Description

Book Synopsis

Vastly original Bessy is surely one of the most striking characters in recent fiction: cynical, disruptive, tender and very, very funny.' Independent on Sunday

Shortlisted for the Orange Prize

Scotland, 1863. In an attempt to escape her past, Bessy Buckley takes a job working as a maid in a big country house. But when Arabella, her beautiful mistress, asks her to undertake a series of bizarre tasks, Bessy begins to realise that she hasn't quite landed on her feet. In one of the most acclaimed debuts of recent years, Jane Harris has created a heroine who will make you laugh and cry as she narrates this unforgettable story about secrets and suspicions and the redemptive power of love and friendship.



Trade Review
"'Funny and original.' Peter Parker, Sunday Times 'Recounted in gutsy, vibrant prose, this is guaranteed to keep you gripped.' Eve Magazine"

The Observations

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    Order before 4pm tomorrow for delivery by Tue 14 Jul 2026.

    A Paperback / softback by Jane Harris

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      Publisher: Faber & Faber
      Publication Date: Publication Date: 01/02/2007
      ISBN13: 9780571223367, 978-0571223367
      ISBN10: 0571223362
      Also in:
      Contemporary Fiction

      Description

      Book Synopsis

      Vastly original Bessy is surely one of the most striking characters in recent fiction: cynical, disruptive, tender and very, very funny.' Independent on Sunday

      Shortlisted for the Orange Prize

      Scotland, 1863. In an attempt to escape her past, Bessy Buckley takes a job working as a maid in a big country house. But when Arabella, her beautiful mistress, asks her to undertake a series of bizarre tasks, Bessy begins to realise that she hasn't quite landed on her feet. In one of the most acclaimed debuts of recent years, Jane Harris has created a heroine who will make you laugh and cry as she narrates this unforgettable story about secrets and suspicions and the redemptive power of love and friendship.



      Trade Review
      "'Funny and original.' Peter Parker, Sunday Times 'Recounted in gutsy, vibrant prose, this is guaranteed to keep you gripped.' Eve Magazine"

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