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The Golden Manuscripts
Clarissa Martinez, a biracial young woman has lived in seven different countries by the time she turns twenty. She thinks it’s time to settle in a place she could call home. But where?
She joins a quest for the provenance of stolen illuminated manuscripts, a medieval art form that languished with the fifteenth century invention of the printing press. For her, these ancient manuscripts elicit cherished memories of children’s picture books her mother read to her, nourishing a passion for art.
Though immersed in art, she’s naïve about life. She’s disheartened and disillusioned by the machinations the quest reveals of an esoteric, sometimes unscrupulous art world. What compels individuals to steal artworks, and conquerors to plunder them from the vanquished? Why do collectors buy artworks for hundreds of millions of dollars? Who decides the value of an art piece and how?
And she wonders—will this quest reward her with a sense of belonging, a sense of home?
She joins a quest for the provenance of stolen illuminated manuscripts, a medieval art form that languished with the fifteenth century invention of the printing press. For her, these ancient manuscripts elicit cherished memories of children’s picture books her mother read to her, nourishing a passion for art.
Though immersed in art, she’s naïve about life. She’s disheartened and disillusioned by the machinations the quest reveals of an esoteric, sometimes unscrupulous art world. What compels individuals to steal artworks, and conquerors to plunder them from the vanquished? Why do collectors buy artworks for hundreds of millions of dollars? Who decides the value of an art piece and how?
And she wonders—will this quest reward her with a sense of belonging, a sense of home?
371 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 2, 2023
About the author
Evy Journey
18 books268 followersEvy writes short stories, blogs, and cross-genre novels. She’s also a wannabe artist, a flâneuse, and a former social science researcher. Also listed as E.Journey elsewhere on this site, you'll find her other books at https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Having studied psychology (M.A., University of Hawaii; Ph.D. University of Illinois), her fiction spins tales about nuanced characters dealing with contemporary life issues and problems. She believes in love and its many faces.
Her one ungranted wish: To live in Paris where art is everywhere and people have honed aimless roaming to an art form. She has visited and stayed several months at a time.
Having studied psychology (M.A., University of Hawaii; Ph.D. University of Illinois), her fiction spins tales about nuanced characters dealing with contemporary life issues and problems. She believes in love and its many faces.
Her one ungranted wish: To live in Paris where art is everywhere and people have honed aimless roaming to an art form. She has visited and stayed several months at a time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
December 30, 2023
I loved this story. I appreciate having the main character be in grad school. It’s so hard to find main character’s who are around my age or who went through grad school like me! Grad school is a lot and the author conveys it perfectly. I was rooting for Issy to get to the finish line for her thesis and solve the mystery. I know it’s a thing where artifacts go from one place to another but to really read it was a lot of fun. I’ve never read the other books in the series and it looks like that’s okay. Great story!
April 24, 2023
I really loved this book that combines the mystery of 2 medieval illuminated manuscripts and allied looting during WWII. It is also a great story about a biracial graduate student who is trying to find her sense of home after traveling all her life as a daughter of a diplomat.
June 17, 2023
This was not a subject I would normally review but I am pleased to say that Evy’s writing drew me in and I really enjoyed reading “The Golden Manuscripts”. Evy has carefully blended many aspects of human nature from the temptation of the soldier to personal identity, the crises of daughter and parents and the resolutions. Although this is a novel of historical fiction, Evy has painted an amazing picture of life’s experiences within contemporary times. Whilst part of a series, this book easily stands on its own and while being very thought provoking is very easy to read. Highly recommended.
I received this book from LibraryThing for an honest review and I award it four stars.
I received this book from LibraryThing for an honest review and I award it four stars.
July 13, 2023
There was so much character development going on in this book, The Golden Manuscripts by Evy Journey. The main character Clarissa Martinez was such a great, diversed character that you would be amazed to discover her journey of self-discovery. Through this book, I learned a lot of life lessons. It was the kind of book that inspired me to also do the same, to find something meaningful where I truly belong. The book was well-thought-out and I loved how unique the story is, especially that we get to see a glimpse of different places through the author's picturesque descriptions. I also loved the dialogues between the characters. It was a marvelous experience to read such a story with a unique theme as this.
September 27, 2023
This is the third book I’ve read in the series and I loved it just as much as the others. I almost hesitate to call this a series because each book has different characters. It also means you can definitely pick up any book in the series and not feel lost. I was intrigued by this story from the start. Many treasures were lost in WWII and this book not only involves one but is about a student following her dream. I highly recommend this book if you love lost treasures, strong women, and an exciting journey into history.
January 17, 2024
Rarely does a book leave me feeling so... empty. Don't take me wrong, it's not a bad book per se. It's just so boring. It's not good, it's mediocre. And it only gets one star because all of the minute bad things add up over time.
First of all, the format. There is a lot of minor tense switching that's hard to pick out, but very distracting as you can tell that something isn't flowing naturally. To me, this is a sign of an amateur, & someone who should probably have stuck to a past tense narrative rather than the present tense one. The book, also, could have used an editor. Or a better editor if it had one. The amount of typos, wrong grammar, & words that sound like the correct word but are spelled like a completely different word made this book really rough to read. Not to mention that writing most of the book from the first person POV made this read more like an autobiography than a fictional book, which I find is the case for a lot of first person books written by debut or amateur authors. I don't understand why they keep choosing such a hard POV focus to write for their first time. Also, speaking of Points of View, the three or so chapters written from the POV of the manuscript thief are absolutely redundant within the story. They add nothing.
Next, the actual themes of the book. I have to say that the author certainly did her research very well, but every time any mention of the manuscripts came up I felt like I was reading a textbook. This is another way that the book doesn't feel like an actual novel; the style and the constant info dumping blurs the lines between fiction and nonfiction styles, and it makes the experience of reading it so much worse. Almost every time that the illuminated manuscripts come up, particularly when a new character asks about them, the entire spiel explaining them gets repeated. The same thing is true about Clarissa's thesis, that with each character she talks to about it, she explains, on screen, what it is about, how it is linked to the manuscripts, and where Nathan comes into play. It is a needless attempt at extending the word count, and makes reading the book very tedious. It's even worse when you consider that the manuscript is the most interesting part of the entire novel, & that isn't a good thing.
