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The Jeweler
Fender Barnes profits from an institution he doesn’t believe in: marriage. He’s a talented designer, but a reluctant jewelry store owner, thanks to his pop’s retirement. He’s cynical, he’s jaded, he’s not entirely certain about the concept of love, but he’s happy to sell an eager young guy an engagement ring for his fiancée to be—until moments after the transaction when that eager guy is hit by a car and killed, and Fender’s conscience pays a rare visit.
He retrieves the ring and decides to find the woman his customer intended to marry. That woman turns out to be Ginger Stevens, twenty-something ski instructor, who—despite being full of guilt and self-doubt after the death of her boyfriend—is someone Fender finds he quite enjoys being around. He’s smitten.
Which is all well and good, except that after he meets her, Fender can’t do it. Though it’s right there in his pocket, he can’t tell her about the ring. Instead, he embarks on a long, ridiculous quest to find a way to tell her the truth he knows she deserves. Aided by advice from Pop and the antics of his best friend Sam, Fender tries desperately to juggle his budding romance with the reality he knows could ruin it.
Will he find love or foul it up? Can Ginger move out of the past to embrace what the future has to offer? Meet this unlikely pair in Beck Anderson’s heartfelt and fabulously funny second novel, The Jeweler.
He retrieves the ring and decides to find the woman his customer intended to marry. That woman turns out to be Ginger Stevens, twenty-something ski instructor, who—despite being full of guilt and self-doubt after the death of her boyfriend—is someone Fender finds he quite enjoys being around. He’s smitten.
Which is all well and good, except that after he meets her, Fender can’t do it. Though it’s right there in his pocket, he can’t tell her about the ring. Instead, he embarks on a long, ridiculous quest to find a way to tell her the truth he knows she deserves. Aided by advice from Pop and the antics of his best friend Sam, Fender tries desperately to juggle his budding romance with the reality he knows could ruin it.
Will he find love or foul it up? Can Ginger move out of the past to embrace what the future has to offer? Meet this unlikely pair in Beck Anderson’s heartfelt and fabulously funny second novel, The Jeweler.
208 pages, ebook
First published September 28, 2014
4 people are currently reading
264 people want to read
About the author
Beck Anderson
6 books234 followersBeck Anderson writes about perfectly imperfect people. She is a firm believer in love and its power to transform. She also believes firmly in naps and procrastination.
Beck is usually found chasing after her husband and youngest son, who are often out mountain biking, or cheering on her oldest son, a competitive figure skater.
She is a fan of: all dogs (even eighty-pound chewers of aglets), paddle boarding on Lake Tahoe, hiking the foothills of Idaho, and eavesdropping in neighborhood coffee shops (you've been warned).
Learn more at authorbeck.com.
Beck is usually found chasing after her husband and youngest son, who are often out mountain biking, or cheering on her oldest son, a competitive figure skater.
She is a fan of: all dogs (even eighty-pound chewers of aglets), paddle boarding on Lake Tahoe, hiking the foothills of Idaho, and eavesdropping in neighborhood coffee shops (you've been warned).
Learn more at authorbeck.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
February 23, 2015
3.5 Real People, Real Lives * * * 1/2
There is something to be said for books without Billionaires, Bikers and Cowboys...It is the type of story you could overhear someone retelling at a bar... bits and pieces in between the music and the noise.
The Jeweler was that type of story. It was unique in its characters... they were people who would be out there in the world today... unusual and quirky...goodhearted but slightly damaged in someway.
The men in the book have this bro thing happening... and the main character with a name like Fender... you just know he is not going to be run of the mill. No, Fender is the guy who has crap luck in talking to women... who's kinda good looking but would never be considered smooth. Raised by his dad, he learned the jewelery business from a very young age. It was the way they communicated... over stones and settings. Fender loved the designs and learned to create beauty with gold and platinum... twisting and turning it to highlight stones of all kind.
Dad has retired and now holds court at the neighborhood bar/diner. The charmer with the ladies has turned the store over to Fender.
Fender is presented with people in love all day long... and wanting to show it through all the rings they buy from him. Ironically, he doesn't see the romance or believe in the practice... and this Labor Day weekend is no different... Fender is counting down the minutes so he can close up shop and get a beer...
