The Worth of a Ruby

by Lya Badgley

A priceless Burmese ruby leads Mallory Jones on a journey from the remote mountains of Burma to the swelter of Bangkok in search of redemption.
In 1995, Mallory Jones, a Seattle chef, embarked on an adventurous trip to Rangoon, Burma, in pursuit of a dream project. Immersed in a foreign world of beauty, stifling heat, and political turmoil, Mallory's life takes an unexpected turn when she befriends a British diplomat and a charismatic French gem dealer, unwittingly becoming entangled in a treacherous plot to steal a priceless Burmese ruby. Haunted by her traumatic past, Mallory must confront her own capacity for violence and deceit, all while clinging to the elusive hope of a new beginning.
The Worth of a Ruby transports readers to the mesmerizing landscapes of Southeast Asia, where a priceless ruby becomes a powerful metaphor for Mallory's journey of self-discovery. Can Mallory finally break free from the disaster of her former life or will her inner demons consume her? The story is a riveting exploration of the human psyche and the search for one's true worth. Weaving elements of mystery, suspense, and personal transformation, this story leaves readers pondering the true value of the ruby of the heart.

214 pages, Paperback

Published November 1, 2023

About the author

Lya Badgley writes internationally set fiction that blends suspense, history, and transformation. Born in Myanmar to Montana parents—a political scientist and an artist—she was raised in a home that prized both creativity and critical thought. Her unconventional path has carried her from Seattle’s music scene to covert film work with Burmese insurgents, and from archival preservation in Cambodia to entrepreneurship in Yangon.
Her debut, The Foreigner’s Confession (2022), was a finalist for the Nancy Pearl Award for Best Fiction. Her second, The Worth of a Ruby (2023), was a 2024 finalist for both the International Book Award and the National Indie Excellence Award. She lives outside Seattle and is excited to release her third novel, The Thirty-Fifth Page.

Reviews

[Elisabeth B · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It defies the typical plot twists, keeping the reader engaged with unexpected turns. The author skillfully immerses the reader in the vivid heat and rich culture of Southeast Asia. The narrative is so captivating that you can't help but be drawn into the story, desperate to uncover what unfolds. The protagonist's haunted past adds a layer of intrigue and complexity that sparks our imagination.

[Karen Gahm · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Worth of a Ruby is a great read. It flows nicely and the chapters are succinct yet jam packed. The author transports you to Burma (at the time) with her vivid descriptions of the sights, the sounds, the smells, the tastes the weather, and the road conditions! It's like she lived there. Oh wait, she did!!
The story that emerges around these sights and sounds, smells and tastes is riveting. The characters are interesting and well developed with some surprises
along the way.
Part thriller, part mystery, some history and travel adventure, this is a very good book that I highly recommend.

[Verna Seal · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book captivated me from the first page and never let go until the end. This mesmerizing story totally and completely transported me to Burma and led me along a harrowing adventure to Bangkok. I could see the sites, and almost taste and smell the foods. I could not put this book down. Author Lya Badgley's connection to Southeast Asia shines through in this book. Her brilliant use of perfect words draws you in and brings you fleeting back to reality at the end. I will read this book again so I can savor every word again and again.

[Kate Rock · Rating 5 out of 5]

A mesmerizing novel with amazing vivid descriptions of Burma, Bangkok, the golden Pagodas, and the MC Mallory, a Seattle chef on quite the adventure. The sights and sounds were clear, and I was really immersed in the adventure and Mallory's own personal transformation. It's a page turner and a fairly quick read. I could see this as a movie! A great adventure, with great sites, smells, food, and the heart.

[Ellis · Rating 3 out of 5]

With an unexpectedly varied cast of characters, and a shining appreciation for the vast Burmese culture (and sub-cultures), this heist/soul-searching novel transports you back to the 1990s as Mallory navigates a new country and new acquaintances.

[Elaine Schroller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful, atmospheric read

I'm so glad The Worth of a Ruby came to the top of my TBR stack. Badgley's detailed descriptions made me feel like I was immersed in Burma's tropical humidity and mid-1990s Southeast Asian constricting military environments. Then there's Mallory, whose often surprising choices kept me reading long past my bedtime.

