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The Observations

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The Observations

By: Jane Harris
Narrated by: Jane Harris
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Scotland, 1863. In an attempt to escape her past, Bessy Buckley takes a job as a maid in a big house outside Edinburgh working for the beautiful Arabella. Bessy is intrigued by her new employer, but puzzled by her increasingly strange requests and her insistence that Bessy keep a journal of her most intimate thoughts. And it seems that Arabella has a few secrets of her own - including her near-obsessive affection for Nora, a former maid who died in mysterious circumstances. Then, a childish prank has drastic consequences, which throws into jeopardy all that Bessy has come to hold dear. Caught up in a tangle of madness, ghosts, sex and lies, she remains devoted to Arabella. But who is really responsible for what happened to Nora? Fiction Genre Fiction Historical Fiction Literary Fiction Romance Scotland Funny Witty
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An exceedingly intrigiuing story well researched and particularly well read with all the voices of the characters bringing the tale alive. Seems a bit long but well worth listeing to.

Brilliantly read intriguing but long story

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A very well narrated book, which I listened to, with interest. Enjoyed the twists and turns of the story and was left guessing what would be next, at each chapter. ... would recommend.

Many twists and turns.... well narrated!!!

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An absolute gem of a story; truly unique and unpredictable. It was so refreshing to read something with a completely original storyline. The use of language is simply sublime, especially that of our protagonist, and made all the more so by the suburb narration.

Beautifully written and narrated

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The Observations is a gripping and immersive historical novel that masterfully blends mystery, dark humor, and rich characterization. One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its characters, particularly the narrator, whose lively and engaging voice makes the story come to life. Harris’s writing is vivid and atmospheric, drawing readers (or listeners) into its world with ease.

The blend of mystery and humor adds an extra layer of charm, making it a delight to experience even while multitasking. The novel is both compelling and beautifully crafted, with well-formed characters and an intriguing narrative. It’s a truly special book, and one I would highly recommend.

An intriguing and captivating read

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I loved this book.
The Observations is a brilliant and original story, told in the first person by the irrepressible Irish heroine, Bessy Buckley.
Bessy has some wonderful expressions; which are delightfully comic and create hilarious visual images. This is a book full of comedy but it is also deeply moving, dark and tragic.
The Observations is read by Jane Harris, the author. It is the best read audiobook I have listened to. The accents of the characters are wonderful, especially that of Bessy herself.
Highly recommended.

Excellent novel; brilliantly read by the author

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