Just as he is about to close, in walks Brad... a man on a mission... he is looking for a ring for his girl... but has no clue as to what he wants...
Fender tries to guide him... he asks what is she like, what type of jewelery does she wear, etc....the guy is clueless and just keeps singing her praises. Finally Fender get a ring from the back... a beautiful pear shaped diamond which originally was ordered by a client but never picked up...he figures this kills two birds, one stone...Presents it to Brad and he loves it for his girl...
Done... check written, guy is leaving and Fender is about to get his long awaited, well deserved beer... except the next moment a crash is heard...
Fender runs out to see a car, a leg and his jewelry box next to it...In that moment...he decides...he takes the box and goes to the bar. His Father will guide him as to how to handle this...and he does. Dad tells him to go to the funeral and give the ring to the man's girl... she should know he wanted to marry her.
Fender tries to do the right thing...he is there watching and sees Ginger...he sees how alone and sad she is and cannot bring himself to approach her...he will figure something else out. He will check with Sam, his best bud... he will know how to track her down.
Ginger was at a loss at the funeral... and not just because the man she lived with was gone... she had moved here, met all of Brad's friends and felt like an outsider... his parents never warmed to her. Ginger had been with Brad... he dominated how they did things and it all happened over the time together...Now she was trying to find herself. Her comfort was teaching... she taught skiing to the little kids and adults on the mountain. It would fill her days and take her mind of all of this.
Fender found out she was a ski instructor... Sam tells Fender to bring the ring and give it to her on the mountain. The scene is out of an I Love Lucy episode...a huge comedy of errors... and again... no giving of the ring to Ginger...but this time, Ginger sees Fender and sees this man making an ass of himself in the snow...and it touches her...
This leads to additional situations...and Fender is liking Ginger to the point he can't do what he had intended...He takes skiing lessons just to be around her...and both of them ...each with secrets, start to care and be interested in each other....
This book was not the usual... and that was really quite good. The development of how these two meet, learn about each other and then in turn about themselves was cool. The author also gave us a fabulous character in Sam... he was just ridiculously good. The creative bent throughout the story was consistent and I really enjoyed it. I will keep an I out for more...because real people are just fascinating.
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
There is something to be said for books without Billionaires, Bikers and Cowboys...It is the type of story you could overhear someone retelling at a bar... bits and pieces in between the music and the noise.
The Jeweler was that type of story. It was unique in its characters... they were people who would be out there in the world today... unusual and quirky...goodhearted but slightly damaged in someway.
The men in the book have this bro thing happening... and the main character with a name like Fender... you just know he is not going to be run of the mill. No, Fender is the guy who has crap luck in talking to women... who's kinda good looking but would never be considered smooth. Raised by his dad, he learned the jewelery business from a very young age. It was the way they communicated... over stones and settings. Fender loved the designs and learned to create beauty with gold and platinum... twisting and turning it to highlight stones of all kind.
Dad has retired and now holds court at the neighborhood bar/diner. The charmer with the ladies has turned the store over to Fender.
Fender is presented with people in love all day long... and wanting to show it through all the rings they buy from him. Ironically, he doesn't see the romance or believe in the practice... and this Labor Day weekend is no different... Fender is counting down the minutes so he can close up shop and get a beer...
Just as he is about to close, in walks Brad... a man on a mission... he is looking for a ring for his girl... but has no clue as to what he wants...
Fender tries to guide him... he asks what is she like, what type of jewelery does she wear, etc....the guy is clueless and just keeps singing her praises. Finally Fender get a ring from the back... a beautiful pear shaped diamond which originally was ordered by a client but never picked up...he figures this kills two birds, one stone...Presents it to Brad and he loves it for his girl...
Done... check written, guy is leaving and Fender is about to get his long awaited, well deserved beer... except the next moment a crash is heard...
Fender runs out to see a car, a leg and his jewelry box next to it...In that moment...he decides...he takes the box and goes to the bar. His Father will guide him as to how to handle this...and he does. Dad tells him to go to the funeral and give the ring to the man's girl... she should know he wanted to marry her.
