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Jessie's Promise
From the bestselling author of LIZZIE'S SECRET and LIZZIE'S WAR, a story about a resilient, strong woman surviving adversity post World War 1. DEVON 1918. When Jessie Hale loses her nursing job at the end of the First World War, she leaves London to become the nurse maid to the Kendle family in Devon. On arrival she finds the family in disarray. Captain Kendle is a loving father but is traumatised by the war and kept at arm's length by his frosty wife. When their elderly Nanny suffers a bad fall, Jessie has to try to bring the household together. Gradually Jessie finds her place in their lives, becoming devoted to Captain Kendle's lively son Jack, his lovely, but quiet daughter Catherine, as well his invalid Mother. Jessie soon starts to love her life at Kendlebury Hall, but problems arise when her feelings for her employer start to change... What people are saying about JESSIE'S PROMISE: 'A beautiful story very well written' 'I quickly got drawn into this book, the description made me realise how tough life in service was' 'Jessie's Promise is a book that HAS to be devoured this year'
- GenresHistorical Fiction
242 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 1, 2017
439 people are currently reading
166 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
December 13, 2023
After Jessie Hale intervenes to try and help a fellow nurse from unwanted attention from a senior doctor at the Hospital where they both work, Jessie is let go. The matron does give her an excellent reference so she starts looking for a new job. After a time she decides to leave London and take a job as nurse aide to the Kendle family.
This story is set at the end of world war 1. Jessie's fiance died in the war and she is till grieving She immediately takes to her new position with the lively young Jack and the quiet Catherine. She also looks after Captain Kendle’s invalid mother. Jesus starts to love her life at Kendlebury Hall. Captain Kendall seems cold and indifferent but that is nothing compared to the unfeeling attitude of his wife Mary towards her children and other people. But what will happen as Jessie’s feelings for the Captain change?
Jessie is a hardworking, compassionate and generous hearted young woman. She is very easy to relate to her. Mary Kendle is a thoroughly nasty piece of work. Others in the story especially Captain Kendle change over the course of the story.
This is a gentle heartwarming story. It is well told even though a bit neatly and suddenly tied up at the end. Still, another very good read from an author who creates characters the readers care about.
This story is set at the end of world war 1. Jessie's fiance died in the war and she is till grieving She immediately takes to her new position with the lively young Jack and the quiet Catherine. She also looks after Captain Kendle’s invalid mother. Jesus starts to love her life at Kendlebury Hall. Captain Kendall seems cold and indifferent but that is nothing compared to the unfeeling attitude of his wife Mary towards her children and other people. But what will happen as Jessie’s feelings for the Captain change?
Jessie is a hardworking, compassionate and generous hearted young woman. She is very easy to relate to her. Mary Kendle is a thoroughly nasty piece of work. Others in the story especially Captain Kendle change over the course of the story.
This is a gentle heartwarming story. It is well told even though a bit neatly and suddenly tied up at the end. Still, another very good read from an author who creates characters the readers care about.
September 3, 2017
Review originally posted on Diary of an Eccentric
Rosie Clarke’s latest novel, Jessie’s Promise, is set in England after World War I and follows Jessie Hale, a 26-year-old nurse navigating the depths of grief, social upheaval, and her place in the world. Jessie was a VAD during the war, and when the novel opens she has lost her job at a London hospital for speaking out on behalf of a fellow nurse. Still grieving the loss of her fiancé during the war, she cannot marry the kind bookstore owner Archie and instead takes a position at Kendlebury Hall in Devon as a nurse to Lady Kendle and her grandchildren, precocious 5-year-old Jack and sweet 2-year-old Catherine.
Jessie immediately embraces her new role, taking care of the aging Nanny, forging a close bond with the children, and attempting to bring some order to the understaffed household despite the overbearing presence of her employer, Mary Kendle, who is cold to her daughter, barely tolerant of her son, and distant from her husband, Captain Harry Kendle. Jessie’s determination to do right by the children, especially Catherine, who needs special care and attention, frequently puts her at odds with Mrs. Kendle but earns her the admiration of Captain Kendle — a man haunted by a lifetime of tragedy, most recently the war, but whose warmth toward the children and kindness toward her begin to break down the wall Jessie had built around her heart after Robbie’s death. Just as she beings to feel at home at Kendlebury Hall and believe that happiness is possible after all, a series of tragedies befall the Kendles and Jessie is forced to contend with yet more loss and the consequences of her decisions.
Clarke has done a great job creating a strong heroine in Jessie. She stands up for what is right and goes out of her way to help those in need, but she is far from perfect. However, it is her strength amid devastating loss and broken dreams that makes Jessie a truly admirable character. She loves deeply, cares fiercely, and steps up and takes charge when she is needed, even when she is desperately hurting inside.