[Vivian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Immerse yourself into Burma, the beauty and the not so much. Lya Badgley's book will make you feel like you are living the adventures and misfortunes of the three main protagonists of the book, her writings and descriptions of places, localities and costumes are so vivid that you feel part of the story. The writer obviously did her research homework but also used her personal experience to write this book, she was born and lived in this country for many years.
The book tells the story of three expats that find themselves at the same time in Burma in 1995, and American chef woman with secrets of her own, a disgraced exiled British diplomat and a Frenchman gem dealer with a hidden agenda, but the fourth protagonist of the story is a famous priceless ruby.
The ruby is a metaphor of Mallory's self discovery and new life, of breaking with the past and trying to become a new person.
With beautiful descriptions, adventures, intrigues, suspense, danger, mystery and an authoritarian regime always watching this book will grab you from beginning to end.

[April Pruitt · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Worth of a Ruby

By: Lya Badgley

Nov 1, 2023, Atmosphere Press

✈️ If you enjoy a good international travel mystery, then you are sure to love, The Worth of a Ruby. It totally captivated me from the very first page.

🌏 I honestly felt like I was walking the streets of Burma to Bangkok with Mallory. The authors usage of descriptive words really drew me in and created such a real life experience. I felt as if I were tasting the cuisines and actually visiting the sites first hand. I couldn’t seem to put this book down.

•A priceless Burmese ruby leads Mallory Jones on a journey from the remote mountains of Burma to the swelter of Bangkok in search of redemption.
 
•In 1995, Mallory Jones, a Seattle chef, embarked on an adventurous trip to Rangoon, Burma, in pursuit of a dream project. Immersed in a foreign world of beauty, stifling heat, and political turmoil, Mallory’s life takes an unexpected turn when she befriends a British diplomat and a charismatic French gem dealer, unwittingly becoming entangled in a treacherous plot to steal a priceless Burmese ruby. Haunted by her traumatic past, Mallory must confront her own capacity for violence and deceit, all while clinging to the elusive hope of a new beginning.
 
•The Worth of a Ruby transports readers to the mesmerizing landscapes of Southeast Asia, where a priceless ruby becomes a powerful metaphor for Mallory’s journey of self-discovery.

•Can Mallory finally break free from the disaster of her former life or will her inner demons consume her?

•The story is a riveting exploration of the human psyche and the search for one’s true worth. Weaving elements of mystery, suspense, and personal transformation, this story leaves readers pondering the true value of the ruby of the heart.

[Susan Whiting Kemp · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this suspenseful novel of ambition and greed, author Lya Badgley does a phenomenal job of putting us in the heart of 1995 Burma. When Mallory Jones, the protagonist, lands there with the assignment of opening a restaurant, she finds that it’s an amazing but disturbing place. Its clacking palm fronds keep her awake at night, the high humidity is nearly impossible to bear, and the sanitary conditions are difficult to ignore. And yet there’s plenty of beauty, making us hope that it all works out for Mallory and that she can stay there and thrive. And the food! Of course a novel about a chef would have some unforgettable moments regarding the cuisine.

The characters, too, are unforgettable. Some are down-at-heels, trying to change their luck or status. Others are honest—too honest for their own good—getting tangled up in a quest that has nothing to do with them. The interplay between the characters is well done, and their backstories give them heart-wrenching motivation. And they are all quite aware of the corrupt government lurking, watching for mistakes. Being a foreigner makes Mallory particularly vulnerable, especially when a new opportunity presents itself.

What will Mallory do? Who can she trust? I was shocked more than once by a turn of events in these pages. This unpredictable story is well worth the read.

[Susan Ballard (subakkabookstuff) · Rating 4 out of 5]

𝐼𝑚𝑚𝑒𝑟𝑠𝑖𝑣𝑒, 𝑠𝑢𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑛𝑠𝑒𝑓𝑢𝑙 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑎𝑑𝑣𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑢𝑟𝑜𝑢𝑠!


Mallory Jones, an American chef, comes to Burma with a dream to open a restaurant. Although she has a traumatic past she’s hiding; she is looking for a fresh start. It all takes a dark and unexpected turn when Mallory becomes friends with two men, also ex-pats. This becomes quite the adventure when the three are tangled up in a plot to steal a valuable ruby.

