"Deeply researched account of the novelist’s final years and the furor that greeted Elizabeth Gaskell’s biography of her friend. An essential addition to the vast shelf of Brontëana."

– Kirkus Review, starred

Early praise for The Invention of Charlotte Brontë

“Heartbreaking. Fascinating. Unbearably poignant.”

– The Daily Mail

"Finely researched, insightful and pacy, a treat for Brontë aficionado and new readers alike.”

– Emma Conally-Barklem, author of Hymns from the Sisters

“In beautifully lucid prose, Graham Watson adroitly introduces us to a writer we may have told ourselves we already knew.”

– Sara O’Leary, author of The Little Books of the Little Brontës

“Engaging and revealing, this meticulously researched book deepens our understanding of the Brontës, offering both intellectual and humanising perspectives.”

– Elisabeth Basford, author of Princess Mary

‘Relates this fascinating story with both a straightforward simplicity and immaculately researched detail, building a poignant picture… a wonderful read.”

– E. J. Barnes, author of Mr Keynes’ Dance

“Absorbing, meticulously researched. The most gripping Brontë page-turner since Mrs Gaskell’s. A triumph."

– Sharon Wright, author of The Mother of the Brontes

“Magnificent. Can’t recommend this highly enough, it’s a fabulous read.”

– Lesley McDowell, author of Clairmont

"Meticulously researched, erudite, and utterly engaging, The Invention of Charlotte Brontë is a compulsive read, deftly illustrating the slippery nature of any ‘true’ narrative... Watson’s book is both a labour of love and a magnificent addition to the canon of Brontë literature.”

– Karen Powell, author of Nero-shortlisted Fifteen Wild Decembers

"One great strength is Watson’s attentiveness throughout to the psychological complexities of Charlotte’s burgeoning intimacy with Gaskell. Gaskell problematically resolves to champion her but instantly betrays her confidence. It would be tempting to cast Charlotte Brontë as a victim, but Watson is also careful to point out that Charlotte herself seems to have indulged in self-mythologizing. Watson offers up a measured, highly elastic, and refreshing interpretation of their dynamic, one which absolves neither of creative fabrication but also allows both agency in the gradual construction of Charlotte Brontë’s legacy. Watson’s narrative succeeds in conveying a sense of the great, unalleviated grief as well as burning female anger.”

– Dr. Lydia Craig, Bronte Studies