North and South, written by Elizabeth Gaskell, is a compelling 19th-century romance novel that explores the stark differences between the industrial North and the rural South of England. The story follows Margaret Hale, a young woman from the South who moves to the North and finds herself caught between two worlds. Alongside the social and economic issues of the time, the novel also delves into the complex romance between Margaret and the brooding mill owner, John Thornton. With its richly drawn characters, social commentary, and passionate love story, North and South is a must-read for fans of 19th-century romance.