Fender tries to do the right thing...he is there watching and sees Ginger...he sees how alone and sad she is and cannot bring himself to approach her...he will figure something else out. He will check with Sam, his best bud... he will know how to track her down.
Ginger was at a loss at the funeral... and not just because the man she lived with was gone... she had moved here, met all of Brad's friends and felt like an outsider... his parents never warmed to her. Ginger had been with Brad... he dominated how they did things and it all happened over the time together...Now she was trying to find herself. Her comfort was teaching... she taught skiing to the little kids and adults on the mountain. It would fill her days and take her mind of all of this.
Fender found out she was a ski instructor... Sam tells Fender to bring the ring and give it to her on the mountain. The scene is out of an I Love Lucy episode...a huge comedy of errors... and again... no giving of the ring to Ginger...but this time, Ginger sees Fender and sees this man making an ass of himself in the snow...and it touches her...
This leads to additional situations...and Fender is liking Ginger to the point he can't do what he had intended...He takes skiing lessons just to be around her...and both of them ...each with secrets, start to care and be interested in each other....
This book was not the usual... and that was really quite good. The development of how these two meet, learn about each other and then in turn about themselves was cool. The author also gave us a fabulous character in Sam... he was just ridiculously good. The creative bent throughout the story was consistent and I really enjoyed it. I will keep an I out for more...because real people are just fascinating.
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
October 19, 2014
Intriguing Plot, Quirky Characters
I loved Beck Anderson's debut novel Fix You, so I jumped at the chance to read an ARC of her second novel, The Jeweler. When I heard about the clever plot, I was even more excited.
Fender Barnes is a cynical jeweler who regards his eager, love-struck, engagement-ring-buying customer Brad with disdain. Love isn't real, right? But then Brad dies in a car accident right outside the jewelry shop, and Fender knows he needs to get the ring to its intended recipient: Ginger Stevens. But Fender never does anything right or easily, and when he sees the grieving woman at Brad's funeral, things go pear-shaped.
Ginger is a ski instructor who's stunned by her boyfriend's death. She's "love, light, green eyes, and freckles." Just like in Fix You, the author's portrayal of grief is authentic and eloquent:
The house was filled with his things, their things together. What upset her was looking at all the mundane stuff. Toothbrush. Who cared about his toothbrush? How could she get rid of it, though? A person accumulated stuff, never figuring he wouldn't be around to tie up the loose ends. Brad had arrogant, unfinished stuff, like half-drunk Gatorade bottles in the fridge.
In Fix You, the heroine's husband died. In The Jeweler, the heroine's almost-fiance kicks the bucket. Which begs the question: is Beck Anderson's husband worried at all? ;-) I hope he's exercising and taking his fish oil.
There's a host of wacky side characters, including Fender's dad "Pop", a man with some romantic tricks up his sleeve, and his bff Sam, a slovenly guy who shows his affection the best way a male buddy can: by insulting the hell out of Fender.
As per usual, Pop focused on the woman in the conversation. "Fender went after a girl? Really? Does this mean little Sandy didn't make you swear off women forever?"
Sam brightened. "I'd almost forgotten about Sandy. Isn't she the one that wrote I HATE YOU with weed killer on your front lawn?"
I love the understated humor.
Jewelry customers Jimmy the mobster and his bling-seeking girlfriend Naomi provide some color as well. Naomi has a heart-to-heart with Fender:
"That's what my therapist says. She says no woman should be bought for a shiny piece of glass."
Fender realized he was in the wrong profession, obviously. He should be blowing smoke up somebody's ass for a hundred bucks an hour.
Hey! Therapists make way more than $100 an hour now, hehe.
This is a sweet and subtle love story, and I encourage you to give it a try!
I loved Beck Anderson's debut novel Fix You, so I jumped at the chance to read an ARC of her second novel, The Jeweler. When I heard about the clever plot, I was even more excited.
Fender Barnes is a cynical jeweler who regards his eager, love-struck, engagement-ring-buying customer Brad with disdain. Love isn't real, right? But then Brad dies in a car accident right outside the jewelry shop, and Fender knows he needs to get the ring to its intended recipient: Ginger Stevens. But Fender never does anything right or easily, and when he sees the grieving woman at Brad's funeral, things go pear-shaped.
