Salt & Broom

Fisher (the Faery Rehistory series) puts a paranormal spin on Jane Eyre in this appealing historical fantasy. Lowood School is known as a hotbed of witches, despite a ban on the “cunning craft” handed down by Mr. Brocklehurst, the superintendent. Despite his scruples, when a certain Mr. Rochester offers a hefty sum for the services of a “Lowood witch,” Brocklehurst sends along young orphan Jane Aire, warning her to suppress her independent and inquisitive nature around her employer. Surly Mr. Rochester and willful Jane immediately get off on the wrong foot, but he needs her help investigating a series of strange and foreboding happenings around his estate. Fairies and spirits fill the story as Jane works to determine if the disturbance is the result of a wronged supernatural creature or perhaps the ghost of Rochester’s young wife. If it is his late wife, who or what caused her to come back as a restless spirit? In the process, Jane makes unexpected discoveries about her own past and sees a different side to the abrasive Rochester. Fisher’s loose retelling brings a gothic fairy tale vibe to the classic and adds some twists that will keep even those familiar with the original guessing. Purists might balk, but Fisher pulls it off. Agent: Robin Rue, Writers House. (Nov.)