The pace of the novel starts slow, but that helps to develop all of the characters, highlight the weight of responsibility that Jessie assumes from her very first moment at Kendlebury Hall, and set the stage for all that follows. Jessie’s relationship with Harry feels real, and Clarke doesn’t sugarcoat any of the obstacles in their way. She has created a strong cast of supporting characters, namely Nanny, Lady Kendle, and the rest of the household staff, adding numerous layers to the story.
Jessie’s Promise is about finding love amidst grief and finding oneself after the chaos of war as society dramatically changes in terms of sex and class. Clarke puts readers directly into the setting, so they understand what Jessie is up against and that the times are changing. I loved that Jessie was a modern women, understanding society’s constraints but unwilling to simply accept the way things were. Even when there was little she could do to change the situation, she questioned things, fought back in little ways, and refused to just give up. I was caught up in Jessie’s story from the very beginning, and I loved all the little twists and turns along the way, so much so that I look forward to reading more by Clarke in the future.
I received a free copy of this book for review.
Rosie Clarke’s latest novel, Jessie’s Promise, is set in England after World War I and follows Jessie Hale, a 26-year-old nurse navigating the depths of grief, social upheaval, and her place in the world. Jessie was a VAD during the war, and when the novel opens she has lost her job at a London hospital for speaking out on behalf of a fellow nurse. Still grieving the loss of her fiancé during the war, she cannot marry the kind bookstore owner Archie and instead takes a position at Kendlebury Hall in Devon as a nurse to Lady Kendle and her grandchildren, precocious 5-year-old Jack and sweet 2-year-old Catherine.
Jessie immediately embraces her new role, taking care of the aging Nanny, forging a close bond with the children, and attempting to bring some order to the understaffed household despite the overbearing presence of her employer, Mary Kendle, who is cold to her daughter, barely tolerant of her son, and distant from her husband, Captain Harry Kendle. Jessie’s determination to do right by the children, especially Catherine, who needs special care and attention, frequently puts her at odds with Mrs. Kendle but earns her the admiration of Captain Kendle — a man haunted by a lifetime of tragedy, most recently the war, but whose warmth toward the children and kindness toward her begin to break down the wall Jessie had built around her heart after Robbie’s death. Just as she beings to feel at home at Kendlebury Hall and believe that happiness is possible after all, a series of tragedies befall the Kendles and Jessie is forced to contend with yet more loss and the consequences of her decisions.
Clarke has done a great job creating a strong heroine in Jessie. She stands up for what is right and goes out of her way to help those in need, but she is far from perfect. However, it is her strength amid devastating loss and broken dreams that makes Jessie a truly admirable character. She loves deeply, cares fiercely, and steps up and takes charge when she is needed, even when she is desperately hurting inside.
The pace of the novel starts slow, but that helps to develop all of the characters, highlight the weight of responsibility that Jessie assumes from her very first moment at Kendlebury Hall, and set the stage for all that follows. Jessie’s relationship with Harry feels real, and Clarke doesn’t sugarcoat any of the obstacles in their way. She has created a strong cast of supporting characters, namely Nanny, Lady Kendle, and the rest of the household staff, adding numerous layers to the story.
Jessie’s Promise is about finding love amidst grief and finding oneself after the chaos of war as society dramatically changes in terms of sex and class. Clarke puts readers directly into the setting, so they understand what Jessie is up against and that the times are changing. I loved that Jessie was a modern women, understanding society’s constraints but unwilling to simply accept the way things were. Even when there was little she could do to change the situation, she questioned things, fought back in little ways, and refused to just give up. I was caught up in Jessie’s story from the very beginning, and I loved all the little twists and turns along the way, so much so that I look forward to reading more by Clarke in the future.
I received a free copy of this book for review.
February 5, 2017
Jessie's Promise is the first book I have read by Rosie Clarke although I have had me eye on her others yet just have never gotten round to reading them. This read proved to be much more than just a family saga set around the time of war and it surprised me with the depth of the storylines and the feelings and emotions it inspired in me towards certain characters. Set in 1918 after the conclusion of World War One, Jessie Hale is 26 and working as a nurse in a London hospital having returned home from nursing at the front with the V.A.D's.
As we meet Jessie another unexpected turn is about to come upon her life and all because she dared to brook convention and speak her mind and the truth. She stands up and makes a complaint against a doctor working in the hospital of which several women have had not so savoury dealings with. Jessie was witness to one such incident and she can't keep it a secret even though the woman it happened to wishes the truth kept buried. Unfortunately the outcome Jessie wished to occur didn't materialise and she finds herself out of a job from a profession she loves and which has seen her through some hard times but also made her the person she is today. This willingness and determination within Jessie of always doing the right thing and sticking to both her beliefs and morals is so evident within the first few pages and that is what makes the reader instantly like her character. She maintains this stance throughout the book no matter what grave injustices or wrongs are thrown at her over the course of the story. I liked this aspect to her and she went against the convention of the time where men held the influence and women wouldn't have been given short shrift as their opinions were viewed as not valuable and time wasting or even worth listening to or considering. It's this feisty, resilient and observant side of Jessie that forms the backbone of Jessie's Promise and which made for a very good read. Although at one or two stages I will admit I did disagree with Jessie's actions but I suppose if your heart and mind work together to say one thing you can't but not listen to it.
