I’m not sure I have the words that will do this book justice. I have loved the mini series adaptation for years, and reading the book has only further elevated the story in my mind.

There is no denying the comparison between this book and Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice for the romance included — I have sometimes described it as P&P for the working class, and see a review here which calls it “Pride and Prejudice for socialists” which succinctly sums it up. There’s something less fairy tale about it compared to Austen’s work because we are faced with the reality of the struggles of those in true poverty, of the sharp contrast between “gentility” and labourers, and of breaking down class barriers.

This book carries a beautiful love story that shares with the reader the innermost feelings of Thornton towards Miss Hale, and these insights into his immoveable love despite adversity make him a worthy rival even for Mr Darcy.