Ginger is a ski instructor who's stunned by her boyfriend's death. She's "love, light, green eyes, and freckles." Just like in Fix You, the author's portrayal of grief is authentic and eloquent:
The house was filled with his things, their things together. What upset her was looking at all the mundane stuff. Toothbrush. Who cared about his toothbrush? How could she get rid of it, though? A person accumulated stuff, never figuring he wouldn't be around to tie up the loose ends. Brad had arrogant, unfinished stuff, like half-drunk Gatorade bottles in the fridge.
In Fix You, the heroine's husband died. In The Jeweler, the heroine's almost-fiance kicks the bucket. Which begs the question: is Beck Anderson's husband worried at all? ;-) I hope he's exercising and taking his fish oil.
There's a host of wacky side characters, including Fender's dad "Pop", a man with some romantic tricks up his sleeve, and his bff Sam, a slovenly guy who shows his affection the best way a male buddy can: by insulting the hell out of Fender.
As per usual, Pop focused on the woman in the conversation. "Fender went after a girl? Really? Does this mean little Sandy didn't make you swear off women forever?"
Sam brightened. "I'd almost forgotten about Sandy. Isn't she the one that wrote I HATE YOU with weed killer on your front lawn?"
I love the understated humor.
Jewelry customers Jimmy the mobster and his bling-seeking girlfriend Naomi provide some color as well. Naomi has a heart-to-heart with Fender:
"That's what my therapist says. She says no woman should be bought for a shiny piece of glass."
Fender realized he was in the wrong profession, obviously. He should be blowing smoke up somebody's ass for a hundred bucks an hour.
Hey! Therapists make way more than $100 an hour now, hehe.
This is a sweet and subtle love story, and I encourage you to give it a try!
November 27, 2014
There was a lot I really liked about this book. The plot was unique, this was laugh-out-loud funny at times and I loved all the characters. Fender (I love that name for a character) is jeweler who sells an engagement ring to Brad. When Brad leaves the store, he is hit by a car and killed. Fender picks up the ring and decides to find D.B. (dead boyfriends) girlfriend to give her the ring. When he finally does meet Ginger, he can't bring himself to give her the ring. I loved Fender! He is hysterically funny, cynical and witty. This book had a great build-up but really needed a little steam in my opinion. I would give this book 4.25 stars if I could because I really enjoyed it but felt that it did drag on at certain points. I look forward to reading more by this author!
December 9, 2014
Here's the deal: you have to read this book. I'm not one for gushy-romantic, thigh-throbbing tripe, so I was delighted to read this smart, witty tale of love and woe. Fender, though quirky, is far more real than typical, Ginger is more complex than typical. However, what sets this book apart for me are the minor characters. Their "contributions" to the romance are priceless. It'll have you smiling that goofy "awww" smile and laughing out loud, by yourself, in public. Read it now.
January 27, 2015
*sighs from happiness*
December 30, 2017
Unique
What a unique love story. Fender Barnes is The Jeweler. He stole my heart with all his quirky charm. The book starts out with a lot happening in just the first chapter and never lets up. I can’t recommend it enough. If you have it on your bookshelf, grab it and enjoy.
What a unique love story. Fender Barnes is The Jeweler. He stole my heart with all his quirky charm. The book starts out with a lot happening in just the first chapter and never lets up. I can’t recommend it enough. If you have it on your bookshelf, grab it and enjoy.
December 30, 2014
If you are looking for Smutty McSmutty, this book is not for you, so kindly move along.
Still with me?
Good.
What I love the most about The Jeweler is the rib-tickling humor sprinkled throughout the entire novel--a technique that is effortlessly pulled off by Beck Anderson in this newest work written in two varying third person points of view. Anderson's concise prose and believable dialogue will keep you turning pages... or swiping screens... or whatever we now call that.
With enough spark between the two main characters (Ginger and Fender - read the book blurb if you don't know what I'm talking about) to pull me from one chapter to the next, this romance is for those looking for a little richness with their candy. If you're into the whole I'll-eat-anything-with-sugar mood, then perhaps this book is not for you. However, if you're wanting something to satiate the sweet tooth while also slapping you with a philosophical bend or a witty parley between characters every once in a while, then go buy this book and read it!
