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The Lost Jewels
From the author of
The Song of the Jade Lily
comes a thrilling story of a family secret that leads to a legendary treasure.
Why would someone bury a bucket of precious jewels and gemstones and never return?
Present Day. When respected American jewelry historian, Kate Kirby, receives a call about the Cheapside jewels, she knows she’s on the brink of the experience of a lifetime.
But the trip to London forces Kate to explore secrets that have long been buried by her own family. Back in Boston, Kate has uncovered a series of sketches in her great-grandmother’s papers linking her suffragette great-grandmother Essie to the Cheapside collection. Could these sketches hold the key to Essie’s secret life in Edwardian London?
In the summer of 1912, impoverished Irish immigrant Essie Murphy happens to be visiting her brother when a workman’s pickaxe strikes through the floor of an old tenement house in Cheapside, near St. Paul’s Cathedral in London. The workmen uncover a stash of treasure—from Ottoman pendants to Elizabethan and Jacobean gems—and then the finds disappear again! Could these jewels—one in particular—change the fortunes of Essie and her sisters?
Together with photographer Marcus Holt, Kate Kirby chases the history of the Cheapside gems and jewels, especially the story of a small diamond champlevé enamel ring. Soon, everything Kate believes about her family, gemology, and herself will be threatened.
Based on a fascinating true story, The Lost Jewels is a riveting historical fiction novel that will captivate readers from the beginning to the unforgettable, surprising end.
Why would someone bury a bucket of precious jewels and gemstones and never return?
Present Day. When respected American jewelry historian, Kate Kirby, receives a call about the Cheapside jewels, she knows she’s on the brink of the experience of a lifetime.
But the trip to London forces Kate to explore secrets that have long been buried by her own family. Back in Boston, Kate has uncovered a series of sketches in her great-grandmother’s papers linking her suffragette great-grandmother Essie to the Cheapside collection. Could these sketches hold the key to Essie’s secret life in Edwardian London?
In the summer of 1912, impoverished Irish immigrant Essie Murphy happens to be visiting her brother when a workman’s pickaxe strikes through the floor of an old tenement house in Cheapside, near St. Paul’s Cathedral in London. The workmen uncover a stash of treasure—from Ottoman pendants to Elizabethan and Jacobean gems—and then the finds disappear again! Could these jewels—one in particular—change the fortunes of Essie and her sisters?
Together with photographer Marcus Holt, Kate Kirby chases the history of the Cheapside gems and jewels, especially the story of a small diamond champlevé enamel ring. Soon, everything Kate believes about her family, gemology, and herself will be threatened.
Based on a fascinating true story, The Lost Jewels is a riveting historical fiction novel that will captivate readers from the beginning to the unforgettable, surprising end.
320 pages, Paperback
First published March 31, 2020
764 people are currently reading
10507 people want to read
About the author
Kirsty Manning
10 books698 followersKirsty Manning grew up in northern New South Wales. She has degrees in literature and communications and worked as an editor and publishing manager in book publishing for over a decade. A country girl with wanderlust, her travels and studies have taken her through most of Europe, the east and west coasts of the United States and pockets of Asia. Kirsty’s journalism specialising in lifestyle and travel regularly appear in magazines, newspapers and online.
With husband Alex Wilcox, Kirsty is a partner in the award-winning Melbourne wine bar Bellota, and the Prince Wine Store in Sydney and Melbourne.
With husband Alex Wilcox, Kirsty is a partner in the award-winning Melbourne wine bar Bellota, and the Prince Wine Store in Sydney and Melbourne.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 544 reviews
June 7, 2021
Uncovering history took her deep into tragedies. But sometimes tracing the line of a jewel, the light bouncing off a diamond, showed Kate that, just like jewels, people could be reset and have a different kind of life.
I enjoyed Kate Kirby’s journey in this novel. When she takes a job writing about the Cheapside jewels, as a historian, she is intrigued by their provenance. Especially so when she discovers her great-grandmother’s sketch of a button very similar to some of those in the Cheapside collection. Is there a connection between her great-grandmother and jewels that were unearthed in 1912 London?
In this dual timeline novel, we see events unfold from Kate’s and her great-grandmother, Essie’s perspective. I was equally invested in both timelines. Kate’s role as a historian in sussing out the history of a gemstone proved intriguing. The symbols that are used in creating a piece of jewelry may provide clues as well as the history of lapidary. Certain practices such as cutting techniques and particular tools, gemstones and when artistic approaches begin to show up on the world stage are also helpful. Kate focused on a diamond solitaire that she determined was Mannerist style while noticing the Champlevé enamel of “black flowers painted onto white.” She thinks the diamond is a Golconda diamond, and knows that most of these diamonds ended up being traded in Hyderabad, India, so she will travel there with her photographer colleague, Marcus.
Great-grandmother, Essie Murphy’s story is much different. Her father never came home from fighting the Boers and her mother has turned to drink to numb the pain. That leaves Essie, working as a seamstress and her brother, Freddy working as a navvy (construction worker) to provide for the family. Essie bears responsibility for the care of younger sisters, Gertie, and the twins, Maggie and Flora. It’s a hard life, so who can blame Essie when she responds to the attentions of Freddy’s handsome, green-eyed boss? Essie is so eager for the movie-goings and tea outings that she doesn’t pay as much attention as she should to the differences in their social class.
Manning includes a few side stories related to diamonds. One relates the story of two poverty-stricken brothers in India. It is a frightful story. One suffers from the trauma of digging in a pit that collapses on him, the other will remove a Golconda diamond from the ground. This side story reminds me that many diamonds are unearthed amidst political and economic upheaval and that it is seldom the hand that brings it to light that reaps any benefit.
In particular, I enjoyed the theme of second chances in this novel. Just as a jewel can be reset and seen in a totally different way, the idea that people can prosper in a different setting is a hopeful one. However, I must acknowledge that many people don’t even get a fair (food, clean water, shelter, a chance at a decent education, that kind of thing) first chance, much less a second one. Manning doesn’t ignore the reality but her focus is on the hopeful and the romantic. The characters are engaging and the historical perspective was enjoyable and informative. Manning's intelligent straight-forward narrative style is also a drawing card.
I enjoyed Kate Kirby’s journey in this novel. When she takes a job writing about the Cheapside jewels, as a historian, she is intrigued by their provenance. Especially so when she discovers her great-grandmother’s sketch of a button very similar to some of those in the Cheapside collection. Is there a connection between her great-grandmother and jewels that were unearthed in 1912 London?
In this dual timeline novel, we see events unfold from Kate’s and her great-grandmother, Essie’s perspective. I was equally invested in both timelines. Kate’s role as a historian in sussing out the history of a gemstone proved intriguing. The symbols that are used in creating a piece of jewelry may provide clues as well as the history of lapidary. Certain practices such as cutting techniques and particular tools, gemstones and when artistic approaches begin to show up on the world stage are also helpful. Kate focused on a diamond solitaire that she determined was Mannerist style while noticing the Champlevé enamel of “black flowers painted onto white.” She thinks the diamond is a Golconda diamond, and knows that most of these diamonds ended up being traded in Hyderabad, India, so she will travel there with her photographer colleague, Marcus.
Great-grandmother, Essie Murphy’s story is much different. Her father never came home from fighting the Boers and her mother has turned to drink to numb the pain. That leaves Essie, working as a seamstress and her brother, Freddy working as a navvy (construction worker) to provide for the family. Essie bears responsibility for the care of younger sisters, Gertie, and the twins, Maggie and Flora. It’s a hard life, so who can blame Essie when she responds to the attentions of Freddy’s handsome, green-eyed boss? Essie is so eager for the movie-goings and tea outings that she doesn’t pay as much attention as she should to the differences in their social class.