Books set in Asia are some of my favorites, and Lya Badgley swept me away and opened my eyes to parts of Southeast Asia. From the sweltering heat, the selection of food, the bustle of cities, and even the spirituality of the jungle, I could vividly imagine Mallory traveling in Burma and Bangkok. It’s no surprise that the descriptions felt so authentic as the author has lived in Southeast Asia.

I really enjoyed this fast-paced mystery with adventure and tons of culture. And there’s some interesting personal growth for Mallory as well.


Thank you @KateRockBookTours @lyabadgleyauthor and @AtmospherePress for a spot on tour and a gifted book.

[Kay Smith-Blum · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gobsmacked by a myriad of twists I did not see coming, I sometimes paused to appreciate Badgley’s way with a character sketch – “A boy on the swing regarded him with enormous eyes. The mother pulled the boy off the seat and, holding his little hand, marched toward the exit gate, perk ass twisting, high heels clicking on the slate gray stones.” – such are the bonus treasures inside The Worth of a Ruby which proves to be a deadly hunt for a legendary stone. Badgley wraps the reader up in a 1990s Burma mystery – Myanmar to some – parsing out intriguing POVs as she weaves a tale mostly via a headstrong young female chef named Mallory. Who can’t relate to a talented gal fresh off a #metoo episode taking flight to a foreign country? Throw in diplomats who are not very diplomatic and locals who may or may not be trusted, and you have all the makings of a fun read steeped in a culture the author knows well. Hence, you’ll learn a lot – most enjoyably - along the way!

[WeLoveBigBooksAndWeCannotLie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Do you like to cook?🥘
I don’t cook very often, and I’m grateful for that, since I’m not the best cook, but I do love food and love reading about food!
The Worth of a Ruby follows Mallory, a chef from Seattle that finds herself in Rangoon Burma, with plans to open a restaurant, but quickly find out the politics in Burma aren’t quite what she expected. This novel will pull you in and immerse you in multiple countries that made me want to visit, but mostly to try all the food!
This is an adventure that you won’t want to put down, you just have to find out what will happen next! I hope you get a chance to check out this fascinating book!
Thank you @katerockbooktours for this gifted copy!
The Worth of a Ruby by Lya Badgley published November 2023 and is available on our Amazon storefront!🧜🏼‍♀️🌺

[MeMe · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this book to be extremely engaging from the very first page, and it didn't let go until the very last page. On a perilous journey from Burma to Bangkok, this mesmerizing tale took me on an adventurous journey and transported me to Burma. Completely enthralled me. Many of the sights were visually accessible, and the food almost provided me with a sensory experience. This is a novel that I could not put down, as it completely captivated my attention and kept me reading it until the end. The book written by Lya Badgley shows the depth of her connection to the Southeast Asia continent. The way she skillfully uses words pulls you in and then abruptly grounds you back to reality. I plan on rereading this book to relive every word repeatedly.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

This engaging book turned out to be a real page turner for me! The vivid descriptions of the environment and locales, from overflowing cities to dense jungles were intriguing and pull the reader deep into the story. The subtle history lessons included in both of Badgley's books showcase her depth of knowledge on the subjects and add realism to the sometimes otherworldly tales. This particular book defied expectations with several unique plot twists, and the ways Badgley captures intense internal emotions made it a delightful, and at times intense, read. I recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn a bit about a different culture and place in time while being taken for a fun ride!

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. You could say that it was a nice surprise read for me. I felt like I had traveled to Burma with Mallory. For me it was more about the culture and scenery of the location that really drew me into this book. Although, the characters were engaging as well.

I was drawn to Mallory. She embraced the people and culture. Which lead her to meeting Cho Cho and Zaw. Who I found both enlightening characters. The other main characters are Geoffrey and Thierry. Mallory shares a bit of romance with Geoffrey.

I did find this book to be a quick read. After reading this book, I do want to check out other books by this author.

[Jame_EReader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so excited to be spotting a review slot with @katerockbooktours @atmospherepress @lyabadgley for the opportunity to read and review. My tour stops here today.

This short and informative book is packed with suspense and stunning history of Burma. The book’s POVs have given the reader the opportunity to feel and experience the atmosphere of the country. I like this book because the story didn’t waste time telling me the worth of the ruby, the backstory, the tropical heat and the twists and turns. An amazing book.