Now Jessie is jobless and combined with the fact she still harbours deep feelings for her lost love she knows she needs a change. She cannot stay with her Aunt forever but she needs to move on. She answers an ad in a magazine for a nanny and nursing assistant at Kendlebury Manor in Devon. It would be a total change for Jessie and maybe give her time to re-evaluate which direction she would like her life to now go in. Little does she realise her hopes for peace and to go silently about her business with the children she is charge of won't exactly materialise. It seemed once the story moved to Devon it took on a different quality. It was like the house and its residents were stuck in another era with the weight of time and past events pressing heavily on them. The house was not what it had once been with the minimum of staff now in place and I sensed an overwhelming feeling of desperation and of needing a change. Would Jessie be the one to implement this or will she to get caught up in something she may best keep out of for fear of her involvement which would result in upsetting the overall picture? Or will she prove the tonic and solace the residents need?
Jessie came across as someone who could settle in anywhere and she would at first test the waters, get a feel for the place and then being an outsider looking in could see what needed to be done. She was a force to be reckoned with but not in a pushy or dominant way or with any sense of aggression. She could see that care, love and respect and being mindful of others was what what needed. She knew none of the background to the family which slowly unfurled the more I read through the story so to my mind she was the perfect person with just the right perfect, positive touch that could implement change for the better. Even if stern opposition awaited her.Jessie aswell as making friends with the servants below stairs who soon become close friends finds her self in charge of Lady Kendle and her two grandchildren, Jack and Catherine. Jessie finds even the old Nanny has been neglected as the wife of Captain Kendle, Mary is often away from the house and has little or no time for her in laws or her own children.
Captain Kendle too is not the man he once was and I could sense he was haunted by something but Jessie begins to work her magic and show her caring nature and he begins to reconnect with his children albeit in little ways. For me the children really shone through in this book, Jessie could see they had been neglected and forgotten about having had a succession of nanny's come and go and the old nanny was just that too old to care for them herself and she lived in fear of being thrown out of the house. Jessie saw what others didn't that Jack needed a gentle firm hand and as for Catherine she needed love, affection and attention instead of being dismissed as an idiot through no circumstance of her own. She should not have been something kept hidden and away from public eyes she needed to be nurtured and Jessie could be the one to do that.
I loved how Jessie just pushed everyone's views and abrupt dismal of things aside and got on with her own plans which were only ever for the good of the children. She was upsetting the apple cart but all for good. I loved how she was blunt and told a few home truths and even if they weren't what the powers that be wanted to hear Jessie knew everything she did was for the children in her care. I felt she brought the house back to life and even though she wasn't aware of past events or even the bigger picture as to what was happening none of this mattered she wanted to create some positivity and love in the children's lives and in doing so she was helping to heal her own past hurts.Midway through the book I felt things did become slightly repetitive before picking up again. For my liking there was just that bit too much about the daily routine with the children and Lady Kendle, and it didn't move the story on enough, but then things slowly started to get going again and Jessie experiences feelings she never thought possible again but if she listens to what is being said deep within her it may cause more harm than good. The reader could see some of these feelings emerging yet then I felt everything rushed ahead like a steam train on full power and became slightly unbelievable and it needed to be reined in ever so slightly. I knew the outcome I wanted for the characters but given the situation they found themselves in I never quite knew whether this could be achieved or not.
I was with Jessie every step of the way as she navigated her new life through the ups and downs but I didn't agree with what her heart was saying all the time. I enjoyed how the author wrote about a child with a disability and how children like this may have been viewed at the time, it brought a surprising element of depth to the story. The romance element was overpowering at certain stages but then a few shockers were thrown in and some were very unjust and shocking and I was almost angry at the author for letting these things happen. Jessie's Promise was definitely a much better read than I had been expecting which provided a few twists and turns along the way and kept this reader turning the pages. Jessie was a strong character who you were rooting for and not some damsel in distress, weak character that I read about far too often. The ending may have been a little too rushed but it didn't detract from my overall enjoyment of the story. I would say this book is well worth the read and now having enjoyed this book I do want to try out Rosie Clarke's Workshop Girls series.
As we meet Jessie another unexpected turn is about to come upon her life and all because she dared to brook convention and speak her mind and the truth. She stands up and makes a complaint against a doctor working in the hospital of which several women have had not so savoury dealings with. Jessie was witness to one such incident and she can't keep it a secret even though the woman it happened to wishes the truth kept buried. Unfortunately the outcome Jessie wished to occur didn't materialise and she finds herself out of a job from a profession she loves and which has seen her through some hard times but also made her the person she is today. This willingness and determination within Jessie of always doing the right thing and sticking to both her beliefs and morals is so evident within the first few pages and that is what makes the reader instantly like her character. She maintains this stance throughout the book no matter what grave injustices or wrongs are thrown at her over the course of the story. I liked this aspect to her and she went against the convention of the time where men held the influence and women wouldn't have been given short shrift as their opinions were viewed as not valuable and time wasting or even worth listening to or considering. It's this feisty, resilient and observant side of Jessie that forms the backbone of Jessie's Promise and which made for a very good read. Although at one or two stages I will admit I did disagree with Jessie's actions but I suppose if your heart and mind work together to say one thing you can't but not listen to it.
