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The Jam Maker
Jam is sweet but it can also burn.
Tasmania, 1874. Growing up in the impoverished tenements along the Hobart Rivulet, Harriet Brown is used to doing whatever it takes to survive. Including, at just twelve years old, shearing off her hair and pretending to be a boy to secure a job as label-paster at the George Peacock and Sons jam factory.
Four years later, the deceit becomes too much to bear and Harriet risks everything on the chance at a future with her ambitious friend and workmate Henry Jones. But this decision forces her into a new deception: play the role of expert jam maker, or else be cast out onto the streets.
As the secrets and lies grow, Harriet is driven to more and more desperate choices. Choices that will end with a dangerous secret which, if discovered, could destroy not only her life but the lives of those she loves and protects.
Intertwined with the fascinating history of the Tasmanian jam industry and the striking historical figure Henry Jones, The Jam Maker is a tale of danger, deceit and the desperate measures one woman will take to succeed in love and life.
Tasmania, 1874. Growing up in the impoverished tenements along the Hobart Rivulet, Harriet Brown is used to doing whatever it takes to survive. Including, at just twelve years old, shearing off her hair and pretending to be a boy to secure a job as label-paster at the George Peacock and Sons jam factory.
Four years later, the deceit becomes too much to bear and Harriet risks everything on the chance at a future with her ambitious friend and workmate Henry Jones. But this decision forces her into a new deception: play the role of expert jam maker, or else be cast out onto the streets.
As the secrets and lies grow, Harriet is driven to more and more desperate choices. Choices that will end with a dangerous secret which, if discovered, could destroy not only her life but the lives of those she loves and protects.
Intertwined with the fascinating history of the Tasmanian jam industry and the striking historical figure Henry Jones, The Jam Maker is a tale of danger, deceit and the desperate measures one woman will take to succeed in love and life.
429 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 29, 2025
101 people are currently reading
740 people want to read
About the author
Mary-Lou Stephens
6 books115 followersMary-Lou Stephens was born in Tasmania, studied acting at The Victorian College of the Arts and played in bands in Melbourne, Hobart and Sydney. Eventually she got a proper job - in radio, where she was a presenter and music director, first with commercial radio and then with the ABC.
She received rave reviews for her memoir Sex, Drugs and Meditation (2013), the true story of how meditation changed her life, saved her job and helped her find a husband.
Mary-Lou has worked and played all over Australia and now travels the world slowly and writes, mostly.
Her debut novel The Last of the Apple Blossom was published by HarperCollins (HQ) in 2021.
The Chocolate Factory (HarperCollins HQ) 2024.
The Jam Maker (HarperCollins HQ) 2025
Praise for The Chocolate Factory
"I devoured it in one sitting. It's an absolute treat - totally enthralling and completely and utterly satisfying. It's another triumph for Mary-Lou Stephens. " – Karen Brooks, best selling author of The Good Wife of Bath
"Sweet and bitter, and a story that’s brightly compelling and thought-provoking at once. With Stephen’s fine eye for historical detail and ear for dialogue that’s just right, this novel is a lovely leap into the past." – Kim Kelly winner of the Finlay Lloyd 20/40 Prize
Praise for The Last of the Apple Blossom
‘What a cracker of a debut! A beautiful story of family and orchards, of secrets and love and forgiveness.' – Victoria Purman, author of The Women’s Pages
‘The crisp prose sparkles and the characters stay with you long after the story ends.' – Lauren Chater, author of Gulliver’s Wife
‘Timeless yet also telling an achingly familiar story to us here and now, this is an unforgettable tale of love and loss, triumph and tragedy.
– Karen Brooks, author of The Good Wife of Bath
'Mary-Lou Stephens writes evocatively about family secrets, love, sacrifice, and finding the courage to rise again after devastating loss. An engrossing and poignant story, beautifully told.'
— Christine Wells, author of Sisters of the Resistance
'I have long been a fan of Mary-Lou's writing, which is always evocative and compelling. What a wonderful story this is, set at such a poignant moment in Tasmania's history. I loved it.'
— Josephine Moon, author of The Tea Chest and The Jam Queens
Praise for Sex, Drugs and Meditation
"Bracingly honest, funny and rewarding, this is a book you can't put down." Sydney Morning Herald.
"Perfection. Sex, Drugs and Meditation is one of the best memoirs I have read in years. Humble, witty and so very, very true. All I wanted was for this book never to end." --Walter Mason, The Universal Heart Book Club.
"A bad girl antidote to Eat, Pray, Love." Courier Mail.
She received rave reviews for her memoir Sex, Drugs and Meditation (2013), the true story of how meditation changed her life, saved her job and helped her find a husband.
Mary-Lou has worked and played all over Australia and now travels the world slowly and writes, mostly.
Her debut novel The Last of the Apple Blossom was published by HarperCollins (HQ) in 2021.
The Chocolate Factory (HarperCollins HQ) 2024.
The Jam Maker (HarperCollins HQ) 2025
Praise for The Chocolate Factory
"I devoured it in one sitting. It's an absolute treat - totally enthralling and completely and utterly satisfying. It's another triumph for Mary-Lou Stephens. " – Karen Brooks, best selling author of The Good Wife of Bath
"Sweet and bitter, and a story that’s brightly compelling and thought-provoking at once. With Stephen’s fine eye for historical detail and ear for dialogue that’s just right, this novel is a lovely leap into the past." – Kim Kelly winner of the Finlay Lloyd 20/40 Prize
Praise for The Last of the Apple Blossom
‘What a cracker of a debut! A beautiful story of family and orchards, of secrets and love and forgiveness.' – Victoria Purman, author of The Women’s Pages
‘The crisp prose sparkles and the characters stay with you long after the story ends.' – Lauren Chater, author of Gulliver’s Wife
‘Timeless yet also telling an achingly familiar story to us here and now, this is an unforgettable tale of love and loss, triumph and tragedy.
– Karen Brooks, author of The Good Wife of Bath
'Mary-Lou Stephens writes evocatively about family secrets, love, sacrifice, and finding the courage to rise again after devastating loss. An engrossing and poignant story, beautifully told.'
— Christine Wells, author of Sisters of the Resistance
'I have long been a fan of Mary-Lou's writing, which is always evocative and compelling. What a wonderful story this is, set at such a poignant moment in Tasmania's history. I loved it.'
— Josephine Moon, author of The Tea Chest and The Jam Queens
Praise for Sex, Drugs and Meditation
"Bracingly honest, funny and rewarding, this is a book you can't put down." Sydney Morning Herald.
"Perfection. Sex, Drugs and Meditation is one of the best memoirs I have read in years. Humble, witty and so very, very true. All I wanted was for this book never to end." --Walter Mason, The Universal Heart Book Club.
