safe and tight, against the night.”
This was my November Amazon First Reads choice. I want to try and catch up with some (if not all) of the monthly books I skipped throughout the year, as a little reading challenge! It should help inspire me to read some different genres and pull me out of the slump I’ve been in with a goal to work towards before the end of the year.
October 9, 2025
My 1st benchmark question for Retellings is always "Would this story work on its own?". If the answer is yes, then theoretically it could get at least 3 stars.
The 2nd question is: Would this be better off without the forced retelling implications? If yes, then I am deducting 1 star.
For this particular book the answer is yes in both cases.
‐---------------
3 stars
The first Jane Eyre "retelling" I was intrigued enough to pick up because of the "witchy" and autumn setting (just don't ask why I finally got round to reading it in the month of May). It would fit a "halloween bingo" nicely.
I did not expect to be blown away by it and I wasn't, but I was entertained while it lasted.
This book reads more as an "inspired by" tale, rather than a retelling. There are traces here and there of the original story, but the author is not a slave to it, thankfully. On the other hand stronger characters, a longer build-up & some further world-building would have benefitted the story some more.
The 2nd question is: Would this be better off without the forced retelling implications? If yes, then I am deducting 1 star.
For this particular book the answer is yes in both cases.
‐---------------
3 stars
The first Jane Eyre "retelling" I was intrigued enough to pick up because of the "witchy" and autumn setting (just don't ask why I finally got round to reading it in the month of May). It would fit a "halloween bingo" nicely.
I did not expect to be blown away by it and I wasn't, but I was entertained while it lasted.
This book reads more as an "inspired by" tale, rather than a retelling. There are traces here and there of the original story, but the author is not a slave to it, thankfully. On the other hand stronger characters, a longer build-up & some further world-building would have benefitted the story some more.
November 24, 2023
I noticed a change as soon as we passed through the gates. I could feel the shadow Mr. Rochester had mentioned, and a shiver ran through me. A kind of shroud that draped lightly over everything, reminding me of winter days when the clouds hung low enough to walk through.
Salt & Broom is an imaginative and magical retelling of the 1847 classic Jane Eyre. But with a fresh spin involving witches, fairies, and herbal healing. It is a delightful must-read for any fan.
Jane Aire, a witch from Lowood School, has been hired by Edward Rochester to rid Thornfield Hall of the shadow that looms over the estate causing unsettling feelings and queer incidences for Rochester and his staff. Independent and headstrong Jane initially clashes with the master of Thornfield; however, they become allies when it becomes clear the threat puts them in mortal danger.
This was a cozy Regency romance that seamlessly wove a beloved classic story into beloved fantasy one. I will no longer be able to think of Jane Eyre the same again. Fisher managed to breathe fresh life into Mr. Rochester’s characterization. And I found Jane’s background perfectly creative –my favorite version of hers. I could tell the author put enormous research into the period and herbal plants. Another wonderful aspect was the banter shared between Jane and Mr. Rochester.
With its breezy writing and steady pacing, I was eager to keep turning pages. This is no cheesy retelling, but one that holds an air of mystery and tension. From start to finish, I wouldn’t change a thing about the book. It left me with a satisfying and upbeat feeling of having stumbled upon a modern classic. Definitely recommended.
Note: I received a copy of this book from First Reads November 2023.
Salt & Broom is an imaginative and magical retelling of the 1847 classic Jane Eyre. But with a fresh spin involving witches, fairies, and herbal healing. It is a delightful must-read for any fan.
Jane Aire, a witch from Lowood School, has been hired by Edward Rochester to rid Thornfield Hall of the shadow that looms over the estate causing unsettling feelings and queer incidences for Rochester and his staff. Independent and headstrong Jane initially clashes with the master of Thornfield; however, they become allies when it becomes clear the threat puts them in mortal danger.
