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Member Reviews

Though "The Lost Jewels" was a rather flawed novel, it was a fascinating history, and for that I can overlook its flaws. This novel chronicles the story of the Cheapside Jewels through the intertwining narratives of several individuals with connections to specific pieces in the collection, not all of which are given equal narrative weight or attention. While this decision is understandable, it also made it significantly harder to connect with any one character or set of characters. I kept reading because I was entranced by the mystery of the jewels, not because I felt a connection to any of the characters (save for Essie, whose story was difficult not to get sucked into). The plot and characters were relatively thin, but the story of the jewels themselves was absolutely riveting, and if you are looking for a historical fiction novel that's heavier on "historical" than "fiction," I would absolutely recommend this book.

(Also, I had no idea that jewelry historians existed before I read "The Lost Jewels," and now I wish I could be one!)

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I love historical fiction and this book did not disappoint. I found it fascinating how the author has traced the origins of jewels from their origins and their travels all over the world to their present locations and the families involved.. Good read.

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A wonderful read a book that goes back and forth in time. jewels buried hidden a mystery to be solved.Characters that come alive.I was immediately drawn into this fascinating story based on real facts.So well written will be recommending.#netgalley#harpercollins

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I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The author brought 17th Century London to life. From the food, the different social classes and jewelry. I had never heard of the Cheapside Hoard until this book. It is thoroughly researched and you can vividly picture these gems from 400 years ago. The author intertwines the past and the present through different periods in history. She interweaves the story of the jewels with fictional characters (and a few real ones) whom you will love and hate. She brings all the generations together in a wonderful ending.

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I had never heard of the Cheapside Hoard -- hundreds of pieces of beautiful jewelry that were found buried in a London cellar that was the fascinating basis for this novel. The parallel narratives let us follow several characters throughout hundreds of years of history, and the stories wove together well. I enjoyed it!

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