The characters. Oh, the characters. Likeable enough, but boring, without life. I didn't feel the romance between Clarissa & Nathan at all. The bonus chapter written from Nathen's POV felt like an incel wrote it, or like it belongs on r/womenwritingmen. Arthur was fine but him calling Clarissa Sis (with the capital letter) all the time was grating. Jeffrey was a nothing burger. Prof Fischel was a nothing burger. Clarissa's parents were nothing burgers. Even Kurt added almost nothing to the story. Not to mention how disappointed I am with the author, clearly someone who has experience being marginalised & writing about marginalisation, & yet still doing the 'bury your gays' trope. One of her gays dies without ANY of the other characters meeting him. And the other gay gets a girlfriend that one of the other characters says he will probably still with for 'a long while'. Ew.
Lastly, the story. There wasn't a story here. The ending was one of those 'where are they now' segments, the chapters before that were just talking, & complaining, & the narrative conflict was largely resolved by a deus ex machina with none of the characters actually doing anything to make it happen. I wouldn't be so angry at this book basically being an overglorified essay about belonging if it didn't advertise itself as some sort of magnificent adventure about searching for stolen religious art. And did I mention the bonus chapter reads like something an incel would write? While the entire book was trying to set up the romance & literally failing the entire time? Hell, I felt more chemistry from Arthur & Nathan than I did from Clarissa & Nathan.
This book is just a massive disappointment. Boring, repetitive, redundant, pointless, boring again. Imagine that last sentence, but stretched across almost 400 pages & you'll get how I felt reading this book. It had potential, but too many issues bogged it down & dragged it to a 1 star.
First of all, the format. There is a lot of minor tense switching that's hard to pick out, but very distracting as you can tell that something isn't flowing naturally. To me, this is a sign of an amateur, & someone who should probably have stuck to a past tense narrative rather than the present tense one. The book, also, could have used an editor. Or a better editor if it had one. The amount of typos, wrong grammar, & words that sound like the correct word but are spelled like a completely different word made this book really rough to read. Not to mention that writing most of the book from the first person POV made this read more like an autobiography than a fictional book, which I find is the case for a lot of first person books written by debut or amateur authors. I don't understand why they keep choosing such a hard POV focus to write for their first time. Also, speaking of Points of View, the three or so chapters written from the POV of the manuscript thief are absolutely redundant within the story. They add nothing.
Next, the actual themes of the book. I have to say that the author certainly did her research very well, but every time any mention of the manuscripts came up I felt like I was reading a textbook. This is another way that the book doesn't feel like an actual novel; the style and the constant info dumping blurs the lines between fiction and nonfiction styles, and it makes the experience of reading it so much worse. Almost every time that the illuminated manuscripts come up, particularly when a new character asks about them, the entire spiel explaining them gets repeated. The same thing is true about Clarissa's thesis, that with each character she talks to about it, she explains, on screen, what it is about, how it is linked to the manuscripts, and where Nathan comes into play. It is a needless attempt at extending the word count, and makes reading the book very tedious. It's even worse when you consider that the manuscript is the most interesting part of the entire novel, & that isn't a good thing.
The characters. Oh, the characters. Likeable enough, but boring, without life. I didn't feel the romance between Clarissa & Nathan at all. The bonus chapter written from Nathen's POV felt like an incel wrote it, or like it belongs on r/womenwritingmen. Arthur was fine but him calling Clarissa Sis (with the capital letter) all the time was grating. Jeffrey was a nothing burger. Prof Fischel was a nothing burger. Clarissa's parents were nothing burgers. Even Kurt added almost nothing to the story. Not to mention how disappointed I am with the author, clearly someone who has experience being marginalised & writing about marginalisation, & yet still doing the 'bury your gays' trope. One of her gays dies without ANY of the other characters meeting him. And the other gay gets a girlfriend that one of the other characters says he will probably still with for 'a long while'. Ew.
Lastly, the story. There wasn't a story here. The ending was one of those 'where are they now' segments, the chapters before that were just talking, & complaining, & the narrative conflict was largely resolved by a deus ex machina with none of the characters actually doing anything to make it happen. I wouldn't be so angry at this book basically being an overglorified essay about belonging if it didn't advertise itself as some sort of magnificent adventure about searching for stolen religious art. And did I mention the bonus chapter reads like something an incel would write? While the entire book was trying to set up the romance & literally failing the entire time? Hell, I felt more chemistry from Arthur & Nathan than I did from Clarissa & Nathan.
This book is just a massive disappointment. Boring, repetitive, redundant, pointless, boring again. Imagine that last sentence, but stretched across almost 400 pages & you'll get how I felt reading this book. It had potential, but too many issues bogged it down & dragged it to a 1 star.
October 10, 2023
My summary:
“The Golden Manuscripts” by Evy Journey is a thought-provoking and engaging literary work that seamlessly melds genres to deliver a story that is as much about unearthing history as it is about discovering one’s identity. With its relatable characters, immersive narrative, and philosophical undertones, this novel will undoubtedly find resonance among art enthusiasts, mystery aficionados, and anyone intrigued by the intricate layers of human nature.
In the latest installment of the “Between Two Worlds” series, author Evy Journey takes readers on a captivating journey through history, art, and the intricacies of human identity in her novel, “The Golden Manuscripts.” Set against the backdrop of a quest for stolen illuminated manuscripts, this work seamlessly blends elements of literary, women’s fiction, crime, and mystery genres to craft a narrative that resonates with both heart and intellect.
The protagonist, Clarissa, an intriguing mix of Asian and Caucasian heritage, embarks on a compelling quest to find her sense of belonging by unearthing the provenance of stolen medieval illuminated manuscripts. Having traversed seven different countries, Clarissa seeks an anchor, a place she can finally call home. The city of her birth becomes the setting for her exploration, and her connection with these ancient manuscripts becomes a vessel for her yearning.
As Clarissa delves into the mystery surrounding the stolen manuscripts, readers are treated to a rich tapestry of memories and emotions. The author deftly weaves the importance of art in Clarissa’s life, linking it to cherished childhood memories and her passion for creativity. This connection adds a layer of depth to the narrative, portraying art not merely as a physical artifact but as a conduit for emotions and memories.