This was a cozy Regency romance that seamlessly wove a beloved classic story into beloved fantasy one. I will no longer be able to think of Jane Eyre the same again. Fisher managed to breathe fresh life into Mr. Rochester’s characterization. And I found Jane’s background perfectly creative –my favorite version of hers. I could tell the author put enormous research into the period and herbal plants. Another wonderful aspect was the banter shared between Jane and Mr. Rochester.
[Jane] “You’re a rather remarkable man.” A small smile rested on his lips.
“And have you known many men, for comparison?”
“I do read, Mr. Rochester.”
With its breezy writing and steady pacing, I was eager to keep turning pages. This is no cheesy retelling, but one that holds an air of mystery and tension. From start to finish, I wouldn’t change a thing about the book. It left me with a satisfying and upbeat feeling of having stumbled upon a modern classic. Definitely recommended.
Note: I received a copy of this book from First Reads November 2023.
November 24, 2024
2 - ⭐️⭐️
If you ask me what the plot is, I honestly wouldn't even be able to explain.
Very interesting premise with a gothic backdrop which made me expect this to be an entertaining read.
It just felt disjointed and... lacking? Like the characters are having dialogue after dialogue and a series of events are triggered but... it feels like not much happened?
The romance was pretty lukewarm and rushed.
The only thing that stood out to me was the cat transforming into a fairy. Now I'm side-eyeing my own cat.
If you ask me what the plot is, I honestly wouldn't even be able to explain.
Very interesting premise with a gothic backdrop which made me expect this to be an entertaining read.
It just felt disjointed and... lacking? Like the characters are having dialogue after dialogue and a series of events are triggered but... it feels like not much happened?
The romance was pretty lukewarm and rushed.
The only thing that stood out to me was the cat transforming into a fairy. Now I'm side-eyeing my own cat.
November 22, 2024
While I’ve never read Jane Eyre, I find myself wanting to pick the book up after reading this magical retelling. In this story, Jane Aire is a witch, from a school from orphaned girls that doubles as a witchy haven for learning. She is summoned by a wealthy man in the country, one whose estate is being tormented by an unknown entity.
When Jane meets Mr. Edward Rochester, it’s not under the best circumstances. He becomes injured about a second after laying eyes on her, and Jane manages to immediately put her foot in her mouth. Still, she is determined to help him sues out the curse that he appears to be dealing with. No sooner than Jane arrives, strange and frightening things begin happening.
Jane and Edward must figure out how to work together in order to save themselves. No small feat for a young witch and a grumpy cynic. Along with a small and captivating cast of characters, a magical cat, and an old and darkly beautiful estate, we learn the secrets of the curse. And get the pleasure of watching Jane and Edward fall in love in the lovely way that only the best written historic lovers can manage. Great book!
When Jane meets Mr. Edward Rochester, it’s not under the best circumstances. He becomes injured about a second after laying eyes on her, and Jane manages to immediately put her foot in her mouth. Still, she is determined to help him sues out the curse that he appears to be dealing with. No sooner than Jane arrives, strange and frightening things begin happening.
Jane and Edward must figure out how to work together in order to save themselves. No small feat for a young witch and a grumpy cynic. Along with a small and captivating cast of characters, a magical cat, and an old and darkly beautiful estate, we learn the secrets of the curse. And get the pleasure of watching Jane and Edward fall in love in the lovely way that only the best written historic lovers can manage. Great book!
May 28, 2024
I think sometimes you shouldn't publish your fanfiction as a book.
September 25, 2023
I received an ARC of this book but was not compensated in any way for a review.
Upfront I'll be transparent: I love Sharon Lynn Fisher's novels, and I look forward to each new release. This book was no exception.
That said, I hadn't planned to read it this weekend. Jane Eyre isn't my favorite story -- I know, blasphemy! -- and I had WORK to do. But, damn it, my work didn't get done. I made the mistake of reading a chapter . . . and didn't put the book down again.