Manning includes a few side stories related to diamonds. One relates the story of two poverty-stricken brothers in India. It is a frightful story. One suffers from the trauma of digging in a pit that collapses on him, the other will remove a Golconda diamond from the ground. This side story reminds me that many diamonds are unearthed amidst political and economic upheaval and that it is seldom the hand that brings it to light that reaps any benefit.
In particular, I enjoyed the theme of second chances in this novel. Just as a jewel can be reset and seen in a totally different way, the idea that people can prosper in a different setting is a hopeful one. However, I must acknowledge that many people don’t even get a fair (food, clean water, shelter, a chance at a decent education, that kind of thing) first chance, much less a second one. Manning doesn’t ignore the reality but her focus is on the hopeful and the romantic. The characters are engaging and the historical perspective was enjoyable and informative. Manning's intelligent straight-forward narrative style is also a drawing card.
September 12, 2020
“Life’s full of messy edges.”
As soon as I read the first chapter I literally said out loud to myself “I’m going to love this.” I’m not a jewelry person at all, but I found myself fascinated by the journey gemstones take from being dug up to being worn by someone. Googling images of the places Kate went and the process of mining also added a great deal to the story for me. I thought Manning’s imagined scenario of the discovery of the ‘Cheapside Hoard’ was very believable and well written. I loved Essie and could have just read her life story and felt fulfilled.
There were a couple of things I wish could’ve been done better. For instance Freddie... his death is mentioned early on but never brought up again. What happened? When? I know it would’ve affected Essie, but it’s never mentioned. Also, the ‘present’ story had too many unnecessary characters. Only a couple were essential to the story. Really surprising myself by saying this but I really wish this had been longer. I felt that Kate’s romance and the ending felt rushed... but, again, I did really, really love Essie and would’ve been happy for another 100 pages devoted to her later life. Overall, I really enjoyed this quick read. 4 stars.
As soon as I read the first chapter I literally said out loud to myself “I’m going to love this.” I’m not a jewelry person at all, but I found myself fascinated by the journey gemstones take from being dug up to being worn by someone. Googling images of the places Kate went and the process of mining also added a great deal to the story for me. I thought Manning’s imagined scenario of the discovery of the ‘Cheapside Hoard’ was very believable and well written. I loved Essie and could have just read her life story and felt fulfilled.
There were a couple of things I wish could’ve been done better. For instance Freddie... his death is mentioned early on but never brought up again. What happened? When? I know it would’ve affected Essie, but it’s never mentioned. Also, the ‘present’ story had too many unnecessary characters. Only a couple were essential to the story. Really surprising myself by saying this but I really wish this had been longer. I felt that Kate’s romance and the ending felt rushed... but, again, I did really, really love Essie and would’ve been happy for another 100 pages devoted to her later life. Overall, I really enjoyed this quick read. 4 stars.
April 7, 2020
Kate Kirby, well respected American jewelry historian adored her great grandmother Essie and when she passed away, Kate was devastated. When Kate was asked to head to London to do in-depth research culminating in a paper on the Cheapside jewels, she was excited but had no idea what she was about to uncover. Did the sketches Kate discovered in Essie’s possessions have anything to do with the Cheapside jewelry in the long ago past?
Essie Murphy and her sister Gertie, along with older brother Freddie and young twins Flora and Maggie lived in squalor with their drunken mother. It was on Essie’s shoulders to care for her siblings as their mother had lost herself in grief when her husband had died. 1912 London was hard for the Irish immigrants and Essie worked her fingers to the bone for pennies. The day she visited Freddie on a worksite in Cheapside, where demolition was taking place, she saw Freddie and the others uncover treasure; magnificent jewels, gems and pendants…
As Kate and her photographer, Marcus Holt, travelled from London to India, Sri Lanka and Paris, they felt they were getting closer to the answers they sought. When Kate headed home to Boston finally, she was looking forward to seeing her sister and family, but more so in finalizing her paper. Was she at the end of the journey? Or would she be better to let the mysteries of the past lie?
The Lost Jewels by Aussie author Kirsty Manning was fascinating! A web of mystery from the early 1600s, through the early 1900s to present day which was woven intricately with a fabulous conclusion. I was completely lost in the story, which is based on a true story, and feel The Lost Jewels is the author’s best yet. I was immersed in Essie’s story; the heartbreak, poverty and despair came across the pages perfectly. An excellent historical read which I highly recommend.
With thanks to Allen & Unwin for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Essie Murphy and her sister Gertie, along with older brother Freddie and young twins Flora and Maggie lived in squalor with their drunken mother. It was on Essie’s shoulders to care for her siblings as their mother had lost herself in grief when her husband had died. 1912 London was hard for the Irish immigrants and Essie worked her fingers to the bone for pennies. The day she visited Freddie on a worksite in Cheapside, where demolition was taking place, she saw Freddie and the others uncover treasure; magnificent jewels, gems and pendants…
As Kate and her photographer, Marcus Holt, travelled from London to India, Sri Lanka and Paris, they felt they were getting closer to the answers they sought. When Kate headed home to Boston finally, she was looking forward to seeing her sister and family, but more so in finalizing her paper. Was she at the end of the journey? Or would she be better to let the mysteries of the past lie?
The Lost Jewels by Aussie author Kirsty Manning was fascinating! A web of mystery from the early 1600s, through the early 1900s to present day which was woven intricately with a fabulous conclusion. I was completely lost in the story, which is based on a true story, and feel The Lost Jewels is the author’s best yet. I was immersed in Essie’s story; the heartbreak, poverty and despair came across the pages perfectly. An excellent historical read which I highly recommend.
With thanks to Allen & Unwin for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
May 26, 2020
Based on “the true story of the Cheapside Hoard, dug up in a Cheapside cellar in 1912, (…) it is one of the most famous caches of jewels in the world, it is also the most mysterious. How could someone neglect to retrieve five hundred precious pieces of jewelry and gemstones?” This story is an imagined tale woven between the facts.
Present day Boston. Kate Kirby, American jewelry historian, writing for an American magazine, receives a call about the Cheapside jewels. She flies to London, where at the London Museum, as the curator of the museum presents the jewels, a button catches her eye. She has seen similar button in her great-grandmother’s sketches. There is also a diamond ring. Now, she is off to India in hopes of tracing the history of the Golconda diamond set in the ring.
London, 1912. Impoverished Irish immigrant Essie Murphy visits her brother at construction work, while a worker strikes through the floor finding a stash of treasure. Her brother sneaks in a small gold button.
India, 1630. A poor mine workman with a sick brother strikes a rough clear. He smuggles it to the market.
London, 1665. A goldsmith tinkers with a gold ring at his anvil. This will be his masterpiece and his only daughter’s wedding ring.
A few threads bonded by a rough clear set in a ring are woven into a beautifully touching story. It brings a vivid portrayal of the less fortunate people. You can really sense their daily hunger and daily fight for survival. I enjoyed the history of tracing jewelry linage. And was moved by the warmest possible kindness of family from whom struggling Murphy family rents a flat.
The layers of this story are like petals of the most beautiful flower. As you peel the petals you get to the bud, the core of the story, which is the diamond ring connecting all threads. And above all, the caring and kindness shine through it all, far more important than any gemstone. The unconditional bighearted love between two sisters is strikingly developed.
With impeccable prose, the author takes a reader into forgotten pocket of history with interesting aspect of tracing jewelry lineage, remarkable characters and fascinating story.
