Jess (novel)

Jess is a historical fiction novel by H. Rider Haggard, first published in 1887. The story is set in South Africa during the First Boer War (1880-1881).

The novel centers around Jess, a young woman of mixed heritage (English and Dutch Boer), and her relationships with two men: Captain John Neil, an Englishman, and Frank Muller, a Boer. Jess is portrayed as a strong, independent, and fiercely loyal character. The plot involves themes of love, duty, betrayal, and the clash between British and Boer cultures in South Africa.

The narrative explores the complexities of identity and allegiance in a divided society. Jess's mixed heritage places her in a difficult position, torn between her loyalty to her English relatives and her sympathy for the Boer cause. The novel also depicts the harsh realities of war and its impact on individuals and communities. Jess is known for its vivid descriptions of the South African landscape and its portrayal of the historical events surrounding the First Boer War. While the novel reflects the attitudes and perspectives of its time, it offers insights into the social and political dynamics of colonial South Africa.