[Jeannee · Rating 5 out of 5]

A powerful, mesmerizing story of three broken expats who wash up in Rangoon, Burma in 1995, desperate to turn their lives around. Against the backdrop of the country’s decaying sights and haunting sounds, intoxicating scents and stultifying monsoon heat, Mallory Jones and her compatriots rush headlong into the dangerous jungles that crisscross the country—all under the watchful eye of the authoritarian regime. Author Lya Badgley has crafted another breathtaking read!

[Ma Thanegi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lya Badgley Having lived here in Burma and even spent her childhood in a village due to her father's work, Lya Badgley has a keen knowledge of Things Burmese as well as many local friends unlike a few other writers who had lived here but was not 'involved' with communities outside their work or who visited briefly so their knowledge was somewhat limited. It was a delight for me and my Burmese friends that nothing was ''off-key'' in her book about us as well as being a darn good yarn.

[Lori Collins · Rating 3 out of 5]

𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙒𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙝 𝙤𝙛 𝙖 𝙍𝙪𝙗𝙮 by Lya Badgley will transport you to “the mesmerizing landscapes of Southeast Asia, where a priceless ruby becomes a powerful metaphor [] of self-discovery”. If you enjoy the following, don’t miss this one:

* Mystery/suspense
* International travel
* International cuisine
* Personal transformation
* Indiana Jones films

E-copy on Sale for $2.99 during January

https://lyabadgley.com/

Thank you @lyabadgleyauthor @AtmospherePress @KateRockBookTours for the gifted copy

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

A fast and entertaining read. The story follows a troubled American on a troubled journey to Thailand. Lots of twists, turns, crimes and murders take place that keep you turning the page. The writing at times is a bit repetitive and the ending left me furious.

[Erin Webster · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the uniqueness of this story. It was unexpected and beautiful. I highly recommend all of Lya's books. She give a peek into an area of the world that I don't see very often.

[Catherine Poe · Rating 4 out of 5]

If it involves travel and food, I’m in! This book, The Worth of a Ruby by Lya Badgley is quite the imaginative story! From Burma to Bangkok a priceless ruby leads Chef Mallory Jones on quite a journey! She has left Seattle behind her and travelled 7000 miles to Rangoons International Airport. Weaving mystery and suspense, I felt like I was taken along on an adventure with Indiana Jones! Mallory’s life takes on a new twist when she gets involved with a British diplomat and a French gem dealer. She then is involved in a plot to steal the Ruby! You must read Lya Badgleys book to find out what happens!

[Teri M Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Worth of a Ruby by Lya Badgley is her second novel. I thoroughly enjoyed her first (The Foreigner's Confession) and was super excited to get my hands on this one - also set in Burma.

Badgley writes edgy international crime/suspense and gets the reader into the mind of her characters. Mallory Jones, a chef, like the author, wanted to open a restaurant in Burma but not because she was in love with the area. Instead, she was running from her past.

However, as is wont when folks try to escape their past by running from it, the past found a way to erupt. As plans for a restaurant fall through, we see a side of Mallory that isn't evident in the beginning.
​
The Worth of a Ruby has it all: great characters, amazing backdrop, kidnapping, blackmail, murder, and a bit of Burmese magic. Plus, in the words of the author, " I like ambiguous endings." Don't miss this book!

[Terhi Tatjana · Rating 4 out of 5]

I gave this book 3 stars because I loved the psychological aspects in it. However, I hated the ending. Too many questions unanswered, and opportunities for character growth missed.
That being said, the writing was brilliant! All the descriptions of the foods, how things were cooked, how the people lived under strict rules and fear of stepping out of line, ratcheted up the tension nicely. There was this feeling throughout the story that anything could happen, and things could go wrong quickly, which they did. I liked Mallory’s backstory, the brutality of her youth and the choices she made to take back control of her life painted her as a mercenary person, but she had hope that she could turn things around. It was that hope that kept me reading the book; I wanted to see the choices she would make. I wanted her to succeed, to finally break free of the haunted past, but she doesn’t. Instead, she makes the gambler’s choice to try to get rich quick, and this is ultimately her downfall. The ruby’s power reminded me of the ring in Lord of the Rings, like it was an entity all to itself capable of ruining lives and making people mad with greed. Ultimately, we're left with lots of questions, wondering how things turned out for Mallary. Much is left unanswered, which could have been the point, but again for me, a missed opportunity for growth and more psychological tension.

Favorite Line ~ “Obligation was a currency more valuable than money.”