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The Broken China Necklace
A beautiful story of redemption, forgiveness, and second chances... all entwined in an intriguing historical murder mystery..
Jessica Lynn was a grief-stricken seventeen-year-old that spring of 1988. With her family forced to move to her grandparents' cattle ranch in Texas, she was frustrated with the cards life had dealt her. As if things weren't difficult enough, her life began to take even more twists and turns after a trip to Austin, a visit to a flea market, and the purchase of a mysterious necklace. The dreams started then... leading her back in time to the 1940's... to an unsolved mystery laced with racism, social injustice, a deceitful cover-up, and hints of possible mob activity. Will Jessica be able to unravel the clues and uncover the truth while simultaneously dealing with shocking realizations about people she loves and the small ranching community in which she now lives?
Jessica Lynn was a grief-stricken seventeen-year-old that spring of 1988. With her family forced to move to her grandparents' cattle ranch in Texas, she was frustrated with the cards life had dealt her. As if things weren't difficult enough, her life began to take even more twists and turns after a trip to Austin, a visit to a flea market, and the purchase of a mysterious necklace. The dreams started then... leading her back in time to the 1940's... to an unsolved mystery laced with racism, social injustice, a deceitful cover-up, and hints of possible mob activity. Will Jessica be able to unravel the clues and uncover the truth while simultaneously dealing with shocking realizations about people she loves and the small ranching community in which she now lives?
- GenresHistorical Fiction
279 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 8, 2024
3 people are currently reading
43 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
October 8, 2024
Jessica ends up moving to a small town in Texas. With the friends she has made, they go to a flea market and all end up with a necklace made of broken China. However, it is Jessica's necklace that seems to hold a mystery, wanting to be told.
The summer before their senior year, they are determined to find out the mystery and secrets of what truly happened. The story flips between the 1940s and the 1980s.
There are twists in this book to keep your interest and want to know what will happen next.
The author did a great job writing this book and touching on topics such as racism, unforgiving and forgiving, and being human.
Thank you to the author for being given this advanced readers copy to read and review.
The summer before their senior year, they are determined to find out the mystery and secrets of what truly happened. The story flips between the 1940s and the 1980s.
There are twists in this book to keep your interest and want to know what will happen next.
The author did a great job writing this book and touching on topics such as racism, unforgiving and forgiving, and being human.
Thank you to the author for being given this advanced readers copy to read and review.
September 15, 2024
5⭐️
1988, Texas. We follow Jessica and the Summer she spent discovering what truly happened one fateful day in June of 1947. The mystery began with a unique necklace she finds at a flea market, a necklace made of broken china that connects to it all.
I could not put it down! I wanted to follow along Jessica’s trail to find out what truly happened for myself. As a fan of genealogy I throughly enjoyed the process of research, the newspaper articles and the mention of DNA science. The historical aspects that flowed through the book truly delivered for me! I love how the story included both timelines in a unique way.
Maria Melior writes a cast of characters you’ll come to love, a heartwarming story that includes even a twist or two that you won’t necessarily see coming!
As with her first book she included an authors Q&A, a playlist, and a recipe from the book. I always appreciate those touches!
1988, Texas. We follow Jessica and the Summer she spent discovering what truly happened one fateful day in June of 1947. The mystery began with a unique necklace she finds at a flea market, a necklace made of broken china that connects to it all.
I could not put it down! I wanted to follow along Jessica’s trail to find out what truly happened for myself. As a fan of genealogy I throughly enjoyed the process of research, the newspaper articles and the mention of DNA science. The historical aspects that flowed through the book truly delivered for me! I love how the story included both timelines in a unique way.
Maria Melior writes a cast of characters you’ll come to love, a heartwarming story that includes even a twist or two that you won’t necessarily see coming!
As with her first book she included an authors Q&A, a playlist, and a recipe from the book. I always appreciate those touches!
September 14, 2024
No spoilers!
I really enjoyed the historical fiction and mystery elements of this novel!
The story flips between 1940’s and 1980’s in a clever and unexpected way.
I really enjoyed the historical fiction and mystery elements of this novel!
The story flips between 1940’s and 1980’s in a clever and unexpected way.
September 11, 2024
Do you enjoy a good suspenseful murder mystery? Marla Melior’s The Broken China Necklace is right up your alley! This book tells a unique story of a girl who, through circumstances out of her control, ends up in the middle of nowhere, Texas. The relationships she forms lead her to a necklace made from a piece of broken china. What she didn’t know at the time was just how important this piece of jewelry was going to become! The craziest things begin to happen and the summer before her senior year of high school ends up taking twists and turns no one could have predicted.
