This is a strange and intriguing tale of the relationship between maid and mistress in 1860’s Scotland. Both have secrets to keep. I must admit to being increasingly drawn in as the story progressed and more of the mystery was revealed. This is far better than most in this area; genuinely interesting and enjoyable.
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.
Jane Harris was born in Belfast and brought up in Glasgow. Her short stories have appeared in a wide variety of anthologies and magazines and she has also written several award-winning short films. In 2000 she received a Writer’s Award from the Arts Council of England. She lives in London with her husband Tom.