Now Jessie is jobless and combined with the fact she still harbours deep feelings for her lost love she knows she needs a change. She cannot stay with her Aunt forever but she needs to move on. She answers an ad in a magazine for a nanny and nursing assistant at Kendlebury Manor in Devon. It would be a total change for Jessie and maybe give her time to re-evaluate which direction she would like her life to now go in. Little does she realise her hopes for peace and to go silently about her business with the children she is charge of won't exactly materialise. It seemed once the story moved to Devon it took on a different quality. It was like the house and its residents were stuck in another era with the weight of time and past events pressing heavily on them. The house was not what it had once been with the minimum of staff now in place and I sensed an overwhelming feeling of desperation and of needing a change. Would Jessie be the one to implement this or will she to get caught up in something she may best keep out of for fear of her involvement which would result in upsetting the overall picture? Or will she prove the tonic and solace the residents need?
Jessie came across as someone who could settle in anywhere and she would at first test the waters, get a feel for the place and then being an outsider looking in could see what needed to be done. She was a force to be reckoned with but not in a pushy or dominant way or with any sense of aggression. She could see that care, love and respect and being mindful of others was what what needed. She knew none of the background to the family which slowly unfurled the more I read through the story so to my mind she was the perfect person with just the right perfect, positive touch that could implement change for the better. Even if stern opposition awaited her.Jessie aswell as making friends with the servants below stairs who soon become close friends finds her self in charge of Lady Kendle and her two grandchildren, Jack and Catherine. Jessie finds even the old Nanny has been neglected as the wife of Captain Kendle, Mary is often away from the house and has little or no time for her in laws or her own children.
Captain Kendle too is not the man he once was and I could sense he was haunted by something but Jessie begins to work her magic and show her caring nature and he begins to reconnect with his children albeit in little ways. For me the children really shone through in this book, Jessie could see they had been neglected and forgotten about having had a succession of nanny's come and go and the old nanny was just that too old to care for them herself and she lived in fear of being thrown out of the house. Jessie saw what others didn't that Jack needed a gentle firm hand and as for Catherine she needed love, affection and attention instead of being dismissed as an idiot through no circumstance of her own. She should not have been something kept hidden and away from public eyes she needed to be nurtured and Jessie could be the one to do that.
I loved how Jessie just pushed everyone's views and abrupt dismal of things aside and got on with her own plans which were only ever for the good of the children. She was upsetting the apple cart but all for good. I loved how she was blunt and told a few home truths and even if they weren't what the powers that be wanted to hear Jessie knew everything she did was for the children in her care. I felt she brought the house back to life and even though she wasn't aware of past events or even the bigger picture as to what was happening none of this mattered she wanted to create some positivity and love in the children's lives and in doing so she was helping to heal her own past hurts.Midway through the book I felt things did become slightly repetitive before picking up again. For my liking there was just that bit too much about the daily routine with the children and Lady Kendle, and it didn't move the story on enough, but then things slowly started to get going again and Jessie experiences feelings she never thought possible again but if she listens to what is being said deep within her it may cause more harm than good. The reader could see some of these feelings emerging yet then I felt everything rushed ahead like a steam train on full power and became slightly unbelievable and it needed to be reined in ever so slightly. I knew the outcome I wanted for the characters but given the situation they found themselves in I never quite knew whether this could be achieved or not.
I was with Jessie every step of the way as she navigated her new life through the ups and downs but I didn't agree with what her heart was saying all the time. I enjoyed how the author wrote about a child with a disability and how children like this may have been viewed at the time, it brought a surprising element of depth to the story. The romance element was overpowering at certain stages but then a few shockers were thrown in and some were very unjust and shocking and I was almost angry at the author for letting these things happen. Jessie's Promise was definitely a much better read than I had been expecting which provided a few twists and turns along the way and kept this reader turning the pages. Jessie was a strong character who you were rooting for and not some damsel in distress, weak character that I read about far too often. The ending may have been a little too rushed but it didn't detract from my overall enjoyment of the story. I would say this book is well worth the read and now having enjoyed this book I do want to try out Rosie Clarke's Workshop Girls series.
