In a lot of ways, The Ancient Magus' Bride reminds me of Jane Eyre, and the more I think on it, the deeper the comparison goes. First, we have Mr. Rochester and Elias. Mr. Rochester lives at Thornfield Hall. Elias has a nickname, Thorn. Mr. Rochester is a mysterious character, not all that pleasant to look upon (so we're told), and is Jane's benefactor as she comes to work for him as a governess to his ward. Elias is also wrapped in mystery, his appearance is monstrous, and he is Chise's benefactor as he has bought her and now has her under his tutelage as an apprentice mage. Chise is not as fiery as Jane in personality, but given the hints of Chise's background that we've seen thus far, these two ladies would certainly have something to talk about as both were orphaned, not wanted by extended family, and left to the whims of fate (or providence).
The comparisons may continue. There is definitely a subtle romance developing, but both Elias and Chise have a ways to go before either heart would be ready, or so I think. Chise is still trying to find herself, having had to fend for herself for so long, she's just relieved to have a roof over her head and a place to stay. In this volume, she is learning that that is not enough, and that she needs to be more proactive about her future. Elias, on the other hand, I think thinks he has things all figured out but is going to find that he doesn't.
The art in this series is gorgeous. And when it's not, it's grotesque on purpose to elicit the disgust of the evil in the Magus' Bride world. I am excited to see where our story will take us next!