"A bad girl antidote to Eat, Pray, Love." Courier Mail.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 152 reviews
January 25, 2025
This is a story that will stay with me for a long time to come, once I picked it up I didn’t want to put it down, it was a story so beautifully told about woman, who lived in times that were far from easy and how they made something with their lives, all be it some of them carrying a secret that must stay a secret forever more, this is the story of jam making in Tasmania and the man who came from poverty to become a millionaire all those years ago Henry Jones.
Tasmania 1874, Harriett Brown lived in the tenements along the Hobart Rivulet, coming from a large family surviving was hard and at the age at twelve she has her hair cut off, she dresses like a boy and starts a job as a label-paster at George Peacock & Sons Jam Factory, here she become Harry and on her first day she meets fellow new employee Henry Jones and they become the best of friends, Henry is ambitious and determined to move up in the factory and the world but after four years of being Harry, she wants to be Harriett again, this will change her life as she is forced to marry a man much older than her, who thinks she is an expert jam maker, John Sprott, is a backyard jam-maker, a very good one, with John’s help Harriett is soon making jam with her husband and they are moving along well together.
When there is a flood, Harriett meets Ruth a widow with three young children who is desperate for work Ruth helps clean up after the floods and soon they are the best of friends, but the happiness doesn’t last for too long when John is lost to Harriett and with the arrival of Nelly the three woman band together to ensure that Sprotts Jams continue, then things change again not for good this time and Harriett and Ruth have a dark secret that must be kept , plans are made to ensure the future is safe and secure for all.
Throughout the years Henry Jones keeps in touch with Harriett and after his marriage to Alice, she also becomes a good friend to Harriett, Henry has never given up on his aim to get to the top of everything in life and when the Boer War breaks out he gets Harriett to help with his jam making which helps them immensely. Henry is climbing the ladder of success and Harriett, Ruth and Nelly’s lives are moving forward as well. How will life turn out for them all?
This story starts in 1874 and goes through to 1926 it is a brilliant story, so well told by Mary-Lou Stephens, she has such a beautiful voice for telling stories that become fascinating tales of life in all forms from hardship to happiness and all that goes with it, I learnt so much from this one about the history of jam making in Tasmania, it had me turning the pages as I got to know the characters in this story, I have read and loved MS Stephens’s previous books and this one is another brilliant read, if you love a good historical tale filled with wonderful characters then this is one to read, a must read, one that I highly recommend. Thank you Mary-Lou Stephens for another keeper.
My thanks to Harlequin AU and Netgalley for my ARC to read and review.
Tasmania 1874, Harriett Brown lived in the tenements along the Hobart Rivulet, coming from a large family surviving was hard and at the age at twelve she has her hair cut off, she dresses like a boy and starts a job as a label-paster at George Peacock & Sons Jam Factory, here she become Harry and on her first day she meets fellow new employee Henry Jones and they become the best of friends, Henry is ambitious and determined to move up in the factory and the world but after four years of being Harry, she wants to be Harriett again, this will change her life as she is forced to marry a man much older than her, who thinks she is an expert jam maker, John Sprott, is a backyard jam-maker, a very good one, with John’s help Harriett is soon making jam with her husband and they are moving along well together.
When there is a flood, Harriett meets Ruth a widow with three young children who is desperate for work Ruth helps clean up after the floods and soon they are the best of friends, but the happiness doesn’t last for too long when John is lost to Harriett and with the arrival of Nelly the three woman band together to ensure that Sprotts Jams continue, then things change again not for good this time and Harriett and Ruth have a dark secret that must be kept , plans are made to ensure the future is safe and secure for all.
Throughout the years Henry Jones keeps in touch with Harriett and after his marriage to Alice, she also becomes a good friend to Harriett, Henry has never given up on his aim to get to the top of everything in life and when the Boer War breaks out he gets Harriett to help with his jam making which helps them immensely. Henry is climbing the ladder of success and Harriett, Ruth and Nelly’s lives are moving forward as well. How will life turn out for them all?
This story starts in 1874 and goes through to 1926 it is a brilliant story, so well told by Mary-Lou Stephens, she has such a beautiful voice for telling stories that become fascinating tales of life in all forms from hardship to happiness and all that goes with it, I learnt so much from this one about the history of jam making in Tasmania, it had me turning the pages as I got to know the characters in this story, I have read and loved MS Stephens’s previous books and this one is another brilliant read, if you love a good historical tale filled with wonderful characters then this is one to read, a must read, one that I highly recommend. Thank you Mary-Lou Stephens for another keeper.
My thanks to Harlequin AU and Netgalley for my ARC to read and review.
January 22, 2025
Harriet Brown was only twelve years old in Wapping, Tasmania, in 1874, when her mother clipped her braid and cut her hair short; immediately Harriet was Harry; a boy to work in the George Peacock & Sons jam factory as a label paster. Beside Harry as they worked was another young boy, Henry Jones, who was determined to become one of the best jam makers in the business. Harry and Henry became good friends, playing checkers in their lunch breaks, until four years later, Harry was unable to continue the deception. When she left the factory, her mother had organised her marriage to John Sprott, seventeen years Harriet's senior and the owner of Sprott's Jams, a small business which Harriet was expected to excel in. Harriet and John were happy together, making jam, and while Harriet had ideas for different flavours, it wasn't long before the new Sprott's Jams were very popular.
It was in the floods that Harriet first met Ruth who was on hand to help them with the clean up. Harriet and Ruth became good friends, and they worked together well. But trouble was to follow and soon, Ruth and Harriet had dark secrets no one could know. Continuing to work hard, times were both lean and prosperous. The Boar War came and went and all the while, Harriet's good friend Henry Jones went further ahead, following his dreams. What would be the outcome for Harriet and those she loved, as the years flowed by?
The Jam Maker is another exceptional historical novel by Aussie author Mary-Lou Stephens which is based on fact. The author's notes at the end of the book are very interesting; the research she dug deeply into, mind boggling. I loved the story, and the lives of Harriet and her family and friends, plus Henry's life, and his determination to succeed made the story all the more enjoyable. I enjoyed the author's first two novels - The Last of the Apple Blossom & The Chocolate Factory - and this one was no different. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley & Harlequin Enterprises for my digital ARC to read and review.
It was in the floods that Harriet first met Ruth who was on hand to help them with the clean up. Harriet and Ruth became good friends, and they worked together well. But trouble was to follow and soon, Ruth and Harriet had dark secrets no one could know. Continuing to work hard, times were both lean and prosperous. The Boar War came and went and all the while, Harriet's good friend Henry Jones went further ahead, following his dreams. What would be the outcome for Harriet and those she loved, as the years flowed by?