P.S. Also by this author, highly recommend The Song of the Jade Lily.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
Present day Boston. Kate Kirby, American jewelry historian, writing for an American magazine, receives a call about the Cheapside jewels. She flies to London, where at the London Museum, as the curator of the museum presents the jewels, a button catches her eye. She has seen similar button in her great-grandmother’s sketches. There is also a diamond ring. Now, she is off to India in hopes of tracing the history of the Golconda diamond set in the ring.
London, 1912. Impoverished Irish immigrant Essie Murphy visits her brother at construction work, while a worker strikes through the floor finding a stash of treasure. Her brother sneaks in a small gold button.
India, 1630. A poor mine workman with a sick brother strikes a rough clear. He smuggles it to the market.
London, 1665. A goldsmith tinkers with a gold ring at his anvil. This will be his masterpiece and his only daughter’s wedding ring.
A few threads bonded by a rough clear set in a ring are woven into a beautifully touching story. It brings a vivid portrayal of the less fortunate people. You can really sense their daily hunger and daily fight for survival. I enjoyed the history of tracing jewelry linage. And was moved by the warmest possible kindness of family from whom struggling Murphy family rents a flat.
The layers of this story are like petals of the most beautiful flower. As you peel the petals you get to the bud, the core of the story, which is the diamond ring connecting all threads. And above all, the caring and kindness shine through it all, far more important than any gemstone. The unconditional bighearted love between two sisters is strikingly developed.
With impeccable prose, the author takes a reader into forgotten pocket of history with interesting aspect of tracing jewelry lineage, remarkable characters and fascinating story.
P.S. Also by this author, highly recommend The Song of the Jade Lily.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
July 9, 2024
This is a well-written, entertaining, historical fiction novel which is told over several timelines and is based on actual events. It has likable, engaging characters, mystery, heartbreak, tragedy, hope, resilience, romance, a beautiful bond between sisters, and a satisfying conclusion. I listened to the audio book, and the narrator, Ms. Natasha Beaumont, has a lovely voice, and does an outstanding job depicting the characters and their personalities.
April 20, 2020
This a new author for me, and one that I would like to read more from.
The book is set across multiple timelines and locations. Kate is the present character who is researching a set of jewels that are part of a museum collection. She is an American but whose great grandmother was an Irish immigrant who had left London as a young woman and never returned. Kate recognises some of the jewels in the collection are very like drawings in her great grandmothers possession. In a parallel story we go back to Essie living in London is very poor conditions with an alcoholic mother and younger siblings she is trying very hard to look after.
In unravelling this story Kate discovers more about her family and herself.
A lovely story about the origin of jewellery and precious stones.
Thank you Allen & Unwin for the ARC copy of this book. I can recommend it to any fans of historical fiction.
The book is set across multiple timelines and locations. Kate is the present character who is researching a set of jewels that are part of a museum collection. She is an American but whose great grandmother was an Irish immigrant who had left London as a young woman and never returned. Kate recognises some of the jewels in the collection are very like drawings in her great grandmothers possession. In a parallel story we go back to Essie living in London is very poor conditions with an alcoholic mother and younger siblings she is trying very hard to look after.
In unravelling this story Kate discovers more about her family and herself.
A lovely story about the origin of jewellery and precious stones.
Thank you Allen & Unwin for the ARC copy of this book. I can recommend it to any fans of historical fiction.
May 29, 2020
Kirsty Manning is one of my auto-buy authors. Her books are so beautifully written, so well researched, and so poignant. I will be thinking about this one for a long time.
August 27, 2020
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**4.5 stars**
The Lost Jewels by Kirsty Manning. (2020).
In 1912 workmen in Cheapside, London uncover a cache of unimaginable valuable treasure that quickly disappears again. In the present day, respected jewellery historian Kate receives a call about the Cheapside jewels and knows she's on the brink of the experience of a lifetime. As Kate peels back layers of concealment and deception, she is forced to explore long-buried secrets concerning her great-grandmother Essie and Essie's life in London. Soon, Kate's past and present threaten to collide and the truths about her family lie waiting to be revealed.
I have no idea why but I left this one on my shelf for awhile before I felt in the mood to read it. Then I completely regretted waiting so long because it was such a great book! Inspired by the true story of the Cheapside jewel find, the author has created a fictionalized explanation. I was absolutely fascinated by the descriptions of the jewels, to the point where I started googling the real story haha. This story is told mainly through dual timelines (Kate and her grandmother Essie) however there are a few other chapters which relate to the history of the jewels which I found to be enjoyable intermissions. I was totally immersed in both Kate and Essie's respective timelines and thought they were extremely likeable women to follow. This is the first book by this author I've read but it will definitely not be the last.
Highly recommend this one to readers who enjoy historical fiction!
*www.facebook.com/onewomansbbr
**4.5 stars**
The Lost Jewels by Kirsty Manning. (2020).
In 1912 workmen in Cheapside, London uncover a cache of unimaginable valuable treasure that quickly disappears again. In the present day, respected jewellery historian Kate receives a call about the Cheapside jewels and knows she's on the brink of the experience of a lifetime. As Kate peels back layers of concealment and deception, she is forced to explore long-buried secrets concerning her great-grandmother Essie and Essie's life in London. Soon, Kate's past and present threaten to collide and the truths about her family lie waiting to be revealed.
I have no idea why but I left this one on my shelf for awhile before I felt in the mood to read it. Then I completely regretted waiting so long because it was such a great book! Inspired by the true story of the Cheapside jewel find, the author has created a fictionalized explanation. I was absolutely fascinated by the descriptions of the jewels, to the point where I started googling the real story haha. This story is told mainly through dual timelines (Kate and her grandmother Essie) however there are a few other chapters which relate to the history of the jewels which I found to be enjoyable intermissions. I was totally immersed in both Kate and Essie's respective timelines and thought they were extremely likeable women to follow. This is the first book by this author I've read but it will definitely not be the last.
Highly recommend this one to readers who enjoy historical fiction!
March 31, 2020
⭐️4.5 Stars⭐️
I found this story fascinating, it was rich with wonderful detail and historical timelines.
The Lost Jewels is a fictional story inspired by the true story of ‘The Cheapside Hoard', which is one of the most famous and mysterious finds of jewellery and gemstone treasures in the world. The cache was discovered in 1912 and surrounded in mystery.
Our main character is Dr. Kate Kirby who is a well-respected jewellery historian. She has been offered a trip to London for a huge investigative feature on the Cheapside story. The Cheapside Jewels were currently being held at the London Museum where they had just been restored.
Family secrets and historical jewels make this an astonishing and emotional mystery tale that delves into the past. A recommended read for historical fiction lovers.
I wish to thank Better Reading & Allen & Unwin, for generously providing me with an advanced copy of the book to read in return for an honest review
I found this story fascinating, it was rich with wonderful detail and historical timelines.
The Lost Jewels is a fictional story inspired by the true story of ‘The Cheapside Hoard', which is one of the most famous and mysterious finds of jewellery and gemstone treasures in the world. The cache was discovered in 1912 and surrounded in mystery.
Our main character is Dr. Kate Kirby who is a well-respected jewellery historian. She has been offered a trip to London for a huge investigative feature on the Cheapside story. The Cheapside Jewels were currently being held at the London Museum where they had just been restored.
Family secrets and historical jewels make this an astonishing and emotional mystery tale that delves into the past. A recommended read for historical fiction lovers.
I wish to thank Better Reading & Allen & Unwin, for generously providing me with an advanced copy of the book to read in return for an honest review
September 1, 2020
Bedazzled by this one......
Kirsty Manning takes us on quite an adventure based on true events from the past. We're introduced to Kate Kirby, an American authority on jewelry history. She's been requested to oversee the examination and photographing of a treasure trove known as the Cheapside Jewels (Weirdly named in London because of location).