Evy Journey takes readers on a dual journey—one into the labyrinthine world of art theft and the other into Clarissa’s personal exploration of her identity. The trail of the manuscripts leads to an enigmatic American soldier who, intriguingly, held onto the stolen artwork for five decades.
The narrative strikes a balance between immersing readers in the world of art and provoking deeper thought. As Clarissa navigates the sometimes murky art world, readers are confronted with queries about human nature, greed, and the value we attribute to objects. Skillfully embedded in the narrative, these philosophical considerations elevate “The Golden Manuscripts” beyond a mere mystery novel.
While the mystery at the story’s core presents intriguing twists and turns, some clues require a temporary suspension of disbelief. Yet, the story’s strength lies in its ability to weave an engrossing narrative that transcends these minor hurdles. The characters that populate this tale are very relatable, their complexities and struggles mirroring universal human experiences.
“The Golden Manuscripts” is both a standalone novel and a part of a larger series, making it accessible to new readers and those familiar with the “Between Two Worlds” saga.
Read more at https:/ginaraemitchell.com
I received a copy of the book for a blog tour. This review is my honest opinion.
“The Golden Manuscripts” by Evy Journey is a thought-provoking and engaging literary work that seamlessly melds genres to deliver a story that is as much about unearthing history as it is about discovering one’s identity. With its relatable characters, immersive narrative, and philosophical undertones, this novel will undoubtedly find resonance among art enthusiasts, mystery aficionados, and anyone intrigued by the intricate layers of human nature.
In the latest installment of the “Between Two Worlds” series, author Evy Journey takes readers on a captivating journey through history, art, and the intricacies of human identity in her novel, “The Golden Manuscripts.” Set against the backdrop of a quest for stolen illuminated manuscripts, this work seamlessly blends elements of literary, women’s fiction, crime, and mystery genres to craft a narrative that resonates with both heart and intellect.
The protagonist, Clarissa, an intriguing mix of Asian and Caucasian heritage, embarks on a compelling quest to find her sense of belonging by unearthing the provenance of stolen medieval illuminated manuscripts. Having traversed seven different countries, Clarissa seeks an anchor, a place she can finally call home. The city of her birth becomes the setting for her exploration, and her connection with these ancient manuscripts becomes a vessel for her yearning.
As Clarissa delves into the mystery surrounding the stolen manuscripts, readers are treated to a rich tapestry of memories and emotions. The author deftly weaves the importance of art in Clarissa’s life, linking it to cherished childhood memories and her passion for creativity. This connection adds a layer of depth to the narrative, portraying art not merely as a physical artifact but as a conduit for emotions and memories.
Evy Journey takes readers on a dual journey—one into the labyrinthine world of art theft and the other into Clarissa’s personal exploration of her identity. The trail of the manuscripts leads to an enigmatic American soldier who, intriguingly, held onto the stolen artwork for five decades.
The narrative strikes a balance between immersing readers in the world of art and provoking deeper thought. As Clarissa navigates the sometimes murky art world, readers are confronted with queries about human nature, greed, and the value we attribute to objects. Skillfully embedded in the narrative, these philosophical considerations elevate “The Golden Manuscripts” beyond a mere mystery novel.
While the mystery at the story’s core presents intriguing twists and turns, some clues require a temporary suspension of disbelief. Yet, the story’s strength lies in its ability to weave an engrossing narrative that transcends these minor hurdles. The characters that populate this tale are very relatable, their complexities and struggles mirroring universal human experiences.
“The Golden Manuscripts” is both a standalone novel and a part of a larger series, making it accessible to new readers and those familiar with the “Between Two Worlds” saga.
Read more at https:/ginaraemitchell.com
I received a copy of the book for a blog tour. This review is my honest opinion.
July 8, 2023
Art, identity, and the quest for belonging.
"The Golden Manuscripts: A Novel (Between Two Worlds Book 6)" by Evy Journey is a captivating and thought-provoking exploration of identity, belonging, and the alluring realm of art. In this sixth installment of the "Between Two Worlds" series, readers are introduced to Clarissa, a wanderer with a diverse cultural background, who yearns to find a place she can truly call home. Drawn back to her city of birth, Clarissa embarks on a quest to uncover the origins of stolen illuminated manuscripts—a medieval art form that has faded into obscurity with the advent of the printing press. Through her journey, Clarissa hopes to discover the sense of belonging she so desperately craves.
As Clarissa delves deeper into her investigation, the stolen manuscripts awaken cherished memories of her mother reading children's picture books, igniting a passion for art within her. The trail leads her to an American soldier who clandestinely held onto these stolen masterpieces for half a century. However, what she seeks are not simple answers, but rather profound questions.
Immersed in the world of art, yet naive about the realities of life, Clarissa becomes disheartened and disillusioned by the inner workings of an esoteric and sometimes unscrupulous art world. She contemplates the motivations behind art theft, the plundering of conquered lands, and the exorbitant sums collectors are willing to pay for artwork. These inquiries prompt her to ponder who determines the value of a piece of art and how such determinations are made.
"The Golden Manuscripts: A Novel" draws inspiration from the actual theft of medieval manuscript illuminations during World War II, intertwining history with mystery. Evy Journey skillfully crafts a narrative that seamlessly blends these elements with the universal yearning for connection. Through her evocative prose, readers are invited to explore the complex interplay between art, identity, and the pursuit of a place to call home.
With its intriguing themes and intricately woven plot, this novel will captivate both art enthusiasts and those fascinated by the human stories surrounding historical treasures. "The Golden Manuscripts" promises an immersive journey into a world of art, theft, and the profound quest for belonging.
"The Golden Manuscripts: A Novel (Between Two Worlds Book 6)" by Evy Journey is a captivating and thought-provoking exploration of identity, belonging, and the alluring realm of art. In this sixth installment of the "Between Two Worlds" series, readers are introduced to Clarissa, a wanderer with a diverse cultural background, who yearns to find a place she can truly call home. Drawn back to her city of birth, Clarissa embarks on a quest to uncover the origins of stolen illuminated manuscripts—a medieval art form that has faded into obscurity with the advent of the printing press. Through her journey, Clarissa hopes to discover the sense of belonging she so desperately craves.