The Jam Maker is another exceptional historical novel by Aussie author Mary-Lou Stephens which is based on fact. The author's notes at the end of the book are very interesting; the research she dug deeply into, mind boggling. I loved the story, and the lives of Harriet and her family and friends, plus Henry's life, and his determination to succeed made the story all the more enjoyable. I enjoyed the author's first two novels - The Last of the Apple Blossom & The Chocolate Factory - and this one was no different. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley & Harlequin Enterprises for my digital ARC to read and review.
April 4, 2025
The Jam Maker by Mary-Lou Stephens
Synopsis /
Jam is sweet but it can also burn.
Tasmania, 1874. Growing up in the impoverished tenements along the Hobart Rivulet, Harriet Brown is used to doing whatever it takes to survive. Including, at just twelve years old, shearing off her hair and pretending to be a boy to secure a job as label-paster at the George Peacock and Sons jam factory.
Four years later, the deceit becomes too much to bear and Harriet risks everything on the chance at a future with her ambitious friend and workmate Henry Jones. But this decision forces her into a new deception: play the role of expert jam maker, or else be cast out onto the streets.
As the secrets and lies grow, Harriet is driven to more and more desperate choices. Choices that will end with a dangerous secret which, if discovered, could destroy not only her life but the lives of those she loves and protects.
Intertwined with the fascinating history of the Tasmanian jam industry and the striking historical figure Henry Jones, The Jam Maker is a tale of danger, deceit and the desperate measures one woman will take to succeed in love and life.
My Thoughts /
There are a myriad of things we all might use on a daily basis and then go about our day without giving a second thought as to how they came to be; but just content in the knowledge that it's there. This little book might be a work of fiction, but author, Mary-Lou Stephens has excelled in her homework on jam. The level of historical detail regarding jam, how it was made, where it was made and, the lives of the people who made it their life's work is what I will remember most about this read.
Set in Tasmania, (which is an island state of Australia located 240km to the south of the Australian mainland) the story spans the period from 1874 through to 1926. The reader follows the life of Harriet Brown, a young girl from a poor working class family. Who, at age twelve, cut off her hair and dressed as a boy so she could get a job at the local jam factory, George Peacock and Sons, (who only employed male workers) so she could provide some much needed coin to help feed her family. While working at the factory, Harriet, or 'Harry' as she called herself to her fellow co-workers strikes up a friendship with a young man called Henry Jones. Now, [Sir] Henry Jones was an Australian businessman of much significance regarding the development of Tasmanian industry and trade. Henry began work at George Peacock and Sons not long before Harriet, sticking labels on tins. But Henry Jones had ambition and drive; he worked his way up to foreman in 1885; then bought a controlling interest in the factory and rebranded it under his own name. Not content to sit on his laurels, Henry Jones was a man of vision – astute, clever and highly intelligent. His namesake company, H. Jones & Company was founded in 1891. In 1895, Jones rebranded his company to IXL (Jones' personal motto was 'I excel in everything I do'). As at 2021, IXL remains the second largest selling jam brand in Australia.
Leaving the jam on the breakfast table for just a moment, let's talk about the characters. Stephens has written characters that are complex, we are privy to their backgrounds, and each has their own individual struggles and vulnerabilities. All of our FMCs in this timeline are strong, resilient women and are not afraid to do whatever they can to protect those they love. Stephens highlights the plight of young girls and women during this time; hampered by the lack of employment opportunities and barely any education. It was extremely difficult for most working class to escape the ongoing poverty cycle.
Not all families are related by blood.
The author has a beautiful writing style and a keen eye for descriptive detail.
Yet another wonderfully written book by a talented Tasmanian-born Aussie author.
Synopsis /
Jam is sweet but it can also burn.
Tasmania, 1874. Growing up in the impoverished tenements along the Hobart Rivulet, Harriet Brown is used to doing whatever it takes to survive. Including, at just twelve years old, shearing off her hair and pretending to be a boy to secure a job as label-paster at the George Peacock and Sons jam factory.
Four years later, the deceit becomes too much to bear and Harriet risks everything on the chance at a future with her ambitious friend and workmate Henry Jones. But this decision forces her into a new deception: play the role of expert jam maker, or else be cast out onto the streets.
As the secrets and lies grow, Harriet is driven to more and more desperate choices. Choices that will end with a dangerous secret which, if discovered, could destroy not only her life but the lives of those she loves and protects.
Intertwined with the fascinating history of the Tasmanian jam industry and the striking historical figure Henry Jones, The Jam Maker is a tale of danger, deceit and the desperate measures one woman will take to succeed in love and life.
My Thoughts /
There are a myriad of things we all might use on a daily basis and then go about our day without giving a second thought as to how they came to be; but just content in the knowledge that it's there. This little book might be a work of fiction, but author, Mary-Lou Stephens has excelled in her homework on jam. The level of historical detail regarding jam, how it was made, where it was made and, the lives of the people who made it their life's work is what I will remember most about this read.
Set in Tasmania, (which is an island state of Australia located 240km to the south of the Australian mainland) the story spans the period from 1874 through to 1926. The reader follows the life of Harriet Brown, a young girl from a poor working class family. Who, at age twelve, cut off her hair and dressed as a boy so she could get a job at the local jam factory, George Peacock and Sons, (who only employed male workers) so she could provide some much needed coin to help feed her family. While working at the factory, Harriet, or 'Harry' as she called herself to her fellow co-workers strikes up a friendship with a young man called Henry Jones. Now, [Sir] Henry Jones was an Australian businessman of much significance regarding the development of Tasmanian industry and trade. Henry began work at George Peacock and Sons not long before Harriet, sticking labels on tins. But Henry Jones had ambition and drive; he worked his way up to foreman in 1885; then bought a controlling interest in the factory and rebranded it under his own name. Not content to sit on his laurels, Henry Jones was a man of vision – astute, clever and highly intelligent. His namesake company, H. Jones & Company was founded in 1891. In 1895, Jones rebranded his company to IXL (Jones' personal motto was 'I excel in everything I do'). As at 2021, IXL remains the second largest selling jam brand in Australia.
Leaving the jam on the breakfast table for just a moment, let's talk about the characters. Stephens has written characters that are complex, we are privy to their backgrounds, and each has their own individual struggles and vulnerabilities. All of our FMCs in this timeline are strong, resilient women and are not afraid to do whatever they can to protect those they love. Stephens highlights the plight of young girls and women during this time; hampered by the lack of employment opportunities and barely any education. It was extremely difficult for most working class to escape the ongoing poverty cycle.
Not all families are related by blood.
The author has a beautiful writing style and a keen eye for descriptive detail.
Yet another wonderfully written book by a talented Tasmanian-born Aussie author.
