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The Crimson Heirlooms
In 1832, an American student in Paris was legally blackmailed to search for the “Crimson Heirlooms” - for a period of no less than five years, upon pain of death. There were precisely two, as defined by the High Court of France. The first was a priceless necklace called the Cross of Nantes. The second was less tangible. It was, “the devil’s song, as he danced across the blood-drenched hills of the Vendée Militaire.” Both were found.
470 pages, Paperback
First published January 31, 2018
233 people are currently reading
6782 people want to read
About the author
Hunter Dennis
15 books134 followersHunter Dennis was a scriptwriter in Hollywood starting with his first sale to the studios in 1998. He has been credited on several films, one of which was distributed internationally and made over 160 million dollars. Since the completion of his first novel, "The Crimson Heirlooms", he has wholly converted to writing prose.
Hunter comes from a distinguished military family, has lived in three countries and across America. He was accepted into the University of Southern California Film School in the Production major as an undergraduate. Before optioning his first screenplay, he worked on a road slurry crew, cleaned a restaurant, and learned how to box.
He currently lives in Thousand Oaks, California, and looks forward to starting a family somewhere far more green, wet and cold.
Hunter comes from a distinguished military family, has lived in three countries and across America. He was accepted into the University of Southern California Film School in the Production major as an undergraduate. Before optioning his first screenplay, he worked on a road slurry crew, cleaned a restaurant, and learned how to box.
He currently lives in Thousand Oaks, California, and looks forward to starting a family somewhere far more green, wet and cold.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
March 23, 2018
READERS FAVORITE REVIEW FOR THE CRIMSON HEIRLOOMS by Hunter Dennis
The Crimson Heirlooms by Hunter Dennis is set in France from 1776 – 1832 and in the West Indies. The story centres on two characters Xavier and Jake born at different times but loosely connected through their heritage. Xavier Traversier’s family had once been the most important in Nantes but had since fallen on hard times. His mother had become a recluse and Xavier’s first venture into high society was a disaster. From that moment he vowed to rebuild the fortunes and though sheer work and an excellent brain, he succeeded. However, one of the ways he achieved this was by transporting slaves. Jake was at school when he first took part in riots in Paris and was only released from prison on the promise of finding the Crimson Heirlooms, one a valuable cross called the Cross of Nantes and the other the words to the devil’s song as he danced across the hills of France.
When I chose to read and review The Crimson Heirlooms by Hunter Dennis I was expecting a historical tale of finding hidden treasure, but this is a completely different book. Firstly, I needed to brush up the gaps in my French history as it’s not a straightforward account of the usual storming of the Bastille and Madame Guillotine. Both major characters Xavier and Jake become involved with the Freemasons and much is described about their organization and outlook. There are extensive discussions of philosophers especially Rousseau and Montesquieu and the ideas which underpinned the newly liberated American constitution. Part of the story takes place in the West Indies as the thread of the whereabouts of the Cross of Nantes is transported across the Atlantic. Jake also visits Northern Ireland and learns the history of those who were persecuted by the occupying English forces. This book is literary, thought-provoking and covers the major social issues of the times, especially pertaining to the French clergy who paid no taxes yet received huge payments from a variety of tolls levied on the poor and middle classes which were often gambled away at the tables in the chateaux owned by the noble ruling class. I was getting worried as I approached the end of the book as to how all the characters would tie up, and if the cross was found and with what ramifications, when it said ‘To Be Continued.’ I was almost tempted to give the book 4 stars, but the quality of the writing, the excellent characterization, the food for thought, the extensive research and the informative and helpful maps throughout won’t allow me to give it anything else but 5 stars.
The Crimson Heirlooms by Hunter Dennis is set in France from 1776 – 1832 and in the West Indies. The story centres on two characters Xavier and Jake born at different times but loosely connected through their heritage. Xavier Traversier’s family had once been the most important in Nantes but had since fallen on hard times. His mother had become a recluse and Xavier’s first venture into high society was a disaster. From that moment he vowed to rebuild the fortunes and though sheer work and an excellent brain, he succeeded. However, one of the ways he achieved this was by transporting slaves. Jake was at school when he first took part in riots in Paris and was only released from prison on the promise of finding the Crimson Heirlooms, one a valuable cross called the Cross of Nantes and the other the words to the devil’s song as he danced across the hills of France.
When I chose to read and review The Crimson Heirlooms by Hunter Dennis I was expecting a historical tale of finding hidden treasure, but this is a completely different book. Firstly, I needed to brush up the gaps in my French history as it’s not a straightforward account of the usual storming of the Bastille and Madame Guillotine. Both major characters Xavier and Jake become involved with the Freemasons and much is described about their organization and outlook. There are extensive discussions of philosophers especially Rousseau and Montesquieu and the ideas which underpinned the newly liberated American constitution. Part of the story takes place in the West Indies as the thread of the whereabouts of the Cross of Nantes is transported across the Atlantic. Jake also visits Northern Ireland and learns the history of those who were persecuted by the occupying English forces. This book is literary, thought-provoking and covers the major social issues of the times, especially pertaining to the French clergy who paid no taxes yet received huge payments from a variety of tolls levied on the poor and middle classes which were often gambled away at the tables in the chateaux owned by the noble ruling class. I was getting worried as I approached the end of the book as to how all the characters would tie up, and if the cross was found and with what ramifications, when it said ‘To Be Continued.’ I was almost tempted to give the book 4 stars, but the quality of the writing, the excellent characterization, the food for thought, the extensive research and the informative and helpful maps throughout won’t allow me to give it anything else but 5 stars.