No spoilers here. Just want to say I love Fisher's characters, descriptions, relationships, everything. This isn't my favorite of her novels -- again, Jane Eyre isn't a favorite -- but I adore witches and fairies and Victorian settings, and I love her WRITING. It's a solid story, and I don't regret not working this weekend.
Upfront I'll be transparent: I love Sharon Lynn Fisher's novels, and I look forward to each new release. This book was no exception.
That said, I hadn't planned to read it this weekend. Jane Eyre isn't my favorite story -- I know, blasphemy! -- and I had WORK to do. But, damn it, my work didn't get done. I made the mistake of reading a chapter . . . and didn't put the book down again.
No spoilers here. Just want to say I love Fisher's characters, descriptions, relationships, everything. This isn't my favorite of her novels -- again, Jane Eyre isn't a favorite -- but I adore witches and fairies and Victorian settings, and I love her WRITING. It's a solid story, and I don't regret not working this weekend.
May 30, 2024
DNF around 50% in.
Sorry for any spoilers but:
the moment the cat turned into a fairy and then announced she was Jane Eyre's mom it lost me so completely I closed the app and stared at my blank screen for a solid minute.
Even considering the other aspects of the book, I wasn't invested. This is the same exact Jane Eyre story in theory, except this Jane Eyre is a witch. However she doesn't feel like Jane to me, and the constant rehashing of her wandering around the house's grounds were quite boring to read about.
Sorry for any spoilers but:
the moment the cat turned into a fairy and then announced she was Jane Eyre's mom it lost me so completely I closed the app and stared at my blank screen for a solid minute.
Even considering the other aspects of the book, I wasn't invested. This is the same exact Jane Eyre story in theory, except this Jane Eyre is a witch. However she doesn't feel like Jane to me, and the constant rehashing of her wandering around the house's grounds were quite boring to read about.
December 10, 2023
Salt and Broom is a gorgeous witchy reimagining of Jane Eyre, one of my favourite classic books.
The most wonderful aspect of this book is that it pays homage to the classic whilst creating something completely new in the process. They both share the common thread of Jane arriving at Thornfield Hall where the mysterious and enigmatic Mr Rochester resides. The point of different in this story is Jane is a witch and she has been summoned to Thornfield Hall to utilise her magical abilities.
Sharon’s love for Jane Eyre shines through and its evident to see how much research she did to write this novel.
I loved the herbalism tid bits that were woven through and as a Herbalist myself I appreciated the nods to traditional herbalism and folklore uses of particular plants.
As a whole this story is delightfully cosy. I didn’t know want it to finish. It merged a classic story with fantasy, folklore and magic in the most perfect way.
Salt & Broom is a shining example of how a reimagining should be done.
Thank you so much to the author for providing me with a gifted copy to read and review!
The most wonderful aspect of this book is that it pays homage to the classic whilst creating something completely new in the process. They both share the common thread of Jane arriving at Thornfield Hall where the mysterious and enigmatic Mr Rochester resides. The point of different in this story is Jane is a witch and she has been summoned to Thornfield Hall to utilise her magical abilities.
Sharon’s love for Jane Eyre shines through and its evident to see how much research she did to write this novel.
I loved the herbalism tid bits that were woven through and as a Herbalist myself I appreciated the nods to traditional herbalism and folklore uses of particular plants.
As a whole this story is delightfully cosy. I didn’t know want it to finish. It merged a classic story with fantasy, folklore and magic in the most perfect way.
Salt & Broom is a shining example of how a reimagining should be done.
Thank you so much to the author for providing me with a gifted copy to read and review!
Read
December 24, 2023This was a perfect, cozy, witchy, and slightly spooky book to read right now during the holidays. Full review for Patreon & Goodreads soon.
December 11, 2024
4.75⭐️ I love slow burn 1800’s Romantasy so much. It’s my favorite niche genre! I did not know when I started this book that it was a witchy Jane Eyre retelling. (And I never would have guessed, since I’ve not read Jane Eyre, except that the name of the female main character is Jane Aire 😂 …that had me checking the synopsis.)
