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The Jewel of the Blues
Set in the sparkling 1920s jazz era, The Jewel of the Blues pulls back the curtain on all the romance, danger and drama in the bustling backstage life of a young performer.
Lucille Arnetta Love has always lived on the run. In her family's traveling band, Lucille was billed as The Little Girl with the Big Voice, belting out gospel hymns and never staying in once place too long--all to keep attention off the real reason the Loves had to flee across America. Unaware of the danger, Lucille dreamed of breaking out of the backwoods and being big enough for Broadway. Nearly eleven years after setting out on the road with her parents, Lucille is finally discovered by Marcus Williams, a young talent manager who whisks her away to chase her dreams.
The big cities aren't kind to Lucille; no matter how big her voice is, there's always another act to be compared to. So Marcus rebrands The Little Girl with the Big Voice and sets Lucille up with a band. Once Miss Lucille's Black Troubadours are formed, no one can hold a candle to them. Together with Big Bobby, Lincoln, and Sweet Mitchell, Miss Lucille and her band become rising stars, moving up the bill and delivering knockout performances at every club and theatre on the circuit.
But as opportunities grow stagnant and the band turns restless, personal demons haunt the Troubadours. Between drinking, gambling, and love affairs, Lucille's family secret is revealed, and it's a shock even to her: a decades-old robbery that ended in a suspicious death--and all signs seem to point to her own father as the culprit. Now the thieves from years' past have caught up with Lucille and are back for revenge...and to collect the money that was never recovered with the body.
Lucille Arnetta Love has always lived on the run. In her family's traveling band, Lucille was billed as The Little Girl with the Big Voice, belting out gospel hymns and never staying in once place too long--all to keep attention off the real reason the Loves had to flee across America. Unaware of the danger, Lucille dreamed of breaking out of the backwoods and being big enough for Broadway. Nearly eleven years after setting out on the road with her parents, Lucille is finally discovered by Marcus Williams, a young talent manager who whisks her away to chase her dreams.
The big cities aren't kind to Lucille; no matter how big her voice is, there's always another act to be compared to. So Marcus rebrands The Little Girl with the Big Voice and sets Lucille up with a band. Once Miss Lucille's Black Troubadours are formed, no one can hold a candle to them. Together with Big Bobby, Lincoln, and Sweet Mitchell, Miss Lucille and her band become rising stars, moving up the bill and delivering knockout performances at every club and theatre on the circuit.
But as opportunities grow stagnant and the band turns restless, personal demons haunt the Troubadours. Between drinking, gambling, and love affairs, Lucille's family secret is revealed, and it's a shock even to her: a decades-old robbery that ended in a suspicious death--and all signs seem to point to her own father as the culprit. Now the thieves from years' past have caught up with Lucille and are back for revenge...and to collect the money that was never recovered with the body.
384 pages, Paperback
First published November 19, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
November 30, 2024
One stupid decision caused Hank Love and his family to have to leave town.
The trip out of town was not without drama, but they finally found a place where they could be comfortable and could work.
They were staying in Miss Opal’s rooming house where many people came and went. You will meet many interesting characters that stay there.
Hank, Evelyn, and little Lucille were comfortable there, but Evelyn missed her father and their home.
But they couldn’t go back because of Hank’s mistake and started singing at churches, but Lucille was the star and had a gift - a beautiful voice.
An agent approached Lucille's parents and made her famous, but will this life away from her parents change her?
Would her voice save her family or would her father’s decision from years ago catch up with them and ruin their lives after all this time?
The characters were well developed - I worried for Lillian and liked Evelyn since she was the most sensible. Some of the characters were "characters."
Even though the book got wordy at times, it was an interesting read about Lucille’s family’s worries, the travels and struggles of the singing troop, and this 1920s era.
I do have to say the ending was a bit corny, but still an entertaining, well-researched read. 4/5
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
The trip out of town was not without drama, but they finally found a place where they could be comfortable and could work.
They were staying in Miss Opal’s rooming house where many people came and went. You will meet many interesting characters that stay there.
Hank, Evelyn, and little Lucille were comfortable there, but Evelyn missed her father and their home.
But they couldn’t go back because of Hank’s mistake and started singing at churches, but Lucille was the star and had a gift - a beautiful voice.
An agent approached Lucille's parents and made her famous, but will this life away from her parents change her?
Would her voice save her family or would her father’s decision from years ago catch up with them and ruin their lives after all this time?
The characters were well developed - I worried for Lillian and liked Evelyn since she was the most sensible. Some of the characters were "characters."
Even though the book got wordy at times, it was an interesting read about Lucille’s family’s worries, the travels and struggles of the singing troop, and this 1920s era.
I do have to say the ending was a bit corny, but still an entertaining, well-researched read. 4/5
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
September 16, 2025
2.5 Stars
Books like this are why I usually don't read synopses. The synopsis made this book sound like it was a gritty historical crime thriller with a dash of romance. It wasn't any of those things. Had I not read the synopsis I would have probably enjoyed this more. The cover was what made me pick this up at the library and read what it was about...it's a beautiful cover and the story was engaging. I was just expecting a more action-packed read.
Books like this are why I usually don't read synopses. The synopsis made this book sound like it was a gritty historical crime thriller with a dash of romance. It wasn't any of those things. Had I not read the synopsis I would have probably enjoyed this more. The cover was what made me pick this up at the library and read what it was about...it's a beautiful cover and the story was engaging. I was just expecting a more action-packed read.