While not overtly Christian, there are many Christian themes throughout the novel. One of my favorites is the redemptive arc! The author does an amazing job at writing characters you love to hate but with a little caveat - she shows how human they are too. Underneath all of that bravado is someone whom Christ loves and who yearns to be loved. Not only do you experience the emotional rollercoaster that comes with being human and prone to error and sin, but you also get to see God’s beautiful gift of redemption played out through the hands and feet of those whom He loves - us! Or those exactly like us.
There were many twists and enough excitement to keep you on the edge of your seat the entire time. This book is packed full of beautiful details that keep you sucked in and never wanting to set it down. There are tough topics addressed such as racism and unforgiveness. It was beautifully written and I found the novel concluded in such a satisfying manner!
Don’t miss the author's notes at the end - you will appreciate the insight she gives into her writing process and where the storyline came from!
Thanks to the author's generosity, I was given an advanced copy to read. All opinions expressed in this review are truly my own.
While not overtly Christian, there are many Christian themes throughout the novel. One of my favorites is the redemptive arc! The author does an amazing job at writing characters you love to hate but with a little caveat - she shows how human they are too. Underneath all of that bravado is someone whom Christ loves and who yearns to be loved. Not only do you experience the emotional rollercoaster that comes with being human and prone to error and sin, but you also get to see God’s beautiful gift of redemption played out through the hands and feet of those whom He loves - us! Or those exactly like us.
There were many twists and enough excitement to keep you on the edge of your seat the entire time. This book is packed full of beautiful details that keep you sucked in and never wanting to set it down. There are tough topics addressed such as racism and unforgiveness. It was beautifully written and I found the novel concluded in such a satisfying manner!
Don’t miss the author's notes at the end - you will appreciate the insight she gives into her writing process and where the storyline came from!
Thanks to the author's generosity, I was given an advanced copy to read. All opinions expressed in this review are truly my own.
October 8, 2024
*I was provided a free digital ARC of this book but my review is purely honest*
Jessica is 17 in 1988. After her dad dies, her mom moves Jessica and her brother to Texas where their grandparents and other family live. At a flea market, Jessica gets a necklace made of a broken china plate that belonged to a white woman, Helen, who was murdered in the 1940s, allegedly by a Black man, Henry. Jessica begins having dreams through which her dad is guiding her to solve the woman’s death and the man wrongly accused. In a dual-timeline, the book follows Jessica trying to find out what happened to Helen, clear Henry’s name, and come to terms with herself and her new life.
A story where the main character is a 17-year-old living in Texas in the late 80s doesn’t sound entirely relatable and yet she is just that, something I was definitely not expecting.
I devoured this book. The writing was so easy and flowed freely. All the characters were so endearing, especially the group of Jessica’s white and Hispanic friends as they navigate life in high school and a town where racism isn’t just prevalent, it’s almost a way of life. Sadly the themes of racism throughout are as relevant today as in the book, perhaps what made it more cohesively relatable.
This may be my first dual timeline where I was more interested in the present time than the past. Helen and Henry’s stories came to slowly as Jessica and her friends/family learned more. I absolutely enjoyed the backstories, and kept thinking it would make a great Cold Case episode! Something about Jessica kept me in the present.
While I was fully invested in Jessica’s happiness, for me, the ending tied up a little too nicely, the epilogue too cutesy. That being said, I really enjoyed this book and definitely want more from the author.
Don’t forget to stay for the end credits! 🙂 Loved the playlist of music from the book, recipe, and tons of information and insight from the author!
Jessica is 17 in 1988. After her dad dies, her mom moves Jessica and her brother to Texas where their grandparents and other family live. At a flea market, Jessica gets a necklace made of a broken china plate that belonged to a white woman, Helen, who was murdered in the 1940s, allegedly by a Black man, Henry. Jessica begins having dreams through which her dad is guiding her to solve the woman’s death and the man wrongly accused. In a dual-timeline, the book follows Jessica trying to find out what happened to Helen, clear Henry’s name, and come to terms with herself and her new life.
A story where the main character is a 17-year-old living in Texas in the late 80s doesn’t sound entirely relatable and yet she is just that, something I was definitely not expecting.
I devoured this book. The writing was so easy and flowed freely. All the characters were so endearing, especially the group of Jessica’s white and Hispanic friends as they navigate life in high school and a town where racism isn’t just prevalent, it’s almost a way of life. Sadly the themes of racism throughout are as relevant today as in the book, perhaps what made it more cohesively relatable.