The minute that Kate lays her eyes on the treasures, she knows that there is a connection here to her own family. Within her possession are jewelry sketches that her Irish great grandmother had for years. Essie was so very secretive of their origin. When Essie set sail for Boston long ago, she never desired to return to London for some strange reason. Now that Essie has passed away, it's almost impossible to find out the mysterious origins of these jewels.
The Lost Jewels is skillfully layered with visitation to 1912 as Essie Murphy is growing up in London within an impoverished immigrant family. Because of the instability of her mother's drinking and the loss of her father, it's up to Essie to care for her sisters and her older brother. Manning lays out the story well and we feel Essie's anguish as she tries to get the girls to school and provide for their needs. As Essie's story deepens, we are caught up in her plight.
Fast forward to the present and we become aware of unfortunate circumstances surrounding Kate as well. We also feel the strength and stamina that has found its way through the beads of connection between Essie and Kate. That's what will draw you in as well as the mysterious story behind these jewels that will find their way from a poor Irish lass to an American historian.
The Lost Jewels is quite the read even if you don't usually lean towards historical fiction. Solid characters, a multi-layered storyline, and a hint of mystery as well. And for you visual individuals like me.......a stunning cover to savor.
Kirsty Manning takes us on quite an adventure based on true events from the past. We're introduced to Kate Kirby, an American authority on jewelry history. She's been requested to oversee the examination and photographing of a treasure trove known as the Cheapside Jewels (Weirdly named in London because of location).
The minute that Kate lays her eyes on the treasures, she knows that there is a connection here to her own family. Within her possession are jewelry sketches that her Irish great grandmother had for years. Essie was so very secretive of their origin. When Essie set sail for Boston long ago, she never desired to return to London for some strange reason. Now that Essie has passed away, it's almost impossible to find out the mysterious origins of these jewels.
The Lost Jewels is skillfully layered with visitation to 1912 as Essie Murphy is growing up in London within an impoverished immigrant family. Because of the instability of her mother's drinking and the loss of her father, it's up to Essie to care for her sisters and her older brother. Manning lays out the story well and we feel Essie's anguish as she tries to get the girls to school and provide for their needs. As Essie's story deepens, we are caught up in her plight.
Fast forward to the present and we become aware of unfortunate circumstances surrounding Kate as well. We also feel the strength and stamina that has found its way through the beads of connection between Essie and Kate. That's what will draw you in as well as the mysterious story behind these jewels that will find their way from a poor Irish lass to an American historian.
The Lost Jewels is quite the read even if you don't usually lean towards historical fiction. Solid characters, a multi-layered storyline, and a hint of mystery as well. And for you visual individuals like me.......a stunning cover to savor.
October 11, 2024
Four and a half stars
Kate Kirby Is a respected jewellery historian, she receives a call about the Cheapside jewels and feels she is going to uncover them steers surrounding them. But her trip to London throws light on some secrets that have been buried in her own family. A series of sketches appear to link her suffragette great Grandmother Essie to the Cheapside collection. Who buried the jewels and never returned for them and why? And what does it have to do with her family?
Along with photographer Marcus Holt, Kate seeks to find out the truth about the Cheapside jewellery, especially the story behind one small diamond and enamel ring. But what will it reveal? And what will she do with the information she discovers. Could it cause too much harm to her family?
The story tells of some very hard lives and the dreadful conditions some families had to face. Though these characters are fictional it is based on a true story of the Cheapside jewels which were dug up in a cellar in 1912. It tells a fascinating story that ranges over a lot of years, from the 1600s to 1900s and present day. Add in places from Boston, to England, India, Sri Lanka and other places.
It details the story of family and the lengths some people had to go to just to survive. Essie is determined that her sister Gertie, who is very bright and also talented at drawing, will stay at school and not end up working in the factory. But she needs help, which she won’t get from her alcoholic mother. But why did Essie end up leaving London and never returning?
Among the mystery surrounding the jewels and the involving family story it also features a romance and heartbreak for some. So, a lot happening to keep attention riveted.
An engrossing read in this historical novel with a lot to enjoy and think about. Highly recommended.
Kate Kirby Is a respected jewellery historian, she receives a call about the Cheapside jewels and feels she is going to uncover them steers surrounding them. But her trip to London throws light on some secrets that have been buried in her own family. A series of sketches appear to link her suffragette great Grandmother Essie to the Cheapside collection. Who buried the jewels and never returned for them and why? And what does it have to do with her family?
Along with photographer Marcus Holt, Kate seeks to find out the truth about the Cheapside jewellery, especially the story behind one small diamond and enamel ring. But what will it reveal? And what will she do with the information she discovers. Could it cause too much harm to her family?
The story tells of some very hard lives and the dreadful conditions some families had to face. Though these characters are fictional it is based on a true story of the Cheapside jewels which were dug up in a cellar in 1912. It tells a fascinating story that ranges over a lot of years, from the 1600s to 1900s and present day. Add in places from Boston, to England, India, Sri Lanka and other places.
It details the story of family and the lengths some people had to go to just to survive. Essie is determined that her sister Gertie, who is very bright and also talented at drawing, will stay at school and not end up working in the factory. But she needs help, which she won’t get from her alcoholic mother. But why did Essie end up leaving London and never returning?
Among the mystery surrounding the jewels and the involving family story it also features a romance and heartbreak for some. So, a lot happening to keep attention riveted.
An engrossing read in this historical novel with a lot to enjoy and think about. Highly recommended.
April 8, 2020
It was such a pleasure to read this book! The story is told over a few different time periods, based on the real find of jewellery in London known as the Cheapside Hoard. The writing is beautiful and I loved the characters(I think I could’ve read a book just about Essie and Gertie) and the pacing to reveal all the ins and outs of the story is perfect.
February 4, 2022
Let's give this baby a 3.5. It's not a not to be missed by any stretch, and there are a couple of great lines in there. Every jewel has its own story and life. This is the story of a collection of gemstones that found their own path from India to London, to Boston. Its also the story of two sisters, and their great grandchildren. Uncovered histories of love, heartbreak, loss, thievery, resilience, hope, new life, and what is most precious. I liked it, I enjoyed it. Not a rave, but it kept me entertained.
August 2, 2020
In this engaging story told in several timelines, we meet Dr. Kate Kirby in present day. She is a jewelry historian and researcher living in Boston. Kate accepts an assignment to write an article for a luxury magazine about the Cheapside Hoard, a collection of hundreds of jewels believed to have been lost/hidden in London in 1666 and found in 1912 during a building excavation. The collection is currently located at The Museum of London. With photographer Marcus Holt, they travel to London, India, Sri Lanka and Paris to try and unravel the mystery. This is a perfect time for Kate to get away as she is dealing with loss and pain.
When Kate see one of the items, she immediately recognizes it from a drawing in her late great-grandmother Essie’s journal. Essie promised to tell Kate the story of her life and why she left London but never lived long enough to reveal her secrets. Kate fears she will never learn the truth about the fairy tale Essie had told a young Kate and her sister about seeing buckets of jewels pulled from a pile of rubble.
The book brings us to 1912 where we learn the story of Essie and her family. They were poor Irish immigrants living a hard life in London. Author Kirsty Manning brings the reader into the awful circumstances met by this poor and struggling family and the conditions surrounding them. With her father deceased and her mother lost in her drinking, Essie assumes a parental role making many sacrifices for her siblings.
Going back to the 1600’s, the origin of the jewelry is told and it is here where the author’s incredible research provides a wealth of information on something we all enjoy for its beauty but rarely think about its history.