July 8, 2024
I had the pleasure of receiving an advanced reader copy of The Jewel of the Blues by Monica Chenault Kilgore from Harlequin via NetGalley. This coming-of-age story of a Black woman in the vaudeville era beautifully captures her journey from a young girl singing gospel to navigating the complexities of the entertainment industry. Alongside this, she contends with a family secret that leads to ominous instances throughout the book.
The writing vividly brings the music and performances to life—you can see the costumes and hear the chords. The book shines when it focuses on her growth, from a child to a teenager learning life’s harsh realities, against the backdrop of early 1920s entertainment. There are also bits of humor and romance that take readers on a whimsical journey through the 1920s jazz era.
However, the plot becomes convoluted as it tries to tie the family secret to the protagonist’s journey. Not enough happens at the beginning or throughout the book for this secret to carry the weight it is given, and making it a central plot point is a disappointment. The narrative feels dense, with unnecessary exposition that could benefit from tightening before its November release.
Despite this, the core of the story is strong, and with some refinement, it has great potential.
The writing vividly brings the music and performances to life—you can see the costumes and hear the chords. The book shines when it focuses on her growth, from a child to a teenager learning life’s harsh realities, against the backdrop of early 1920s entertainment. There are also bits of humor and romance that take readers on a whimsical journey through the 1920s jazz era.
However, the plot becomes convoluted as it tries to tie the family secret to the protagonist’s journey. Not enough happens at the beginning or throughout the book for this secret to carry the weight it is given, and making it a central plot point is a disappointment. The narrative feels dense, with unnecessary exposition that could benefit from tightening before its November release.
Despite this, the core of the story is strong, and with some refinement, it has great potential.
April 14, 2025
Just a tad bit sad to only give it two stars. I came across this book because of the GoodReads challenge and was truly excited for it, since I love a good Roaring Twenties story. However, it turned out to be a bit of a disappointment.
Whereas the story started off well, with some good old crime, the plot quickly diverged into two storylines: Lucille’s road to success and the gold coins. For the longest time, it felt like these two were completely separate. They ended up meeting again, but not in a logical way.
In the end, this book could have been a great one. The characters certainly had a lot of potential and the initial idea behind the plot was a good one. Sadly, it just wasn’t meant to be. Perhaps it’s just me, perhaps the author could have worked on truly intertwining the two storylines more.
Whereas the story started off well, with some good old crime, the plot quickly diverged into two storylines: Lucille’s road to success and the gold coins. For the longest time, it felt like these two were completely separate. They ended up meeting again, but not in a logical way.
In the end, this book could have been a great one. The characters certainly had a lot of potential and the initial idea behind the plot was a good one. Sadly, it just wasn’t meant to be. Perhaps it’s just me, perhaps the author could have worked on truly intertwining the two storylines more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 13, 2024
First, thank Monica Chenault-Kilgore, the publisher, and NetGalley for this advanced copy to read for my unbiased opinion. Now let's get into it. I wanted to like this book more. I feel like it started strong and dissolved a bit. The story starts with the Love family and the father falling into unintended trouble. The family heads out of town, once again encountering further trouble. They move around, surviving on a kind of pieced-together life, that is, until they discover their daughter Lucille can sing. At this point, they move around singing at churches, etc. Lucille's star rises, though, and eventually, she parts from her family on her adventure. Things start to get wonky here for me. Many of the relationships are disjointed and lack depth and, in some cases, follow-through or explanation. And really, much of this starts to happen more towards the book's last quarter. There are characters mentioned in major scenes in passing and then not mentioned again as if they weren't there. And it seems like everything falls apart quickly and somewhat unexpectedly. I'm not sure how to explain it. I was just disappointed as I got closer and closer to the end. I liked a lot of the historical portions and explanations of the situation. I loved the time frame and growth of Lucille as a character.
June 16, 2025
The story told around Lucille (main character) and her circle of people was the best part about this read. The era, and all that happen in the Jazzy days, and the out-there-characters that marched it through time was well-written by the author. I truly loved the supporting cast.
Lucille? Not so much. Nuf said.
*A sincere thank you to Monica Chenault-Kilgore, Harlequin Trade Publishing | Graydon House, and NetGalley for an ARC to read and review independently.* #TheJeweloftheBlues #NetGalley 25|52:47b
Lucille? Not so much. Nuf said.
*A sincere thank you to Monica Chenault-Kilgore, Harlequin Trade Publishing | Graydon House, and NetGalley for an ARC to read and review independently.* #TheJeweloftheBlues #NetGalley 25|52:47b
January 22, 2025
I love books that paint a picture of a life that is very different from my own. A glimpse of a difficult life growing up in the racist times of the 1920s, and how hard it can be even for truly talented people to find success...
July 2, 2025
Atmospheric, character-driven historical fiction set during the Jazz Age—with richly described settings, period detail, and a backdrop of racial tension—this novel offers a vivid, immersive experience. Lucille Love is a determined, if sometimes flawed, heroine striving to claim her place in a challenging world. It got a little slow for me in the middle, even with all its charms. It kind of read like a '70s TV movie.
January 28, 2025
The story starts with a robbery which echoes throughout Lucille’s life. Her parents want the world for her and when they realize she has singing talent they believe she should use her gift for the glory of the Lord. This is in the day when black entertainers had very limited options to perform. As she gets older, she realizes that the fame and fortune that she so desires will not come from godly performances. She begins to change her act as she starts to travel with a proper manager and not her parents. We learn about the realities of the entertainment business for a woman, especially a Black one in the time. As she becomes more famous that robbery that occurred during her youth comes back to haunt her.