August 3, 2019
This historical fiction reads more like a book written in the 19th Century than one written in our time, which says something for the quality of the Dennis’s creativeness. One must qualify that by pointing out that there is a great deal of modern rather than 19th Century word usage and sentence structure, but for the modern reader that simply sharpens understanding, rather than detracting from the historic placement. Time shifting word patterns have often give even the greatest literature from past centuries a turgid heaviness. So I think the author was right to not too deeply play his use of 19th century ‘building materials’.
As one is absorbed in the series of period specific vignettes, which make up the book, the descriptive detail effortlessly levers imagination back through time. I would find it hard to believe that Dennis hasn’t read a great many of the classic fictions from the period, allowing his writing to absorb something of those famous authors tones. The modern reader needs to be warned that this book also has a slow rhythm, is very long descriptive detail and has a primary plot that is almost an irrelevance. What Davis does do with a certain brilliance is draw us to the ‘atmospheres’, the social drama, the real histories, of the 18th and 19th centuries.
My strongest criticism is firstly that the book is overlong, being at least two good-sized reads in one, and that, secondly, I see no value in flicking backwards and forwards in time. The later confused me, causing a struggle to put together the jigsaw of characters and events. I am, I’m sure, hampered by being a particularly slow reader, so necessitating many periods of reading interwoven with the demands of my real world. Particularly with my memory being far short of excellent, I was too often left half drowned. The book is far too long for all but a few to read at one or even two concentrated sittings. I would love to see this book reengineered into a simple linear chronology.
Overall, it would be most ingenuous of me not to give this book five of those ridiculous stars. However, I feel this reads more like a work in progress than a finished article. This is the first part of a series, but that doesn’t mean that this volume is correctly ended in adagio rather than climatic allegro. The read finishes with an intellectual plot resolution of sorts, but with none of the fortissimo that some earlier episodes in the book achieved. In short, a wonderful read that is somewhat spoiled by a lack of input from a good content editor.
As one is absorbed in the series of period specific vignettes, which make up the book, the descriptive detail effortlessly levers imagination back through time. I would find it hard to believe that Dennis hasn’t read a great many of the classic fictions from the period, allowing his writing to absorb something of those famous authors tones. The modern reader needs to be warned that this book also has a slow rhythm, is very long descriptive detail and has a primary plot that is almost an irrelevance. What Davis does do with a certain brilliance is draw us to the ‘atmospheres’, the social drama, the real histories, of the 18th and 19th centuries.
My strongest criticism is firstly that the book is overlong, being at least two good-sized reads in one, and that, secondly, I see no value in flicking backwards and forwards in time. The later confused me, causing a struggle to put together the jigsaw of characters and events. I am, I’m sure, hampered by being a particularly slow reader, so necessitating many periods of reading interwoven with the demands of my real world. Particularly with my memory being far short of excellent, I was too often left half drowned. The book is far too long for all but a few to read at one or even two concentrated sittings. I would love to see this book reengineered into a simple linear chronology.
Overall, it would be most ingenuous of me not to give this book five of those ridiculous stars. However, I feel this reads more like a work in progress than a finished article. This is the first part of a series, but that doesn’t mean that this volume is correctly ended in adagio rather than climatic allegro. The read finishes with an intellectual plot resolution of sorts, but with none of the fortissimo that some earlier episodes in the book achieved. In short, a wonderful read that is somewhat spoiled by a lack of input from a good content editor.
May 1, 2018
I loved this book. Obviously. I seldom give a five-star rating.
So many things I didn't know about the American Revolution and the tie-in to the French Revolution. I did know our debt to France remains unpaid. Is there a college course that teaches us more about Rousseau, Voltaire and Robespierre and their influence on Jefferson and Franklin, because one does not learn of these things in high school in any course in American History. I guess one does not really learn much about the influence of Freemasonry, either, but I learned of it in studying Freemasonry many years ago. I did already know about the atrocities placed on the Irish by the British, which remains ongoing in Ulster, though somewhat lessened in intensity. So many historical interests are involved in this book, so many interesting characters, and all of them I found totally fascinating.
There are at least three different pieces of history here, with different characters, all wound together, though separated by time. All of them are tied to the Crimson Heirlooms; a crucifix and a song. We believe the crucifix actually exists, and we know where it originated before it disappeared. Can it still found, or is it now just allegory, a symbol of perhaps the liberty that is sought for any man?
Okay, Hunter Davis, I'm ready for more, dammit. Bring it on!
