The Flight of Gemma Hardy

Author: Margot Livesey
Published: 2012
Genre: Fiction
Rating: 4

Summary
Fate has not been kind to Gemma Hardy. Orphaned by the age of ten, neglected by a bitter and cruel aunt, sent to a boarding school where she is both servant and student, young Gemma seems 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 with dreams of the future, she accepts a position as an au pair on the remote and beautiful Orkney Islands. But Gemma's biggest trial is about to begin . . . a journey of passion and betrayal, secrets and lies, redemption and discovery that will lead her to a life she's never dreamed.

A captivating tale, set in Scotland in the early 1960s, that is both an homage and a modern variation on the enduring classic, Jane Eyre.

Review
This work is well-written and nicely crafted. Although it mirrors Jane Eyre in many way, it is not so predictable as to be unengaging. The more recent setting and the variations that creates provide a sense of uniqueness. The main character is sympathetic, naive, strong-willed, and a survivor.

Notes
This book made me want to re-visit Jane Eyre. A re-read may be emminent.