I loved the story, it had such immersive glimpses of the time period and the culture. There was such beauty and her performances and such harshness in the world around her. There were definitely times where I cringed, rolled my eyes at the choices she was making, but I think that’s true to the naivety she was raised with.
I loved the story, it had such immersive glimpses of the time period and the culture. There was such beauty and her performances and such harshness in the world around her. There were definitely times where I cringed, rolled my eyes at the choices she was making, but I think that’s true to the naivety she was raised with.
January 7, 2025
I really did want to love this more but it was really hard to care for the main character, Lucille.
This takes place in the 1910s and the 1920s. I love historical fiction so this called to me because the Roaring 20s are my jam and I was excited to read something from a POC’s point of view.
I liked that it stayed true to those times. While the language made me uncomfortable, it showed a good portrayal of the South and the racism plus violent acts of those times. I also did enjoy trying to find out of Lucille would ever have her dream come true.
Now what annoyed me was how the whole plot came to be. I feel like Lucille’s dad got off so easily since she had to deal with his mistake years later. Plus the writing was not fluid and I wasn’t sure when scenes were changing and also there was zero character development for Lucille. She was not like able to me and came off as spoiled.
The last 25% is where really where my attention didn’t waver and I’m glad at the end they all found their happiness.
Thank you NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the ARC in exchange of an honest review!
This takes place in the 1910s and the 1920s. I love historical fiction so this called to me because the Roaring 20s are my jam and I was excited to read something from a POC’s point of view.
I liked that it stayed true to those times. While the language made me uncomfortable, it showed a good portrayal of the South and the racism plus violent acts of those times. I also did enjoy trying to find out of Lucille would ever have her dream come true.
Now what annoyed me was how the whole plot came to be. I feel like Lucille’s dad got off so easily since she had to deal with his mistake years later. Plus the writing was not fluid and I wasn’t sure when scenes were changing and also there was zero character development for Lucille. She was not like able to me and came off as spoiled.
The last 25% is where really where my attention didn’t waver and I’m glad at the end they all found their happiness.
Thank you NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the ARC in exchange of an honest review!
February 3, 2025
I disliked this book immensely. It was boring and I was able to skip about 30% to get to the end and still was able to follow the terrible story.
May 10, 2025
The Jewel of the Blues is a coming of age story set in the 1920s. Lillian Love is a talented singer, determined to make it big in the entertainment industry. When she's a child, her father runs into some trouble (wrong place, wrong time) that puts his life in jeopardy in the segregated South, so the family adopts a vagabond lifestyle as traveling singers.
From the initial trouble her father stumbles into, to concerns about accidentally getting stuck in a "sundown town", the novel paints the reader into the culture of the time period. I enjoyed reading the evocative descriptions of Lillian and her Troubadours as they try to achieve success in an industry where the gatekeepers were determined to keep black entertainers, regardless of talent, "in their place." In one scene, the group learns, after accepting a job, that they will be paid only if they blacken their faces and perform as a minstrel act, a demeaning demand made even more insulting given the solid reputation these artists have worked so hard to build.
That said, I think the story itself could have used some editing. There's family drama, a mystery, a love story (sort of), and even some magical realism thrown in, and the pieces just don't come together well. I wanted to root for the main character, but she makes some ridiculous decisions (then again so do some of the others), side characters (including her parents) disappear for wide swaths of the story, only to reappear when convenient to the plot, and the entire story involving the coins seems half baked and implausible to me.
I'm going up a star because of the historical elements that seem well researched and the lovely costume descriptions.
From the initial trouble her father stumbles into, to concerns about accidentally getting stuck in a "sundown town", the novel paints the reader into the culture of the time period. I enjoyed reading the evocative descriptions of Lillian and her Troubadours as they try to achieve success in an industry where the gatekeepers were determined to keep black entertainers, regardless of talent, "in their place." In one scene, the group learns, after accepting a job, that they will be paid only if they blacken their faces and perform as a minstrel act, a demeaning demand made even more insulting given the solid reputation these artists have worked so hard to build.
That said, I think the story itself could have used some editing. There's family drama, a mystery, a love story (sort of), and even some magical realism thrown in, and the pieces just don't come together well. I wanted to root for the main character, but she makes some ridiculous decisions (then again so do some of the others), side characters (including her parents) disappear for wide swaths of the story, only to reappear when convenient to the plot, and the entire story involving the coins seems half baked and implausible to me.
I'm going up a star because of the historical elements that seem well researched and the lovely costume descriptions.
April 18, 2024
This was not my average "historical fiction" era of choice, but I was excited to dive into this. With that being said, I was left feeling unfulfilled, bored and a little lost in the storyline.
Overall, this was hard for me to continue reading at times. The entire book felt very "one note" to me and included a plethora of details I found unnecessary. From the beginning of the story where we learn about Hank's theft, to the tie-in at the end took way too much time for me to stay interested. I didn't feel like there was enough to keep me engaged to want to see how the characters would fair, assuming that the book started with this scene because it would come back to haunt Lucille later in life.
At times, details and certain happenings in this book felt very odd and almost like a last minute decision to add. Overall, it personally felt very disjointed and almost as if there were multiple unfinished ideas that came to the author's mind while writing that, rather than editing back, decided to include everything.
