My plain Jane

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My plain Jane

by Cynthia Hand

My Plain Jane takes the familiar, gothic bones of Charlotte Brontë's classic and injects it with a huge dose of humor, magic, and a whole lot of ghosts. You'll meet Jane Eyre, still a governess at Thornfield Hall, but this Jane can see the dead – and they're quite chatty. As she navigates Rochester's brooding mysteries and the strange happenings in the house, she finds herself tangled in an adventure far beyond her wildest expectations, complete with secret societies and a very unconventional romance. The reading experience here is buoyant and genuinely funny, full of witty banter and unexpected twists. It's a historical romp that feels fresh and modern, perfect for readers who love a strong, clever heroine and enjoy their historical fiction with a generous helping of the supernatural and a mischievous wink.

10 Books similar to 'My plain Jane'

If you found yourself utterly charmed by the witty historical revisionism and ghostly antics of My Plain Jane, you're in for more delightful reads. We've gathered books that share its irreverent humor, adventurous spirit, and love for turning classic tales on their head. You'll find more strong-willed heroines navigating magical or mysterious historical worlds, often with a generous side of unexpected romance. From its direct predecessor, My Lady Jane, to meta-fictional romps like The Eyre Affair, or even the original Jane Eyre to appreciate the brilliant parody, these picks deliver that unique blend of historical fun and supernatural flair.

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My Lady Jane

by Cynthia Hand, Brodi Ashton, and Jodi Meadows

As the first book in the 'Lady Janies' series, it shares the exact same irreverent, fourth-wall-breaking humor and historical revisionism. It reimagines the tragic story of Lady Jane Grey with a supernatural twist and a heavy dose of wit.

Jane Eyre
Jane Eyre

by Charlotte Brontë

Since My Plain Jane is a direct retelling and meta-commentary on this classic, reading the source material is essential. It provides the foundational atmosphere of gothic mystery and the resilient spirit of the titular protagonist that the retelling parodies.

A Gentleman's Guide to Vice and Virtue
A Gentleman's Guide to Vice and Virtue

by Mackenzi Lee

This novel captures the same adventurous spirit and comedic historical tone found in the Janies series. It features a chaotic but lovable cast of characters navigating 18th-century Europe with modern sensibilities and romantic tension.

The Eyre Affair
The Eyre Affair

by Jasper Fforde

Fans of the meta-fictional elements of My Plain Jane will appreciate this story where literary detectives literally jump into the pages of Jane Eyre. It is highly imaginative, satirical, and deeply rooted in a love for classic literature.

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Stalking Jack the Ripper
Stalking Jack the Ripper

by Kerri Maniscalco

This book offers a similar blend of Victorian historical setting and a strong-willed female lead who defies social norms. It leans more into the gothic mystery and macabre elements that fans of the ghostly aspects of My Plain Jane will enjoy.

Pride and Prejudiced and Zombies

by Seth Grahame-Smith

Much like My Plain Jane adds ghosts to a Brontë classic, this novel injects the supernatural into Jane Austen's world. It shares the same DNA of historical parody and action-packed revisionist storytelling.

The Lady's Guide to Petticoats and Piracy
The Lady's Guide to Petticoats and Piracy

by Mackenzi Lee

This sequel focuses on a female character's ambition and friendship, mirroring the camaraderie between Charlotte Brontë and Jane Eyre in My Plain Jane. It is a smart, fast-paced historical adventure with a feminist heart.

Sorcery and Cecelia: or, The Enchanted Chocolate Pot
Sorcery and Cecelia: or, The Enchanted Chocolate Pot

by Patricia C. Wrede and Caroline Stevermer

An epistolary novel that captures the whimsical and magical side of historical England. Its lighthearted tone and focus on the bond between two witty young women will resonate with fans of the Janies' narrative voice.

Etiquette & Espionage
Etiquette & Espionage

by Gail Carriger

Set in a steampunk Victorian era, this book features a finishing school for spies and assassins. It matches the 'Janies' vibe of taking a historical setting and turning it on its head with humor and supernatural elements.

The Diviners
The Diviners

by Libba Bray

While slightly darker, this novel features a vibrant ensemble cast and a historical setting (1920s New York) infused with ghosts and the supernatural. It shares the 'team-up' dynamic and paranormal investigation themes.