Now more details... for those who read past the first few lines...
The dynamic between Fender, his best friend Sam, and Pops is awesome. In fact, I would have loved more scenes between the three of them at their favorite hangout, The Rendezvous, but I'm hoping we'll see more of that in a sequel (hint hint). While Ginger was a bit of a stereotype at first (with her strawberry hair), I was pleased to see her develop into the kind of character I wanted to be with Fender--face it, Fender is my kind of guy. Granted, it took me a ways into the novel to really connect with Ginger, but it was worth the wait. I could go on, but I don't want to spoil anything--except the comforting epilogue. It was spot on for me to close out this chapter in Fender's story.
Still with me?
Good.
What I love the most about The Jeweler is the rib-tickling humor sprinkled throughout the entire novel--a technique that is effortlessly pulled off by Beck Anderson in this newest work written in two varying third person points of view. Anderson's concise prose and believable dialogue will keep you turning pages... or swiping screens... or whatever we now call that.
With enough spark between the two main characters (Ginger and Fender - read the book blurb if you don't know what I'm talking about) to pull me from one chapter to the next, this romance is for those looking for a little richness with their candy. If you're into the whole I'll-eat-anything-with-sugar mood, then perhaps this book is not for you. However, if you're wanting something to satiate the sweet tooth while also slapping you with a philosophical bend or a witty parley between characters every once in a while, then go buy this book and read it!
Now more details... for those who read past the first few lines...
The dynamic between Fender, his best friend Sam, and Pops is awesome. In fact, I would have loved more scenes between the three of them at their favorite hangout, The Rendezvous, but I'm hoping we'll see more of that in a sequel (hint hint). While Ginger was a bit of a stereotype at first (with her strawberry hair), I was pleased to see her develop into the kind of character I wanted to be with Fender--face it, Fender is my kind of guy. Granted, it took me a ways into the novel to really connect with Ginger, but it was worth the wait. I could go on, but I don't want to spoil anything--except the comforting epilogue. It was spot on for me to close out this chapter in Fender's story.
November 20, 2014
A VERY CUTE COMICAL 5-STAR LOVE STORY YOU SURELY DO NOT WANT TO MISS, ‘1-CLICK’ TODAY!
Fender Barnes is a jeweler whom does not believe in love, but sells the jewels that represent the bond of marriage.
“Rings were beautiful hunks of rock wrapped in metal. Fender never bought into the “symbolism.” Diamonds weren’t forever-they were little pieces of carbon that had had the random luck to get squashed deep below ground for centuries. If that was supposed to symbolized marriage, then okay-trapped and squashed.”
Brad walks in eager to buy an engagement ring for his soon-to-be wife, Ginger Stevens, when Brad leaves the jewelry store, tragedy strikes, and a spiral of events occur in regards to the engagement Brad purchased for Ginger!
Ginger is a ski instructor mourning the loss of her boyfriend, while an on looking Fender wonders if he should tell her that her boyfriend had plan to ask to propose to her.
“I could just keep the ring, but she deserves it. I don’t know why, but I know she deserves better than what I usually give.”
Will Fender find love with Ginger or will protecting her heart only lose his chance for love? Join Beck Anderson characters’ in their romantic comical adventure finding if they have a possible future at love. You will find yourself unable to put the book down and experience a roller coaster of emotions from feeling SAD, LAUGHTER, TENDERNESS, TRAGEDY, and LOVE. A VERY CUTE LOVE STORY you surely DO NOT want to miss, ‘1-Click’ Today!
I rate Beck Anderson’s THE JEWELER – 5 AMAZING STARS!
Fender Barnes is a jeweler whom does not believe in love, but sells the jewels that represent the bond of marriage.
“Rings were beautiful hunks of rock wrapped in metal. Fender never bought into the “symbolism.” Diamonds weren’t forever-they were little pieces of carbon that had had the random luck to get squashed deep below ground for centuries. If that was supposed to symbolized marriage, then okay-trapped and squashed.”