I loved this story a lot! The witchy magic was unique and there were unexpected other magic elements that were great additions. I was invested in the super slow romantic build up between Jane and Edward. Edward had a few of his own chapters sprinkled through out and they were the best lil breadcrumbs!
There was a lot of mysterious anticipation that lead up to an action packed ending!
Some moments felt an itty bit slow, but overall the story was well paced. I liked the cozy aspects mixed with gothic witchy romance.
I loved this story a lot! The witchy magic was unique and there were unexpected other magic elements that were great additions. I was invested in the super slow romantic build up between Jane and Edward. Edward had a few of his own chapters sprinkled through out and they were the best lil breadcrumbs!
There was a lot of mysterious anticipation that lead up to an action packed ending!
Some moments felt an itty bit slow, but overall the story was well paced. I liked the cozy aspects mixed with gothic witchy romance.
October 5, 2023
Sharon Lynn Fisher has created an absolute page turner recency romance with a witchy twist, high stakes mystery, and all the magic of the autumn season one needs for a cozy weekend.
Huge thanks to Sharon Lynn Fisher for sharing an ARC with me in exchange for an honest review. I first became acquainted with her writing in 2020 when I read an ARC of The Warrior Poet, which I also immensely enjoyed.
Fisher's writing draws you in, creates a world with the details you need without being overly purple or wordy, but still with a sophisticated flare that I can't stop reading.
It's been awhile since I started a book I just didn't want to put down and this one was definitely hard to pause. It starts us right off in the adventure and doesn't slow down for a second.
I love Jane's inner monologue, it just added such a spunky layer of complexity to her character that connected me to her, like we were best friends sharing intimate thoughts about the sticky situation of the scene.
I thought the romance and tension between Jane and Mr. Rochester was lovely and well-developed. It wasn't eye-rolley or cringy. Not too in your face for the story, and it was very much in line with the classics like Pride and Prejudice and the OG Jane Eyre. I was pleasantly satisfied by how well the romance arc complimented the overarching story. Neither was too overpowering for the other in the slightest.
I adored the witchy spellwork and herbology woven in. It reminded me just a little of Once and Future Witches, and I would say if you enjoyed that book then this one is definitely a must read. Like OaFW, the magic was ingrained in the storyline and the character and it was not inserted as an afterthought. Fisher handled this brilliantly.
I particularly loved reading this in October, since the story takes place in October as well, and it just made the scenes that much more sensory to me as I read, which I also loved. It also has some creepy/haunting themes which makes it a lovely cross-over for spooky reads/Halloween season.
I enjoyed all the characters. They each had unique voices and all were well written into the story. There were quite a few of them, but every one had a unique role that revealed clues to the mystery surrounding Thornfield. Several times I was caught by surprise. Though I will say, some of the revelations weren't completely shocking (and I was fine with this), but a couple of them were, and I was so delighted how neatly Fisher had set everything up.
This wasn't a long book, 266 pages, and that was the perfect length, and the perfect pace for this story. A very fun, quick read, perfect for Jane Austen/Charlotte Bronte lovers who love rejency slow burn romances and also enjoy stories with well threaded magical twists.
This would be the perfect read for a rainy weekend curled up with a pumpkin spice cappuccino.
Huge thanks to Sharon Lynn Fisher for sharing an ARC with me in exchange for an honest review. I first became acquainted with her writing in 2020 when I read an ARC of The Warrior Poet, which I also immensely enjoyed.
Fisher's writing draws you in, creates a world with the details you need without being overly purple or wordy, but still with a sophisticated flare that I can't stop reading.
It's been awhile since I started a book I just didn't want to put down and this one was definitely hard to pause. It starts us right off in the adventure and doesn't slow down for a second.
I love Jane's inner monologue, it just added such a spunky layer of complexity to her character that connected me to her, like we were best friends sharing intimate thoughts about the sticky situation of the scene.