This may be my first dual timeline where I was more interested in the present time than the past. Helen and Henry’s stories came to slowly as Jessica and her friends/family learned more. I absolutely enjoyed the backstories, and kept thinking it would make a great Cold Case episode! Something about Jessica kept me in the present.
While I was fully invested in Jessica’s happiness, for me, the ending tied up a little too nicely, the epilogue too cutesy. That being said, I really enjoyed this book and definitely want more from the author.
Don’t forget to stay for the end credits! 🙂 Loved the playlist of music from the book, recipe, and tons of information and insight from the author!
October 12, 2024
This was an absolutely intriguing story! I loved it so much. It is set during the 1980’s , and the main character is teenager, Jessica Lynn. When she finds a broken china necklace she starts having vivid dreams in the 1940s. She soon finds out the people and places in her dreams were/are real and now she has a murder mystery to solve. With the help of family and friends of course. Meanwhile in present day the town is still dealing with racism that Jessica is trying to help get rid of. Like I said I really enjoyed this story and found it fascinating. I liked both the 1940s mystery and the 1980s storyline. Overall, thought this a great book and I definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Content: a few “h*lls”, one “d*mn”, murder,
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Content: a few “h*lls”, one “d*mn”, murder,
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
September 21, 2024
What an intriguing historical fiction suspense. Following the story of Jessica, a high school student who recently lost her father and her family up and moves to Texas. Texas is a huge shock to her once she starts going to school. While she is learning to navigate the nuances of Texas racial matters in high school, she makes some friends and ends up at a flea market with a necklace in her hands. Seemingly just a friendship necklace, the twists come.
Definitely an interesting read.
Definitely an interesting read.
September 23, 2024
A huge thank you to Marla Melior for providing me an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Still reeling from the death of her father, Jessica and her family move in with her grandparents to a small-town in Texas. While there, Jessica struggles to understand the racial disparity that still exists in her new home, while also trying to deal with the struggles of being a teenager. She soon makes new friends, and while on a trip with them to a flea market, she buys a necklace made out of a broken piece of china. The necklace causes her to dream about a decades old murder-mystery that she sets out to solve.
This was a very entertaining read! I was intrigued by the premise from the jump, and was really excited to read this one. The mystery really kept me on my toes and wondering who the culprit was. You can tell the author really did a lot of research before writing this book, and it made me want to dive a little deeper into some aspects. I was also really rooting for all of the characters, and felt sad to see them go once I finished the book.
The writing definitely could use a little polishing, especially when it came to the dialogue. There were times it felt a little forced, and instead of using actions or things happening around the characters to have the reader gain a sense of what was happening, she had the characters say things out loud. It just felt like there were times the characters were actively telling us things that we could have gleaned on our own. Just little things could have been buttoned up a bit!
All in all, though, this was a super fun read, and I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys a good mysterious historical fiction!
Still reeling from the death of her father, Jessica and her family move in with her grandparents to a small-town in Texas. While there, Jessica struggles to understand the racial disparity that still exists in her new home, while also trying to deal with the struggles of being a teenager. She soon makes new friends, and while on a trip with them to a flea market, she buys a necklace made out of a broken piece of china. The necklace causes her to dream about a decades old murder-mystery that she sets out to solve.
This was a very entertaining read! I was intrigued by the premise from the jump, and was really excited to read this one. The mystery really kept me on my toes and wondering who the culprit was. You can tell the author really did a lot of research before writing this book, and it made me want to dive a little deeper into some aspects. I was also really rooting for all of the characters, and felt sad to see them go once I finished the book.
The writing definitely could use a little polishing, especially when it came to the dialogue. There were times it felt a little forced, and instead of using actions or things happening around the characters to have the reader gain a sense of what was happening, she had the characters say things out loud. It just felt like there were times the characters were actively telling us things that we could have gleaned on our own. Just little things could have been buttoned up a bit!
All in all, though, this was a super fun read, and I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys a good mysterious historical fiction!
October 11, 2024
First of all, thank you to the author for the gifted eARC of this book!
What a moving and intriguing story! Entirely different than other books I have read before..in a very good way, I might add! I was definitely interested in the story right from the beginning..however, the pace was a bit slow at first. But it did start picking up after a little while, and then I found myself invested in the characters. This is a story about love, loss, redemption, and the power of forgiveness. Racism is a big theme in this book as well.
I would for sure recommend this book to historical fiction fans, and it has a murder mystery in it too!