So many things I didn't know about the American Revolution and the tie-in to the French Revolution. I did know our debt to France remains unpaid. Is there a college course that teaches us more about Rousseau, Voltaire and Robespierre and their influence on Jefferson and Franklin, because one does not learn of these things in high school in any course in American History. I guess one does not really learn much about the influence of Freemasonry, either, but I learned of it in studying Freemasonry many years ago. I did already know about the atrocities placed on the Irish by the British, which remains ongoing in Ulster, though somewhat lessened in intensity. So many historical interests are involved in this book, so many interesting characters, and all of them I found totally fascinating.
There are at least three different pieces of history here, with different characters, all wound together, though separated by time. All of them are tied to the Crimson Heirlooms; a crucifix and a song. We believe the crucifix actually exists, and we know where it originated before it disappeared. Can it still found, or is it now just allegory, a symbol of perhaps the liberty that is sought for any man?
Okay, Hunter Davis, I'm ready for more, dammit. Bring it on!
December 6, 2018
This wasn't the adventure novel I was expecting. It was good. But I got bogged down in the detail with the philosophy.
May 6, 2019
I recieved this book through giveaways so thanks to all involved with that. The idea was intriguing but for me it just never got to a plot I feel like I read 400+ pages and still don't understand what the main plot was suppose to be. I just couldn't really get into it, it was very historically detailed but read like a text book after about 200 pages I gave up and just started skimming.
February 27, 2018
It is difficult to fathom this is the author’s first published book. If you love historical novels that inspire learning and critical thought, besides entertaining with excellent stories, interwoven and convergent plot lines, mysteries, and wonderful character development, you will undoubtedly love Heirlooms. I found myself exploring French language, history and philosophy, not because it was necessary to read and enjoy the book, but because it inspired me to want to learn more of the back story. Hunter Dennis has managed to accomplish all this while weaving the parts together into a single tapestry of historical, political, and cultural beauty. This really should be made into a BBC series. If a second installment were published today, then I promise I would be reading it tomorrow. I see in the Q&A a sequel is now in process. Good news indeed!
April 11, 2020
This novel is fantastic; the best I've read in a long, long time! To be honest, I didn't think modern authors could write like this anymore. It has something for everybody and I'm amazed the author was able to weave everything together so seamlessly. It's a cross between philosophy, history, adventure, tales of ambition, romance, war, I could go on...
The writing is rich and compelling, the characters deep and enthralling. The descriptions are so evocative, you feel like you are actually in the time and place where the story is taking place at the moment. I found myself flying through the pages and cannot wait for the second book! It was so good, I bought copies for friends and family (I can't think of anyone who wouldn't enjoy this book!).
The writing is rich and compelling, the characters deep and enthralling. The descriptions are so evocative, you feel like you are actually in the time and place where the story is taking place at the moment. I found myself flying through the pages and cannot wait for the second book! It was so good, I bought copies for friends and family (I can't think of anyone who wouldn't enjoy this book!).
July 8, 2018
After starting this book I found myself not wanting to put it down. It was very well written and the way the author portrays the the time and place is really just like being there. These fascinating characters were well developed, interesting and believable. It was a great historical novel set in the late 18th and early 19th century France and made me want to delve deeper into that time of history. It is a historical novel but is also full of mystery, theology, philosophy, adventure, war and romance. There's probably something for everyone in there. This is a well researched and well written book and it is hard for me to believe it's the authors first book...I hope the next book's on the way soon.
March 1, 2018
I usually don't read historical novels, but this one was highly recommended by a friend. Reluctantly, I took on this book, and I'm so glad I did. This is a sweeping saga that is luckily the first book in a series. The history of France and the command of language to communicate the over-arching themes and important details are amazing to say the least. I found myself so engrossed that I wasn't sure that any of it was fiction. I still wonder about many aspects because every historical place and event and every character was so brilliantly brought to life.
I can't wait for the next book. This author is so talented at story writing that I know he will be well-known in the short future.
I can't wait for the next book. This author is so talented at story writing that I know he will be well-known in the short future.
May 1, 2018
Loaded, truly loaded with detail and history of the French Revolution, Freemasons, slave-trading, the West Indies, and more, the Crimson Heirlooms at it's simplest form is a search for the Cross of Nantes- worth untold riches to its bearer, and the "words of the Devil's song". Intertwined are the stories of Xavier Traversier, trying to recover the family fortune and status in 1776, and Jake Loring, an American student studying in Paris in 1832 who is passionately fighting for the revolution. What I didn't expect was the "to be continued" at the end of the book, this being just the first segment of search for the Crimson Heirlooms.
February 10, 2019
thank you to Goodreads, the publisher, and author for a signed copy of the book. I found I couldn't put it down and eagerly await the next book!
March 7, 2018
This was a great read. Everything I like about historical fiction...I was looking up places and names, learning a ton about the French Revolution, and enjoying the heck out the three main characters, especially Xavier. Great imagery and great dialogue. The fact that the second Crimson Heirloom is the lyrics to a song...sang by the devil...as he danced around the blood soaked hills of the Vendee Militaire had me hooked, hard. Philosophy, psychology, theology, religion, adventure, romance, history and a page-turner to boot. I'll pre-order the sequel as soon as it's available.