February 7, 2017
Jessie’s Promise by Rosie Clarke is a historical novel set in Devon in 1918. Jessie Hale is dismissed from her position as a nurse at St. Joseph’s after reporting Doctor Acrington for accosting a fellow nurse (he was handsy). After being unable to find a job locally, Jessie applies for a position in Devon at Kendlebury Hall. She would be taking care of two young children and Lady Kendle. Jessie feels fortunate when she gets the position working for Captain Harry Kendle and his wife, Mary. Jessie arrives to find Nanny (an elderly woman who was the Captain’s nanny) has suffered a stroke. Jessie now has two patients and two children to look after. Mary Kendle takes little interest in the children or the household. She is busy with her friends and parties (and other extracurricular activities). Captain Kendle loves his children, but he returned from the war a changed man. Her two young charges are Jack and Cathy. Jack is a lively boy who just needs a firm hand. Cathy is developmentally challenged much to her mother’s embarrassment. Cathy was deprived of oxygen during her birth. It turns out that Cathy just needs the right attention and help. Jessie soon adjusts to her new job and enjoys life at Kendlebury Hall. The last thing Jessie was looking for was romance when she came to Devon. Jessie lost her fiancé, Robert during the war (three years prior) and it has taken her this long to recover from his death. Slowly, Jessie gets to know Captain Harry Kendle and falls in love with the kind, gentle man. When the unthinkable happens, Jessie knows she needs leave the people and place she has grown to love. To find out what happens to Jessie Hale, you will need to read Jessie’s Promise.
I found Jessie’s Promise to be nicely written and easy to read. I really liked the character of Jessie Hale. Jessie forthright, stubborn, hardworking, knows her mind. I give Jessie’s Promise 4 out of 5 stars. There are a couple of slow paces, but they are outweighed by the rest of the novel. I really enjoyed reading about Jessie’s journey, and the author provides a lovely ending. The author did not give us another predictable romance novel. I only summarized the novel above. There is so much more in the book. Jessie’s Promise shows us a flawed family. She provides us with different characters with various personalities. Ms. Clarke also gave us the gamut of emotions with joy, tragedy, love, grief, heartbreak. I appreciate that Rosie Clarke included little Cathy and her challenges. It was interesting to see how Jessie responded to Cathy and her developmental challenges. Jessie’s Promise contains good life lessons that are still applicable in today’s society. I am looking forward to reading Rosie Clarke’s other novels.
I found Jessie’s Promise to be nicely written and easy to read. I really liked the character of Jessie Hale. Jessie forthright, stubborn, hardworking, knows her mind. I give Jessie’s Promise 4 out of 5 stars. There are a couple of slow paces, but they are outweighed by the rest of the novel. I really enjoyed reading about Jessie’s journey, and the author provides a lovely ending. The author did not give us another predictable romance novel. I only summarized the novel above. There is so much more in the book. Jessie’s Promise shows us a flawed family. She provides us with different characters with various personalities. Ms. Clarke also gave us the gamut of emotions with joy, tragedy, love, grief, heartbreak. I appreciate that Rosie Clarke included little Cathy and her challenges. It was interesting to see how Jessie responded to Cathy and her developmental challenges. Jessie’s Promise contains good life lessons that are still applicable in today’s society. I am looking forward to reading Rosie Clarke’s other novels.
April 5, 2019
Lovely author
This book is a page Turner, as are all Rosie Clarke's other books, can't wait for the next one out.
This book is a page Turner, as are all Rosie Clarke's other books, can't wait for the next one out.
February 15, 2017
I have to admit this is the first book I have read by Rosie, her books seem to crop up on my radar regularly and I mean to get around to them because they always look so appealing, after reading this one I will make a disconcerted effort to explore them.
Set just after the 1st War, this is a poignant tale about Jessie .. a nurse by profession she was ousted from her job because she dared to complain about a doctor making unwanted advances! In those days the likes of her were never believed or classified as trouble-makers.
So she had to leave behind the aunt she lived with and move to Devon to take up the role of nurse-maid to two young children. She goes into the family with her own ideas and soon begins to make a difference.
But life in service was hard work, she is an employee and some of the upper gentry treat her appallingly. Jessie is a tough cookie though and the welfare of the children soon becomes her life.
She forms a bond with most of the other servants, the author has a charming way of writing the ‘downstairs’ theme and it felt as though I were a part of it. Life was certainly tough for all of them and any slight misdemeanour could mean not only the loss of their job but also the accommodation.
Jessie soon befriends the children’s father and she begins to be accepted as the wonderful nurse-maid that she is, most of the family cherish her existence and firmly believe they couldn’t manage without her BUT life is never that simple. Things change, there is a tragedy and tempers become frayed.
Can Jessie ever make her life in the country or will she need to return to London? This is a wonderful saga, full of determination, hope, love and secrets .. can Jessie keep her promise and who has she made it to? Lots of emotions, some great characters and a brilliant story. Based in a time when we may think life was simpler but this just shows what hardship and difficulties some people had to face.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Aria etc .. I read and reviewed this voluntarily.
Set just after the 1st War, this is a poignant tale about Jessie .. a nurse by profession she was ousted from her job because she dared to complain about a doctor making unwanted advances! In those days the likes of her were never believed or classified as trouble-makers.