While this book keeps the reader glued to finding out the mystery behind the hidden gems, at its heart, The Lost Jewels is about devotion to family, sacrifice, loss and ultimately love.
Be sure to read the Author’s Note at the end. This book was inspired by the actual Cheapside Hoard which was dug up in 1912. Its mystery has never been solved. You’ll be compelled to check the websites and videos available on the actual collection.
Many thanks to Edelweiss, William Morrow / HarperCollins and the author for a copy of this enjoyable book in advance of its August 4, 2020 U.S. publication date.
Review posted at MicheleReader.com.
When Kate see one of the items, she immediately recognizes it from a drawing in her late great-grandmother Essie’s journal. Essie promised to tell Kate the story of her life and why she left London but never lived long enough to reveal her secrets. Kate fears she will never learn the truth about the fairy tale Essie had told a young Kate and her sister about seeing buckets of jewels pulled from a pile of rubble.
The book brings us to 1912 where we learn the story of Essie and her family. They were poor Irish immigrants living a hard life in London. Author Kirsty Manning brings the reader into the awful circumstances met by this poor and struggling family and the conditions surrounding them. With her father deceased and her mother lost in her drinking, Essie assumes a parental role making many sacrifices for her siblings.
Going back to the 1600’s, the origin of the jewelry is told and it is here where the author’s incredible research provides a wealth of information on something we all enjoy for its beauty but rarely think about its history.
While this book keeps the reader glued to finding out the mystery behind the hidden gems, at its heart, The Lost Jewels is about devotion to family, sacrifice, loss and ultimately love.
Be sure to read the Author’s Note at the end. This book was inspired by the actual Cheapside Hoard which was dug up in 1912. Its mystery has never been solved. You’ll be compelled to check the websites and videos available on the actual collection.
Many thanks to Edelweiss, William Morrow / HarperCollins and the author for a copy of this enjoyable book in advance of its August 4, 2020 U.S. publication date.
Review posted at MicheleReader.com.
March 24, 2024
I have to be honest. Although this book is superbly written, it was a DNF for me.
I did not imagine that it would be. First off, this book is about missing jewels.
Our main character is Kate and she is a Gemologist who gets an assignment to track down the missing Cheapside jewels.
I should say that the reason it’s considered historical fiction is because it alternates between the past and the present as there are multiple storylines going on from the first page.
While I have always sometimes rated books that I DNF, lately I’ve begun to do it more because I’m always worried that somebody will see a review with no stars, and think the book was awful and that was certainly not the case. I could actually see this being a five star read for many people. Many times one doesn’t connect with a book but that’s because it’s not their genre or for another reason. It doesn’t mean that the book is bad.
With this book , the way the gems are described, are amazing. I am a very visual reader, and I read in colors, and I had no problem whatsoever in that regard as the fiery, jewels, and their magnificence was described incredibly well, and kind of put me into a trance where I wanted to go to the nearest jewelry store and take a look around
I imagined it to be much different. When I first saw this book, I pictured kind of an adventure story, an archaeologist on a dig to find buried jewels, and I didn’t expect some of what I got which while not bad , are just not things I love.
I’m really not into multiple storylines and if there are going to be multiple storylines, I really prefer no more than two.
I forget where I stopped reading but there were three or four different plots, and a lot of people introduced very quickly and that’s just not the kind of book I am into.
The other problem for me was this appeared to be also a romance, and I could predict exactly who the romance was going to be between. I’m not that much of a romance reader, although interestingly enough , lately, I seem to be picking books and almost every one of them has some kind of romantic thing going on.
Sometimes I like it and sometimes I don’t but I really wasn’t in the mood for that.
So this wasn’t for me, but I could really see other people liking this, and I even really liked some aspects of it as I mentioned.
I did not imagine that it would be. First off, this book is about missing jewels.
Our main character is Kate and she is a Gemologist who gets an assignment to track down the missing Cheapside jewels.
I should say that the reason it’s considered historical fiction is because it alternates between the past and the present as there are multiple storylines going on from the first page.
While I have always sometimes rated books that I DNF, lately I’ve begun to do it more because I’m always worried that somebody will see a review with no stars, and think the book was awful and that was certainly not the case. I could actually see this being a five star read for many people. Many times one doesn’t connect with a book but that’s because it’s not their genre or for another reason. It doesn’t mean that the book is bad.
With this book , the way the gems are described, are amazing. I am a very visual reader, and I read in colors, and I had no problem whatsoever in that regard as the fiery, jewels, and their magnificence was described incredibly well, and kind of put me into a trance where I wanted to go to the nearest jewelry store and take a look around
I imagined it to be much different. When I first saw this book, I pictured kind of an adventure story, an archaeologist on a dig to find buried jewels, and I didn’t expect some of what I got which while not bad , are just not things I love.
I’m really not into multiple storylines and if there are going to be multiple storylines, I really prefer no more than two.
I forget where I stopped reading but there were three or four different plots, and a lot of people introduced very quickly and that’s just not the kind of book I am into.
The other problem for me was this appeared to be also a romance, and I could predict exactly who the romance was going to be between. I’m not that much of a romance reader, although interestingly enough , lately, I seem to be picking books and almost every one of them has some kind of romantic thing going on.
Sometimes I like it and sometimes I don’t but I really wasn’t in the mood for that.
So this wasn’t for me, but I could really see other people liking this, and I even really liked some aspects of it as I mentioned.
July 14, 2020
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
An astonishing cache of precious jewels, a mystery that spans centuries, consuming family secrets and a beguiling love story defines The Lost Jewels by Kirsty Manning. Jewellery enthusiasts, treasure hunters and historical fiction lovers will find much to admire in Kirsty Manning’s third novel. In my opinion, Kirsty Manning reaches for the stars in every book she produces and The Lost Jewels is no exception!
Kirsty Manning has taken yet another absolutely fascinating and almost unbelievable pocket of history to inform her new novel, The Lost Jewels. Filling in the gaps with well-informed speculative fiction, Manning re-imagines the events surrounding the shocking discovery of a cache of jewels in the Cheapside area of London. Not long after this amazing haul is unearthed, it vanishes. In the present day, a historian with a special interest in jewellery is called in to work on the case of the Cheapside jewels haul. Kate knows that working on this age old mystery will be the case of her career. Kate faces an uphill battle in unlocking secrets from the past. This fascinating investigation into the past leads Kate on a path to her own family, involving her great grandmother Essie in this remarkable tale of deception, betrayal and heartbreak. As the Cheapside haul takes on a life of its own, Kate is thrown into a collision between the past and present, with surprising results.
In terms of high quality historical fiction, no one in my eyes does it better than Kirsty Manning. I am a loyal and long standing fan Manning’s work, having supported her writing since I first set eyes on her debut, A Midsummer Garden. Naturally, I was very eager to read Manning’s latest and third novel, The Lost Jewels. As I expected, there were no surprises in how much I enjoyed, loved and absolutely adored this novel. I’m sure The Lost Jewels is destined to be one of my top 2020 reads.
Manning is quite the master at combined narrative and multiple timeline based stories. In the case of The Lost Jewels, this narrative traverses the present day, to 1912 and back to the 1600s. It is clearly an ambitious feat, but Manning pulls it off with precision and historical energy. I really love the 1912 time period and Kirsty Manning did complete justice to this turning point in history. I was utterly enthralled by the Cheapside haul discovery, what a treasure hunt with a difference! As The Lost Jewels is inspired by true events, it seemed to give this story another fabulous layer that pulled me in further to the novel.