February 6, 2018
Wow... the most intense, emotional piece I've ever read. So good. I felt like I was there. It was amazing how the walls disappeared for me and I was in a latter time drinking wine, eating cheese and running for my life. I can't fully express my appreciation for this piece. I am hoping that the writer does more work, and may it be as good as this piece. Well done. I highly recommend.
March 11, 2018
This book is a gorgeous blend of fact and fiction. Hunter Dennis led me on such an authentic journey back through 18th and 19th century France, I nearly forgot I wasn't living it myself. I could feel and taste every element of the story. A beautifully crafted debut!
April 11, 2018
Wonderful historical read with a mystery twist.
March 15, 2019
Okay a thing to talk about when I received my package and opened it. I'm not even sure about it...I don't think it was even intentional or maybe it was but as soon as I ripped open my package to discover this book I was hit with an instant smell. I know this smell. I know it because my Uncle is a Catholic Priest and being in Church enough I am quite familiar with incense. I mean I suppose one does not have to attend Church enough to know the smell but that's what I associate that smell with. So this evocative odor....lingering, familiar, and nostalgic. Maybe from that....the intrigue I felt for reading this book became stronger than ever. It fit with the times I was about to read on. I feel like if I was propelled back into these times this would be the smell that would hit me. It might have nothing to do with this book in the long run...for me in that moment...it did. I smell this book today.....still lingering with the familiar musk of whatever it is that is haunting my particular volume.
The Crimson Heirlooms. A massive book...I was excited to be planted into the time. France and the Indies, 1776-1833-ish. The interwoven lives of two key characters Xavier and Jake. There is an amazing story behind all this. One I will not dive into for fear that I am giving away spoilers to such a fantastic read. I will say that this book explores so many avenues within history...so many themes....like reading the best Encyclopedia of the time pertaining. I enjoyed every slow moving moment of it. If you love historical genre..you are going to swoon over this book. The character development is something to be admired. Details of background, plot, backstory....voluptuous with content. Was there mention that this was going to be a series?! If so I am eagerly anticipating the arrival of the next book....it is that wonderful. If not...I am grieving on the fact that I will have to sadly find something that will live up to this one..
Thanks to goodreads, Author Hunter Dennis and publisher A-R-B books for my win of this book. I received. I read. I reviewed with honesty and voluntarily.
The Crimson Heirlooms. A massive book...I was excited to be planted into the time. France and the Indies, 1776-1833-ish. The interwoven lives of two key characters Xavier and Jake. There is an amazing story behind all this. One I will not dive into for fear that I am giving away spoilers to such a fantastic read. I will say that this book explores so many avenues within history...so many themes....like reading the best Encyclopedia of the time pertaining. I enjoyed every slow moving moment of it. If you love historical genre..you are going to swoon over this book. The character development is something to be admired. Details of background, plot, backstory....voluptuous with content. Was there mention that this was going to be a series?! If so I am eagerly anticipating the arrival of the next book....it is that wonderful. If not...I am grieving on the fact that I will have to sadly find something that will live up to this one..
Thanks to goodreads, Author Hunter Dennis and publisher A-R-B books for my win of this book. I received. I read. I reviewed with honesty and voluntarily.
February 6, 2018
“Reading Hunter Dennis's first novel, The Crimson Heirlooms, is like being treated to a secret tour of late 18th and early 19th century France, where philosophy, theology and politics were life and death matters to be argued with words, swords and cannon fire. His wide-ranging cast of characters stride the earth fiercely -- if not ferociously -- and are so busy working out their own salvation (or damnation) that they seem largely unaware of their own roles in the great events of their age. This effect is deliberate; full understanding is reserved for the reader alone. And like a great movie, many of the story's scenes and images linger in the mind's eye long after the last page has been turned. I can't say enough good things about this book."
-- Chuck Konzelman, co-writer of twelve feature films including God’s Not Dead.
-- Chuck Konzelman, co-writer of twelve feature films including God’s Not Dead.
March 19, 2018
This review is from customer jeff Haskell off the Amazon site and the guy basically nailed it. He gave it five stars. I wish he was on Goodreads, but I'll help him out a little.
"Okay, this is the review that you actually need to read. This book is basically the first act of a long saga. You must go into the read knowing that. If you don't, you'll feel ripped off. It is a mystery structure, but not gumshoe/wrap it all up by the end. It's more like that old movie "Immortal Beloved" where a detective must go back into the past and know everything about Beethoven in order to understand something very specific. This novel is literature, it is well-written and well-researched. You probably need some brain cells for this one. It has the linguistic/historical depth of something like Dune or Lord of the Rings. Oddly, most historical fiction doesn't come with that kind of backstory and breadth. I hope the writer is fast, waiting ten years to read the whole story will make me angry. If someone gives this less than five, they were expecting something conventional and were mad when they didn't get it. Know and enjoy this for what it is. PS - characters are real life. You don't know whether to love them or hate them. They are very contradictory and real. The philosophical driving forces behind some of them are a little too close to ours and can be eye-opening. I really dug this book. If you want to love it too, know what you are getting into!"
