The infernal world of Branwell Bronte¨

I took a chance in purchasing this book given its give-away price, and frankly cheesey-looking cover art from way-back-when. I observed, however, that its author was the masterful Daphne Du Maurier, and, as a result I suspected this could be a true diamond-in-the-rough. Indeed, this is a stellar biography that tells the tragically-ignored life story of Branwell Bronte (both objectively and in scholarly fashion with supporting documentation such as the wealth of his own manuscripts written in his own hand - but signed by Charlotte?!). The book also provides heretofore unknown facts about Emily Jane, Charlotte, and Anne as well as the two older girls who passed away - one under mysterious circumstances. I only hope that a publisher, or editor, out there will consider a reprint edition of this work in a format that does its often astonishing and important content the justice it deserves.

Considering Du Maurier has an innate tendency to dramatize and take her readers above and beyond the clouds, I'm just glad she took the time to write this book. I find her interpretation of Branwell's life, though totally subjective, intriguing and a perfect read just as I'm about to fall to sleep at night. So little is known of him, that this book is a must-read, just because it exists.