A captivating read based on true events......

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"Meg Keneally’s debut solo novel is an epic historical adventure based on the extraordinary life of convict Mary Bryant".
I was already acquainted with the history of Mary and was looking forward to this particular author's fictionalised version of the plight of Mary and her ordeal at being transported to Australia in the late 18th century and her exceptional tale of survival.
In this book "Fled", Jenny is a convicted highway robber and in escaping the noose is 'transported beyond the seas for seven years' provided she can stay alive. The many ordeals Jenny encountered from being incarcerated in disgusting gaol conditions to the sea voyage and then the act itself of staying alive on new and uncultivated land, with her baby Charlotte, were truly awful. Giving birth on the ship must have been horrendous and I really can't imagine just how bad the hygiene must have been. It honestly makes you stop and think about how hard times were for the very poor, who resorted to petty crime just to survive. A truly harrowing story, of survival, grief and perseverance, the author has captured the era and Mary's story through Jenny spot on. It was very hard at times not to shed a tear at the really frightening and acutely distressing experiences that was endured by all the convicts male and female alike.
A very well written and atmospheric novel based on real life events that the author has developed using her own imagination and what she perceives to be what life was like for the countless convicts that were transported many, many years ago.
I would recommend "Fled" and I'd happily read more historical adventures from this author again. I really enjoyed this particular account of Mary's life and as strong, inspirational women go she's got to be one of the best in history.

4 stars