"Okay, this is the review that you actually need to read. This book is basically the first act of a long saga. You must go into the read knowing that. If you don't, you'll feel ripped off. It is a mystery structure, but not gumshoe/wrap it all up by the end. It's more like that old movie "Immortal Beloved" where a detective must go back into the past and know everything about Beethoven in order to understand something very specific. This novel is literature, it is well-written and well-researched. You probably need some brain cells for this one. It has the linguistic/historical depth of something like Dune or Lord of the Rings. Oddly, most historical fiction doesn't come with that kind of backstory and breadth. I hope the writer is fast, waiting ten years to read the whole story will make me angry. If someone gives this less than five, they were expecting something conventional and were mad when they didn't get it. Know and enjoy this for what it is. PS - characters are real life. You don't know whether to love them or hate them. They are very contradictory and real. The philosophical driving forces behind some of them are a little too close to ours and can be eye-opening. I really dug this book. If you want to love it too, know what you are getting into!"
April 21, 2019
*Update 4/21/19 I have just reread this and loved it even more the 2nd time! It has firmly placed itself as one of my favorites. I am so excited to continue on with the next book, just as soon as I can find it!
The most important thing to know before reading this "book" is that it is only the very beginning of what will probably (hopefully) be a long series. This book introduces the characters with a vivid and intimate look into their minds and lives so that they quickly become real to the reader. I now feel like I know them as I would a friend.
The absolute joy of this book is the rich esoteric philosophy wrapped in almost every conversation. I almost felt like H.P. Blavatsky was telling me the story. Beyond the quotes from historical philosophers, the author himself shows his Understanding and Knowledge with the characters insights into the Greater Mysteries.
I almost cannot wait to re-read this book, and plan on writing down (taking notes) of the most elegant philosophical phrases. I have no doubt I will probably re-read this book twice before the next one comes out. I am incredibly grateful to have won this book with the goodreads giveaways , I shutter to think I might have missed out on it.
The most important thing to know before reading this "book" is that it is only the very beginning of what will probably (hopefully) be a long series. This book introduces the characters with a vivid and intimate look into their minds and lives so that they quickly become real to the reader. I now feel like I know them as I would a friend.
The absolute joy of this book is the rich esoteric philosophy wrapped in almost every conversation. I almost felt like H.P. Blavatsky was telling me the story. Beyond the quotes from historical philosophers, the author himself shows his Understanding and Knowledge with the characters insights into the Greater Mysteries.
I almost cannot wait to re-read this book, and plan on writing down (taking notes) of the most elegant philosophical phrases. I have no doubt I will probably re-read this book twice before the next one comes out. I am incredibly grateful to have won this book with the goodreads giveaways , I shutter to think I might have missed out on it.
April 16, 2018
Received this book as a giveaway from Goodreads and was in love with the cover and pronunciation guide as soon as I received it. Sadly, the first 135 or so pages took me forever and made it difficult to want to continue to read the book. It was well written and descriptive just not something I really cared about. All the war and philosophy - dragged on and on. Each chapter is a different character and time, so it takes a large amount of the book to get to a place where you understand what is going on with each person and the story really makes sense. However; now that I am done with the book I want to know what happens to everyone. I wish I had the ability to wait until the 2nd book was out before I had started this one. Hopefully the author has the 2nd book almost complete or at least makes it so I can jump quickly into the 2nd book because I am not sure I have it in me to re-read this one again. Though maybe I would enjoy the 1st part more.... who knows. It is a book where you cannot judge it on a couple of chapters you have to complete it and then sit back and realize you just read a book that will stay with you for years.
May 4, 2018
I received this book through a Goodreads giveaway.
It took a little while to figure out how the two time lines in the book related to each other. But the author adds the little details that bring life to the story until one could see the relationship between the pre and post French revolution periods. The scale of "blackness" in Saint Domingue. How a bold entrepreneur (even if he is from old nobility) started the breakdown of the guild system in France.
The pacing of story in The Crimson Heirlooms reminded me somewhat of Charles Dickens' A Tale of Two Cities. In some ways, this could serve as a pre and post script to the story. "To be continued" are the words I usually avoid in books, but the words of The Crimson Heirlooms will make me seek out the next chapter in the story of the Cross of Nantes and words of the devil's song.
It took a little while to figure out how the two time lines in the book related to each other. But the author adds the little details that bring life to the story until one could see the relationship between the pre and post French revolution periods. The scale of "blackness" in Saint Domingue. How a bold entrepreneur (even if he is from old nobility) started the breakdown of the guild system in France.
The pacing of story in The Crimson Heirlooms reminded me somewhat of Charles Dickens' A Tale of Two Cities. In some ways, this could serve as a pre and post script to the story. "To be continued" are the words I usually avoid in books, but the words of The Crimson Heirlooms will make me seek out the next chapter in the story of the Cross of Nantes and words of the devil's song.