As Clarissa delves deeper into her investigation, the stolen manuscripts awaken cherished memories of her mother reading children's picture books, igniting a passion for art within her. The trail leads her to an American soldier who clandestinely held onto these stolen masterpieces for half a century. However, what she seeks are not simple answers, but rather profound questions.
Immersed in the world of art, yet naive about the realities of life, Clarissa becomes disheartened and disillusioned by the inner workings of an esoteric and sometimes unscrupulous art world. She contemplates the motivations behind art theft, the plundering of conquered lands, and the exorbitant sums collectors are willing to pay for artwork. These inquiries prompt her to ponder who determines the value of a piece of art and how such determinations are made.
"The Golden Manuscripts: A Novel" draws inspiration from the actual theft of medieval manuscript illuminations during World War II, intertwining history with mystery. Evy Journey skillfully crafts a narrative that seamlessly blends these elements with the universal yearning for connection. Through her evocative prose, readers are invited to explore the complex interplay between art, identity, and the pursuit of a place to call home.
With its intriguing themes and intricately woven plot, this novel will captivate both art enthusiasts and those fascinated by the human stories surrounding historical treasures. "The Golden Manuscripts" promises an immersive journey into a world of art, theft, and the profound quest for belonging.
August 8, 2023
This book had great potential. I was intrigued by the idea of American soldiers looting art and other antiquities at the end of WWII in light of what is known about the Nazi and Russian theft. Also, stories about the search for home and self-identity is always intriguing. But for me, this book failed in every area: plot, character development, structure, dialogue. So disappointed.
The protagonist Clarissa is a child of a Filipino diplomat and mid-western American mother, who has lived in many countries but doesn’t feel at home anywhere. As the book opens, she is a graduate student living in California where she was born. Estranged from her parents, her brother who she didn’t grow up with lives nearby. Everything about Clarissa shows she has little confidence, is awkward in interpersonal relations, and because of her insecurities, puts everything into her work.
The main storyline is about tracking down two valuable illuminated manuscripts stolen from a German church. This resonates for Clarissa because she has drawn a line between the childhood picture books of her past and these manuscripts. If and when she finds them, they will be her thesis subject.
Before coming to California, Clarissa and her brother, Arthur, spent time in Paris with a man named Nathan who of all people becomes Clarissa’s advisor and partner in the search for the manuscripts. Clarissa didn’t hit it off with Nathan then and is very awkward with him now.
There are pages of Clarissa’s musings of how she reads a situation and as the book goes on, there is little growth in her. Show don’t tell did not apply here.
Structurally, I don’t understand why the thief is revealed in the first chapter. It would have been so much more compelling if the reader was surprised that it was in fact an American soldier who did the deed. As an aside, he was the most interesting and well-developed character of the lot.
The amazing ease which they discovered clues was also not believable. A day here, two days there amongst all Clarissa’s repetitive thoughts. And the end, which I won’t spoil, was hard to believe despite knowing we were being led there.
This is the sixth of a series that I don’t know anything about. Perhaps, if I had read the other, this might have been a more palatable read.
Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book.
The protagonist Clarissa is a child of a Filipino diplomat and mid-western American mother, who has lived in many countries but doesn’t feel at home anywhere. As the book opens, she is a graduate student living in California where she was born. Estranged from her parents, her brother who she didn’t grow up with lives nearby. Everything about Clarissa shows she has little confidence, is awkward in interpersonal relations, and because of her insecurities, puts everything into her work.
The main storyline is about tracking down two valuable illuminated manuscripts stolen from a German church. This resonates for Clarissa because she has drawn a line between the childhood picture books of her past and these manuscripts. If and when she finds them, they will be her thesis subject.
Before coming to California, Clarissa and her brother, Arthur, spent time in Paris with a man named Nathan who of all people becomes Clarissa’s advisor and partner in the search for the manuscripts. Clarissa didn’t hit it off with Nathan then and is very awkward with him now.
There are pages of Clarissa’s musings of how she reads a situation and as the book goes on, there is little growth in her. Show don’t tell did not apply here.
Structurally, I don’t understand why the thief is revealed in the first chapter. It would have been so much more compelling if the reader was surprised that it was in fact an American soldier who did the deed. As an aside, he was the most interesting and well-developed character of the lot.
The amazing ease which they discovered clues was also not believable. A day here, two days there amongst all Clarissa’s repetitive thoughts. And the end, which I won’t spoil, was hard to believe despite knowing we were being led there.
This is the sixth of a series that I don’t know anything about. Perhaps, if I had read the other, this might have been a more palatable read.
Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book.
May 31, 2024
An Immersive Tale that Plunges Beneath the Surface of the Murky World of Art
1945. A soldier in the midst of war. An order to catalog and protect religious artifacts. A rare manuscript. A conscience warning that theft is wrong. A temptation too great to ignore. A secret kept safe until a student stumbles across a decades-old mystery.
This is the premise of THE GOLDEN MANUSCRIPTS by Evy Journey. Entertaining and delivering a rather fascinating lesson in art history, I’d liken it to a Raiders of the Lost Ark adventure sans the supernatural. Instead the plot adheres to the cold hard reality of crime and how the world is deprived by someone’s selfish deed.
The story piqued my interest at the beginning, and my interest never wavered. One reason was the characters. I especially liked the four leads as each is unique and beautifully crafted. In fact, they were very fleshed out and brushstroked to perfection. In terms of the pacing of this novel, the tempo is kept reined in to moderate, and it’s through the use of this tactic that the main character is allowed to reminisce. The divorce of her parents, first loves, doubts and failures, and an unforgiving past are shared and connect us to the heroine of this tale … which brings me to the writing of the story.
The author has done a masterful job in terms of syntax, language and vocabulary. Bravely and honestly written, it is, in fact, this authoritative command of language that helps sell the central characters and this story. This holds especially true for Clarissa, a college student who is the first to spot a news item about a 15th-century illuminated manuscript that is up for sale. It’s her conversations, as written by Ms. Journey, that unerringly bolster and authenticate that Clarissa herself is learned, and that she’s speaking with erudite individuals who breathe rarefied, knowledge-seeking air.