What a moving and intriguing story! Entirely different than other books I have read before..in a very good way, I might add! I was definitely interested in the story right from the beginning..however, the pace was a bit slow at first. But it did start picking up after a little while, and then I found myself invested in the characters. This is a story about love, loss, redemption, and the power of forgiveness. Racism is a big theme in this book as well.
I would for sure recommend this book to historical fiction fans, and it has a murder mystery in it too!
October 8, 2024
-I give this story 4.5 stars!
“Nothing good happens if you’re handed everything.”
~When 17 yr old grief-stricken Jessica is forced to move with her mom and younger brother from Seattle, to her grandparents’ cattle ranch in Texas, she is frustrated with the cards life has dealt her. As if things weren’t difficult enough, her life takes even more twists and turns after a trip to Austin, with a visit to a flea market, and the purchase of a mysterious necklace. Soon thereafter, vivid dreams lead Jessica back in time to the 1940’s... to an unsolved mystery laced with racism, social injustice, a deceitful cover-up, and hints of possible mob activity…
“Exploring the possibilities is how you’re going to learn what those possibilities are.”
-The Broken China Necklace, is a unique and moving story of redemption, forgiveness, and second chances, which are all entwined in an intriguing historical murder mystery. This story is filled wonderfully with secrets, great suspense, unexpected twists and turns, 80’s nostalgia, and a dusk time line. The journey through grief and uncovering truth will have you fully engaged, and lead you to more understanding and connection, to the struggles endearing characters in this story have. I love that this story is centered around beautiful themes of kindness, forgiveness, and second chances. This dear book’s message is about being more kind and more loving, that we can try harder and do better! This is quite an interesting, page turning, unique historical mystery, worth the read!🙌🏻📚☺️
“Whatever you do, find something you love doing. When you love what you do, you will never work a day in your life.”
-Content: racism, murder, & grief (handled with it does so with care and tenderness).
“Don’t let your fear of the unknown stop you from exploring it.”
#thebrokenchinanecklace
#marlamelior
#allaboutthebestreads
“Only love heals.”
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“Nothing good happens if you’re handed everything.”
~When 17 yr old grief-stricken Jessica is forced to move with her mom and younger brother from Seattle, to her grandparents’ cattle ranch in Texas, she is frustrated with the cards life has dealt her. As if things weren’t difficult enough, her life takes even more twists and turns after a trip to Austin, with a visit to a flea market, and the purchase of a mysterious necklace. Soon thereafter, vivid dreams lead Jessica back in time to the 1940’s... to an unsolved mystery laced with racism, social injustice, a deceitful cover-up, and hints of possible mob activity…
“Exploring the possibilities is how you’re going to learn what those possibilities are.”
-The Broken China Necklace, is a unique and moving story of redemption, forgiveness, and second chances, which are all entwined in an intriguing historical murder mystery. This story is filled wonderfully with secrets, great suspense, unexpected twists and turns, 80’s nostalgia, and a dusk time line. The journey through grief and uncovering truth will have you fully engaged, and lead you to more understanding and connection, to the struggles endearing characters in this story have. I love that this story is centered around beautiful themes of kindness, forgiveness, and second chances. This dear book’s message is about being more kind and more loving, that we can try harder and do better! This is quite an interesting, page turning, unique historical mystery, worth the read!🙌🏻📚☺️
“Whatever you do, find something you love doing. When you love what you do, you will never work a day in your life.”
-Content: racism, murder, & grief (handled with it does so with care and tenderness).
“Don’t let your fear of the unknown stop you from exploring it.”
#thebrokenchinanecklace
#marlamelior
#allaboutthebestreads
“Only love heals.”
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
September 28, 2024
I am one of those people that can stare at an object and my first thought is an overwhelming curiosity about what this object has seen in its lifespan. This story was written for people like me.
I will admit the first little bit I wondered where this story was going but after the necklace comes into play it made it downright impossible for me to put this novel down.
I was not expecting this novel to tackle some of the issues it did but I appreciated it so very much. The racial issues are some that I have dealt with first hand as I also live in Texas and am in a biracial marriage. I can’t imagine not being able to be with him and am so thankful that it’s more socially acceptable in our era, even if not everyone agrees.
The cultural references were a nice touch, especially the movie references and songs. I grew up around the same time, so the references brought back some great memories and I appreciated the quite extensive song list, discussion questions, bonus recipe, and Q&A with the author at the end. It was a very nice touch.
The mystery and search for the truth was an amazing journey to witness and while there were a few things I would’ve liked to have seen tweaked the overall story is just too intriguing to ignore. Highly recommend!
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.
I will admit the first little bit I wondered where this story was going but after the necklace comes into play it made it downright impossible for me to put this novel down.
