Jessica

By: Bryce Courtenay

Narrated by: Humphrey Bower

Length: 19 hrs and 1 min

Publisher's summary

Jessica is based on the inspiring true story of a young girl's fight for justice against tremendous odds. A tomboy, Jessica is the pride of her father as they work together on the struggling family farm. One quiet day, the peace of the bush is devastated by a terrible murder. Only Jessica is able to save the killer from the lynch mob - but will justice prevail in the courts?

Nine months later, a baby is born...with Jessica determined to guard the secret of the father's identity. The rivalry of Jessica and her beautiful sister for the love of the same man will echo throughout their lives, until finally the truth must be told.

Set in the harsh Australian bush against the outbreak of World War I, this novel is heartbreaking in its innocence, and shattering in its brutality.

©2013 Christine Courtenay (P)2014 Bolinda Publishing Ltd

Cinderella on Steroids

Although based on a historical figure Bryce did bring out the worst aspects of all of the characters in the novel. Jessica had made a promise to herself not to divulge her pregnancy to anyone which was a promise which did not seem to serve anyone's interest including her own, except perhaps the plot of the novel. Well I am about 2/3 the way thru, I do enjoy Bryce's novels, read most of them. Bryces world view and upbringing do seem to influence his characters, if you read his own bio, he has had an incredible adult life however his own personal family life appears to have been troubled ie his mother was his fathers mistress and he himself divorced his wife after many years of marriage.

All of Bryces novels are well researched and historically informative and well worth reading,
this one was rather more negative the his others but still a great read.

Immediately Hooked

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

This book was wonderful. Emotions range from laughter, tears, and rage. The author captures your imagination and paints a picture in your mind.

Which character – as performed by Humphrey Bower – was your favorite?

He made Hester sound like the witch she was.

If you could take any character from Jessica out to dinner, who would it be and why?

Jessica, she was kind and interested in other people.

A believable Bryce Courtenay

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Yes, it is a little shorter than some BC novels, more believable and read by Humphrey Bower who is the absolute best in this business.

What did you like best about this story?

Like most authors, BC recycles his characters adnauseum; and whilst their were similarities I found this story very refreshing.

What does Humphrey Bower bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

HB is the master and brings a character to life.

If you could take any character from Jessica out to dinner, who would it be and why?

Soloman Goldberg. As an immigrant and successful businessman, he would have a great deal of wisdom.

What a storyteller!

Bryce Courtenay remains to be my favourite author. This is the third time I have read/listened to Jessica and it is a wonderful story and beautifully told.

Marvelous!

Would you listen to Jessica again? Why?

This is a wonderful Story. I've read 5 or 6 of Bryce Courtney's books and I'm never disappointed. Humphrey Bower is, as always, amazing in his naration.

Who was your favorite character and why?

My favorite character is Jessica. She believes that anything can be done with hard work and the right attitude, despite the odds against her.

Loved it

What made the experience of listening to Jessica the most enjoyable?

The narrator his Australian accent and impressive way he brought the characters to life.

What did you like best about this story?

Tragic but beautiful.

What about Humphrey Bower’s performance did you like?

Everything! He is my favorite narrator to date!

If you could take any character from Jessica out to dinner, who would it be and why?

Jessica, she is brave, strong, and her girl power speaks to me!

Epic read

First off, I don’t usually write reviews but I just had to on this book. Wonderfully emotional read with a stellar performance by the narrator. This will be one of those books that I will read again and again, it is that good.
Throughout the ups and downs of Jessica’s life, I never expected to be brought to tears at the ending. But as I listened to the final chapter, the tears began to fall.. It is definitely a tear jerker with so many powerful messages

Cliffhanger

With family like this, who needs enemies? Bryce Courtenay's "Jesse" is a tragedy. Appearances trump all in this hilariously dysfunctional family. Better still, family is how the heroine defines the love around her. A true test of integrity.

A triumph

How can a nice guy like Bryce imagine such evil characters & deeds? One of his his best (although, hardly uplifting)!

Excellent

What did you love best about Jessica?

I loved the characters, the story and the reader

What did you like best about this story?

Jessica

What about Humphrey Bower’s performance did you like?

Pleasant voice, very easy to listen to

If you could take any character from Jessica out to dinner, who would it be and why?

Jessica, for the insight into her life and the conditions on the farm and in the mental institution that she was confined in for four years

Any additional comments?

Great story by a great stotyteller