A review by chery
Lady Audley's Secret by Mary Elizabeth Braddon

challenging dark mysterious slow-paced

5.0

My first venture into English classic literature was certainly an endeavor filled with challenges. The initial chapters of Lady Audley’s Secret were tough, and there were moments when I nearly gave up—spending two weeks on a book that usually takes me half the time to finish felt frustrating. Yet, looking back, I’m glad I stuck with it. As I made it through the slow start, the narrative eventually picked up around the 60% mark, propelling me into an unexpected whirlwind of twists and revelations. 

The mystery surrounding Lady Audley unraveled with such intensity, sparking a mix of emotions ranging from deep despair to frustration. Robert Audley’s journey, one of grief and destruction, led me to reflect on how unpredictable life can be, especially when faced with hidden truths. Through Lady Audley’s Secret, I realized how literature can unlock parts of ourselves we hadn’t yet understood. This book has made me more committed to broadening my reading horizons, not just for pleasure but for personal growth and self-discovery. It’s been an eye-opening experience.