I also didn't personally relate to any of the characters, which may have been a larger reason why I had an issue connecting to them or the storyline. Some of the dialogue was very hard to understand and I felt there were a few grammatical errors that may have been intentional, but didn't lend any additional need to the story, so it felt unnecessary and like a mistake.
I will say I enjoyed the last 1/4 of this book much more than the first 3/4, but all in all, it didn't leave a memorable stamp on my brain nor would it be something I recommend to many.
Overall, this was hard for me to continue reading at times. The entire book felt very "one note" to me and included a plethora of details I found unnecessary. From the beginning of the story where we learn about Hank's theft, to the tie-in at the end took way too much time for me to stay interested. I didn't feel like there was enough to keep me engaged to want to see how the characters would fair, assuming that the book started with this scene because it would come back to haunt Lucille later in life.
At times, details and certain happenings in this book felt very odd and almost like a last minute decision to add. Overall, it personally felt very disjointed and almost as if there were multiple unfinished ideas that came to the author's mind while writing that, rather than editing back, decided to include everything.
I also didn't personally relate to any of the characters, which may have been a larger reason why I had an issue connecting to them or the storyline. Some of the dialogue was very hard to understand and I felt there were a few grammatical errors that may have been intentional, but didn't lend any additional need to the story, so it felt unnecessary and like a mistake.
I will say I enjoyed the last 1/4 of this book much more than the first 3/4, but all in all, it didn't leave a memorable stamp on my brain nor would it be something I recommend to many.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 20, 2024
The Jewel of the Blues is a coming of age story about a young girls journey to make it in the 1920s jazz era. That was one of my favorite parts was the vivid descriptions of the settings, clothes and everything else that had to do with that time period. The characters are well developed and there are a few characters that I really became invested in. The story does get a little wordy but other than that it was an interesting read. Thank you Uplit Reads and Monica Chenault-Kilgore for sharing this book with me!
July 29, 2025
The book started strong and I was invested, but it sort of fizzled out - Lucille wasn't entirely likeable, though I did like the other characters in the Troubadour. I thought the resolution at the end was surprisingly quick and maybe a little too clean?
Overall an enjoyable story.
Overall an enjoyable story.
February 24, 2025
The pacing was slow. Despite being about the roaring 20s which is a topic I find interesting, most of the time I was disinterested in the storyline. Skimmed the last 1/3.
March 17, 2025
I felt a little cheated with this book because I was extremely excited about it given the synopsis. However, the book didn’t follow the synopsis. The “mystery” happens in the first few pages of the book and it isn’t really a mystery for the reader as everything is explained in detail. The backlash of the “mystery” isn’t brought up until the last 30% of the book.
I would have been fine with the book not following the synopsis if the main character was likeable but she was a spoiled brat and she didn’t have any character development. The supporting characters of her Troubadours and her manager kept me interested in the book. Without them, I would have never finished it.
I would have been fine with the book not following the synopsis if the main character was likeable but she was a spoiled brat and she didn’t have any character development. The supporting characters of her Troubadours and her manager kept me interested in the book. Without them, I would have never finished it.
February 9, 2025
I tried really hard to like this book as the premise seemed interesting. I just couldn’t sympathize with the main character, and the book was really slow in places.
December 16, 2024
I love historical fiction and was very excited to read this story. The descriptions and how the scenery was described was absolutely amazing but the plot fell a bit flat for me unfortunately. Reading about how the Loves family was constantly on the move due to a huge family secret was intriguing but seemed rushed as Lucille got older. She was then on the music scene in the 1920s and trying to make it big with her band & with Marcus her manager who she eventually fell for. Lucile was not the most likeable character in my opinion due to how she treated Marcus and then all things come tumbling down around her. I did enjoy how detailed the author was in describing the surroundings and characters in this book but it seemed to lose its steam as the story progressed. I would still suggest this book to others due to how beautifully written it was. I am grateful for my complimentary copy in exchange for my honest review.
May 10, 2024
The book opens in 1906, with the Love family - Hank, who scrambled to eke out a living growing vegetables on a tiny patch of rented land, his wife Evelyn, who was a preacher’s daughter who sang gospel and opera, and their tiny, musically inclined daughter Lucille. Early in the book, Hank was in the wrong place at the wrong time, and made a momentary bad decision that set the family on the run. They made a living singing as The Traveling Loves and went from one church to another, singing at revivals, and showcasing little Lucille, known as The Little Girl with the Big Voice. Tired of life on the road, and wanting to find a place to settle, the Loves trusted their teen daughter’s future to an energetic promoter, Marcus Williams, who promised to take care of Lucille, and make her a star, not an easy task in the era of segregation.
As Lucille got older, she craved independence, fame and fortune, and added musicians to her act, becoming Miss Lucille and the Black Troubadours. Marcus assured them they were one only step from stardom as they traveled through Virginia, Tennessee, Georgia, playing bars, clubs, theaters and speakeasies. Life on the road was tough, performing for just enough money to get by, and always with alcohol, gambling, and discrimination in the background.
Most of the book is dedicated to describing life on the road, and the struggles of performers in the roaring 20’s. The author ‘s character development was well crafted and memorable, I could easily visualize Hank and Evelyn and their struggles during segregation, Miss Opal who ran a boarding house and school, the talented but hard living musicians and dancers, Marcus, the talent promoter, and of course Lucille Arnetta Love who chased her dream relentlessly.
In the last few chapters, many of the past mysteries, conflicts and issues were resolved, some happily, some not. As a reader, I felt satisfied with the way the book played out, and enjoyed the colorful, difficult, but rewarding journey with Lucille.