I was not expecting this novel to tackle some of the issues it did but I appreciated it so very much. The racial issues are some that I have dealt with first hand as I also live in Texas and am in a biracial marriage. I can’t imagine not being able to be with him and am so thankful that it’s more socially acceptable in our era, even if not everyone agrees.
The cultural references were a nice touch, especially the movie references and songs. I grew up around the same time, so the references brought back some great memories and I appreciated the quite extensive song list, discussion questions, bonus recipe, and Q&A with the author at the end. It was a very nice touch.
The mystery and search for the truth was an amazing journey to witness and while there were a few things I would’ve liked to have seen tweaked the overall story is just too intriguing to ignore. Highly recommend!
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.
October 7, 2024
A captivating and suspenseful historical fiction that will keep you wanting more! When Jessica’s father passes away, her mother moves her and her brother from Seattle to a small town in Texas. In this small town, everyone knows everyone else and their business, so it’s no surprise when everyone already seems to know Jessica on her first day of school. While she makes friends quickly, she also struggles to understand the dynamics of a town that seems stuck in separation by race. When Jessica receives a necklace made from broken china, she begins having dreams that lead to a murder mystery from the 1940s. But how can something that happened so long ago affect her life today? Read this one to find out!
This story was quick paced and I loved the dual timelines that left you wanting more from each storyline. I adored Jessica’s friends, especially Nicky and Manuel, and the profound impact that friendship has on her life.
Read this one if you like reading dual timeline, historical mysteries, navigating friendship, themes of making change (especially with racism), and a teenage FMC.
Thank you to Word Nerd Author Services and the Author, Marla Meilor, for providing a gifted arc in exchange for my honest review.
This story was quick paced and I loved the dual timelines that left you wanting more from each storyline. I adored Jessica’s friends, especially Nicky and Manuel, and the profound impact that friendship has on her life.
Read this one if you like reading dual timeline, historical mysteries, navigating friendship, themes of making change (especially with racism), and a teenage FMC.
Thank you to Word Nerd Author Services and the Author, Marla Meilor, for providing a gifted arc in exchange for my honest review.
December 7, 2024
“A beautiful story of redemption, forgiveness, and second chances... all entwined in an intriguing historical murder mystery..
Jessica Lynn was a grief-stricken seventeen-year-old that spring of 1988. With her family forced to move to her grandparents’ cattle ranch in Texas, she was frustrated with the cards life had dealt her. As if things weren’t difficult enough, her life began to take even more twists and turns after a trip to Austin, a visit to a flea market, and the purchase of a mysterious necklace. The dreams started then... leading her back in time to the 1940’s... to an unsolved mystery laced with racism, social injustice, a deceitful cover-up, and hints of possible mob activity. Will Jessica be able to unravel the clues and uncover the truth while simultaneously dealing with shocking realizations about people she loves and the small ranching community in which she now lives?”
**What I enjoyed about this book:
I loved the very unique storyline of this book! Definitely unlike any murder mystery I’ve read before! A great plot, full of suspense, with more than a few twists and turns along the way!
Read if you like:
*historical fiction
*murder mysteries
*1980s setting, looking back to the 1940s
*second chances
Jessica Lynn was a grief-stricken seventeen-year-old that spring of 1988. With her family forced to move to her grandparents’ cattle ranch in Texas, she was frustrated with the cards life had dealt her. As if things weren’t difficult enough, her life began to take even more twists and turns after a trip to Austin, a visit to a flea market, and the purchase of a mysterious necklace. The dreams started then... leading her back in time to the 1940’s... to an unsolved mystery laced with racism, social injustice, a deceitful cover-up, and hints of possible mob activity. Will Jessica be able to unravel the clues and uncover the truth while simultaneously dealing with shocking realizations about people she loves and the small ranching community in which she now lives?”
**What I enjoyed about this book:
I loved the very unique storyline of this book! Definitely unlike any murder mystery I’ve read before! A great plot, full of suspense, with more than a few twists and turns along the way!
