Review: The Jeweler Of Stolen Dreams by M.J. Rose
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The Jeweler Of Stolen Dreams by M.J. Rose is a mesmerizing journey blending history and mystique. It kept me turning the pages until the wee hours of the morning, weaving a spellbinding tale of two women separated by decades but united by a shared vision.
Review In A Nutshell
I gave this book a 4.5/5 stars. I have a full review below, but here’s a snapshot of what you can expect from this book:
- A compelling historical fiction setting, spanning from 1940s Paris to 1980s New York.
- Intriguing dual narrative structure, connecting two distinct periods.
- Elements of mystery and suspense.
- A focus on the world of high-end jewelry and its artistic heritage.
- Themes of love, sacrifice, and resilience against the backdrop of war.
- The exploration of a unique supernatural gift in the form of psychometry.
- Richly detailed character development, showcasing strong female protagonists.
- An intertwining of real historical figures with fictional characters.
- Political intrigue and the challenges of ambition and ethics.
- A blend of romance, historical drama, and mystical elements.
Publisher’s Synopsis of The Jeweler Of Stolen Dreams
In 1942 Paris, Suzanne Belperron, a renowned jeweler with clients like Elsa Schiaparelli and the Duchess of Windsor, secretly aids in the escape of Jewish families from France with her American friend, Dixie Osgood. Their covert operation faces peril when the Nazis capture Suzanne’s business partner and lover, Bernard Herz.
Fast forward to New York, 1986, where Violine Duplessi, a gifted appraiser with the rare ability to read objects’ histories through touch, visits Paul Osgood’s mansion. Paul, an aspiring senator and a lawyer, has inherited his family’s estate, including an intriguing Louis Vuitton trunk. Despite having suppressed her psychometric gift due to a past heartbreak, Violine feels its resurgence.
Inside the trunk, Violine discovers a collection of exquisite jewels, triggering disturbing visions and questions. She wonders about the origins of these jewels, their connection to the trunk, and the potential impact their revelation could have on Paul’s political ambitions and their growing mutual attraction.
My Review – The Jeweler Of Stolen Dreams by M.J. Rose
What I Liked
The Setting: The Jeweler of Stolen Dreams is set in a dual timeframe which is one of my favorite formats for historical fiction books. From the historically rich streets of 1940s Paris to the vibrant pulse of 1980s New York. M.J. Rose masterfully recreates these eras, enveloping the reader in a world where past and present intertwine seamlessly adding depth and authenticity to the narrative.
The Characters: The characters in this novel are crafted with exceptional realism and depth. Suzanne Belperron, a real-life jeweler, is more than just a character; she’s a bridge between fiction and history, lending the story an air of authenticity. Her struggles and triumphs resonate deeply, as do the experiences of Violine Duplessi, the young auctioneer. Their genuine personalities and complex emotions make them relatable and their journeys captivating.
The Plot/Storylines: M.J. Rose’s storytelling is a tapestry of intrigue, romance, and historical depth. The plot weaves through the challenges of love, the dangers of war, and the allure of mystery, all while being punctuated with detailed descriptions of exquisite jewelry. The inclusion of Suzanne Belperron’s historical legacy adds a layer of intrigue and educational value, as readers not only lose themselves in the story but also gain knowledge about a fascinating figure in the history of jewelry design.
What I Didn’t Like
To be honest, there isn’t anything that I disliked about this book. M.J. Rose’s novel is a well-rounded and thoroughly enjoyable experience. However, it’s worth noting that every reader’s taste is different, and what resonates with one may not resonate with another. Some might find the detailed descriptions of jewelry and the intertwining of historical facts with fiction less appealing, depending on their personal preferences.
My Review Rating For The Jeweler Of Stolen Dreams by M.J.Rose
I gave this book a 4.5 (Highly Impressive) out of 5 stars.
Conclusion – The Jeweler Of Stolen Dreams by M.J.Rose
The Jeweler of Stolen Dreams is a masterful blend of history, mystery, and romance. The novel’s vivid settings, authentic characters, and intricately woven plot create an immersive reading experience. Rose’s skillful integration of the real-life jeweler Suzanne Belperron into the narrative adds a unique historical depth, complemented by the enchanting descriptions of jewelry. In my opinion, this book is a near-perfect read, especially for those who appreciate a mix of historical facts and fiction. Overall, this novel is a testament to Rose’s ability to craft a story that not only entertains but also enlightens, making it a highly recommended read.
If you enjoy historical fiction as much as I do, you will likely love this book too. I highly recommend it especially if you like books that are based on real historical people. A bonus for you if you also love jewelry, as this book is based on the real-life jeweler Suzanne Belperron.