After I finished the book, I found bonus material at the end. There were discussion questions, making it a good choice for book clubs. There was a playlist of many of the famous songs referenced in the book, and a tour map and theater descriptions - fascinating after having read about the shows held in each one.
I would recommend this book for those who enjoy historical fiction, who enjoy soaking in the glitzy, naughty era of prohibition. It’s also a disturbing story of struggles during the years of segregation, but ultimately it’s a glimpse at the triumph of the human spirit.
Thank you to Harlequin, and to Netgalley for the ARC, in return for which I’m happy to give my honest opinion.
As Lucille got older, she craved independence, fame and fortune, and added musicians to her act, becoming Miss Lucille and the Black Troubadours. Marcus assured them they were one only step from stardom as they traveled through Virginia, Tennessee, Georgia, playing bars, clubs, theaters and speakeasies. Life on the road was tough, performing for just enough money to get by, and always with alcohol, gambling, and discrimination in the background.
Most of the book is dedicated to describing life on the road, and the struggles of performers in the roaring 20’s. The author ‘s character development was well crafted and memorable, I could easily visualize Hank and Evelyn and their struggles during segregation, Miss Opal who ran a boarding house and school, the talented but hard living musicians and dancers, Marcus, the talent promoter, and of course Lucille Arnetta Love who chased her dream relentlessly.
In the last few chapters, many of the past mysteries, conflicts and issues were resolved, some happily, some not. As a reader, I felt satisfied with the way the book played out, and enjoyed the colorful, difficult, but rewarding journey with Lucille.
After I finished the book, I found bonus material at the end. There were discussion questions, making it a good choice for book clubs. There was a playlist of many of the famous songs referenced in the book, and a tour map and theater descriptions - fascinating after having read about the shows held in each one.
I would recommend this book for those who enjoy historical fiction, who enjoy soaking in the glitzy, naughty era of prohibition. It’s also a disturbing story of struggles during the years of segregation, but ultimately it’s a glimpse at the triumph of the human spirit.
Thank you to Harlequin, and to Netgalley for the ARC, in return for which I’m happy to give my honest opinion.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 19, 2024
Vivid storytelling ✅ Immersive read ✅ Suspense ✅
The Jewel of the Blues released November 19 and was such an incredible story! I truly felt transported back in time and from the opening chapter you are HOOKED in this world and characters!
One thing that I love most about books is getting to see the world through the eyes of different characters and this book was no different. The language and imagery truly brought each page to life, I don't know how else to convey just how truly captivating this read was.
You watch Lucille grow up as a young toddler on the run (no spoilers here!) and seeing how each stop along the way shapes her life made the ending truly come full circle. I would say the author truly did a beautiful job with the character of Lucille, She shows her flaws in a way I have ever read before and truly, for a hot second you don't like Lucille very much because of them. But watching her grow and pick herself back up truly leads you though an emotional journey with Lucille.
There are so many beloved characters and details in this book. Pretty sure I could easily re-read it and pick up on so many things I probably missed the first time.
This book will challenge the way you think. One of my favorite lines came from a side character called Miss Opal-
Ch. 5
Lucille knew better than to interrupt with a question or a comment. Miss Opal's lessons always evolved from practical function to big-picture, real-world applications.
"We can't just sit idly by and watch though. That's why I got you girls here. I'll always challenge the old way of life trying to keep me and my people from disappearing in the fields. And you know what? The key is us -- us women and girls. We gon' do whatever we have to do to lift up the race."
Side note: The cover is GORGEOUS! If you are at a bookstore this weekend try to find a copy of this 😍
So grateful to UpLit Reads for an opportunity to be an ARC reader and for the gifted copy.
The Jewel of the Blues released November 19 and was such an incredible story! I truly felt transported back in time and from the opening chapter you are HOOKED in this world and characters!
One thing that I love most about books is getting to see the world through the eyes of different characters and this book was no different. The language and imagery truly brought each page to life, I don't know how else to convey just how truly captivating this read was.
You watch Lucille grow up as a young toddler on the run (no spoilers here!) and seeing how each stop along the way shapes her life made the ending truly come full circle. I would say the author truly did a beautiful job with the character of Lucille, She shows her flaws in a way I have ever read before and truly, for a hot second you don't like Lucille very much because of them. But watching her grow and pick herself back up truly leads you though an emotional journey with Lucille.
There are so many beloved characters and details in this book. Pretty sure I could easily re-read it and pick up on so many things I probably missed the first time.
This book will challenge the way you think. One of my favorite lines came from a side character called Miss Opal-
Ch. 5
Lucille knew better than to interrupt with a question or a comment. Miss Opal's lessons always evolved from practical function to big-picture, real-world applications.
"We can't just sit idly by and watch though. That's why I got you girls here. I'll always challenge the old way of life trying to keep me and my people from disappearing in the fields. And you know what? The key is us -- us women and girls. We gon' do whatever we have to do to lift up the race."
Side note: The cover is GORGEOUS! If you are at a bookstore this weekend try to find a copy of this 😍
So grateful to UpLit Reads for an opportunity to be an ARC reader and for the gifted copy.