I had a wonderful time pulling closed the curtains on real life, and being absorbed into the devouring of this story. With a fascinating plotline, intriguing characters, and an absorbing mystery to solve, THE GOLDEN MANUSCRIPTS makes for a stellar read. FIVE STARS for this one.
1945. A soldier in the midst of war. An order to catalog and protect religious artifacts. A rare manuscript. A conscience warning that theft is wrong. A temptation too great to ignore. A secret kept safe until a student stumbles across a decades-old mystery.
This is the premise of THE GOLDEN MANUSCRIPTS by Evy Journey. Entertaining and delivering a rather fascinating lesson in art history, I’d liken it to a Raiders of the Lost Ark adventure sans the supernatural. Instead the plot adheres to the cold hard reality of crime and how the world is deprived by someone’s selfish deed.
The story piqued my interest at the beginning, and my interest never wavered. One reason was the characters. I especially liked the four leads as each is unique and beautifully crafted. In fact, they were very fleshed out and brushstroked to perfection. In terms of the pacing of this novel, the tempo is kept reined in to moderate, and it’s through the use of this tactic that the main character is allowed to reminisce. The divorce of her parents, first loves, doubts and failures, and an unforgiving past are shared and connect us to the heroine of this tale … which brings me to the writing of the story.
The author has done a masterful job in terms of syntax, language and vocabulary. Bravely and honestly written, it is, in fact, this authoritative command of language that helps sell the central characters and this story. This holds especially true for Clarissa, a college student who is the first to spot a news item about a 15th-century illuminated manuscript that is up for sale. It’s her conversations, as written by Ms. Journey, that unerringly bolster and authenticate that Clarissa herself is learned, and that she’s speaking with erudite individuals who breathe rarefied, knowledge-seeking air.
I had a wonderful time pulling closed the curtains on real life, and being absorbed into the devouring of this story. With a fascinating plotline, intriguing characters, and an absorbing mystery to solve, THE GOLDEN MANUSCRIPTS makes for a stellar read. FIVE STARS for this one.
April 27, 2023
The Golden Manuscripts Crosses Time and Genres. This novel is a unique read. The book flows between historical fiction and coming of age with a bit of romance and a lot of self-discovery, reflection, and life introspection. The author takes readers on a quest to return looted Medieval manuscripts to their home and a quest to help a young woman find her own place and home in the world. As the main character, Clarissa searches for the lost manuscripts and ponders the value and significance of such treasures; she navigates her own path toward finding herself and a place to feel at home.
The Golden Manuscripts is a Stand Alone Novel. While part of a larger series, this novel is a stand-alone story with its own characters and storyline. I've read The Shade Under the Mango Tree from this series and enjoyed it. While it is similar in theme to The Golden Manuscripts--I felt much more drawn to Clarissa's character and the flow of this story. The story moves evenly and thoughtfully as Clarissa seeks a resolution to the quest at hand and to her life's path in general.
Would I Recommend The Golden Manuscripts by Evy Journey? This story isn't an action-packed, adventurous thriller. It isn't (entirely) historical fiction. It isn't really a coming-of-age novel or contemporary romance novel, either. It is a story that takes readers on a discovery mission as the main character seeks insights from cultural elements, art, supporting characters, and the world around her to find her own place. I recommend this novel to fans of thoughtful literary fiction--and I will likely pick up a few more of the books from this series too.
I received a copy of this book from the author or publisher for use in a blog review. All opinions are my own.
The Golden Manuscripts is a Stand Alone Novel. While part of a larger series, this novel is a stand-alone story with its own characters and storyline. I've read The Shade Under the Mango Tree from this series and enjoyed it. While it is similar in theme to The Golden Manuscripts--I felt much more drawn to Clarissa's character and the flow of this story. The story moves evenly and thoughtfully as Clarissa seeks a resolution to the quest at hand and to her life's path in general.
Would I Recommend The Golden Manuscripts by Evy Journey? This story isn't an action-packed, adventurous thriller. It isn't (entirely) historical fiction. It isn't really a coming-of-age novel or contemporary romance novel, either. It is a story that takes readers on a discovery mission as the main character seeks insights from cultural elements, art, supporting characters, and the world around her to find her own place. I recommend this novel to fans of thoughtful literary fiction--and I will likely pick up a few more of the books from this series too.
I received a copy of this book from the author or publisher for use in a blog review. All opinions are my own.
September 13, 2023
The Golden Manuscript is the sixth book in author Evy Journey's Between Two Worlds series. Here we again follow a woman struggling with connection and roots. Growing up, Clarissa's family moved constantly, never staying in one place long enough for it to feel like home. Now on her own in the US where she was born, she lives a very solitary life devoted to her art studies, and particularly to the study of Illuminated Manuscripts.
When two rare manuscripts are listed for sale with no solid provenance provided she is intrigued and decides to do her thesis on creating a modern version. She also wonders if these new manuscripts are real, and if the owner is legitimate or were they stolen during the war? Her quest for answers brings an old acquaintance back into her life - Lucien - who is also disconnected from his family and hoping to write a book on art thefts during the war.
Clarissa and an acquaintance from her past, Nathan, join forces to research the truth about whether the two new manuscripts are real and where they came from. While they slowly pull all the pieces of the puzzle together, something begins to build between them. Can they each set aside their struggles to allow it to grow. And will they each find a place that feels like home where they can put down roots?
The Golden Manuscript offers a mystery to solve that takes you through twists and turns, while offering a parallel personal story of the struggle to feel connected and rooted, to find home.
When two rare manuscripts are listed for sale with no solid provenance provided she is intrigued and decides to do her thesis on creating a modern version. She also wonders if these new manuscripts are real, and if the owner is legitimate or were they stolen during the war? Her quest for answers brings an old acquaintance back into her life - Lucien - who is also disconnected from his family and hoping to write a book on art thefts during the war.
Clarissa and an acquaintance from her past, Nathan, join forces to research the truth about whether the two new manuscripts are real and where they came from. While they slowly pull all the pieces of the puzzle together, something begins to build between them. Can they each set aside their struggles to allow it to grow. And will they each find a place that feels like home where they can put down roots?
The Golden Manuscript offers a mystery to solve that takes you through twists and turns, while offering a parallel personal story of the struggle to feel connected and rooted, to find home.