I thought the romance and tension between Jane and Mr. Rochester was lovely and well-developed. It wasn't eye-rolley or cringy. Not too in your face for the story, and it was very much in line with the classics like Pride and Prejudice and the OG Jane Eyre. I was pleasantly satisfied by how well the romance arc complimented the overarching story. Neither was too overpowering for the other in the slightest.
I adored the witchy spellwork and herbology woven in. It reminded me just a little of Once and Future Witches, and I would say if you enjoyed that book then this one is definitely a must read. Like OaFW, the magic was ingrained in the storyline and the character and it was not inserted as an afterthought. Fisher handled this brilliantly.
I particularly loved reading this in October, since the story takes place in October as well, and it just made the scenes that much more sensory to me as I read, which I also loved. It also has some creepy/haunting themes which makes it a lovely cross-over for spooky reads/Halloween season.
I enjoyed all the characters. They each had unique voices and all were well written into the story. There were quite a few of them, but every one had a unique role that revealed clues to the mystery surrounding Thornfield. Several times I was caught by surprise. Though I will say, some of the revelations weren't completely shocking (and I was fine with this), but a couple of them were, and I was so delighted how neatly Fisher had set everything up.
This wasn't a long book, 266 pages, and that was the perfect length, and the perfect pace for this story. A very fun, quick read, perfect for Jane Austen/Charlotte Bronte lovers who love rejency slow burn romances and also enjoy stories with well threaded magical twists.
This would be the perfect read for a rainy weekend curled up with a pumpkin spice cappuccino.
October 5, 2023
Thank you to Sharon Lynn Fisher for sending me an ARC!
I did not want this book to end. As an avid lover of Jane Eyre, it’s not easy to do a retelling that doesn’t make me roll my eyes a little. But Salt & Broom took elements from Jane Eyre & spun a brand new tale of magic with them.
The imagery in this book is next level - if you’re a person who loves autumn, coziness, gothic elements, this book is definitely one to get.
My favourite character is definitely Sybil, but Sharon’s writing and reimagining of all the characters brought new energy to them.
This book was masterfully written, and clearly written with a lot of love and reverence for witches everywhere 🪄
I did not want this book to end. As an avid lover of Jane Eyre, it’s not easy to do a retelling that doesn’t make me roll my eyes a little. But Salt & Broom took elements from Jane Eyre & spun a brand new tale of magic with them.
The imagery in this book is next level - if you’re a person who loves autumn, coziness, gothic elements, this book is definitely one to get.
My favourite character is definitely Sybil, but Sharon’s writing and reimagining of all the characters brought new energy to them.
This book was masterfully written, and clearly written with a lot of love and reverence for witches everywhere 🪄
December 9, 2024
"After all these years of wondering who my parents were, and why they had abandoned me, the greatest treasure I’d carry away with me was the realization that I could be whole without them."
**November 2023 Kindle First Read Selection**
3.5 stars
This is a Jane Eyre retelling with witches, and it's light on the magical side. I really enjoyed this book, and I'm torn about whether I want to round it up or down. It's definitely entertaining, but I'm not sure that I would say that I loved it. It's not a complex plot, and it focuses on a handful of characters, so it's nothing complicated. It's a fun read if you want something quick and light.
December 2, 2023
Jane Aire, travarka/veštica/detektiv paranormalnog 👻
Nedovoljno zabavna, nedovoljno gothic. Sharon Lynn Fisher je mogla da napiše ovu priču i da je ne vezuje za original i ne naziva retellingom, zato što umnogome to i nije. Od mene bi u tom slučaju možda dobila ocenu više, a ovako zaista nemam za šta da se uhvatim. Natprirodno je na momente bilo smešno i wtf. Ceo momenat "Jane je veštica" se više svodi na ove new age instagram veštice i uopšte ne oslikava viktorijansko doba. I da, uradila je nešto sa likom Brocklehurst-a što je neoprostivo.
