A review by estiejoy
Ruth by Elizabeth Gaskell

challenging dark emotional hopeful inspiring reflective relaxing sad slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

This is a beautiful tale, captivating the rises and falls of lifelong love and friendships. One thing I adore about Gaskell's writing is her exploration of male power and authorship over the fate of fallen women, and the way in which she unpacks societal prejudices and the contradicting motives of the human heart. Her characters always ooze nuance and feel so real. 

I only dock the 1/2 point because I flagged at the length of the political plot in the middle.