May 18, 2018
There were quite a few characters that I found interesting in this novel.
Xavier Traversier I found was quite appealing; and thought it was quite clever the way he decided to move forward with his business. Jake Loring seemed to be quite the intellectual. Monsieur Tyran was quite rigid in his demands; though I found Jeannine Coeurfroid's history very interesting. I got a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Xavier Traversier I found was quite appealing; and thought it was quite clever the way he decided to move forward with his business. Jake Loring seemed to be quite the intellectual. Monsieur Tyran was quite rigid in his demands; though I found Jeannine Coeurfroid's history very interesting. I got a copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 30, 2019
A sweeping saga spanning decades. The hunt for a treasure worth millions. Part mystery, part history, The Crimson Heirlooms by Hunter Dennis is a tale worthy of the classics writers, a legacy of Hugo, Dickens, and Tolstoy.
Spanning the decades between 1776 and 1832, the majority of the story follows Xavier Traversier and Jacob 'Jake' Loring. Xavier, having found that his family's finances are in collapse, takes the reins. In an impressive, Herculean effort, he re-establishes the name of Traversier as in to be respected, restoring them to their place as First Family of Nantes. To do so, he learned every aspect of his trade, from weaving linen, to captaining a ship. Shrewd business acumen rebuilt his fortune. Sadly, part through slave trade. As the decades pass, Xavier decrees that his business empire- the Traversier Trust- shall be turned over to the one who possesses the Cross of Nantes, a missing Traversier heirloom.
Meanwhile, in 1832, Jake, a student at Louis le Grande, becomes embroiled in a revolutionary plot. It fails and he is captured. Though he should have been deported, Jake was put on trial and found guilty. Yet his sentence is forgiven, thanks to what is basically bail and blackmail. Jake is tasked to search for the Crimson Heirlooms- the Cross & and what is known as the
Song. As his search begins in earnest, more questions are raised than answers found.
This story explored concepts of socialism and fascism as they were intended. Sadly, even the best of philosophies are often corrupted by those who don't fully understand what they stand for. The entirety of this tale is a rich medley of philosophic ideas, most especially of Rousseau.
It is a wide-ranging tale, exploring notable events and practices of the time. Jake is right in the middle of the Revolution, and the American Revolutionary War is mentioned. Life in colonial areas such as Le Cap Francias in Sainte-Domingue. As the tale progresses, Xavier's timeline becomes populated with other characters, who get their own chapters. Some, like L'Oublie, are one shots, as he merges into Xavier's. Estelle and Guillaume get many chapters, preparing to take centre stage in the next book. Xavier's first meeting with L'Oublie is terrifying. Worse though, is the story of Xavier's trip as captain. Though he promises Bouchamps that he wouldn't engage in slave trade, and had no interest, that's exactly what he does. They overstuff 275 human beings into the cargo hold. The conditions were horrid, and slaves fell sick and died. They were treated little better than animals. The consequences of rebellion were truly horrific. Of course, I've never understood keeping slaves. L'Oublie himself is a rather enigmatic character, and happens to be one of my faves. Once his loyalty is given, he is bulldog tenacious. Loyalty is a prime value for me. He's also kinda scary. I'd certainly feel safe with him at my back!
Dennis makes use of both French and Old Garlic throughout. There is a translation/pronunciation guide at the end, but I chose to forego flipping back and forth, and rely on my rusty French and smattering of modern Gaelic. I was pleasantly surprised to find I had gotten most pronunciations correct!
Overall, I found the book well-researched and quite enjoyable. I'm looking forward to reading the next in the series!
***This book was reviewed via the Seattle Book Review
Spanning the decades between 1776 and 1832, the majority of the story follows Xavier Traversier and Jacob 'Jake' Loring. Xavier, having found that his family's finances are in collapse, takes the reins. In an impressive, Herculean effort, he re-establishes the name of Traversier as in to be respected, restoring them to their place as First Family of Nantes. To do so, he learned every aspect of his trade, from weaving linen, to captaining a ship. Shrewd business acumen rebuilt his fortune. Sadly, part through slave trade. As the decades pass, Xavier decrees that his business empire- the Traversier Trust- shall be turned over to the one who possesses the Cross of Nantes, a missing Traversier heirloom.
Meanwhile, in 1832, Jake, a student at Louis le Grande, becomes embroiled in a revolutionary plot. It fails and he is captured. Though he should have been deported, Jake was put on trial and found guilty. Yet his sentence is forgiven, thanks to what is basically bail and blackmail. Jake is tasked to search for the Crimson Heirlooms- the Cross & and what is known as the
Song. As his search begins in earnest, more questions are raised than answers found.
This story explored concepts of socialism and fascism as they were intended. Sadly, even the best of philosophies are often corrupted by those who don't fully understand what they stand for. The entirety of this tale is a rich medley of philosophic ideas, most especially of Rousseau.
