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A review by joannemae
The Master Jeweler: A Novel by Weina Dai Randel

adventurous fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

2.5

Very unique in its focus. I loved the blend of 1920-1940 Harbin, Shanghai, and Hong Kong with the very interesting world of jewelry. The characters were unique and interesting with mostly believable relationship dynamics (we love a found/made family!!!!).

The author tried to fit a lot into this book, and I do think a great deal of effort went into creating it. For once, I do think this book should have been much longer than it is. It could have benefited from, at minimum, an additional 100 or so pages to help tie everything together, introduce more nuance, and slow down. The book jumped way too quickly from event to event without much explanation or build-up.

Also, coming from a Chinese author, this book is waaaaay more Westernized than you would expect.

Altogether, it's a very easy read to breeze through. It's very engrossing, but definitely lacks a more nuanced approach I value in sweeping historical epics.
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