December 11, 2024
Set in the 1920s jazz era, Lucille Arnetta Love is a singer on the run with her family’s band. When she is discovered by talent manager Marcus Williams, Lucille rises to fame with her new band they call Miss Lucille’s Black Troubadours. Amidst their success, Lucille's family secrets begin to emerge and entangle her in danger and past crimes. Dubbed "The Little Girl with the Big Voice," Lucille dreams of hitting it big (New York! Europe! Cruise liners!) with her gaggle of musicians in her band and a stowaway they pick up along the way. Their journey is treacherous and limiting, but their drive and desire to achieve stardom fills their tanks.
4 stars!
What an interesting story! Starting out as a young girl, escaping her hometown with her parents after an incident that leaves her father susceptible to danger, Lucille has grit and gumption and goals. She is not necessarily the most likeable main character, as her dreams of becoming successful and famous often come across a bit iffy, but without her devotion to her craft she wouldn't make it anywhere. Her loyal band musicians - Mitchell, Big Bobby and Lincoln - and their add-on Delphina, make for a sweet and special road family as they perform in terrible buildings, deal with slimy venue managers and get paid only enough to make it to the next day sometimes.
This novel kept my interest from start to finish and gave me Almost Famous, Daisy Jones & the Six and Dreamgirls vibes in their own unique ways. The one thing I was desperate for the entire time I was reading though?.... to HEAR them all. This book reads like a movie, and I could imagine all the details in my head, but I so badly wanted to hear Lucille sing, and to listen to the Troubadours wail on their instruments! Maybe someday...
4 stars!
What an interesting story! Starting out as a young girl, escaping her hometown with her parents after an incident that leaves her father susceptible to danger, Lucille has grit and gumption and goals. She is not necessarily the most likeable main character, as her dreams of becoming successful and famous often come across a bit iffy, but without her devotion to her craft she wouldn't make it anywhere. Her loyal band musicians - Mitchell, Big Bobby and Lincoln - and their add-on Delphina, make for a sweet and special road family as they perform in terrible buildings, deal with slimy venue managers and get paid only enough to make it to the next day sometimes.
This novel kept my interest from start to finish and gave me Almost Famous, Daisy Jones & the Six and Dreamgirls vibes in their own unique ways. The one thing I was desperate for the entire time I was reading though?.... to HEAR them all. This book reads like a movie, and I could imagine all the details in my head, but I so badly wanted to hear Lucille sing, and to listen to the Troubadours wail on their instruments! Maybe someday...
May 15, 2024
I was fortunate enough to be selected to receive a pre-release copy of The Jewel of the Blues from #Harlequin via #netgalley. Roaring 20’s Jazz in the south from a poc character pursuing her dreams and fighting tooth and nail for them.
Lucille Love and her troubadours had me hooked from the beginning of their journey. I have always had a love of historical fiction, and the roaring 20s. this book brought to life the struggles of young poc entertainers of the time.
From her gospel days as the “little girl with the big voice” to her days traveling the south on a rickety old bus with her band of men who are quite the mixed bunch of silly antics, blazing talent and mischief. Lucille learns to come into her own as a woman “alone” on the road, honing her craft, earning barely enough to survive day to day, being delt blow after blow she knows she has the talent, takes every chance she can to get what she wants.
The only thing that I had a hard time with was the robbery, I understand it got the family up and traveling to begin with, and a chance to dive into the story from a deeper perspective, but once Lucille set out on her own there wasn’t much else in the way of what was going on behind the scenes that led to her being suspected enough that she was being trailed until the gold coins were used, however there seems to have been a lot that was going on that we as the reader are not privy to until Lincoln is beaten and shot within an inch of his life. I just we had gotten more on that perspective or that it hadn’t been included as the way it stands I feel it cheapens and weakens the impactfulness of Lucille’s story.
Lucille Love and her troubadours had me hooked from the beginning of their journey. I have always had a love of historical fiction, and the roaring 20s. this book brought to life the struggles of young poc entertainers of the time.
From her gospel days as the “little girl with the big voice” to her days traveling the south on a rickety old bus with her band of men who are quite the mixed bunch of silly antics, blazing talent and mischief. Lucille learns to come into her own as a woman “alone” on the road, honing her craft, earning barely enough to survive day to day, being delt blow after blow she knows she has the talent, takes every chance she can to get what she wants.
The only thing that I had a hard time with was the robbery, I understand it got the family up and traveling to begin with, and a chance to dive into the story from a deeper perspective, but once Lucille set out on her own there wasn’t much else in the way of what was going on behind the scenes that led to her being suspected enough that she was being trailed until the gold coins were used, however there seems to have been a lot that was going on that we as the reader are not privy to until Lincoln is beaten and shot within an inch of his life. I just we had gotten more on that perspective or that it hadn’t been included as the way it stands I feel it cheapens and weakens the impactfulness of Lucille’s story.
October 21, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Lucille's family is on the run from some shady people from her father's past. Since nowhere is safe, they travel and perform together as they move from place to place. One day, her big voice was noticed by Marcus, who is an aspiring talent manager. He promises to watch over her and make her a big star. Lucille transitions from a girl singing gospel music to a woman navigating the complexities of the music industry in this coming of age tale.
Thoughts 💭
The idea for the story was creative and exceptionally detailed. I could picture the outfits Lucille was wearing so clearly! I'm also a huge fan of historical fiction, and the setting and details of the story for that time period were excellent. The author does a wonderful job making you understand the challenges Lucille had to face at that time. With that being said, the story moved at a slow pace and felt a bit disjointed. There was an event at the beginning that catapulted the story into action but then was forgotten about after that. It almost seemed like two completely different stories that weren't tied together until really late. I think the idea is strong, but the plot needs to be condensed a bit to really make it shine.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Lucille's family is on the run from some shady people from her father's past. Since nowhere is safe, they travel and perform together as they move from place to place. One day, her big voice was noticed by Marcus, who is an aspiring talent manager. He promises to watch over her and make her a big star. Lucille transitions from a girl singing gospel music to a woman navigating the complexities of the music industry in this coming of age tale.