December 29, 2024
1874: Harriet Brown grows up in Wapping, in the rundown tenements near the Hobart Rivulet, it’s prone to flooding and a smelly and disease ridden place. Harriet is twelve years old when her mum cuts off her hair, dressed as a boy and she beings working as a label paster at George Peacock and Sons jam factory.
Here she toils alongside Henry Jones, both are children of convicts, poor, uneducated and she feels guilty about deceiving her new friend. As time goes on it get harder for her to maintain the charade and not tell Henry the truth and she worries about losing her job.
Harriet can’t stay at George Peacock and Sons forever, Hobart is full of jam makers, some on a large scale and others run smaller operations and she becomes involved in one of these. Harriet’s a resilient survivor in a man’s world, going from pasting labels to learning the art of making specialty jams, and aided by three women Ruth, Alice and Nelly who are her friends, supporters and confidants. Harriet has dangerous secret and if it’s discovered it would destroy her life and those she loves and protects and rely on her for a job and a place to live.
Tasmania was one of the main fruit and berry producers before and after Australia’s Federation, between the Boer and First World War’s. The narrative features the history of jam manufacturing industries, competition and rivalry between companies, good and bad times, changes and developments and how some expanded and others failed.
Over five decades Harriet weathers the changes and the seasons of jam making and her life’s ups and downs and the highs and lows and daily grind and triumphs.
I received a copy of The Jam Maker by Mary-Lou Stephens from NetGalley and Harlequin Australian in exchange for an unbiased review. Ms. Stephens uses old buildings and some are still standing today and prominent figures like Harriet’s ambitious and driven friend Henry Jones and to weave an eloquently written and fascinating historical tale. You can tell hours of research went into creating the page turning novel and it show cases both Tasmania and her talent as a writer and she cleverly links parts to of her previous novels into her latest book.
A story set in the late 1880's and early 1900's about the plight of girls and women and the employment opportunities they had, lack of education and how hard it was to escape poverty and the sewerage ridden slums, and other aspects at the time that made being a women in Tasmania difficult and the many hurdles and obstacles they had to overcome, a must read and five stars from me and I highly recommend.
Here she toils alongside Henry Jones, both are children of convicts, poor, uneducated and she feels guilty about deceiving her new friend. As time goes on it get harder for her to maintain the charade and not tell Henry the truth and she worries about losing her job.
Harriet can’t stay at George Peacock and Sons forever, Hobart is full of jam makers, some on a large scale and others run smaller operations and she becomes involved in one of these. Harriet’s a resilient survivor in a man’s world, going from pasting labels to learning the art of making specialty jams, and aided by three women Ruth, Alice and Nelly who are her friends, supporters and confidants. Harriet has dangerous secret and if it’s discovered it would destroy her life and those she loves and protects and rely on her for a job and a place to live.
Tasmania was one of the main fruit and berry producers before and after Australia’s Federation, between the Boer and First World War’s. The narrative features the history of jam manufacturing industries, competition and rivalry between companies, good and bad times, changes and developments and how some expanded and others failed.
Over five decades Harriet weathers the changes and the seasons of jam making and her life’s ups and downs and the highs and lows and daily grind and triumphs.
I received a copy of The Jam Maker by Mary-Lou Stephens from NetGalley and Harlequin Australian in exchange for an unbiased review. Ms. Stephens uses old buildings and some are still standing today and prominent figures like Harriet’s ambitious and driven friend Henry Jones and to weave an eloquently written and fascinating historical tale. You can tell hours of research went into creating the page turning novel and it show cases both Tasmania and her talent as a writer and she cleverly links parts to of her previous novels into her latest book.
A story set in the late 1880's and early 1900's about the plight of girls and women and the employment opportunities they had, lack of education and how hard it was to escape poverty and the sewerage ridden slums, and other aspects at the time that made being a women in Tasmania difficult and the many hurdles and obstacles they had to overcome, a must read and five stars from me and I highly recommend.
August 8, 2025
4.5 stars
Wonderful historical fiction story, about the fascinating history of the Tasmanian jam-making industry and the remarkable Henry Jones.
Harriet Brown is used to doing whatever it takes to survive, including shaving all her hair off at the age of twelve to pretend to be a boy in order to secure a job at the local jam factory. As time passes, Harriet is forced to keep more secrets and make more desperate choices, that could risk the life of everyone she holds dear.
The superb storytelling had me immersed in the language, and social constraints of the time. I thoroughly enjoyed the memorable characters and strong female friendships depicted in this story.
This is a well-researched story, that beautifully blends fact and fiction into a memorable tale and has cemented Australian author Mary-Lou Stephens as an auto-read for me!
.
.
Wonderful historical fiction story, about the fascinating history of the Tasmanian jam-making industry and the remarkable Henry Jones.
Harriet Brown is used to doing whatever it takes to survive, including shaving all her hair off at the age of twelve to pretend to be a boy in order to secure a job at the local jam factory. As time passes, Harriet is forced to keep more secrets and make more desperate choices, that could risk the life of everyone she holds dear.
The superb storytelling had me immersed in the language, and social constraints of the time. I thoroughly enjoyed the memorable characters and strong female friendships depicted in this story.
This is a well-researched story, that beautifully blends fact and fiction into a memorable tale and has cemented Australian author Mary-Lou Stephens as an auto-read for me!
.
.
April 17, 2025
**Thank you to Harlequin Australia for sending me a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review; published 29 January 2025**
This is a well-written story that spans the time period of 1874-1926 in Tasmania. Readers follow the life of main character Harriet and her connections to the jam industry. Harriet faces many challenges from childhood that include that she is a female in a time period where that does not give a woman much power, her family's 'lower' class and position in society, and her lack of education which was common for the time. Jam making becomes the core of her life as she gets through various difficulties. I really enjoyed the highs and lows of Harriet's story; the way she managed to succeed as best she could and be grateful for what she had. I appreciated the author's notes at the end and her meticulous research shows throughout the novel.
A great read that I would happily recommend.
This is a well-written story that spans the time period of 1874-1926 in Tasmania. Readers follow the life of main character Harriet and her connections to the jam industry. Harriet faces many challenges from childhood that include that she is a female in a time period where that does not give a woman much power, her family's 'lower' class and position in society, and her lack of education which was common for the time. Jam making becomes the core of her life as she gets through various difficulties. I really enjoyed the highs and lows of Harriet's story; the way she managed to succeed as best she could and be grateful for what she had. I appreciated the author's notes at the end and her meticulous research shows throughout the novel.
A great read that I would happily recommend.
June 14, 2025
A magnificently told story about Harriet, a resilient protagonist from a poverty-stricken background. The tale begins with her posing as a boy to obtain employment in a Hobart Jam factory. Through many twists and turns, it chronicles the tragedies and triumphs of Harriet's life over 50 years. Each turn takes her back to some form of jam making.
