National Network for Equitable Library Service

Based on the real life of a remarkable young woman at the beginning of the last century, this is the gripping, heart-wrenching story of Jessica and her courageous fight for justice and love against enormous odds. Born into a life of hardship on the dusty black plains of the Australian outback, Jessica is strong, spirited and fearless, riding and working the land like a man. She could not be more different from her ladylike sister Meg, groomed by their ambitious mother Hester for marriage to wealthy Jack Thomas, Jessica's childhood friend. But these plans go awry when he falls in love with Jessica instead of Meg. Hester is determined to keep them apart and win Jack for her beloved Meg, whatever the cost. Even if it means destroying Jessica ... But Jess never gives up, and years later, through determination, friends and sheer stubbornness, she learns that true love and the human spirit can triumph over the cruellest circumstances.