July 11, 2023
The protagonist of this engrossing book is a young woman named Clarissa who has lived in a number of places but has never truly felt at home in any of them. She decides to go back to her native city in her search to find a place she can truly call home. The search for stolen illuminated manuscripts, a style of medieval art that was extinguished with the invention of the printing press in the 15th century, begins there, and it is a thrilling journey.
The author's fluid and descriptive prose envelops the reader in a world full of intrigue and mystery. The author manages to convey Clarissa's emotions and doubts in an authentic way, drawing the reader into her personal journey in search of a place to belong.
The novel "The Golden Manuscripts" deftly mixes up the personal narrative of the protagonist with more general issues of art and its importance in society. Evy Journey challenges us to consider how art can touch our lives and how it can significantly affect our perceptions of ourselves and place in the world.
The author's fluid and descriptive prose envelops the reader in a world full of intrigue and mystery. The author manages to convey Clarissa's emotions and doubts in an authentic way, drawing the reader into her personal journey in search of a place to belong.
The novel "The Golden Manuscripts" deftly mixes up the personal narrative of the protagonist with more general issues of art and its importance in society. Evy Journey challenges us to consider how art can touch our lives and how it can significantly affect our perceptions of ourselves and place in the world.
August 16, 2023
I enjoyed this book because it tackled some issues that are of great interest to me: multicultural and multiracial families, life in academia, and travel. I don't know much about art, but I was willing to learn. Graduate student Clarissa (the child of a Filipino father and a White mother) is floored by a headline in an art newspaper and suddenly finds the direction she wants to take for her MA thesis. Her academic supervisor puts her in touch with a someone who could offer more advice on illuminated manuscripts, and he turns out to be Nathan Adler, a person she and her brother had traveled with in Europe several years earlier. The story unfolds as Clarissa and Nathan try to prove that the manuscripts had been stolen after WWII and find out who had taken them. We also learn of the complicated and different upbringing she and her brother had had and what had happened that ended the three young people's friendship before.
Thank you to Net Galley for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Net Galley for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 27, 2023
Being the product of biracial parents and moving from country to country has resulted in Clarissa’s quest to find a place she feels is home. The concepts of home and family are foreign to her.
I loved Clarissa’s reminiscing on the role of children’s picture books in her childhood. It is not a surprise then that she has a strong interest in illuminated manuscripts. I enjoyed many of her moments of speculation on those who love art. I really enjoyed the portions about the history of illuminated manuscripts.
I felt at times that the author bogged the story down with too much detail, such as when Nathan and Clarissa are ordering tapas.
While I have been aware of the theft of cultural icons, art, and antiquities by the militaries throughout history, it is still heartbreaking each time I am reminded of it.
“The Golden Manuscripts” takes the reader on a journey as Clarissa searches for the truth behind some stolen illuminated manuscripts. Are the manuscripts authentic? Were they stolen, and if so, by whom? This is also a personal story of Clarissa’s search for home.
I loved Clarissa’s reminiscing on the role of children’s picture books in her childhood. It is not a surprise then that she has a strong interest in illuminated manuscripts. I enjoyed many of her moments of speculation on those who love art. I really enjoyed the portions about the history of illuminated manuscripts.
I felt at times that the author bogged the story down with too much detail, such as when Nathan and Clarissa are ordering tapas.
While I have been aware of the theft of cultural icons, art, and antiquities by the militaries throughout history, it is still heartbreaking each time I am reminded of it.
“The Golden Manuscripts” takes the reader on a journey as Clarissa searches for the truth behind some stolen illuminated manuscripts. Are the manuscripts authentic? Were they stolen, and if so, by whom? This is also a personal story of Clarissa’s search for home.
October 4, 2023
Clarissa has lived in many places and now she’s trying to put down roots. This takes her back to the US, where she was born. Looking for a subject for her MA theses, she comes across an article in a art newspaper. It’s about illuminated manuscripts that were supposedly stolen during WWII and disappeared. Their reappearance raises many questions.
I’d not heard of illuminated manuscripts so I did a search to understand what they were. I got lost down the rabbit hole and quickly realized how this would be a great subject for Clarissa’s thesis. And how daunting the task would be to prove their authenticity and ownership. Of course, she’d need help and someone from her past is called upon to help. As Clarissa and Nathan dig deeper into the mystery of the manuscripts, their attraction to each other grows.
As much a mystery as a romance and a woman seeking a place to call home, The Golden Manuscripts was a fascinating and hopeful read.
I received a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.
I’d not heard of illuminated manuscripts so I did a search to understand what they were. I got lost down the rabbit hole and quickly realized how this would be a great subject for Clarissa’s thesis. And how daunting the task would be to prove their authenticity and ownership. Of course, she’d need help and someone from her past is called upon to help. As Clarissa and Nathan dig deeper into the mystery of the manuscripts, their attraction to each other grows.
As much a mystery as a romance and a woman seeking a place to call home, The Golden Manuscripts was a fascinating and hopeful read.
I received a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.
June 13, 2024
This was an interesting reading that started in Germany with a man who finds a lot of precious metal artifacts in a cave in Germany. He sends all the artifacts home to his sister as he did with all his items.
The MC is a woman, Issy, who is of Asian and Caucasian decent. She feels like nowhere is home. Issy comes across the article on the lost manuscripts and she becomes obsessed with finding out more about them and why they are a thing. I loved that the manuscripts are from medieval times and also from WWII as well. I find both of these time frames fascinating personally. Clarissa or Issy is trying to find herself in this book as she is in grad school at this time and trying to find where she belongs in life. I think we can all relate to that at some point in our lives, the author did a good job writing this book!
I will say there are some inconsistencies with the characters and dialogue, etc. as a reader though so I think that the editing should have been a bit better, but overall a good read.
The MC is a woman, Issy, who is of Asian and Caucasian decent. She feels like nowhere is home. Issy comes across the article on the lost manuscripts and she becomes obsessed with finding out more about them and why they are a thing. I loved that the manuscripts are from medieval times and also from WWII as well. I find both of these time frames fascinating personally. Clarissa or Issy is trying to find herself in this book as she is in grad school at this time and trying to find where she belongs in life. I think we can all relate to that at some point in our lives, the author did a good job writing this book!