It is a wide-ranging tale, exploring notable events and practices of the time. Jake is right in the middle of the Revolution, and the American Revolutionary War is mentioned. Life in colonial areas such as Le Cap Francias in Sainte-Domingue. As the tale progresses, Xavier's timeline becomes populated with other characters, who get their own chapters. Some, like L'Oublie, are one shots, as he merges into Xavier's. Estelle and Guillaume get many chapters, preparing to take centre stage in the next book. Xavier's first meeting with L'Oublie is terrifying. Worse though, is the story of Xavier's trip as captain. Though he promises Bouchamps that he wouldn't engage in slave trade, and had no interest, that's exactly what he does. They overstuff 275 human beings into the cargo hold. The conditions were horrid, and slaves fell sick and died. They were treated little better than animals. The consequences of rebellion were truly horrific. Of course, I've never understood keeping slaves. L'Oublie himself is a rather enigmatic character, and happens to be one of my faves. Once his loyalty is given, he is bulldog tenacious. Loyalty is a prime value for me. He's also kinda scary. I'd certainly feel safe with him at my back!
Dennis makes use of both French and Old Garlic throughout. There is a translation/pronunciation guide at the end, but I chose to forego flipping back and forth, and rely on my rusty French and smattering of modern Gaelic. I was pleasantly surprised to find I had gotten most pronunciations correct!
Overall, I found the book well-researched and quite enjoyable. I'm looking forward to reading the next in the series!
***This book was reviewed via the Seattle Book Review
January 14, 2019
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. I have given The Crimson Heirlooms by Hunter Dennis two out of five stars ⭐️⭐️
I am coming to the realisation that I'm not a huge fan of historical fiction. All of the interesting information used in this book went to waste with me as I simply couldn't store it all in my brain.
I really admired the amount of research Dennis must've done to produce such a detailed, historical book and I really liked his use of descriptive and informative writing as it helped me conjure up the setting and atmosphere of the places in which this book took place, overall however this book was not my cup of tea.
It was very interesting and held a lot of information! The extensive use of narrative made this book very confusing and difficult for me to follow the storylines, especially as there were multiple characters' stories to follow (which, I have to stay, really liked how they intertwined with one another towards the end of the book).
I didn't realise there was a glossary at the back of the book with all different pronunciations and definitions of words used throughout the book which I had no clue what meant, but if I had realised there was a glossary I wouldn't have been in such a predicament.
I would definitely recommend this book to fans of French historical fiction in particular.
I am coming to the realisation that I'm not a huge fan of historical fiction. All of the interesting information used in this book went to waste with me as I simply couldn't store it all in my brain.
I really admired the amount of research Dennis must've done to produce such a detailed, historical book and I really liked his use of descriptive and informative writing as it helped me conjure up the setting and atmosphere of the places in which this book took place, overall however this book was not my cup of tea.
It was very interesting and held a lot of information! The extensive use of narrative made this book very confusing and difficult for me to follow the storylines, especially as there were multiple characters' stories to follow (which, I have to stay, really liked how they intertwined with one another towards the end of the book).
I didn't realise there was a glossary at the back of the book with all different pronunciations and definitions of words used throughout the book which I had no clue what meant, but if I had realised there was a glossary I wouldn't have been in such a predicament.
I would definitely recommend this book to fans of French historical fiction in particular.
June 3, 2019
I received this book through the Goodreads Giveaways.
The basic story of the book was very interesting but each chapter is dedicated to a different character and you are sent back and forth from one character to the next and then back again from 1776 to 1788 for Xavier and 1832 for Jake. Other characters in the book also have dedicated chapters and take place in other years. To me, this was very confusing and, as yet, I'm not sure I understand how each person's story will be relative to the whole. The ending of the book was the first "hint" that there would be another book continuing this story--maybe more than one.
I don't want to discourage anyone from reading this book. Each character's story is very interesting of itself. Jake is my favorite. When the next book comes out, I hope I can see the relationship between all of these characters.
In the back of the book is a very extensive "pronunciation and definition" guide which itself is interesting to read.
This is a big book and has a lot of descriptions of places and the times. It is a different kind of book than I am used to, as far as the style of writing, and I am still left with a curiosity about "The Crimson Heirlooms".
The basic story of the book was very interesting but each chapter is dedicated to a different character and you are sent back and forth from one character to the next and then back again from 1776 to 1788 for Xavier and 1832 for Jake. Other characters in the book also have dedicated chapters and take place in other years. To me, this was very confusing and, as yet, I'm not sure I understand how each person's story will be relative to the whole. The ending of the book was the first "hint" that there would be another book continuing this story--maybe more than one.
I don't want to discourage anyone from reading this book. Each character's story is very interesting of itself. Jake is my favorite. When the next book comes out, I hope I can see the relationship between all of these characters.
In the back of the book is a very extensive "pronunciation and definition" guide which itself is interesting to read.
This is a big book and has a lot of descriptions of places and the times. It is a different kind of book than I am used to, as far as the style of writing, and I am still left with a curiosity about "The Crimson Heirlooms".
April 30, 2019
I received this book through a Goodreads Giveaway.
The plot covers two time periods and several main characters--Xavier in 1776-1788; Jake in 1832; Guerrier family 1783-1788. Xavier needs to rebuild his family's prestige. Jake is blackmailed into searching for the Crimson heirlooms.