Brad walks in eager to buy an engagement ring for his soon-to-be wife, Ginger Stevens, when Brad leaves the jewelry store, tragedy strikes, and a spiral of events occur in regards to the engagement Brad purchased for Ginger!
Ginger is a ski instructor mourning the loss of her boyfriend, while an on looking Fender wonders if he should tell her that her boyfriend had plan to ask to propose to her.
“I could just keep the ring, but she deserves it. I don’t know why, but I know she deserves better than what I usually give.”
Will Fender find love with Ginger or will protecting her heart only lose his chance for love? Join Beck Anderson characters’ in their romantic comical adventure finding if they have a possible future at love. You will find yourself unable to put the book down and experience a roller coaster of emotions from feeling SAD, LAUGHTER, TENDERNESS, TRAGEDY, and LOVE. A VERY CUTE LOVE STORY you surely DO NOT want to miss, ‘1-Click’ Today!
I rate Beck Anderson’s THE JEWELER – 5 AMAZING STARS!
December 20, 2014
I fell in love with Fender. Why? Because he isn't your typical romance hero. He's socially awkward, he's cynical, but he is sincere. And the heroine, Ginger, is a normal girl that the reader can relate to. She struggles with loss, doubt, and new feelings without being angsty. There are times on their journey you want to smack both of them because you grow to care. You want them to find true happiness. Ms. Anderson does a wonderful job with character development and I loved that it wasn't an "insta-love/lust" story. Their relationship goes through ups and downs over the course of time. The side characters, Fender's Dad, his best friend Sam and Ginger's best friend Molly add to the story. I can't wait to read more by this author. She has a fresh, welcome voice in the genre.
January 20, 2015
I was privileged enough to read an ARC of this upcoming release, and while it's the delightful stuff of classic rom-coms, the irreverent humor keeps it unconventional. It offers both wit and sentiment in such a snappy yet reflective way and is just...cool. I appreciate the humor and pop-cultural references and how its development and style makes people and situations endearing without getting sappy or melodramatic. In light of all this, I was completely sucked in and couldn’t put this story down.
November 28, 2014
My first feel reading The Jeweler is been marvel, I wanted read this book because I liked the cover and the plot, but I thought it was a romantic romance ,nice yes ...but the story is much more. And the characters are funny, cynical, witty, unusual, also a bit socially awkward, but I liked all...and the plot is just a bit surreal but credible...and the environment, white snow, green grass, clear water, sun: I was from the beginning hooked .
April 7, 2015
Beck Anderson writes some of the sweetest, saddest stories and still I find myself laughing in the midst of them. There's either something wrong with me or she's just a great writer.
March 8, 2015
I’ll make one statement right upfront. For me, there was a familiarity with The Jeweler that was particularly endearing. The story is set in Boise, Idaho, which is a place that many of my family and friends call home. We travel there for family events every once in a while and so I recognized many of the settings used in this novel (the scene at the Record Exchange was a particular favorite). There’s even a mention of an Oregon coast town that I know well and it really helped me connect on a deeper level with the book. It was as though I was reading about people I already knew.
The synopsis above does a stellar job of explaining the overall plot, so I won’t bother to recap the summary here. I’d rather spend my limited review space highlighting the one big note I made about The Jeweler as I read it. There’s a unique spin on this romantic tale that I don’t often come across in such stories. Ready?
While this is a narrative written in third person, and explores the perspectives of Ginger and Fender, I found that much of the romantic story unfolded from the male point of view.
“Fender looked back on his “wasted youth” and didn’t feel regret; he just felt sorry for his dad. Oh, to have a son who excelled in mediocrity, with a side of troublemaking. This was yet another reason to never have children; they might inherit his juvenile delinquency. And another reason not to get married. But Fender was constantly reminded why he despised marriage, regardless. Every time he’d craft a delicate setting with a pale, clear diamond, and it went on the hand of a crass, selfish gold digger, or some cheating, sweaty lout gave a necklace of blood red rubies to his unsuspecting, hard-working wife, Fender remembered how he felt about the sacred institution.”