I will say there are some inconsistencies with the characters and dialogue, etc. as a reader though so I think that the editing should have been a bit better, but overall a good read.
July 11, 2023
The Golden Manuscripts written by Evy Journey is a novel where the personal development of the protagonist and the search for a stolen manuscript are intertwined to result in a captivating, highly entertaining and well written story. Clarissa is a young woman who is very interested in art and, especially in illuminated manuscripts, a complex and fascinating art from the Middle Ages. The search for the stolen works of art inevitably links her to the person who stole them, a soldier in World War II. The stories and points of view of these two characters intertwine to allow the reader to know them in depth, to know their motives and their changes and behaviour. I think that the characterization of the protagonists is the strong point of this novel. That added to the description of art and the underworld of trafficking and theft of artistic pieces make this book a must-read. I highly recommend it.
September 15, 2023
I have read the previous books from Evy Journey’s Between Two Worlds series and was looking forward to the newest and sixth release, The Golden Manuscripts. Even though this is a series, I believe each one can be easily read as a stand alone, but I would recommend not missing any of the previous books. The Golden Manuscripts is most definitely my favorite of the six installments. I found it to be a fun and entertaining. Clarissa’s story was intriguing. I instantly felt a connection with her while she tried to find where she belonged. I liked the mix of art, history, mystery, and suspense. I wanted to keep reading to find out what secrets there were to be discovered and where it would Clarissa to in the end. It was one that I had no problem spending the day, relaxing on my back deck, and reading the whole book in one sitting. A wonderful way to spend time away from the chaos of life. I loved it.
I am going to give The Golden Manuscripts five stars. I recommend it for readers who enjoy reading fiction that includes mystery and history. I am hoping there will be more to come in the future from the Between Two Worlds series, as well as, more from the talented author Evy Journey.
I received a paperback copy of Evy Journey’s The Golden Manuscripts from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
I am going to give The Golden Manuscripts five stars. I recommend it for readers who enjoy reading fiction that includes mystery and history. I am hoping there will be more to come in the future from the Between Two Worlds series, as well as, more from the talented author Evy Journey.
I received a paperback copy of Evy Journey’s The Golden Manuscripts from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
October 4, 2026
my brief review
The Golden Manuscripts is an interesting mix of historical mystery, romance, art, and self-discovery. I really like the idea of Clarissa searching for stolen WWII artwork while also trying to figure out where she belongs in the world. The mystery surrounding the manuscripts gives the story something to follow, while her relationship with Nathan adds a romantic element without completely taking over the plot. I also like that the story explores identity, belonging, and the darker side of the art world instead of making the mystery just about finding a lost treasure. My only concern is that it sounds like it can get pretty detailed and literary at times, especially with the art/history side of the story, so I don’t think it’ll be a super-fast, addictive romance read. Overall, though, it sounds like a thoughtful and unique story with a good balance of mystery, romance, and historical elements.
The Golden Manuscripts is an interesting mix of historical mystery, romance, art, and self-discovery. I really like the idea of Clarissa searching for stolen WWII artwork while also trying to figure out where she belongs in the world. The mystery surrounding the manuscripts gives the story something to follow, while her relationship with Nathan adds a romantic element without completely taking over the plot. I also like that the story explores identity, belonging, and the darker side of the art world instead of making the mystery just about finding a lost treasure. My only concern is that it sounds like it can get pretty detailed and literary at times, especially with the art/history side of the story, so I don’t think it’ll be a super-fast, addictive romance read. Overall, though, it sounds like a thoughtful and unique story with a good balance of mystery, romance, and historical elements.
April 27, 2023
I love a good story where a character is trying to figure out their life. Where do they belong, where do they go, and how do they fit into their world? Clarissa, she’s for sure trying to do this and handle this. Having gone on a special trip abroad she’s excited by the different places she’s been and going to see. She meets a man who quickly becomes something to her. But their lives don’t mesh up then. Instead, alter they meet again this time around, finding a life together. In between all of that, she delves into the adventure of the golden manuscripts. One of the things that made her so endearing was her passion and true love for the things that interest her. I felt like this was a fantastic read that pulls you in and shows you what love is for these relatable characters. I’m going to have to go back and read the rest of the books in the series now since I enjoyed this one so much.
March 23, 2024
I actually studied fine art and art history in college so I really connected to the characters and story as a whole. I also really love historical fiction and this has that in both that there are scenes from the 1940s during the war and also the early 2000s and it jumps back and forth. I just really find both of those time periods really interesting especially in the context of a novel but also in the art world. I really wish I had gotten the chance to read the other books of the series first, but I was happily surprised by how much this was able to stand on its own. In fact, I am unsure if this is even a series aside from the obvious “Book 6” on the cover and in the title. I love the relationship the main character had with her brother and the story of how her brother found out he was gay and it was just so good!
September 25, 2024
Fiction Book
The Golden Manuscripts is a book of historical fiction, which narrates the life and adventures that Clarisa Martinez, the main character of the book, has to go through to find her origins and some manuscripts that will bring her pleasant memories.
But beyond the story of Clarisa and her adventures, it is noteworthy how the author of the book takes the reader to different times and places, and allows us to get a fairly detailed idea of where they are developing, without giving rise to confusion.
There are moments in the book where Evy Journey goes in depth about historical moments; the reader does not lose the thread of the story.
It is an easy to understand and read book and it's recommended for people who like fiction and for those who do not, or for those who are still not very clear what their literary genre is.
The Golden Manuscripts is a book of historical fiction, which narrates the life and adventures that Clarisa Martinez, the main character of the book, has to go through to find her origins and some manuscripts that will bring her pleasant memories.
But beyond the story of Clarisa and her adventures, it is noteworthy how the author of the book takes the reader to different times and places, and allows us to get a fairly detailed idea of where they are developing, without giving rise to confusion.
There are moments in the book where Evy Journey goes in depth about historical moments; the reader does not lose the thread of the story.
It is an easy to understand and read book and it's recommended for people who like fiction and for those who do not, or for those who are still not very clear what their literary genre is.