So she had to leave behind the aunt she lived with and move to Devon to take up the role of nurse-maid to two young children. She goes into the family with her own ideas and soon begins to make a difference.
But life in service was hard work, she is an employee and some of the upper gentry treat her appallingly. Jessie is a tough cookie though and the welfare of the children soon becomes her life.
She forms a bond with most of the other servants, the author has a charming way of writing the ‘downstairs’ theme and it felt as though I were a part of it. Life was certainly tough for all of them and any slight misdemeanour could mean not only the loss of their job but also the accommodation.
Jessie soon befriends the children’s father and she begins to be accepted as the wonderful nurse-maid that she is, most of the family cherish her existence and firmly believe they couldn’t manage without her BUT life is never that simple. Things change, there is a tragedy and tempers become frayed.
Can Jessie ever make her life in the country or will she need to return to London? This is a wonderful saga, full of determination, hope, love and secrets .. can Jessie keep her promise and who has she made it to? Lots of emotions, some great characters and a brilliant story. Based in a time when we may think life was simpler but this just shows what hardship and difficulties some people had to face.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Aria etc .. I read and reviewed this voluntarily.
January 25, 2023
When Jessie loses her job defending a fellow nurse, she decides a change of pace might just be what she needs. When she takes the job of nanny and nurse maid to the Kendle family, little did she know how much her life would change.
Immediately embraced by both family and staff, Jessie begins to make changes that improve the health and outlook of the entire household. But when a ever growing attraction between Captain Kendle and Jessie starts, life becomes complicated for all of them involved.
As always, Rosie Clark weaves a intricate tale of love and life in her stories that keep the reader turning the pages. Her characters are always interesting and her female leads are always strong and independent. Her books are satisfying, easy reads that keeps readers coming back for more.
Immediately embraced by both family and staff, Jessie begins to make changes that improve the health and outlook of the entire household. But when a ever growing attraction between Captain Kendle and Jessie starts, life becomes complicated for all of them involved.
As always, Rosie Clark weaves a intricate tale of love and life in her stories that keep the reader turning the pages. Her characters are always interesting and her female leads are always strong and independent. Her books are satisfying, easy reads that keeps readers coming back for more.
June 17, 2020
People's sufferings and ordeals were sometimes the result of their own willful actions like what happened to Jack... and those left behind were riddled with guilt and with the usual Entitled 'good person/s' wrong mind~set that they deserved an easy life from the Almighty when in fact "the rain falls on both the wicked and the good" and at the same time like Job, "the Lord gives and the Lord takes away" Bible verses that are equally real and true. Actions will always have consequences and a plethora of other platitudes that would be meaningless to those in the midst of their suffering and immersed in their grief for the loss of a loved one... just as Jessie have accepted her circumstances when she made a conscious decision to have an affair with a married man and her employer... also, her misguided attitude (towards God) in dealing with the loss of Jack. The author have pained a true representation of people dealing with their own vulnerabilities and blaming God for their lives' tragedies as if no one had experienced their pain and sufferings... like a 'quid pro quo' kind of thing that when they are "good" then they should be rewarded by a good and easy life, free from suffering... as the Lord said to Isaiah... "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways". Unfair maybe in our own concept of rewards and punishments but then there is the "free will" to think and to act according to one's own discernment as in yet another annoying but true platitude that "man proposes, God disposes".
April 30, 2023
Enjoyable read
Although I would like to know what happens next.
The book follows Jessie a VAD turned nurse who is released from duty for speaking up against a doctor who had been sexually harassing another nurse.
In that period they stood by the men and thd women thought to be troublemakers were let go.
Unable to find a job she finally remembers a job but thought it had gone but the advertisement reappears and she answers and turns up in Devon, to look after two children, a old lady who is an invalid and becomes indispensable. But when the wife turns her out, is there any way back? 🤔
Although I would like to know what happens next.
The book follows Jessie a VAD turned nurse who is released from duty for speaking up against a doctor who had been sexually harassing another nurse.
In that period they stood by the men and thd women thought to be troublemakers were let go.
Unable to find a job she finally remembers a job but thought it had gone but the advertisement reappears and she answers and turns up in Devon, to look after two children, a old lady who is an invalid and becomes indispensable. But when the wife turns her out, is there any way back? 🤔
October 7, 2017
I think three stars is generous, but I did continue to read the book to the end and that counts for something. The characters lacked depth and were quite unrealistic. The book would have benefitted greatly if a professional editor had been engaged. Point of view jumped within paragraphs which was very confusing as were all the typo errors and missing words.
December 30, 2023
2.5 stars.
Boring
Slow
PREDICTABLE
Really had to force myself to finish this one before the end of the year. Took me months (a good book takes me 2-3 days). It was just hard to read, bland characters and even parts that were reminiscent of a Downton Abbey plot. Highly unrealistic in parts as wel.