Thoughts 💭
The idea for the story was creative and exceptionally detailed. I could picture the outfits Lucille was wearing so clearly! I'm also a huge fan of historical fiction, and the setting and details of the story for that time period were excellent. The author does a wonderful job making you understand the challenges Lucille had to face at that time. With that being said, the story moved at a slow pace and felt a bit disjointed. There was an event at the beginning that catapulted the story into action but then was forgotten about after that. It almost seemed like two completely different stories that weren't tied together until really late. I think the idea is strong, but the plot needs to be condensed a bit to really make it shine.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 25, 2024
There are a lot of books out there about jazz and the 1920s, but what made this book stand out - at least for me - was the focus on the African American Vaudeville Circuit at a time when black culture was big business but black performers were considered second-class citizens. It was a time in history I knew very little about, and Chenault-Kilgore does a magificent job of recreating it.
Central to the tale is Lucille Love, an immensely talented jazz singer determined to make it to the big time. Lucille was such a loveable, vibrant heroine. Readers get to travel with Lucille as she grows from young girl with raw talent to a mature woman ready to embrace her moment. Along the way, she makes plenty of mistakes, sometimes big ones, but her love for the music never waivers. I loved every member of the musician family she collects along the way.
Woven into Lucille's journey is a subplot regarding a 19th century bank robbery. I won't spoil the story, but suffice to say Lucille's father makes an impulsive decision that not only changes the trajectory of the entire family's lives, but comes back big time to haunt Lucille decades later.
My only complaint is that, like many 400 page books, the story drags a bit in the middle. That won't stop me from reading more of this author's work. 4 1/2 stars.
Thanks Netgalley for an advanced read in exchange for an honest review.
Central to the tale is Lucille Love, an immensely talented jazz singer determined to make it to the big time. Lucille was such a loveable, vibrant heroine. Readers get to travel with Lucille as she grows from young girl with raw talent to a mature woman ready to embrace her moment. Along the way, she makes plenty of mistakes, sometimes big ones, but her love for the music never waivers. I loved every member of the musician family she collects along the way.
Woven into Lucille's journey is a subplot regarding a 19th century bank robbery. I won't spoil the story, but suffice to say Lucille's father makes an impulsive decision that not only changes the trajectory of the entire family's lives, but comes back big time to haunt Lucille decades later.
My only complaint is that, like many 400 page books, the story drags a bit in the middle. That won't stop me from reading more of this author's work. 4 1/2 stars.
Thanks Netgalley for an advanced read in exchange for an honest review.
January 26, 2025
In this tense and beautiful new historical fiction novel about a young jazz performer as her career grows and takes off in the 1920s, where romance, danger, and drama are all part of daily life. Lucille Arnetta Love is ready to move away from being the Little Girl with the Big Voice and take charge of her career, moving from a family gospel band to the lead of a vaudeville troupe and setting herself up for success. However, a botched robbery from years ago and the suspicious death that it ended in point to Lucille’s father, and it keeps coming back to haunt the family, who is desperately trying to bury this secret. As she explores the dangerous underbelly of 1920s America and the entertainment scene with Miss Lucille’s Black Troubadours, Lucille and the readers will get the chance to make it big. With brilliant characters, underlying tension, and dramatic and exciting detail, readers will love the music and magic built into this novel and the fascinating cast of characters Monica Chenault-Kilgore brings to life. With its immersive and intricately detailed plot, this is a unique and fascinating novel about the Jazz Age that readers will absolutely love for the detail, tension, and character development.
Thanks to NetGalley, Harlequin Trade Publishing, and Graydon House for the advance copy.
Thanks to NetGalley, Harlequin Trade Publishing, and Graydon House for the advance copy.
Read
April 13, 2024 I want to thank Netgalley and Harlequin Publishing/Graydon House for the opportunity to read a pre-release copy of Monica Chenualt-Kilgore's new historical-fiction The Jewel of the Blues.
Lucille Love's story starts as a young black girl who travels with her parents entertaining at church functions. When she is discovered by Marcus, a young promoter, she becomes known as the little girl with the big voice. Marcus starts booking the Love's at venues other than churches and Lucille begins to realize that fame could some day be hers. Lucille's parents eventually start to trust Marcus with her care and quit touring with her. Marcus hires Bobby, Lincoln and Mitchell as musicians and they become known as Lucille and the Black Troubadours.
Only 55 years following the end of slavery in the United States, Chenault-Kilgore brings to life the Roaring Twenties and the difficulties of black entertainers during that time period. Lucille and her troupe face much discrimination in their efforts to make it big; being treated as second-hand citizens wherever they go.
I enjoyed reading The Jewel of the Blues and recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical-fiction and would like to learn more about the Roaring Twenties and the struggles of black entertainers.
Lucille Love's story starts as a young black girl who travels with her parents entertaining at church functions. When she is discovered by Marcus, a young promoter, she becomes known as the little girl with the big voice. Marcus starts booking the Love's at venues other than churches and Lucille begins to realize that fame could some day be hers. Lucille's parents eventually start to trust Marcus with her care and quit touring with her. Marcus hires Bobby, Lincoln and Mitchell as musicians and they become known as Lucille and the Black Troubadours.