March 3, 2024
Clarissa, who is of mixed Caucasian and Asian ancestry, is a nomad. She isn’t sure where she belongs, and when she encounters fascinating stolen manuscripts, she feels they might hold some of the answers to the deepest questions that plague her. In reality, all they do is drag her into a mystery that is bewildering but scintillating.
The Golden Manuscripts is a mystery story with a great deal of heart and pathos. Clarissa is an intriguing character, and it’s easy to get behind her as she tries to learn about her true nature. This is a well written novel that introduces the reader to a fully realized protagonist who even the most jaded individuals will want to root for as the emotional stakes continue to rise.
The Golden Manuscripts is a mystery story with a great deal of heart and pathos. Clarissa is an intriguing character, and it’s easy to get behind her as she tries to learn about her true nature. This is a well written novel that introduces the reader to a fully realized protagonist who even the most jaded individuals will want to root for as the emotional stakes continue to rise.
March 11, 2024
A book to cry like a river.
It is a book to cry, have fun and find yourself. This incredible text, the truth is that it moved me. It is a book that talks about issues such as identity, the fact of belonging to some place and how finding our roots can lead us to understand much of what we are deep down.
This book is magnificent, even though it is not an adventure but even has a bit of mystery, I felt it as a personal adventure in which I accompanied Clarissa to rediscover herself and at the same time to get lost countless times trying to define herself by what she saw.
I recommend you to read this book and let yourself be moved by the story that the author shares with us.
It is a book to cry, have fun and find yourself. This incredible text, the truth is that it moved me. It is a book that talks about issues such as identity, the fact of belonging to some place and how finding our roots can lead us to understand much of what we are deep down.
This book is magnificent, even though it is not an adventure but even has a bit of mystery, I felt it as a personal adventure in which I accompanied Clarissa to rediscover herself and at the same time to get lost countless times trying to define herself by what she saw.
I recommend you to read this book and let yourself be moved by the story that the author shares with us.
September 25, 2024
The Golden Manuscripts by Evy Journey is a fascinating novel that delves into the complex and unusual world of art and manuscript provenance and theft. Clarissa, an art major, is intrigued by illuminated manuscripts and starts to follow the trail of missing manuscripts. Together with Nathan, a doctor and journalist, she tracks the missing texts, only to discover that she has landed herself deeper in the world of art crime than she bargained for.
I liked the unique premise of this book. The author does a good job at making a subject that might seem dull to some into an art thriller. The characters are complex and the plot is perhaps a little slow-moving at times, but overall, the book was an interesting and entertaining discovery for me. I am giving this book four out of five stars.
I liked the unique premise of this book. The author does a good job at making a subject that might seem dull to some into an art thriller. The characters are complex and the plot is perhaps a little slow-moving at times, but overall, the book was an interesting and entertaining discovery for me. I am giving this book four out of five stars.
September 27, 2024
Spectacular
This book has a mix that I love, as it combines a historical concept with mysteries, attraction, art and action. It took me right back to my childhood, to when we used to read stories about explorers searching for lost treasures.
The characters have a lot of strength, a striking background that gives them reality and therefore you can easily identify with the way they express themselves and feel.
The search for manuscripts is what drives the thread, but the interesting thing is that while this search develops, other aspects are entering the scene organically and give the perfect spice to the whole story.
I love the author's narrative, the pauses, the good use of language make me want to keep reading his works.
This book has a mix that I love, as it combines a historical concept with mysteries, attraction, art and action. It took me right back to my childhood, to when we used to read stories about explorers searching for lost treasures.
The characters have a lot of strength, a striking background that gives them reality and therefore you can easily identify with the way they express themselves and feel.
The search for manuscripts is what drives the thread, but the interesting thing is that while this search develops, other aspects are entering the scene organically and give the perfect spice to the whole story.
I love the author's narrative, the pauses, the good use of language make me want to keep reading his works.
July 10, 2023
book full of wisdom, knowledge and just amazing history facts.
“The Golden Manuscripts: A Novel” written by Evy Journey is an amazing book full of wisdom, knowledge and just amazing history facts. Although it's written as a novel, this book is based on the actual theft of medieval manuscript illuminations during the Second World War. This makes it so much more interesting to read. It’s my favorite kind of book. The one you read with pleasure as if it was a fictional story. But at the same time, you learn things about history and the world we live in. Exactly my cup of tea. I can really recommend this book. You will finish it in no time as the pages fly by really quick.
“The Golden Manuscripts: A Novel” written by Evy Journey is an amazing book full of wisdom, knowledge and just amazing history facts. Although it's written as a novel, this book is based on the actual theft of medieval manuscript illuminations during the Second World War. This makes it so much more interesting to read. It’s my favorite kind of book. The one you read with pleasure as if it was a fictional story. But at the same time, you learn things about history and the world we live in. Exactly my cup of tea. I can really recommend this book. You will finish it in no time as the pages fly by really quick.
July 10, 2023
It goes without saying that any series which has 6 books is a good one, there is no chance a series will get so many books if it has not been a good one so far.
This 6th installment is a skillfully written novel that captivated me with an engaging and well-crafted prose. It is enchanting how the author takes us on a captivating journey through the depths of romance and the thrill of exploration.
The events in this book are beautifully portrayed, capturing the exhilaration and vulnerability of life in a fictional way.
This is a tale that could satisfy fans of many genres due to the free-flowing way it has been written.
This 6th installment is a skillfully written novel that captivated me with an engaging and well-crafted prose. It is enchanting how the author takes us on a captivating journey through the depths of romance and the thrill of exploration.
The events in this book are beautifully portrayed, capturing the exhilaration and vulnerability of life in a fictional way.
This is a tale that could satisfy fans of many genres due to the free-flowing way it has been written.
April 14, 2024
I was intrigued by the blurb and mix of genres that this book combined, and my curiosity was rewarded with an engaging read. I liked Clarissa right away, she's feeling a little adrift while trying to follow her passion. We mostly get the story from Clarissa's POV, with little peeks into the mind of the thief. The memories from childhood that we get to see were so sweet, and it's easy to see why she loves art so much. Journey did an excellent job of bringing the story to life, immersing you as you read. The story moves along at a smooth (but somewhat slow) pace, but I didn't feel myself getting bored or having to push myself to read it.
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