Read if you like:
*historical fiction
*murder mysteries
*1980s setting, looking back to the 1940s
*second chances
October 10, 2024
-Historical Fiction
-Murder Mystery
-Social Injustice
-Setting in 1980s/Looking back to the 1940s
•
I was captivated right from the start of me reading The Broken China Necklace🤍 It is a historical fiction about redemption, forgiveness, and second chances, set against the backdrop of an intriguing mystery. The book explores how characters deal with the pain of their pasts, much like turning broken pieces of china into something beautiful. As they search for healing, they uncover many hidden truths and learn that even in life’s most difficult moments, there is always a chance to rebuild and find beauty in what was once broken. It got me thinking about getting a broken china necklace myself. Fun fact: these necklaces date back to the Victorian era, where women would transform shattered pieces of china into delicate jewelry. What a perfect metaphor for the novel, where brokenness leads to beauty, and hidden pieces of the past come together in unexpected ways💖📖🔍
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟/5
•
Thank you so much @marla_melior_author for the opportunity to be among the first to experience your wonderful storytelling📖
-Murder Mystery
-Social Injustice
-Setting in 1980s/Looking back to the 1940s
•
I was captivated right from the start of me reading The Broken China Necklace🤍 It is a historical fiction about redemption, forgiveness, and second chances, set against the backdrop of an intriguing mystery. The book explores how characters deal with the pain of their pasts, much like turning broken pieces of china into something beautiful. As they search for healing, they uncover many hidden truths and learn that even in life’s most difficult moments, there is always a chance to rebuild and find beauty in what was once broken. It got me thinking about getting a broken china necklace myself. Fun fact: these necklaces date back to the Victorian era, where women would transform shattered pieces of china into delicate jewelry. What a perfect metaphor for the novel, where brokenness leads to beauty, and hidden pieces of the past come together in unexpected ways💖📖🔍
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟/5
•
Thank you so much @marla_melior_author for the opportunity to be among the first to experience your wonderful storytelling📖
October 9, 2024
The Broken China Necklace by @marla_melior_author was such an intriguing book to read! This historical fiction mystery is set in the late 80s in Texas with flash backs to the 1940s. Jessica, who has just loved to Texas, finds a broken China necklace when she attends a flea market with some friends. This necklace leads her to dreams and an unsolved mystery.
This book covers so many different topics! Mystery, historical fiction, racism, prejudices, friendships, forgiveness.
I throughly enjoyed this book, especially the second half, it really picked up and had so much going on! I really wanted to know how the mystery was solved and how everything turned out.
I got to the end of the book and found an authors note, song list, recipes, some@book club ideas and Q&A! This book really has it all! I really loved the authors note about what was historically true. I found myself doing my own research about some of the events and settings too!
I loved reading this book and highly recommend it.
This book covers so many different topics! Mystery, historical fiction, racism, prejudices, friendships, forgiveness.
I throughly enjoyed this book, especially the second half, it really picked up and had so much going on! I really wanted to know how the mystery was solved and how everything turned out.
I got to the end of the book and found an authors note, song list, recipes, some@book club ideas and Q&A! This book really has it all! I really loved the authors note about what was historically true. I found myself doing my own research about some of the events and settings too!
I loved reading this book and highly recommend it.
October 10, 2024
This latest story from Marla is one that will not only intrigue you but will also inspire you to consider its themes of forgiveness, grief and social injustice. I loved how the story was told from a teens perspective and that she was the one to seek the truth. It was interesting that her search was inspired by dreams and that she found peace in those dreams as well. The mystery and its solution was woven so well into the story and I loved how it drove the plot forward. There was a lot of brokenness among the characters as well as some long held biases and beliefs that needed to be challenged by truth and reason. Definitely a story that will resonate with readers, especially those who enjoy books with plenty of depth and character redemption.
I received a copy of this story from the author via BookFunnel. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
I received a copy of this story from the author via BookFunnel. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
September 30, 2024
I really enjoyed this historical murder mystery set in the 1980s... after 17 yr old Jessica buys a unique necklace, she starts dreaming about the 1940s & an unsolved murder. I loved all of the historical elements from learning about Galveston in the 40s & small town Texas in the 80s. I loved the mystery & slowly uncovering the truth about a long ago murder. I love how they researched the mystery through libraries & newspapers plus meeting some people who lived during that time. It deals with racism is many forms. I loved the themes of kindness, forgiveness & second chances. I seriously enjoyed this page turning unique historical mystery.
October 11, 2024
Jessica Lynn, a teenager in 1988, faces grief and frustration after moving to her grandparents’ Texas ranch. Life takes a mysterious turn when she buys an old necklace at a flea market in Austin. Afterward, she starts having dreams that transport her back to the 1940s, where she uncovers a long buried murder mystery tied to racism, injustice, and a mob cover up. As she pieces together the past, Jessica discovers shocking truths about those around her and the ranching community she now calls home.
💭 My thoughts:
What a cool story! If you enjoy:
mysteries
historical fiction
time travel
thrifting
dual timelines
powerful themes of friendships, reconciliation, and forgiveness
—you will love this book!