I enjoyed this novel. I was hooked from page one. It is written in such an immersive manner that I imagined, from among the swirling steam, I could smell the bubbling jam and touch the cans.
I enjoyed this novel. I was hooked from page one. It is written in such an immersive manner that I imagined, from among the swirling steam, I could smell the bubbling jam and touch the cans.
January 30, 2025
What a fascinating tale! The Jam Maker is the story of strong women, enterprise and the history of jam making in Hobart, Tasmania, with the life story of Sir Henry Jones delicately woven throughout. I cheered for Harriet, Ruth, Nelly, and especially Alice Jones, without whom her husband may not have achieved all that he did. Mary-Lou Stephens, this is your best book yet, and I can't wait to see what you write next!
January 26, 2025
Big thanks to Harlequin for sending us a copy to read and review.
Can you smell that….
It’s the new Mary-Lou Stephens foodie book ready to be picked and devoured.
A sweet, delicious and refreshing historical fiction novel that will capture your heart and soul.
Tasmania in the late 1800s and Harriet Brown is 12 years old.
She disguises herself as a boy to get a job at a jam factory, sticking labels on tin cans.
She forms a strong friendship with fellow worker, Henry Jones.
Four years later, Harriet decides to abandon her male persona.
She takes a risk and reveals all, only to become embedded in more untruths.
As the years pass, more secrets rise, lies are hidden and Harriet must make hard choices to protect family and friends.
Combining fact with fiction is something that Mary-Lou excels at.
Her conscientious research shines and her storytelling is sublime.
You get all the feels here, the characters stand out, the plot is divine, the setting is vivid and you absolutely don’t want it to end.
This gifted Aussie author is in for a long and lustrous career as she continues to give her audience powerful reads.
The five star bandit Mary-Lou has wowed again with another beautiful, unique and memorable story.
Can you smell that….
It’s the new Mary-Lou Stephens foodie book ready to be picked and devoured.
A sweet, delicious and refreshing historical fiction novel that will capture your heart and soul.
Tasmania in the late 1800s and Harriet Brown is 12 years old.
She disguises herself as a boy to get a job at a jam factory, sticking labels on tin cans.
She forms a strong friendship with fellow worker, Henry Jones.
Four years later, Harriet decides to abandon her male persona.
She takes a risk and reveals all, only to become embedded in more untruths.
As the years pass, more secrets rise, lies are hidden and Harriet must make hard choices to protect family and friends.
Combining fact with fiction is something that Mary-Lou excels at.
Her conscientious research shines and her storytelling is sublime.
You get all the feels here, the characters stand out, the plot is divine, the setting is vivid and you absolutely don’t want it to end.
This gifted Aussie author is in for a long and lustrous career as she continues to give her audience powerful reads.
The five star bandit Mary-Lou has wowed again with another beautiful, unique and memorable story.
January 28, 2025
When I had to put this novel down I was constantly thinking about the characters..I just had to sit and read the day away. I love Mary-Lou Stephens’ way of historical fiction; I love being told the story but also learning; who knew there was so much to be interested in with jam! I love love love seeing the workings any small or big business so a book all about the business of jam is a dream for me. I loved it; I loved meeting Henry Jones, the 12 year old who ‘won’t be pasting labels for long’ and watching him succeed. I loved our main character Harriet Brown, I love a long storyline and getting to see Tasmania from the 1870s to the late 1920s was incredible. I loved the family that ‘fits together like a jigsaw’…I laughed, I cried, I got so mad and so glad..loved it and so glad to have received an arc from Harper Collins (so sweet!)
January 22, 2025
Loved this new novel by Mary-Lou, particularly the way it gave me insights into Hobart life in the 1800s.
The characters drew me in and I just couldn’t put it down. Funny thing: the flavour combinations of those jams kept filling my nose in the days afterwards! I mean, raspberry and vanilla… blackberry and lavender… elderflower and rhubarb (from memory…) Divine!
The characters drew me in and I just couldn’t put it down. Funny thing: the flavour combinations of those jams kept filling my nose in the days afterwards! I mean, raspberry and vanilla… blackberry and lavender… elderflower and rhubarb (from memory…) Divine!
January 18, 2025
This book is set in Tasmania 1874.
We get to know the story of Harriet, aged 12, who cuts off her long hair so she can get a job in George Peacock and Sons Jam factory.
The Jam factory only employs boys, so she pretends to be Harry, as her family needs the money to survive.
Harry meets Henry, an ambitious young man, and they become fast friends throughout their life.
It was great to see Henry achieve all he said he would without remembering where he came from.
We follow the history of jam making by two giants, their competitiveness on both sides of the Hobart river.
I loved feeling like I was back in Hobart taking a history tour and learning all about Jam Making.
I especially like the weaving together of your last two books into this book.
It made all emotions emerge with the unfairness of how women were treated even though they were the backbone of their men. Women's friendship was something needed to survive in a man's world.
This book had me captured from the beginning and wanting more. I didn't want to put it down or for it to end, something else it was.
Very highly recommended read!
We get to know the story of Harriet, aged 12, who cuts off her long hair so she can get a job in George Peacock and Sons Jam factory.
The Jam factory only employs boys, so she pretends to be Harry, as her family needs the money to survive.
Harry meets Henry, an ambitious young man, and they become fast friends throughout their life.
It was great to see Henry achieve all he said he would without remembering where he came from.
We follow the history of jam making by two giants, their competitiveness on both sides of the Hobart river.
I loved feeling like I was back in Hobart taking a history tour and learning all about Jam Making.
I especially like the weaving together of your last two books into this book.
It made all emotions emerge with the unfairness of how women were treated even though they were the backbone of their men. Women's friendship was something needed to survive in a man's world.
This book had me captured from the beginning and wanting more. I didn't want to put it down or for it to end, something else it was.
Very highly recommended read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 10, 2025
I loved everything about this book The characters were perfection, the setting was perfect and the History was second to none!
I love when a book not only entertains me but teaches me our history at the same time!!!
I will check out the IXL Factory when I head on down to Tassie for Easter!!
I love when a book not only entertains me but teaches me our history at the same time!!!
I will check out the IXL Factory when I head on down to Tassie for Easter!!
February 23, 2025
The Jam Maker by Mary-Lou Stephens is set in Tasmania, 1874; Hobart Town and the Huon Valley.
I loved all the characters in this story; especially Harriet who dresses as a 'boy' to gain employment in the jam factory.
This is where Harriet meets Henry and they share their dreams and aspirations in the jam making business.
It's the many varieties of fruit that will entice you in this story; begging you for more ... the process of the jam-making and the future of the company that would become IXL.