Manning is an artful, comprehensive and dedicated specialist to the historical fiction field. The further reading section based at the close of the book gives the reader a very good indication of the amount and type of research that was conducted by the author to inform her latest novel. Everything from walking tours, museum visits, books, food references and video footage has been utilised in forming The Lost Jewels. Manning’s novel is believable, credible, authentic and well informed. It is also very rousing, encouraging the reader to take on an unknown snippet of history and complete their own little investigations. How inspiring!
In terms of the narrative itself, I couldn’t turn my eyes away from this one. Real life needed to wait while I remained with The Lost Jewels! It is surprising for such a rich tapestry of historical information, that Manning was able to keep this one so well tuned. Readers will enjoy basking in the historical transitions which are seamless, moving effortlessly from the present day, to 1912 and back in time to the 1600s. These are very separate locales in time, but the interchanges are handled with a sense of delicacy and precision, which is thanks to the deft writer’s hand of Kirsty Manning.
The Lost Jewels has a truly unforgettable cast of characters. I really loved Essie, she was a beautiful soul, with an incredible life story. The present day characters of Kate and Marcus are essential components to the overall puzzle this book presents, providing a guiding light to the reader. I appreciated the little touch of romance that circulated around the present day protagonists, which offset the story just perfectly.
Kirsty Manning’s The Lost Jewels is a glorious and awe-inspiring tale of larceny, adventure, time, wealth, family, love, sacrifice and endurance. Another blue ribbon title from one of our nation’s leading edge historical fiction novelists.
*Thanks extended to Allen & Unwin for providing a free copy of this book for review purposes.
The Lost Jewels is book #81 of the 2020 Australian Women Writers Challenge
An astonishing cache of precious jewels, a mystery that spans centuries, consuming family secrets and a beguiling love story defines The Lost Jewels by Kirsty Manning. Jewellery enthusiasts, treasure hunters and historical fiction lovers will find much to admire in Kirsty Manning’s third novel. In my opinion, Kirsty Manning reaches for the stars in every book she produces and The Lost Jewels is no exception!
Kirsty Manning has taken yet another absolutely fascinating and almost unbelievable pocket of history to inform her new novel, The Lost Jewels. Filling in the gaps with well-informed speculative fiction, Manning re-imagines the events surrounding the shocking discovery of a cache of jewels in the Cheapside area of London. Not long after this amazing haul is unearthed, it vanishes. In the present day, a historian with a special interest in jewellery is called in to work on the case of the Cheapside jewels haul. Kate knows that working on this age old mystery will be the case of her career. Kate faces an uphill battle in unlocking secrets from the past. This fascinating investigation into the past leads Kate on a path to her own family, involving her great grandmother Essie in this remarkable tale of deception, betrayal and heartbreak. As the Cheapside haul takes on a life of its own, Kate is thrown into a collision between the past and present, with surprising results.
In terms of high quality historical fiction, no one in my eyes does it better than Kirsty Manning. I am a loyal and long standing fan Manning’s work, having supported her writing since I first set eyes on her debut, A Midsummer Garden. Naturally, I was very eager to read Manning’s latest and third novel, The Lost Jewels. As I expected, there were no surprises in how much I enjoyed, loved and absolutely adored this novel. I’m sure The Lost Jewels is destined to be one of my top 2020 reads.
Manning is quite the master at combined narrative and multiple timeline based stories. In the case of The Lost Jewels, this narrative traverses the present day, to 1912 and back to the 1600s. It is clearly an ambitious feat, but Manning pulls it off with precision and historical energy. I really love the 1912 time period and Kirsty Manning did complete justice to this turning point in history. I was utterly enthralled by the Cheapside haul discovery, what a treasure hunt with a difference! As The Lost Jewels is inspired by true events, it seemed to give this story another fabulous layer that pulled me in further to the novel.
Manning is an artful, comprehensive and dedicated specialist to the historical fiction field. The further reading section based at the close of the book gives the reader a very good indication of the amount and type of research that was conducted by the author to inform her latest novel. Everything from walking tours, museum visits, books, food references and video footage has been utilised in forming The Lost Jewels. Manning’s novel is believable, credible, authentic and well informed. It is also very rousing, encouraging the reader to take on an unknown snippet of history and complete their own little investigations. How inspiring!
In terms of the narrative itself, I couldn’t turn my eyes away from this one. Real life needed to wait while I remained with The Lost Jewels! It is surprising for such a rich tapestry of historical information, that Manning was able to keep this one so well tuned. Readers will enjoy basking in the historical transitions which are seamless, moving effortlessly from the present day, to 1912 and back in time to the 1600s. These are very separate locales in time, but the interchanges are handled with a sense of delicacy and precision, which is thanks to the deft writer’s hand of Kirsty Manning.
The Lost Jewels has a truly unforgettable cast of characters. I really loved Essie, she was a beautiful soul, with an incredible life story. The present day characters of Kate and Marcus are essential components to the overall puzzle this book presents, providing a guiding light to the reader. I appreciated the little touch of romance that circulated around the present day protagonists, which offset the story just perfectly.
Kirsty Manning’s The Lost Jewels is a glorious and awe-inspiring tale of larceny, adventure, time, wealth, family, love, sacrifice and endurance. Another blue ribbon title from one of our nation’s leading edge historical fiction novelists.
*Thanks extended to Allen & Unwin for providing a free copy of this book for review purposes.
The Lost Jewels is book #81 of the 2020 Australian Women Writers Challenge
April 3, 2020
In The Lost Jewels, author Kirsty Manning weaves a fictional narrative around the mystery of the ‘Cheapside Hoard’, a large cache of expensive jewellery unearthed during construction in a London street in 1912.
The ‘present day’ timeline introduces Kate Kirby, an American historian who specialises in investigating the provenance of jewellery. Offered a rare opportunity to view the jewels discovered in Cheapside, the story follows Kate from the United States to England, India, France and then back as she attempts to trace the origins of a handful of pieces of the collection, during which she discovers a link between one of the pieces and her own family history.
Entwined with Kate’s journey, are two historical timelines, one of which reveals the story of Kate’s great grandmother, Essie Murphy, and her connection to the found jewellery set during the early 1900’s, and another set at two different points in the 1600’s which reveals the origin of one particular piece of a jewellery, a diamond champlevé enamel ring.
I found I appreciated the story of The Lost Jewels more after I googled the ‘Cheapside Hoard’ and was better able to understand what a remarkable find the jewels were. Manning’s speculations about the origin of the Hoard through her fiction read as credible and interesting, though to this date the truth remains a mystery, and likely always will.
Essie’s story as a young woman struggling to survive and raise her siblings was of the most interesting to me. I thought the author’s portrayal of daily life in urban London for its poorest citizens was accurate, and I had empathy for the Murphy family, particularly Essie, and her sister Gertie, who experienced such hardship and tragedy so young.
I liked Kate well enough. I thought Manning communicated her passion for her work well, I don’t particularly care for jewellery but this novel did prompt me to think about the story’s custom pieces could reveal. There is a touch of romance that is developed between Kate and Australian photographer, Marcus, but it was kept fairly low key.
Well written and researched, I found the The Lost Jewels to be a pleasantly engaging read, of family, secrets, love, loss, and new beginnings.
The ‘present day’ timeline introduces Kate Kirby, an American historian who specialises in investigating the provenance of jewellery. Offered a rare opportunity to view the jewels discovered in Cheapside, the story follows Kate from the United States to England, India, France and then back as she attempts to trace the origins of a handful of pieces of the collection, during which she discovers a link between one of the pieces and her own family history.
Entwined with Kate’s journey, are two historical timelines, one of which reveals the story of Kate’s great grandmother, Essie Murphy, and her connection to the found jewellery set during the early 1900’s, and another set at two different points in the 1600’s which reveals the origin of one particular piece of a jewellery, a diamond champlevé enamel ring.