Switching back and forth between the ’40s and ’80s, this author does a fantastic job of weaving in nostalgia and historical details. So many fun nods to events, music, and pop culture of the time. For example, in the ’80s timeline, two characters discuss which cassettes they’ll order from one of those famous magazine offers—19 cassettes for a penny! (Remember those?)
The book tackles big issues like prejudice and racism in both timelines, which makes the mystery feel even more layered. I also especially appreciated how Jessica’s character grew as she uncovered not only the mystery but also the deeper truths about her own family and community.
I would recommend The Broken China Necklace to anyone who enjoys a well written historical mystery with some poignant social commentary.
Be sure to check out the Readers Guide at the end for the authors note, discussion questions, book club ideas, song list, recipe, and much more!!
Content: racism, grief, murder (not overly descriptive)
Thank you to the author for a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
💭 My thoughts:
What a cool story! If you enjoy:
mysteries
historical fiction
time travel
thrifting
dual timelines
powerful themes of friendships, reconciliation, and forgiveness
—you will love this book!
Switching back and forth between the ’40s and ’80s, this author does a fantastic job of weaving in nostalgia and historical details. So many fun nods to events, music, and pop culture of the time. For example, in the ’80s timeline, two characters discuss which cassettes they’ll order from one of those famous magazine offers—19 cassettes for a penny! (Remember those?)
The book tackles big issues like prejudice and racism in both timelines, which makes the mystery feel even more layered. I also especially appreciated how Jessica’s character grew as she uncovered not only the mystery but also the deeper truths about her own family and community.
I would recommend The Broken China Necklace to anyone who enjoys a well written historical mystery with some poignant social commentary.
Be sure to check out the Readers Guide at the end for the authors note, discussion questions, book club ideas, song list, recipe, and much more!!
Content: racism, grief, murder (not overly descriptive)
Thank you to the author for a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
October 8, 2024
This book started a little slow for me, but after a few chapters, I was pulled in. The characters and vividly described settings make this mystery come to life. If you like a mystery with twists and history searches, you should give this one a read. I appreciate how Marla explored themes of racism.
Content Warning:
-Themes of racism
-Grief
-Murder
-Language
*I received a free copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Content Warning:
-Themes of racism
-Grief
-Murder
-Language
*I received a free copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 27, 2024
I loved reading this book! The story was enthralling and the history was fascinating!! I really loved the underlying message of kindness and why being kind matters that ran through this book. I also enjoyed learning about history in Texas I never would’ve known otherwise. Definitely recommend this beautiful read!
October 8, 2024
If your favorite book recipe is historical fiction + a cozy mystery + a dash of magic – this book is for you! As a baby of the '80s, I so appreciated this heart-felt novel with a teenage heroine that begins in the 1980s, but quickly introduces you to other story lines in the 1940s. Generational trauma and issues of racism are dealt with gentleness, compassion, and - most importantly - hope.
October 4, 2024
This isn’t a title that I would typically pick up but I’m so glad we found each other. It tackles death of a loved one and generational racism while solving a decades old crime, exonerating the person wrongfully accused. It all starts with a necklace and a few odd dreams. I highly recommend The Broken China Necklace.
No impact to my review, but as a native Texan, I got super excited seeing names of major cities and more obscure towns mentioned. 👍🏼
No impact to my review, but as a native Texan, I got super excited seeing names of major cities and more obscure towns mentioned. 👍🏼
February 13, 2026
good book
October 15, 2024
Loved this historical fiction with some suspense and a murder mystery! The book follows Jessica, a high school senior who is thrust into a new town and high school following the premature death of her dad. Her family lives with her grandparents, and many themes of the book include Jessica loving her grandparents and learning a lot from them, but also realizing that they have errors in their ways. The book touches on generational racism, illegal immigrants, and farm workers in a delicate manner without over simplifying those issues.
The murder mystery was anything but gruesome, and the research Jessica had to do made my genealogy loving self so happy to see represented in a book. Thank you to the author for the advance copy of this book. A review was not required.
The murder mystery was anything but gruesome, and the research Jessica had to do made my genealogy loving self so happy to see represented in a book. Thank you to the author for the advance copy of this book. A review was not required.
October 8, 2024
This book was so good - historical fiction with a great mystery mixed in!
The story takes place in the late 80s; Jessica’s family has to move to her grandparent’s farm in Texas after the death of her father. Small town life is a huge adjustment for her, but she makes several friends. During a trip with a group of her friends, Jessica received a necklace made from broken china. This necklace brings on mysterious dreams that lead Jessica to a murder mystery that took place in the 40s. It’s up to Jessica to put all the pieces together and solve the mystery!