It was lovely to revisit Hobart with it's surrounding sandstone buildings in this story and picture the pink and white of the apple blossoms in the Huon and the snow on top of Mt Wellington.
Mary-Lou Stephens has developed a wonderful plot in this story filled with interesting characters who will surprise you with many twists and turns.
I loved all the characters in this story; especially Harriet who dresses as a 'boy' to gain employment in the jam factory.
This is where Harriet meets Henry and they share their dreams and aspirations in the jam making business.
It's the many varieties of fruit that will entice you in this story; begging you for more ... the process of the jam-making and the future of the company that would become IXL.
It was lovely to revisit Hobart with it's surrounding sandstone buildings in this story and picture the pink and white of the apple blossoms in the Huon and the snow on top of Mt Wellington.
Mary-Lou Stephens has developed a wonderful plot in this story filled with interesting characters who will surprise you with many twists and turns.
July 9, 2025
What a wonderful story and one that I couldn't wait to get back to each time life pulled me away from it.
I absolutely loved this fabulous historical fiction and haven't stopped thinking about it since finishing the book.
I highly recommend it!
I absolutely loved this fabulous historical fiction and haven't stopped thinking about it since finishing the book.
I highly recommend it!
December 19, 2024
Another beautifully written and immersive read from Mary- Lou Stephens. The Jam Maker covers half a century and combines the fictional story of Harriet with the founders of IXL Jam, Henry and Alice Jones. It was interesting to learn about the history of IXL- from feuding brothers, a boy who pasted labels on jars taking over to how the name came about . Both Henry and Alice were interesting characters I admired Henry for his work ethic and Alice for her business savvy.
However, the real star of the novel was Harriet, she was such a resourceful and hard working woman who went through so much heartbreak. At the age of twelve she was made to dress as a boy to attend work and then married off at sixteen. Whilst her love life may have been a disaster I loved her passion for jam making, the interesting flavours jams her company produced and how she put together her own found family.
Mary- Lou’s writing style transports you other worlds. She made the wharves of Hobart and orchards of the Huon Valley come alive. Her books are so thoroughly researched you always get such a good feel for the time periods she writes in. Whilst the main story featured the Tasmanian Jam industry the fifty year time period also covered a lot of history including the introduction to machinery and refrigeration, the failure of the Bank of Van Diemen’s Land, mines closing, recessions, the Boer War, World War I, Queen Victoria’s death and Federation. Whilst it packs a lot in, the storylines are so engaging and I loved how towards the end it brought all three of her books together. It’s always an absolute pleasure getting lost in one of Mary- Lou’s books.
However, the real star of the novel was Harriet, she was such a resourceful and hard working woman who went through so much heartbreak. At the age of twelve she was made to dress as a boy to attend work and then married off at sixteen. Whilst her love life may have been a disaster I loved her passion for jam making, the interesting flavours jams her company produced and how she put together her own found family.
Mary- Lou’s writing style transports you other worlds. She made the wharves of Hobart and orchards of the Huon Valley come alive. Her books are so thoroughly researched you always get such a good feel for the time periods she writes in. Whilst the main story featured the Tasmanian Jam industry the fifty year time period also covered a lot of history including the introduction to machinery and refrigeration, the failure of the Bank of Van Diemen’s Land, mines closing, recessions, the Boer War, World War I, Queen Victoria’s death and Federation. Whilst it packs a lot in, the storylines are so engaging and I loved how towards the end it brought all three of her books together. It’s always an absolute pleasure getting lost in one of Mary- Lou’s books.
April 15, 2025
one of the best books I have read
January 5, 2025
I have always had a great deal of respect for Mary-Lou Stephen’s writing and research abilities. She has a gift for capturing the essence of her birth home Tasmania and presenting the history of the area and its businesses in a way that delights and informs. It is an immersive experience. I truly feel as though I have taken a journey to the past and the current world around me fades into the mists of time. It so easy to get lost in the dramas of the characters and the stunning landscape of this beautiful region.
This story is centred on the history of the Jam industry of Tasmania and it is both a fascinating and provocative journey. The descriptions of the special jams of unique combinations made by our main female character, Harriet, made my mouth water!
The Jam Maker spans a period of years but begins in 1874 with impoverished Harriet Brown growing up along the Hobart Rivulet. Times are very tough for her family and she is forced to disguise herself as a boy to work at a jam factory owned by George Peacock and Sons. Girls are not allowed to be employed at this business. But with the prompting of her mother, she is pushed into becoming a label paster to help support the family. Here she meets a boy, Henry, who becomes a life-long friend and whose drive takes him on a journey that is almost unbelievable, yet is true. But his thirst for position and need to succeed, though admirable, will eventually take its toll on his life in other areas. Yet in the meantime, he achieves everything he sets out to do and even more than anyone could hope for. He becomes a force of such vision and expansion that not only makes him financially successful but his prosperity helps many in his path such as Harriet, his childhood friend. Mary-Lou handles it all with great skill and respect, creating a mesmerising journey. I truly could not put this book down!
Henry Jones is a real historical figure whose products still linger and many of us know of his IXL Jam (interesting story behind the name). I never knew the background of this business and man who started it but now feel highly enlightened after reading The Jam Maker. As amazing as his development was from poor 12 year old working boy in a jam factory to a famous millionaire with impressive titles, there is another character whose bravery, resilience, talent and determination shines across these pages.
And that is Harriet Brown. She is another tour de force but, being a woman, had many obstacles to overcome since life was not her own to govern initially. She was forced to work as a boy and then forced to marry a much older man chosen by her parents. But oddly, this brought about some surprises and even positive outcomes. She had a chance to learn, develop and co-create a jam business that flourished initially with her husband. And had some happy productive years until something happens that drastically changes her life. Which leads back to more lies in order to survive. This part of the story is quite a tense adventure which I will not spoil by giving anything away. But hang on to your hats and heart as this woman’s journey is one you will never forget!
The Jam Maker is supported by some fascinating characters that add a varied texture to the tapestry along with multi layers of activities and emotional moments. Wonderful friendships develop amid the trials. It explores the hardships of the jam companies but also the women’s struggles for work and marriage equality, home ownership and education. Poverty was very real and the attempt to escape was difficult. Then there are environmental issues with sewerage that becomes quite a health hazard. The rivulet is polluted and becomes a symbol of all that is bad—even reflecting and absorbing the lives of some of the villains. But beyond all that, it is a powerful story soaked in secrets, yet there are quiet victories, second chances and triumphs along-side the tragedies.