Nedovoljno zabavna, nedovoljno gothic. Sharon Lynn Fisher je mogla da napiše ovu priču i da je ne vezuje za original i ne naziva retellingom, zato što umnogome to i nije. Od mene bi u tom slučaju možda dobila ocenu više, a ovako zaista nemam za šta da se uhvatim. Natprirodno je na momente bilo smešno i wtf. Ceo momenat "Jane je veštica" se više svodi na ove new age instagram veštice i uopšte ne oslikava viktorijansko doba. I da, uradila je nešto sa likom Brocklehurst-a što je neoprostivo.
July 26, 2025
Marketed as a retelling of Jane Eyre, it fails as the inspiration really starts and ends with naming the people and places. There is nothing quintessential from the famous book that would be cleverly translated into something new here. In many ways, it actually goes against the spirit and deeper meaning of Jane Eyre. With whatever is left, the author created a rather childish, over-simplified mess. The mere fact that the whole story takes place in 5 days, during which the character is supposed to solve a ghostly mystery, fall in love (and be fallen in love with), discover her unorthodox parentage and banish a zombie, tells you all you need to know.
December 12, 2023
It isn't badly written, but apart from it wanting to be a retelling of Jane Eyre I can't see any purpose for this book.
December 15, 2023
4.5 stars
November 5, 2024
I wondered if I should re-read Jane Eyre before listening to this audio but the original came rushing back with fond memories.
I don’t know if I have ever listened to or read a retelling of a classic but I thought this was so well done and I was happily surprised. I loved the witching aspect of this version. Moody Rochester, Independent Jane, a perfect fall backdrop and many of the original elements but with a whole new twist er ghost.
This was a well written story with excellent characters and it was a perfect read to end the October season.
4 stars only because the time period of the novel from beginning to end was unrealistically short. Two days to fall in love? Two days to almost die? Two days to travel home and come back? The entire story took place in less than a week’s time. It just felt unbalanced but otherwise, loved it.
I don’t know if I have ever listened to or read a retelling of a classic but I thought this was so well done and I was happily surprised. I loved the witching aspect of this version. Moody Rochester, Independent Jane, a perfect fall backdrop and many of the original elements but with a whole new twist er ghost.
This was a well written story with excellent characters and it was a perfect read to end the October season.
4 stars only because the time period of the novel from beginning to end was unrealistically short. Two days to fall in love? Two days to almost die? Two days to travel home and come back? The entire story took place in less than a week’s time. It just felt unbalanced but otherwise, loved it.
April 9, 2024
Salt and Broom is a retelling of Jane Eyre. Only a retelling that includes witches, ghosts, fairies, herbs, and magic. And a really wonderful familiar Cat. Classic tale turned into a fantasy romance. Haunting and Familiar, Clever, Very Well Done.
November 16, 2023
Somehow this book managed to go from a 1 star to somewhere between 2 and 3 stars, I am being generous with the 3 stars though. Also I got it as a (free to me) Kindle first, had I had to pay money for it I would have DNF'd and returned it.
One thing it absolutely isn't is any kind of retelling of Jane Eyre. There are a few names in common but that's about it.
For the first third or so of the book I was highlighting all of the things that were annoying me about the lack of anything approaching research. I know there's a disclaimer at the start about the author not being an expert in herbalism and so getting stuff straight from books, but other things really shoould have been subject to a sanity check. Examples - setting off after daybreak and breakfast, travelling for 60 miles - using a carriage, then a public coach then another carriage - and still having time to walk the last 2 miles before full dark. In the north(ish) of England in mid-October. 60 miles in the mid-C19th was not a one day journey of any kind.
Seeing mountains on that journey - nope.
Peat fires - in that part of the world I'd be surprised, but even if they did exist (I'm not sure, but I'm not writing a book) they would be heavily coded as 'poor' and not be seen in the very rich household.