Only 55 years following the end of slavery in the United States, Chenault-Kilgore brings to life the Roaring Twenties and the difficulties of black entertainers during that time period. Lucille and her troupe face much discrimination in their efforts to make it big; being treated as second-hand citizens wherever they go.
I enjoyed reading The Jewel of the Blues and recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical-fiction and would like to learn more about the Roaring Twenties and the struggles of black entertainers.
November 16, 2024
The cover of this book made me pick it up and read the synopsis. Vivid, full of life, the different hues of blue. I knew I would fall in love with this book. It took me some time to come into it. To find the thread that linked me to the book. I loved the sense of family Hank wanted to have. Yet it all started to crumble around him after he ran into the robber that morning. When he was trying to sell fruit and veg to pay his rent. To make his family proud of him. When his temptation, and quick thinking made a mess of their lives. Having to pick up and quickly leave their home and Lucille's grandfather behind. Criss crossing from town to town. Living with one family to the next, until they come up with a plan. It all leads to Lucille's beautiful voice.
I loved how singing always brought this family of three together. Calmed the anxiety, made everything clear again. Having to shelter and not stick out in a crowd when you are new in a small town. Trying to blend in and be in the south during this era was difficult to say the least. You never know who you can trust and who is around the next bend. Thank you to Monica Chenault-Kilgore, Graydon House, and Uplit Reads for my gifted copy.
I loved how singing always brought this family of three together. Calmed the anxiety, made everything clear again. Having to shelter and not stick out in a crowd when you are new in a small town. Trying to blend in and be in the south during this era was difficult to say the least. You never know who you can trust and who is around the next bend. Thank you to Monica Chenault-Kilgore, Graydon House, and Uplit Reads for my gifted copy.
November 25, 2025
Blues singer Lucille Arnetta Love always dreamed of life under the lights. From traveling family gospel band to lead singer in a vaudeville troupe, Lucille is on the rise. But a devastating family secret, one that's poised to shatter every dream she's ever had, casts an inescapable shadow over Lucille's career.
Likes:
-Liked how the author weaves in history of black performers in the vaudeville era
-Includes a reader's guide with discussion questions, music playlist, & history of the performance theaters mentioned in the story
Dislikes:
-No real character development
-Very repetitive
I'm not sure what was going on while I was reading this. It took me forever to get through this book. It just didn't draw me in. The first few chapters were really good & set the stage, but then the story fizzled out. I think part of the problem was that the characters were very surface level. I didn't see any growth from any of them. The story also dragged because it kept rehashing the same plot points over & over again (parties, drinking, Lucille's feelings about the men in her life, etc). This book was just okay for me & I gave it 3.5 stars.
Thanks for reading this review. Check out my YouTube channel www.youtube.com/@TriceyReads for more book reviews & recommendations.
Likes:
-Liked how the author weaves in history of black performers in the vaudeville era
-Includes a reader's guide with discussion questions, music playlist, & history of the performance theaters mentioned in the story
Dislikes:
-No real character development
-Very repetitive
I'm not sure what was going on while I was reading this. It took me forever to get through this book. It just didn't draw me in. The first few chapters were really good & set the stage, but then the story fizzled out. I think part of the problem was that the characters were very surface level. I didn't see any growth from any of them. The story also dragged because it kept rehashing the same plot points over & over again (parties, drinking, Lucille's feelings about the men in her life, etc). This book was just okay for me & I gave it 3.5 stars.
Thanks for reading this review. Check out my YouTube channel www.youtube.com/@TriceyReads for more book reviews & recommendations.
April 29, 2024
Thank you to Net Galley for providing me with an e-ARC of this book!
I will admit, right off the bat, I requested this book because of the cover. I love peacocks and flappers!
On to the story, though. I wish that I had enjoyed the ending as much as I had the beginning. I understand that lure of musical fame, having grown up in the church choir and wanting to be just like my idol (Sandi Patty). I got how driven Lucille is by her gift and wanting to be recognized for it. However, as Lucille continued to make bad choice after bad choice, I found it harder and harder to engage with her, and to like her. I was SO angered for her and her Troubadours when they were forced to lean into racist stereotypes at one of their final shows together, but it still didn’t get me to like her any more as a character.
I am thankful that I got to read about this very underrepresented part of American history, and I hope Chenault-Kilgore goes on to write more of these stories because they are so important to the tapestry of our nation. (And I am SO glad that she referenced the amazing Kathleen Battle as inspiration for one of Lucille’s performance!)
I will admit, right off the bat, I requested this book because of the cover. I love peacocks and flappers!
On to the story, though. I wish that I had enjoyed the ending as much as I had the beginning. I understand that lure of musical fame, having grown up in the church choir and wanting to be just like my idol (Sandi Patty). I got how driven Lucille is by her gift and wanting to be recognized for it. However, as Lucille continued to make bad choice after bad choice, I found it harder and harder to engage with her, and to like her. I was SO angered for her and her Troubadours when they were forced to lean into racist stereotypes at one of their final shows together, but it still didn’t get me to like her any more as a character.
I am thankful that I got to read about this very underrepresented part of American history, and I hope Chenault-Kilgore goes on to write more of these stories because they are so important to the tapestry of our nation. (And I am SO glad that she referenced the amazing Kathleen Battle as inspiration for one of Lucille’s performance!)
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