Beautifully written, astoundingly researched, this novel grips the heart and empowers the soul to overcome ills and bad circumstances. And as an extra bonus, Mary-Lou weaves aspects of her previous books with the apple orchards and chocolate making into the mix, making it a well-rounded dish of literary delight. Loved it and cannot rave enough. An absolute must-read for 2025! 5 Stars + ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️+
Thanks to HQ Fiction and Netgalley for the ARC.
This story is centred on the history of the Jam industry of Tasmania and it is both a fascinating and provocative journey. The descriptions of the special jams of unique combinations made by our main female character, Harriet, made my mouth water!
The Jam Maker spans a period of years but begins in 1874 with impoverished Harriet Brown growing up along the Hobart Rivulet. Times are very tough for her family and she is forced to disguise herself as a boy to work at a jam factory owned by George Peacock and Sons. Girls are not allowed to be employed at this business. But with the prompting of her mother, she is pushed into becoming a label paster to help support the family. Here she meets a boy, Henry, who becomes a life-long friend and whose drive takes him on a journey that is almost unbelievable, yet is true. But his thirst for position and need to succeed, though admirable, will eventually take its toll on his life in other areas. Yet in the meantime, he achieves everything he sets out to do and even more than anyone could hope for. He becomes a force of such vision and expansion that not only makes him financially successful but his prosperity helps many in his path such as Harriet, his childhood friend. Mary-Lou handles it all with great skill and respect, creating a mesmerising journey. I truly could not put this book down!
Henry Jones is a real historical figure whose products still linger and many of us know of his IXL Jam (interesting story behind the name). I never knew the background of this business and man who started it but now feel highly enlightened after reading The Jam Maker. As amazing as his development was from poor 12 year old working boy in a jam factory to a famous millionaire with impressive titles, there is another character whose bravery, resilience, talent and determination shines across these pages.
And that is Harriet Brown. She is another tour de force but, being a woman, had many obstacles to overcome since life was not her own to govern initially. She was forced to work as a boy and then forced to marry a much older man chosen by her parents. But oddly, this brought about some surprises and even positive outcomes. She had a chance to learn, develop and co-create a jam business that flourished initially with her husband. And had some happy productive years until something happens that drastically changes her life. Which leads back to more lies in order to survive. This part of the story is quite a tense adventure which I will not spoil by giving anything away. But hang on to your hats and heart as this woman’s journey is one you will never forget!
The Jam Maker is supported by some fascinating characters that add a varied texture to the tapestry along with multi layers of activities and emotional moments. Wonderful friendships develop amid the trials. It explores the hardships of the jam companies but also the women’s struggles for work and marriage equality, home ownership and education. Poverty was very real and the attempt to escape was difficult. Then there are environmental issues with sewerage that becomes quite a health hazard. The rivulet is polluted and becomes a symbol of all that is bad—even reflecting and absorbing the lives of some of the villains. But beyond all that, it is a powerful story soaked in secrets, yet there are quiet victories, second chances and triumphs along-side the tragedies.
Beautifully written, astoundingly researched, this novel grips the heart and empowers the soul to overcome ills and bad circumstances. And as an extra bonus, Mary-Lou weaves aspects of her previous books with the apple orchards and chocolate making into the mix, making it a well-rounded dish of literary delight. Loved it and cannot rave enough. An absolute must-read for 2025! 5 Stars + ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️+
Thanks to HQ Fiction and Netgalley for the ARC.
February 15, 2025
The Jam Maker by Mary-Lou Stephens is a richly detailed historical novel set in Hobart, Tasmania, spanning from 1874 to the early 20th century.
The story follows Harriet Brown, a young girl growing up poor in the suburb near the Hobart Rivulet. In a desperate attempt to secure work at George Peacock & Sons jam factory, she disguises herself as a boy and takes a job as a label paster. There, she befriends the ambitious Henry Jones, who dreams of becoming one of the best jam makers in the business. However, as Harriet grows older, maintaining her deception becomes impossible. When the truth is revealed, she is forced into marriage and must play the role of an expert jam maker. Over the years, she faces increasingly desperate choices, ones that, if exposed, could ruin not only her own life but also the lives of those she loves.
Mary-Lou Stephens masterfully blends fact and fiction, creating a brilliant historical novel rich with fascinating details about Hobart and Tasmania’s thriving jam industry. The meticulous research shines through, immersing the reader in the sights, sounds, and even the scents of Hobart’s factories and bustling docks.
One of the most compelling aspects of the novel is its insight into Henry Jones, who rose from convict origins to become a powerful figure in the Australian jam industry. His influence extended beyond jam making, supplying jam to troops in both the Boer War and World War I, investing in the Huon apple industry, and playing a key role in cool storage and apple exports. I also found the portrayal of the Hobart Rivulet particularly captivating; this dark, misty, polluted waterway is almost a character in itself, shaping the lives of those who lived in Wapping, a name I had never heard used for that part of Hobart before. As a Tasmanian, I appreciated Stephens’ vivid descriptions of familiar locations, which transported me back in time and deepened my connection to the story.
Beyond its historical insights, The Jam Maker is a powerful tribute to the resilience of working-class women in a male-dominated world. Harriet, Ruth, and Nelly demonstrate the strength of friendship and trust, showing that through mutual support, that survival, and even success, was possible, despite the many hardships they faced. The novel highlights the immense responsibilities women carried, often with very few rights, making their triumphs even more remarkable.
With compelling characters, a gripping narrative, and a vivid setting, The Jam Maker is a captivating read for lovers of historical fiction. It not only tells the story of an extraordinary woman but also sheds light on a pivotal era in Australia’s industrial and social history and enlightens the reader with so many facts about a Tasmanian who rose from the bottom to become an important part of Australian history. Highly recommended.
The story follows Harriet Brown, a young girl growing up poor in the suburb near the Hobart Rivulet. In a desperate attempt to secure work at George Peacock & Sons jam factory, she disguises herself as a boy and takes a job as a label paster. There, she befriends the ambitious Henry Jones, who dreams of becoming one of the best jam makers in the business. However, as Harriet grows older, maintaining her deception becomes impossible. When the truth is revealed, she is forced into marriage and must play the role of an expert jam maker. Over the years, she faces increasingly desperate choices, ones that, if exposed, could ruin not only her own life but also the lives of those she loves.
Mary-Lou Stephens masterfully blends fact and fiction, creating a brilliant historical novel rich with fascinating details about Hobart and Tasmania’s thriving jam industry. The meticulous research shines through, immersing the reader in the sights, sounds, and even the scents of Hobart’s factories and bustling docks.