I found I appreciated the story of The Lost Jewels more after I googled the ‘Cheapside Hoard’ and was better able to understand what a remarkable find the jewels were. Manning’s speculations about the origin of the Hoard through her fiction read as credible and interesting, though to this date the truth remains a mystery, and likely always will.
Essie’s story as a young woman struggling to survive and raise her siblings was of the most interesting to me. I thought the author’s portrayal of daily life in urban London for its poorest citizens was accurate, and I had empathy for the Murphy family, particularly Essie, and her sister Gertie, who experienced such hardship and tragedy so young.
I liked Kate well enough. I thought Manning communicated her passion for her work well, I don’t particularly care for jewellery but this novel did prompt me to think about the story’s custom pieces could reveal. There is a touch of romance that is developed between Kate and Australian photographer, Marcus, but it was kept fairly low key.
Well written and researched, I found the The Lost Jewels to be a pleasantly engaging read, of family, secrets, love, loss, and new beginnings.
November 13, 2020
A great story but it felt a bit rushed at the end.
June 19, 2021
One of my friends is enjoying a book by Kirsten Manning and I thought it sounded pretty well right for a happy light read. Indeed it is. Fictional modern historian Kate tracks the mysteries of the Cheapside jewellery hoard and her family history.
There’s tragedy along the way, but several happy endings along the way.
Well researched and nicely balanced.
There’s tragedy along the way, but several happy endings along the way.
Well researched and nicely balanced.
October 12, 2020
disappointing follow-up to incredible, “ The Song of the Jade Lily.” Review to come soon. — mo✌️
August 28, 2020
This novel has two basic timelines that we follow:
Present: Kate Kirby is asked to write a piece about a horde of jewels dug up in 1912 called The Cheapside Jewels (an actual historical event). After finding some sketches that may link her beloved great grandmother to the jewels, Kate realizes that writing this article may also uncover some deeply buried family secrets.
Past: In 1912, when Essie Murphy is visiting her brother at his worksite, a stash of jewels is discovered by the men working there. Unbeknownst to Essie, this discovery would change the course of her life.
The interweaving of Kate and Essie's stories is well done. On a whole, I enjoyed Essie's character much more than Kate. Essie just felt like a much stronger and more fleshed out character. In addition to these two timelines, there are also little micro-stories peppered throughout the narrative that followed the history of how some of the pieces in the collection came into being. I loved these little glimpses of the past even though in terms of the story it just seemed like background the author wanted to show you because the stories themselves didn't seem to be things Kate uncovered in her research. They were interesting though and led you deeper into the history of the jewels.
Overall I had a good time with this story. I found all the past timelines more interesting than the present one, but Kate's timeline wasn't bad, just uneventful. I'd recommend to those who enjoy stories that interweave timelines, or lovers of historical fiction.
* eARC provided through NetGalley for an honest review *
Below are images of the actual Cheapeside Jewels that are often mentioned in the book:
Present: Kate Kirby is asked to write a piece about a horde of jewels dug up in 1912 called The Cheapside Jewels (an actual historical event). After finding some sketches that may link her beloved great grandmother to the jewels, Kate realizes that writing this article may also uncover some deeply buried family secrets.
Past: In 1912, when Essie Murphy is visiting her brother at his worksite, a stash of jewels is discovered by the men working there. Unbeknownst to Essie, this discovery would change the course of her life.
The interweaving of Kate and Essie's stories is well done. On a whole, I enjoyed Essie's character much more than Kate. Essie just felt like a much stronger and more fleshed out character. In addition to these two timelines, there are also little micro-stories peppered throughout the narrative that followed the history of how some of the pieces in the collection came into being. I loved these little glimpses of the past even though in terms of the story it just seemed like background the author wanted to show you because the stories themselves didn't seem to be things Kate uncovered in her research. They were interesting though and led you deeper into the history of the jewels.
Overall I had a good time with this story. I found all the past timelines more interesting than the present one, but Kate's timeline wasn't bad, just uneventful. I'd recommend to those who enjoy stories that interweave timelines, or lovers of historical fiction.
* eARC provided through NetGalley for an honest review *
Below are images of the actual Cheapeside Jewels that are often mentioned in the book:
December 31, 2020
Dear Kirsty,
This is my second time that I have been lucky to read one of your novels, my first experience was 'The Jade Lily' and it was incredible... So I jumped at the chance to read your third novel 'The Lost Jewels' and I loveddd it!!!
I enjoyed Kate as a character, found her relatable enough for myself, but I really loved Essie, she really got me hooked and completely enthralled by her story, she was a strong and brave young woman, a bit of a bad ass in the best possible way ..
I also thoroughly enjoyed how you weaved the aspects of history through Kate's story with the aspect from a historian perspective, I could really appreciate the history this way but then again I am bit of a history nut, so I will soak up all and any bits of history...
And now I cannot wait for your next book, and keep my eyes peeled for it, and while I wait I am going to seek out your first book 'The Midsummer Garden' and get my read on...
I can safely and excitingly say you are definitely on my fave authors list, and I will always seek out your work and enjoy the ride it gives me...
Until the next story,
Natty
*copy of my 'The Lost Jewels' was courtesy of Allen & Unwin in exchange for a honest review.*
This is my second time that I have been lucky to read one of your novels, my first experience was 'The Jade Lily' and it was incredible... So I jumped at the chance to read your third novel 'The Lost Jewels' and I loveddd it!!!
I enjoyed Kate as a character, found her relatable enough for myself, but I really loved Essie, she really got me hooked and completely enthralled by her story, she was a strong and brave young woman, a bit of a bad ass in the best possible way ..
I also thoroughly enjoyed how you weaved the aspects of history through Kate's story with the aspect from a historian perspective, I could really appreciate the history this way but then again I am bit of a history nut, so I will soak up all and any bits of history...
And now I cannot wait for your next book, and keep my eyes peeled for it, and while I wait I am going to seek out your first book 'The Midsummer Garden' and get my read on...
I can safely and excitingly say you are definitely on my fave authors list, and I will always seek out your work and enjoy the ride it gives me...
Until the next story,
Natty
*copy of my 'The Lost Jewels' was courtesy of Allen & Unwin in exchange for a honest review.*
August 20, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. I thought the details of a jewelry historian was interesting, I liked learning about that occupation. I liked how everything tied together and how the main character learned a lot about her family history through jewels and tracking them. I liked both timelines as well. Really good!
*Huge thanks to the publisher for an early copy to read and review!
*Huge thanks to the publisher for an early copy to read and review!
February 21, 2021
Honestly this book was sooo boring. I had to literally push myself to finish reading this book. I was completely unsatisfied with the ending. Also the constant changing if perspectives and time periods made the book confusing. Overall it was a boring confusing book with superficial characters and I would not recommend. No shade to the author.
August 9, 2020
This cover three places and four timelines with different storytellers. The story is depressing. There is a lot of hardship and sadness and negativity. It was also slow. Maybe I would have liked this more with fewer characters and storylines.
January 5, 2023
Tři dějové linie v knize Kirsty Manningové vás opět dostanou. Ztracené klenoty jsou druhou knihou autorky a já bych snad řekla, že i tou nejkrásnější.
Kirsty Manningová má nádherný spisovatelský dar, který vás opravdu nejenže vtáhne do děje, ale chytne vás i za srdce. Ve Ztracených klenotech se dozvíte mnoho o historii, o výrobě šperků, ale také o životě v různých dobách. Tento příběh pojí tajemství, láska, smrt, historie a cestování. Pokud tahle kombinace není dokonalá a jako stvořená pro naprosto kouzelný a úchvatný příběh, pak už opravdu nevím!