Not only does the reader become well-accustomed with Fender’s thoughts and feelings about romance in general and Ginger in particular, but many of the story conflicts and solutions are largely driven by the male influences in Fender’s life. Fender’s best friend, Sam, is the epitome of the Pacific Northwest bachelor. He lives a quiet, unassuming life and enjoys smoking, Carhartt coveralls and beer. He’s perfectly content and could truly care less if people can’t deal with his choices. But he’s also warm and loyal and willing to help Fender figure out his dilemma with Ginger. He pushes Fender to stray outside his romantic comfort zones, and stays right by his side through thick and thin.
Another source of male guidance and support is Fender’s father. Not only has he looked after Fender emotionally, he has also provided his only child with an established jewelry business for financial security. Having grown up without a mother and with no other siblings, Fender’s experiences with women are largely limited. Until his life intersects with Ginger’s under a set of tragic circumstances, Fender has kept his interactions with women casual, seemingly as Sam and his father sit on the sidelines waiting for Fender to discover something or someone special.
Pop’s questioning gray eyes were still trained on Fender, and his sparse mustache twitched with curiosity. “Tell me, Sonny. What’d you do today?”
“Nothing.” The day had been humiliating enough. He didn’t want his dad to know on top of it all.
“Jerry, he was in fine form.” Sam sat across the table from them, out of Fender’s striking distance.
Fender tilted his head and shot his most withering look at Sam. “I went skiing.”
“No, no, it’s better than that. We went after this girl, and Fender learned how to ski all over again. He also tried to use two old ladies as bowling pins.” Sam’s shoulders were shaking again.
As per usual, Pop focused on the woman in the conversation. “Fender went after a girl? Really? Does this mean little Sandy didn’t make you swear off women forever?”
Sam brightened. “I’d almost forgotten about Sandy. Isn’t she the one that wrote I HATE YOU with weed killer on your front lawn?” Sam sat back and stretched his arms out on the top of the booth, relaxed and apparently prepared for a stroll down Fender’s memory lane of exes.“
As The Jeweler unfolds, we see that even Ginger tends to rely on the support and advice of these two gents; and as a captivated reader I was glad to see her do so. For these reasons, this novel was an enchanting and refreshing read for me. I’ve become a true fan of Beck Anderson as a result, and I’m hoping that she’ll be willing to meet up with me in downtown Boise the next time I happen to pop into town for a visit. The author has that special ability to infuse both tragedy and humor into a novel without skewing to extremes with either. Not only is this novel filled with characters I swear I already know, it tells a story that is as realistic and fragile as it is courageous and surreal. Just like life.
An enthusiastic four star read from me!
The synopsis above does a stellar job of explaining the overall plot, so I won’t bother to recap the summary here. I’d rather spend my limited review space highlighting the one big note I made about The Jeweler as I read it. There’s a unique spin on this romantic tale that I don’t often come across in such stories. Ready?
While this is a narrative written in third person, and explores the perspectives of Ginger and Fender, I found that much of the romantic story unfolded from the male point of view.
“Fender looked back on his “wasted youth” and didn’t feel regret; he just felt sorry for his dad. Oh, to have a son who excelled in mediocrity, with a side of troublemaking. This was yet another reason to never have children; they might inherit his juvenile delinquency. And another reason not to get married. But Fender was constantly reminded why he despised marriage, regardless. Every time he’d craft a delicate setting with a pale, clear diamond, and it went on the hand of a crass, selfish gold digger, or some cheating, sweaty lout gave a necklace of blood red rubies to his unsuspecting, hard-working wife, Fender remembered how he felt about the sacred institution.”
Not only does the reader become well-accustomed with Fender’s thoughts and feelings about romance in general and Ginger in particular, but many of the story conflicts and solutions are largely driven by the male influences in Fender’s life. Fender’s best friend, Sam, is the epitome of the Pacific Northwest bachelor. He lives a quiet, unassuming life and enjoys smoking, Carhartt coveralls and beer. He’s perfectly content and could truly care less if people can’t deal with his choices. But he’s also warm and loyal and willing to help Fender figure out his dilemma with Ginger. He pushes Fender to stray outside his romantic comfort zones, and stays right by his side through thick and thin.