Boring
Slow
PREDICTABLE
Really had to force myself to finish this one before the end of the year. Took me months (a good book takes me 2-3 days). It was just hard to read, bland characters and even parts that were reminiscent of a Downton Abbey plot. Highly unrealistic in parts as wel.
May 17, 2017
Tragedy to Treasure
Life is never defined by one day or one year but as the book states many tomorrows. Each tomorrow lived full and passionately. Finding and knowing we are in the right place. Enjoyed this read and look forward to more from Rosie Clarke.
Life is never defined by one day or one year but as the book states many tomorrows. Each tomorrow lived full and passionately. Finding and knowing we are in the right place. Enjoyed this read and look forward to more from Rosie Clarke.
March 4, 2020
Can't go wrong with this book
Really nice easy read and a surprise storyline as well
All positive thoughts. Will be reading more from this author. Not sort of book I usually read, but on occasion I do like a change to an easy reader
Really nice easy read and a surprise storyline as well
All positive thoughts. Will be reading more from this author. Not sort of book I usually read, but on occasion I do like a change to an easy reader
April 8, 2020
Fantastic read
Brilliant read full of emotion ,with an I might to post was strife of the everyday woman . What strong women we had in those days of male dominance and how clever of them to work it to their advantage
Brilliant read full of emotion ,with an I might to post was strife of the everyday woman . What strong women we had in those days of male dominance and how clever of them to work it to their advantage
August 20, 2017
Beautifully written
This is a wonderful book , I couldn't put it down. Such a heart warming story, I cried when I read about Jack's accident. Can't wait to read her next book.
This is a wonderful book , I couldn't put it down. Such a heart warming story, I cried when I read about Jack's accident. Can't wait to read her next book.
September 26, 2017
Really enjoyed this book by Rosie Clarke. Her books are so well worth reading and I found it difficult to put this one down. Sad in parts but had a nice ending. Not giving anything away!
April 29, 2018
Jessie's Promise
Heart warming story loved it I'm going to read more of Rosie Clarke's books first one of hers I've read
Heart warming story loved it I'm going to read more of Rosie Clarke's books first one of hers I've read
July 10, 2018
Loved this book.
I loved this book. I really enjoy family sagas and this was certainly very interesting. Some sad losses for Jessie but she is strong.
I loved this book. I really enjoy family sagas and this was certainly very interesting. Some sad losses for Jessie but she is strong.
March 23, 2020
Great Book
I enjoyed this book we’re much it certainly was a page turner well donee Rosie. I look forward to reading your a lot more of your books Janet
I enjoyed this book we’re much it certainly was a page turner well donee Rosie. I look forward to reading your a lot more of your books Janet
October 2, 2020
I enjoyed the book very much, it's what I would call an easy read
July 26, 2021
Brilliant
I am a huge fan ofRosie and I am not disappointed with this book either characters are lovely, a really enjoyable read thank you Posie
I am a huge fan ofRosie and I am not disappointed with this book either characters are lovely, a really enjoyable read thank you Posie
November 12, 2021
I thought this was a good story, well written, these things certainly happened in those days.
February 17, 2022
Jessie Promise
A very good read I really enjoyed this book and I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series
A very good read I really enjoyed this book and I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series
February 10, 2024
another great read
The first in a trilogy well lcant wait for the next book they are always a pleasure to curl up with
The first in a trilogy well lcant wait for the next book they are always a pleasure to curl up with
February 16, 2017
All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpress.com
Set in 1918, lifestyles were incredibly different in terms of finding employment, amongst other things. If you were deemed a ‘well-respected’ member of the work force and irreplaceable, your word was pretty much ‘it’. However, if you were at the lower end of the work force, for example a nurse (deemed replaceable), it would be lucky if anything you said was believed by those higher up. After all, who would you believe; a top-notch, irreplaceable member of the team, or a…nurse? Similar circumstances were featured within the storyline for ‘Jessie’s Promise’; it was as if you needed to keep your friends close, your enemies closer and someone well respected to be your ally. It did shock me I must admit.
When Jessie found a new position as a nursemaid in Devon, she soon realised how much thicker her already thick skin, needed to get. Especially seeing as members of the family she worked for seemed to disagree with every single thing she uttered. In the first few chapters leading up to Jessie’s new job, I did find myself struggling with the overall storyline as I couldn’t find the edge I needed, to hold onto and fully invest in the characters.
I’m not one to give up on books, especially when it sounds so promising and my cup of tea, so I didn’t! Soon enough I found myself three-quarters of the way through the book, without even realising. Somewhere between Jessie’s old job and her new job, a light switched on and I was hooked on the storyline and its fabulous characters. Well, not ALL of the characters were fabulous! Lets just say one in particular was shockingly hateful; everything about this character rubbed me up the wrong way and her actions towards those around her were diabolical. I was impressed with Rosie Clarke’s way with words, especially where THAT character was concerned; hats off to the author for including a character who will be spoken about for a very long time!