Díky historičce Kate se podíváme do několika koutů světa v současnosti i minulosti. Budeme putovat po stejných stopách, po kterých se vydávaly drahokamy nalezeného pokladu. Je to kouzelná cesta objevování a odkrývání nejen minulosti pokladu samotného, ale také rodinné minulosti. Je to cesta zapomínání na bolestné okamžiky vlastního života a nalézání nového přátelství.
Milé dámy a pánové, dovolte mi vám sdělit, že tohle je jedna z nejkrásnějších knih, kterou jsem letos četla. Všechny tři knihy od Kirsty Manningové jsou nádherné, ale tahle, tahle ke mě doputovala tak nějak nejvíce ze všech.
Jak autorka sama uvádí, její příběh je smyšlený, i když je inspirovaný skutečnými událostmi. Na zadní straně knihy můžeme najít část seznamu literatury, do které autorka nahlížela při psaní, aby nám podala co nejvěrohodnější příběh. Její rešerše jsou v příběhu opravdu znát, protože při čtení se zkrátka ocitnete v době, o které píše. Do detailů nám předkládá život v různých historických obdobích. Popis míst a situací je tak krásný a povedený, že se zkrátka při čtení ocitnete v naprosto jiné realitě. Že se ocitnete v samotném příběhu.
Promyšlenost celého příběhu je naprosto brilantní a obdivuhodná. Je pro mne snad až naprosto nepochopitelné, jak vůbec mohlo takové dílo vzniknout. Jak se to dělá? Jak může mít někdo tak krásnou fantazii, kterou propojí s realitou a vznikne takový příběh?
Kapitoly v knize nejsou nijak příliš dlouhé a hezky se střídají dějové linky, které se na svém konci pojí v jeden velký a krásný příběh, kdy vše do sebe krásně zapadne. Zapadá to už v průběhu celého čtení, ale na konci si to hezky sedne.
Všechny postavy si zamilujete. Myslím hlavní postavy. Alkoholická matinka vám bude hrát na nervy, učitel ze školy taky a kněz také nepobral příliš mnoho empatie, řekla bych. Ale Kate, Marcuse, Essie a její sourozence budete mít rádi. A přesně o nich je příběh především. Budete také obdivovat krásu šperků a kouzlo jejich výroby.
Na této knize jsem nenašla ani zrnko toho, co bych ji mohla vytknout. Je to opravdu nádherný příběh a já vám ho z celého srdce mohu doporučit. Bylo to tak krásné, až je mi líto, že to skončilo… ale kdo ví, třeba nás autorka brzy potěší další svou knihou.
Kirsty Manningová má nádherný spisovatelský dar, který vás opravdu nejenže vtáhne do děje, ale chytne vás i za srdce. Ve Ztracených klenotech se dozvíte mnoho o historii, o výrobě šperků, ale také o životě v různých dobách. Tento příběh pojí tajemství, láska, smrt, historie a cestování. Pokud tahle kombinace není dokonalá a jako stvořená pro naprosto kouzelný a úchvatný příběh, pak už opravdu nevím!
Díky historičce Kate se podíváme do několika koutů světa v současnosti i minulosti. Budeme putovat po stejných stopách, po kterých se vydávaly drahokamy nalezeného pokladu. Je to kouzelná cesta objevování a odkrývání nejen minulosti pokladu samotného, ale také rodinné minulosti. Je to cesta zapomínání na bolestné okamžiky vlastního života a nalézání nového přátelství.
Milé dámy a pánové, dovolte mi vám sdělit, že tohle je jedna z nejkrásnějších knih, kterou jsem letos četla. Všechny tři knihy od Kirsty Manningové jsou nádherné, ale tahle, tahle ke mě doputovala tak nějak nejvíce ze všech.
Jak autorka sama uvádí, její příběh je smyšlený, i když je inspirovaný skutečnými událostmi. Na zadní straně knihy můžeme najít část seznamu literatury, do které autorka nahlížela při psaní, aby nám podala co nejvěrohodnější příběh. Její rešerše jsou v příběhu opravdu znát, protože při čtení se zkrátka ocitnete v době, o které píše. Do detailů nám předkládá život v různých historických obdobích. Popis míst a situací je tak krásný a povedený, že se zkrátka při čtení ocitnete v naprosto jiné realitě. Že se ocitnete v samotném příběhu.
Promyšlenost celého příběhu je naprosto brilantní a obdivuhodná. Je pro mne snad až naprosto nepochopitelné, jak vůbec mohlo takové dílo vzniknout. Jak se to dělá? Jak může mít někdo tak krásnou fantazii, kterou propojí s realitou a vznikne takový příběh?
Kapitoly v knize nejsou nijak příliš dlouhé a hezky se střídají dějové linky, které se na svém konci pojí v jeden velký a krásný příběh, kdy vše do sebe krásně zapadne. Zapadá to už v průběhu celého čtení, ale na konci si to hezky sedne.
Všechny postavy si zamilujete. Myslím hlavní postavy. Alkoholická matinka vám bude hrát na nervy, učitel ze školy taky a kněz také nepobral příliš mnoho empatie, řekla bych. Ale Kate, Marcuse, Essie a její sourozence budete mít rádi. A přesně o nich je příběh především. Budete také obdivovat krásu šperků a kouzlo jejich výroby.
Na této knize jsem nenašla ani zrnko toho, co bych ji mohla vytknout. Je to opravdu nádherný příběh a já vám ho z celého srdce mohu doporučit. Bylo to tak krásné, až je mi líto, že to skončilo… ale kdo ví, třeba nás autorka brzy potěší další svou knihou.
August 7, 2020
The Lost Jewels is the fictional imagining of the Cheapside Jewels, which I had never heard about prior to reading this book, and what an amazing story it was. The time periods from the 1660s to 1912 to present day were flawlessly woven together. The intricate details of the jewels were described in such a way that you could picture them in your mind. This is the first book I’ve read by this author, but it certainly won’t be the last.
Thank you to the publisher for the advanced copy; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thank you to the publisher for the advanced copy; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 19, 2020
The Lost Jewels ~ a treasure hunt across the centuries; starts 1600's London to present day, Boston.
Kate ~ a jewellery historian has to be in London to uncover and find The Cheapside Jewels. Kate discovers she's on the brink of an experience of a lifetime.
The descriptions in this book are both exciting and unique as the writer expertly describes the many coloured jewels, buttons and a rare, unique diamond from India.
Envelop yourself in the scent of some of the spices found in the cuisine as you rummage through the pages from London to exotic scenes in Indian bazaars and uncover the past before you as you read, love and enjoy, The Lost Jewels by Kirsty Manning ~ a treasure hunt discovering secrets from the past!
Kate ~ a jewellery historian has to be in London to uncover and find The Cheapside Jewels. Kate discovers she's on the brink of an experience of a lifetime.
The descriptions in this book are both exciting and unique as the writer expertly describes the many coloured jewels, buttons and a rare, unique diamond from India.
Envelop yourself in the scent of some of the spices found in the cuisine as you rummage through the pages from London to exotic scenes in Indian bazaars and uncover the past before you as you read, love and enjoy, The Lost Jewels by Kirsty Manning ~ a treasure hunt discovering secrets from the past!
March 15, 2020
I absolutely devoured this one! Every time was my favourite, I loved every character. I loved all the food. I loved all the descriptions. Loved the mystery. Absolutely loved the jewels, and I am not a jewellery person! Absolutely loved it
December 20, 2020
I was interested in this book because of the unusual topic but couldn’t really get into it. There were too many different flashbacks going on and it was hard to ever really connect to the characters. You would no sooner feel connected a little bit and then it would jumpy to another character/era.
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