I highly recommend this book! Such a great read! Thank you so much to the author for an advanced reading copy.
The story takes place in the late 80s; Jessica’s family has to move to her grandparent’s farm in Texas after the death of her father. Small town life is a huge adjustment for her, but she makes several friends. During a trip with a group of her friends, Jessica received a necklace made from broken china. This necklace brings on mysterious dreams that lead Jessica to a murder mystery that took place in the 40s. It’s up to Jessica to put all the pieces together and solve the mystery!
I highly recommend this book! Such a great read! Thank you so much to the author for an advanced reading copy.
February 21, 2025
If you’re looking for time travel, a murder mystery, & an emotional rollercoaster that’ll hit you right in the feels—𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝘽𝙧𝙤𝙠𝙚𝙣 𝘾𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙖 𝙉𝙚𝙘𝙠𝙡𝙖𝙘𝙚 by Marla Melior should be on your TBR. Packed with secrets, suspense, & just the right amount of 80s nostalgia, this book will have you wanting to dust off your leg warmers & crank up a mixtape.
📖 𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁: In 1988, 17-year-old Jessica Lynn moves to her grandparents’ Texas ranch. When she buys a mysterious necklace at a flea market, her life takes a wild turn. This necklace literally pulls her into the 1940s, straight into the heart of a murder mystery. Grief & teenage angst? Sure. But now Jessica has to deal with racism, mob ties, & dark family secrets—while unraveling the past one dream at a time.
💭 𝗧𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀: This book is a brilliant mix of suspenseful mystery & deep themes of redemption & social justice. The dual timelines (1940s/1980s) add rich historical layers & give off some seriously top-tier 80s vibes. Jessica’s journey through grief & uncovering her family’s truth made me feel deeply connected to her struggles. Oh, & don’t miss the nostalgic playlist & fun bonus recipe—it’s the perfect touch!
𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗬𝗼𝘂’𝗹𝗹 𝗟𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗜𝘁:
🕰️ Dual timeline intrigue
💔 Redemption arcs that hit home
🔍 A mystery full of unexpected twists
🎶 80s nostalgia you’ll love
✊ Tackling racism & social justice with honesty & heart
If you love mysteries, historical fiction, or the idea of a necklace with serious time-travel powers (move over, DeLorean), then grab The Broken China Necklace ASAP!
❓Found any cool flea market finds with a story?
⚠️ 𝗖𝗪: No profanity, sex, or nudity. Though the book handles heavy topics like racism, murder, & grief, it does so with care & nuance. The violence is non-explicit, & the focus remains on redemption.
𝘐 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘦𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘢 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘱𝘭𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘺 𝘤𝘰𝘱𝘺. 𝘈 𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘲𝘶𝘪𝘳𝘦𝘥. 𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯.
📖 𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁: In 1988, 17-year-old Jessica Lynn moves to her grandparents’ Texas ranch. When she buys a mysterious necklace at a flea market, her life takes a wild turn. This necklace literally pulls her into the 1940s, straight into the heart of a murder mystery. Grief & teenage angst? Sure. But now Jessica has to deal with racism, mob ties, & dark family secrets—while unraveling the past one dream at a time.
💭 𝗧𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀: This book is a brilliant mix of suspenseful mystery & deep themes of redemption & social justice. The dual timelines (1940s/1980s) add rich historical layers & give off some seriously top-tier 80s vibes. Jessica’s journey through grief & uncovering her family’s truth made me feel deeply connected to her struggles. Oh, & don’t miss the nostalgic playlist & fun bonus recipe—it’s the perfect touch!
𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗬𝗼𝘂’𝗹𝗹 𝗟𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗜𝘁:
🕰️ Dual timeline intrigue
💔 Redemption arcs that hit home
🔍 A mystery full of unexpected twists
🎶 80s nostalgia you’ll love
✊ Tackling racism & social justice with honesty & heart
If you love mysteries, historical fiction, or the idea of a necklace with serious time-travel powers (move over, DeLorean), then grab The Broken China Necklace ASAP!
❓Found any cool flea market finds with a story?
⚠️ 𝗖𝗪: No profanity, sex, or nudity. Though the book handles heavy topics like racism, murder, & grief, it does so with care & nuance. The violence is non-explicit, & the focus remains on redemption.
𝘐 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘦𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘢 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘱𝘭𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘺 𝘤𝘰𝘱𝘺. 𝘈 𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘲𝘶𝘪𝘳𝘦𝘥. 𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯.
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