I enjoyed the plots of Xavier figuring out how to regain his family's good name and Jake's adventures in fighting for freedom for the people in France,getting caught, and being blackmailed. I did not like all of the philosophy that dominated most of the plot. The secrecy of the Freemasons was vital to the story, but the meetings and discussions seemed to go on too long.
I also hated the way the book ended.
I did like the pronunciation guide; I am often frustrated when I don't know how to say the characters' names.
The plot covers two time periods and several main characters--Xavier in 1776-1788; Jake in 1832; Guerrier family 1783-1788. Xavier needs to rebuild his family's prestige. Jake is blackmailed into searching for the Crimson heirlooms.
I enjoyed the plots of Xavier figuring out how to regain his family's good name and Jake's adventures in fighting for freedom for the people in France,getting caught, and being blackmailed. I did not like all of the philosophy that dominated most of the plot. The secrecy of the Freemasons was vital to the story, but the meetings and discussions seemed to go on too long.
I also hated the way the book ended.
I did like the pronunciation guide; I am often frustrated when I don't know how to say the characters' names.
December 22, 2020
I am late on my review for this title.
This is a book that reads as though it was written in the 19th century due to the factual descriptions as well as the characters verbiage and likeness. It centers on two main characters who are connected by lineage and how they are mainly brought together. As a historical novel this book gives the reader a history lesson in the American and French Revolution. There are items that must be found, a debt to repay, and stories told that are interwoven between time frames. The author has done an immaculate job of bringing the different centuries together in such a way that is easy to follow and very fluid. I must say that this book has brought back my love for history and that battles fought for freedoms we have taken advantage of.
Thank you to goodreads as well as the publisher/author for giving this book away in exchange for my honest review.
This is a book that reads as though it was written in the 19th century due to the factual descriptions as well as the characters verbiage and likeness. It centers on two main characters who are connected by lineage and how they are mainly brought together. As a historical novel this book gives the reader a history lesson in the American and French Revolution. There are items that must be found, a debt to repay, and stories told that are interwoven between time frames. The author has done an immaculate job of bringing the different centuries together in such a way that is easy to follow and very fluid. I must say that this book has brought back my love for history and that battles fought for freedoms we have taken advantage of.
Thank you to goodreads as well as the publisher/author for giving this book away in exchange for my honest review.
May 1, 2019
I received a copy of this book from Goodreads in exchange for a review.
It’s early 1830’s in Paris when Jake Loring, and American student, finds himself drawn into a Resistance movement. His foolish actions put him in the crosshairs of Monsieur Tyran, who proceeds to blackmail him into searching for two heirlooms, a priceless necklace and another more shadowy item.
The first book in the series introduces the characters and sets the tone for the books to follow. The reader will find himself transported to 18th and 19th century France where all around is intrigue, secret societies and life and death decisions.
Compelling is the word that comes to mind as I read ‘The Crimson Heirlooms’.
It’s early 1830’s in Paris when Jake Loring, and American student, finds himself drawn into a Resistance movement. His foolish actions put him in the crosshairs of Monsieur Tyran, who proceeds to blackmail him into searching for two heirlooms, a priceless necklace and another more shadowy item.
The first book in the series introduces the characters and sets the tone for the books to follow. The reader will find himself transported to 18th and 19th century France where all around is intrigue, secret societies and life and death decisions.
Compelling is the word that comes to mind as I read ‘The Crimson Heirlooms’.
May 14, 2020
The Crimson Heirlooms Series
Whew, this is not a light read! You best be prepared to read, than re-read as some of the multiple story-lines or sub-plots come together, it is worth it, especially if you are a historical fiction buff.
You are taken on a search for lost Heirlooms, while you jump between past and present. You live the conflicted relationships, while you gain knowledge of Freemasons, Jean Jacque Rousseau, The Church, The French Revolution, The Colonies and more! I felt like I was in the midst of the same mental and emotional suspense that Les Miserables or Dr Zhivago inspired in me. Excellent work, looking forward to the continuence of the series!
Whew, this is not a light read! You best be prepared to read, than re-read as some of the multiple story-lines or sub-plots come together, it is worth it, especially if you are a historical fiction buff.
You are taken on a search for lost Heirlooms, while you jump between past and present. You live the conflicted relationships, while you gain knowledge of Freemasons, Jean Jacque Rousseau, The Church, The French Revolution, The Colonies and more! I felt like I was in the midst of the same mental and emotional suspense that Les Miserables or Dr Zhivago inspired in me. Excellent work, looking forward to the continuence of the series!
April 24, 2018
I won this book from Goodreads. It was interesting, but, for me, the immense amount of narrative made for difficult reading. What keeps my interest is dialogue, and there was at least thrice as much narrative as dialogue. Also, I didn't like the idea of having to keep looking up definitions and pronunciations...however, I must admit that I learned something by having to look them up. Hard to believe this was the author's first novel. I think this book will mostly appeal to those with a big interest in French history.
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