A Thought-Provoking Read: Jessica by Nicholas Hill – Nicholas Hill’s novel Jessica is a gripping and thought-provoking story about family secrets, hidden truths, and the unexpected ways the past can come back to haunt us. Based on real-life experiences, this semi-autobiographical novel dives deep into love, regret, and how our past choices shape our future. Hill, who once worked as a young actor in London, brings a personal touch to the story that makes it feel authentic and relatable.
The book follows Harry, a middle-aged property developer who seems to have it all—except when it comes to love. Just as he’s bracing himself for the end of his latest relationship, a mysterious young woman named Jessica shows up on his doorstep. Her arrival turns his life upside down, forcing him to confront a past he’s tried to forget. But that past still holds secrets that could completely derail his future.
What makes Jessica stand out is how it tackles tricky subjects like sex work, power dynamics, and personal identity with a sensitive and thoughtful approach. Hill doesn’t shy away from the complexities of the sex trade, asking tough questions: Is there a difference between a woman working on the street and one who has regular clients? What about young women financially dependent on older men? And how does all of this connect to self-exploration and struggling with sexuality? These are big topics, but Hill handles them with nuance and care.
Set in London and weaving between past and present, the novel explores love, naivety, and the challenges of truly understanding what’s important in life. Hill’s writing is warm, honest, and easy to connect with, making Jessica an enjoyable yet thought-provoking read. His background in real estate across Europe and Southern Africa adds depth to the story’s setting, while his personal reflections make it emotionally compelling.
Hill himself has said, “When I write, I find myself unpicking the rich tapestry of my own life, and Jessica is a semi-autobiographical family drama. I draw affectionately on my experiences and friendships as a young actor in London and have tried to deal with challenging issues such as sex work and diverse sexuality with respect and sensitivity. I also look nostalgically at my loss of innocence following an idyllic childhood in Snowdonia. Is the past a foreign country it’s best not to visit, or are we hostages to its shadows?”
If you love contemporary fiction that isn’t afraid to ask big questions while still delivering an engaging story, Jessica should be on your reading list.
Poppy Watt