Despite having a rocky start with the novel, it proved itself to be such a wholesome, jam-packed and emotional read; I am SO glad that I didn’t give up on it and carried on reading. There were moments of devastating circumstances and eye-opening situations, yet the author kept the momentum one hundred percent; and didn’t falter when it came to continuing the storyline after those events. I really did enjoy ‘Jessie’s Promise’ and I have to say that Catherine was my most favourite character, without a doubt.
A learning curve within a novel, Jessie’s Promise is full of just that, promise. With three-dimensional characters and enough storyline substance to keep you going through until dinner, ‘Jessie’s Promise’ is a book that just HAS to be devoured this year. The first book I have read by Rosie Clarke, I am about to go nab her others!
Thank you Aria!
Set in 1918, lifestyles were incredibly different in terms of finding employment, amongst other things. If you were deemed a ‘well-respected’ member of the work force and irreplaceable, your word was pretty much ‘it’. However, if you were at the lower end of the work force, for example a nurse (deemed replaceable), it would be lucky if anything you said was believed by those higher up. After all, who would you believe; a top-notch, irreplaceable member of the team, or a…nurse? Similar circumstances were featured within the storyline for ‘Jessie’s Promise’; it was as if you needed to keep your friends close, your enemies closer and someone well respected to be your ally. It did shock me I must admit.
When Jessie found a new position as a nursemaid in Devon, she soon realised how much thicker her already thick skin, needed to get. Especially seeing as members of the family she worked for seemed to disagree with every single thing she uttered. In the first few chapters leading up to Jessie’s new job, I did find myself struggling with the overall storyline as I couldn’t find the edge I needed, to hold onto and fully invest in the characters.
I’m not one to give up on books, especially when it sounds so promising and my cup of tea, so I didn’t! Soon enough I found myself three-quarters of the way through the book, without even realising. Somewhere between Jessie’s old job and her new job, a light switched on and I was hooked on the storyline and its fabulous characters. Well, not ALL of the characters were fabulous! Lets just say one in particular was shockingly hateful; everything about this character rubbed me up the wrong way and her actions towards those around her were diabolical. I was impressed with Rosie Clarke’s way with words, especially where THAT character was concerned; hats off to the author for including a character who will be spoken about for a very long time!
Despite having a rocky start with the novel, it proved itself to be such a wholesome, jam-packed and emotional read; I am SO glad that I didn’t give up on it and carried on reading. There were moments of devastating circumstances and eye-opening situations, yet the author kept the momentum one hundred percent; and didn’t falter when it came to continuing the storyline after those events. I really did enjoy ‘Jessie’s Promise’ and I have to say that Catherine was my most favourite character, without a doubt.
A learning curve within a novel, Jessie’s Promise is full of just that, promise. With three-dimensional characters and enough storyline substance to keep you going through until dinner, ‘Jessie’s Promise’ is a book that just HAS to be devoured this year. The first book I have read by Rosie Clarke, I am about to go nab her others!
Thank you Aria!
March 2, 2017
loved it couldnt put it down
i liked the storyline and how jessie helped the family through the tramas they had, jessie been a positive character.
i liked the storyline and how jessie helped the family through the tramas they had, jessie been a positive character.
February 24, 2017
This is good old fashioned story telling with a good old fashioned plot. Nicely atmospheric of the post WWI era with a good heroine in Jessie, it's an entertaining low key read. Liked the children (how different it was for kids then! ) Captain Kendle was more or less a stock character to me but that was okay. This is well written- thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. You will like this if you enjoy historical novels where a woman finds love and hope after loss.
February 6, 2017
Jessie loses her job in a hospital and moves to Devon to become the nursemaid to the Kendle family. She falls in love with the children quickly and also the Nanny and the elderly mother. She isn't so keen on the children's mother wh0 is extremely offhand with everyone.
I quickly got drawn into this book and loved the setting and the house and staff. It makes you realise how tough life in service was.
Jessie is keen to get Captain Kendle more involved with his children and this has unexpected consequences. She's a feisty character who seems to rebel against the constraints you would expect.
I loved the characters and I really like Rosie's writing style. I enjoyed her previous books .
I voluntarily read a copy of this book with thanks to NetGalley.
I quickly got drawn into this book and loved the setting and the house and staff. It makes you realise how tough life in service was.
Jessie is keen to get Captain Kendle more involved with his children and this has unexpected consequences. She's a feisty character who seems to rebel against the constraints you would expect.
I loved the characters and I really like Rosie's writing style. I enjoyed her previous books .
I voluntarily read a copy of this book with thanks to NetGalley.
April 17, 2017
This is an average family saga set just after World War One. Jessie becomes nursemaid for Mary and Harry Kendle, at Kendlebury Hall. There is an awful lot happens in such a short space of time. I don't want to spoil the story by giving details however I did have trouble believing the events which unfolded. The story is really sugar coated but if you like First World War stories then you may enjoy it.
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