The Flight of Gemma Hardy

A Novel

By: Margot Livesey

Narrated by: Davina Porter

Fate has not been kind to Gemma Hardy. Orphaned, then neglected, young Gemma seemed destined for a life of hardship and loneliness. Yet her bright spirit burns strong. Fiercely intelligent, singularly determined, Gemma overcomes each challenge and setback, growing stronger and more certain of her path.

Now an independent young woman, she accepts a position as an au pair on the remote and beautiful Orkney Islands. Blackbird Hall belongs to Mr. Hugh Sinclair, a London businessman; his eight-year-old niece is Gemma’s charge. Even before their first meeting, Gemma is, like everyone on the island, intrigued by Mr. Sinclair. An unlikely couple, the two are drawn to each other, but Gemma’s biggest trial is about to begin… a journey of passion and betrayal, secrets and lies, redemption and discovery will lead her to a life she’s never dreamed of.

©2012 Margot Livesey (P)2012 AudioGO

Critic reviews

“[An] original slant on a classic story…. Within the classic framework, Livesey molds a thoroughly modern character who learns to expect the best of herself and to forgive the missteps of others. The author has a gift for creating atmosphere.” ( Library Journal)

“The talented Livesey updates Jane Eyre…taking care to home in on the elements of this classic story that so resonate with readers…. Despite readers’ familiarity with the story line, they will be held rapt…. A sure bet for both book clubs and Bronte fans.” ( Booklist)

“[A] brilliantly paced contemporary adventure…” ( Elle)

It wants to be Jane Eyre but fails.

Would you say that listening to this book was time well-spent? Why or why not?

Hmm i'm really on the fence. I love Jane Eyre, the story this is loosely based on, and it really missed the mark. I've read several other Jane Eyre spinoffs and this isn't my favorite.

What could Margot Livesey have done to make this a more enjoyable book for you?

No spoilers but one of the big plot points in the original Jane Eyre is an 'insuperable barrier" that separates the couple. I was waiting all book to see what it would be. The big secret. And when i finally got there, it was a huge disappointed. I thought "really, she is leaving him over this?!!" It felt forced. Like the author was trying to be inventive but then just made up an issue that she hoped would be believable. And it wasn't. It was a poor man's Jane Eyre and I'd rather just read the original again.

Which character – as performed by Davina Porter – was your favorite?

Young Gemma

Do you think The Flight of Gemma Hardy needs a follow-up book? Why or why not?

No, it was enough.

Good, but..

Love the narration. Well written but too much like a historical novel I won't name - that would be a spoiler. I recognized the storyline fairly soon and the book experience became as much about this unique storyline as how it would pull off mirroring the original. I'm not sure that distracted from the experience except I then felt the ending was predictable. because of the parallel. Still I'd recommend this as a good listen.

Both fresh and familiar

A more modern twist on Jane Eyre. Perfectly read and wonderfully written. Thoroughly enjoyed it!

A journey in a life

There are times we think will break us and then there are times which bring us hope & sunshine with the will to carry on. This could be just about anyone's life story, but it was written in such a way as to be so interesting, that " goodness, what next?" was always in my mind. Loved this story and the narrator really added to the pleasure.

So Good

The ending was a bit fast but it was an excellent story and easy to read. Highly recommend you try it.