Jane Harris' first novel has already been described as “exuberantly good”, and features a 19th-century heroine, Bessy Buckley, who has “all the appeal and fearlessness of Moll Flanders and Scarlett O’Hara”.
Bessy’s adventures lead her from prostitution to work as a housemaid for the enigmatic Arabella; but Arabella’s motives in employing Bessy are mysterious and a battle of wits, wills and madness ensues.
Jane Harris joins Jenni Murray to talk about finding a voice for Bessy and about coping with the beginnings of literary fame.
"The Observations" by Jane Harris is published by Faber. |