One of the most compelling aspects of the novel is its insight into Henry Jones, who rose from convict origins to become a powerful figure in the Australian jam industry. His influence extended beyond jam making, supplying jam to troops in both the Boer War and World War I, investing in the Huon apple industry, and playing a key role in cool storage and apple exports. I also found the portrayal of the Hobart Rivulet particularly captivating; this dark, misty, polluted waterway is almost a character in itself, shaping the lives of those who lived in Wapping, a name I had never heard used for that part of Hobart before. As a Tasmanian, I appreciated Stephens’ vivid descriptions of familiar locations, which transported me back in time and deepened my connection to the story.
Beyond its historical insights, The Jam Maker is a powerful tribute to the resilience of working-class women in a male-dominated world. Harriet, Ruth, and Nelly demonstrate the strength of friendship and trust, showing that through mutual support, that survival, and even success, was possible, despite the many hardships they faced. The novel highlights the immense responsibilities women carried, often with very few rights, making their triumphs even more remarkable.
With compelling characters, a gripping narrative, and a vivid setting, The Jam Maker is a captivating read for lovers of historical fiction. It not only tells the story of an extraordinary woman but also sheds light on a pivotal era in Australia’s industrial and social history and enlightens the reader with so many facts about a Tasmanian who rose from the bottom to become an important part of Australian history. Highly recommended.
January 30, 2025
Review summary: An interesting historic fiction that tells the story of jam makers in 20th century Tasmania – with all of the trials and tribulations.
Rating: 3.5/5
After A LOT of historical fiction in 2024, I was excited to follow it up with the latest by Stephens (particularly as I really enjoyed The Chocolate Factory). The Jam Maker is set in the same period, and it was exciting to revisit this part of history.
I wasn’t sure what I would get with this novel and I was pleased to find a historical fiction novel that tells the story of a female jam maker in the hardest of circumstances. Harriet is an interesting protagonist – and her time as Harry was almost the highlight of the book for me. I wish this part of the book was given more time and detail as it was fascinating to read about the lengths young girls had to go to for vital employment.
The novel itself takes you through the various periods of Harriet’s life and at times it felt like a period piece – at times you had to push through to get to a section you couldn’t stop reading. I really enjoyed this book but the ‘plotless’ periods dropped the rating, as well as the brushing through of sections that I wanted more of.
A fun read, making it the perfect choice for history fans.
Rating: 3.5/5
After A LOT of historical fiction in 2024, I was excited to follow it up with the latest by Stephens (particularly as I really enjoyed The Chocolate Factory). The Jam Maker is set in the same period, and it was exciting to revisit this part of history.
I wasn’t sure what I would get with this novel and I was pleased to find a historical fiction novel that tells the story of a female jam maker in the hardest of circumstances. Harriet is an interesting protagonist – and her time as Harry was almost the highlight of the book for me. I wish this part of the book was given more time and detail as it was fascinating to read about the lengths young girls had to go to for vital employment.
The novel itself takes you through the various periods of Harriet’s life and at times it felt like a period piece – at times you had to push through to get to a section you couldn’t stop reading. I really enjoyed this book but the ‘plotless’ periods dropped the rating, as well as the brushing through of sections that I wanted more of.
A fun read, making it the perfect choice for history fans.
February 24, 2025
The Jam Maker is a story of danger, deceit and the desperate measures one woman “Harriet” takes as she grows up and learns more about the Jam trade and what it takes for her to succeed in love and life.
The story is engaging, thoughtful and generous with its knowledge. I loved Harriet's kindness as a character, over five decades Harriet’s weathers the changes and the seasons of jam making and her life’s ups and downs and the highs and lows and daily grind and triumphs. I loved her passion for jam making, the interesting flavours jams her company produced.
I loved learning about the history of IXL- from feuding brothers, a boy who pasted labels on jars taking over and how the name came about . Both Henry and Alice were interesting characters I admired Henry for his work ethic and Alice for her business savvy.
There was many hurdles and obstacles that she had to overcome , a must read and five stars from me and I highly recommend.
The story is engaging, thoughtful and generous with its knowledge. I loved Harriet's kindness as a character, over five decades Harriet’s weathers the changes and the seasons of jam making and her life’s ups and downs and the highs and lows and daily grind and triumphs. I loved her passion for jam making, the interesting flavours jams her company produced.
I loved learning about the history of IXL- from feuding brothers, a boy who pasted labels on jars taking over and how the name came about . Both Henry and Alice were interesting characters I admired Henry for his work ethic and Alice for her business savvy.
There was many hurdles and obstacles that she had to overcome , a must read and five stars from me and I highly recommend.
January 20, 2025
A captivating tale of Harriet Brown set in Tasmania in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Well researched by the author, we are provided with vivid descriptions of what Hobart and other parts of Tasmania were like during this time period. We are also given eye opening insights as to the shocking living conditions women had to contend with, especially those who were independent and business minded who had to make their way, in what was essentially, a man’s world at that time. I really liked Harriet and went through a roller coaster of emotions with her as events occurred in her life. The addition of her friends Ruth, Alice and Nelly also enriched the story with their different personalities and perspectives on life. The inclusion of Henry Jones, a real historical figure and the man behind IXL jams, was cleverly woven into the story and brought about an awareness of the jam wars happening during that time in Tasmania. This book was a very enjoyable read. I really loved it and highly recommend it.
Thanks to Better Reading for an advance copy of this book in return for an unbiased review.
Thanks to Better Reading for an advance copy of this book in return for an unbiased review.
February 10, 2025
Having previously enjoyed Mary Lou Stephen’s work, I was delighted to get my hands on this one. Couldn’t put it down, what an amazing story, with the historical background and the wonderful female characters. Makes me want to go back to Tasmania for a good look around.
Want to read
January 7, 2025We know nothing about the Tasmanian jam industry but are more than excited to learn.
February 20, 2025
I felt every emotion throughout the pages of this book. If Harriet could be preserved in jars, I would buy cartons of them to display and admire forever.
The female characters in this book were outstanding and the absolute best examples of resilience. The Jam Maker has definitely moved into my list of all time favourite books! I can’t recommend it highly enough!
The female characters in this book were outstanding and the absolute best examples of resilience. The Jam Maker has definitely moved into my list of all time favourite books! I can’t recommend it highly enough!
March 13, 2025
A very enjoyable and informative story.
June 2, 2025
Clever use of jam as a substance which has been present throughout basically all of Australian history. Good to see a Tasmanian setting.
The romantic ups and downs were a little predictable for me but just when I thought the novel was dragging towards the end, there was a great finish with the resolution involving the next generation.
The romantic ups and downs were a little predictable for me but just when I thought the novel was dragging towards the end, there was a great finish with the resolution involving the next generation.
June 22, 2025
This one started out good for me, I liked the historical Tasmanian and jam industry setting, and the resourcefulness of the main character. Some way in some of the plot and surrounding characters seemed a little silly (audiobook voice work didn’t help) and some of the scenes prurient.
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