And what is it with USAnian authors having C19th British people having scones for breakfast? I would love to know if this really were a thing because it reads as total nonsense to me, but I am not an expert or trying to write in the period.
Other things - references to 'the stoop' and using 'plantain', the latter I would have to work to find now, I could do it but they aren't very common here in the UK unless you look for them, the former, I think the author means what I would call the front step, but again, not a word I'd ever use unless I were going under a low branch.
I can not recommend this book at all, it's lightweight fluff that pays no attention to the supposed source material, narrative pacing or the idea of doing actual research. If you have to pay for it it is not worth the money.
And I have now changed my rating because 2* still feels generous, it is definitely not an "I liked it" for 3*.
One thing it absolutely isn't is any kind of retelling of Jane Eyre. There are a few names in common but that's about it.
For the first third or so of the book I was highlighting all of the things that were annoying me about the lack of anything approaching research. I know there's a disclaimer at the start about the author not being an expert in herbalism and so getting stuff straight from books, but other things really shoould have been subject to a sanity check. Examples - setting off after daybreak and breakfast, travelling for 60 miles - using a carriage, then a public coach then another carriage - and still having time to walk the last 2 miles before full dark. In the north(ish) of England in mid-October. 60 miles in the mid-C19th was not a one day journey of any kind.
Seeing mountains on that journey - nope.
Peat fires - in that part of the world I'd be surprised, but even if they did exist (I'm not sure, but I'm not writing a book) they would be heavily coded as 'poor' and not be seen in the very rich household.
And what is it with USAnian authors having C19th British people having scones for breakfast? I would love to know if this really were a thing because it reads as total nonsense to me, but I am not an expert or trying to write in the period.
Other things - references to 'the stoop' and using 'plantain', the latter I would have to work to find now, I could do it but they aren't very common here in the UK unless you look for them, the former, I think the author means what I would call the front step, but again, not a word I'd ever use unless I were going under a low branch.
I can not recommend this book at all, it's lightweight fluff that pays no attention to the supposed source material, narrative pacing or the idea of doing actual research. If you have to pay for it it is not worth the money.
And I have now changed my rating because 2* still feels generous, it is definitely not an "I liked it" for 3*.
December 11, 2023
A witchy retelling of Jane Eyre where Jane has been hired to get rid of a curse on Thornfield Hall. There is no child to be governessed, and Mrs. Rochester isn't exactly living in the attic. This was a really nice retelling that hangs brand new motivations on the bones of the original. As Sharon Lynn Fisher says in her afterword, "What if Rochester was brooding and charming without having locked his wife in the attic and lied to Jane about it?" Let's be honest, it changes quite a bit about the story, but it also makes it more fun to enjoy.
Recommended for readers who love historical fantasy, witchy and faery elements, and especially those who remember the beats of Jane Eyre. This was a quick read and I had a ton of fun with it.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
Recommended for readers who love historical fantasy, witchy and faery elements, and especially those who remember the beats of Jane Eyre. This was a quick read and I had a ton of fun with it.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
November 3, 2023
It was a good book - 3 Stars. However, besides the names (Rochester and Jane Aire) there’s little resemblance to the mother book. It’s fun and interesting. I did enjoy the magic and the mystery. But I must say, it is not a retelling. Not like “The Scandalous Confessions of Lydia Bennet Witch” which holds so closely to the original Pride and Prejudice- this one was a disappointment on that front. It’s a fine book but just stop with saying it’s a retelling. That’s just false advertising!
December 27, 2023
Jane Eyre who??? I have been bamboozled to the highest degree. SPOILERS: Also, you thought this was a fantasy book written in our good year of 2023 that didn't include a not like other girls pretty but doesn't know it but every man knows it magical half Fae girl? Yeah, you thought wrong. I curse you Sarah J Mass for this Fae plague that you have wrought onto fantasy.
2 stars even though I only want to give it 1.
2 stars even though I only want to give it 1.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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