Another source of male guidance and support is Fender’s father. Not only has he looked after Fender emotionally, he has also provided his only child with an established jewelry business for financial security. Having grown up without a mother and with no other siblings, Fender’s experiences with women are largely limited. Until his life intersects with Ginger’s under a set of tragic circumstances, Fender has kept his interactions with women casual, seemingly as Sam and his father sit on the sidelines waiting for Fender to discover something or someone special.
Pop’s questioning gray eyes were still trained on Fender, and his sparse mustache twitched with curiosity. “Tell me, Sonny. What’d you do today?”
“Nothing.” The day had been humiliating enough. He didn’t want his dad to know on top of it all.
“Jerry, he was in fine form.” Sam sat across the table from them, out of Fender’s striking distance.
Fender tilted his head and shot his most withering look at Sam. “I went skiing.”
“No, no, it’s better than that. We went after this girl, and Fender learned how to ski all over again. He also tried to use two old ladies as bowling pins.” Sam’s shoulders were shaking again.
As per usual, Pop focused on the woman in the conversation. “Fender went after a girl? Really? Does this mean little Sandy didn’t make you swear off women forever?”
Sam brightened. “I’d almost forgotten about Sandy. Isn’t she the one that wrote I HATE YOU with weed killer on your front lawn?” Sam sat back and stretched his arms out on the top of the booth, relaxed and apparently prepared for a stroll down Fender’s memory lane of exes.“
As The Jeweler unfolds, we see that even Ginger tends to rely on the support and advice of these two gents; and as a captivated reader I was glad to see her do so. For these reasons, this novel was an enchanting and refreshing read for me. I’ve become a true fan of Beck Anderson as a result, and I’m hoping that she’ll be willing to meet up with me in downtown Boise the next time I happen to pop into town for a visit. The author has that special ability to infuse both tragedy and humor into a novel without skewing to extremes with either. Not only is this novel filled with characters I swear I already know, it tells a story that is as realistic and fragile as it is courageous and surreal. Just like life.
An enthusiastic four star read from me!
October 30, 2014
I’m completely new to Beck Anderson’s writing, and now completely hooked. The Jeweler is one of those reads that will simply make you smile. Oh it’s not all hearts and flowers, or in this case bling, but the story is intent on giving us heartache, romance and love with a twist. This feel good story is the tale of Fender Barnes and Ginger Stevens and one that I strongly recommend as a book club read (PG rated). The story follows the course over a long time period which provides for some detailed character developing helping to know our what's exactly going through Fender and Gingers minds’. Plus any book that can pull off having a character reference the ROUS's from the Princess Bride is stellar.
We get most of the story through the eyes of Fender, who is a most unusual character. See, Fender is socially awkward, so much so that its hard to even imagine him ever having any type of relationship with a women. I loved watching Fender reason through his emotions and his plan to approach Ginger. What he has to share with her wouldn't be easy for most anyone to attempt to convey, but with Fender awkwardness, its even harder for him to get the words out, driving the storyline along a delightful path.
Gingers story is mostly us watching her grieve the accidental death of her boyfriend, Brad. Ginger is in recovering mode, not knowing exactly how to grieve and how to move past it his death. In Gingers story, our experience with her is completely different from Fender. Ginger approaches life cautiously and she romanticizes her life with Brad which makes her slow to recover and move on. Knowing what we know from Fenders perspective, you’ll find yourself wondering if Fender even needs to do what he sets out to do, the what and why behind his action of coming to know Ginger. But, Fender isa man with good intentions and we need to see how he and Ginger come to terms with the secret he’s carrying.
Beck Anderson has an amazing talent of writing an emotionally complex and charming story. There were many moments I found myself smiling at the characters actions and thoughts and at the dialogue. Some of the best wit and banter comes from Fender’s relationship with Sam, his best friend. These two know each other too well, and Sam’s directness with Fender, his inability to placate Fender prompts a great part of Fenders actions. Sam acts as Fenders conscious which helps and hurts Fender, but ultimately drives Fender down a path very new to him, one of romantic love. All of the secondary characters, Gingers friends’ Molly and Bodhe,and Fenders father add so much to the story, so much to the lives of our main characters, and all are written to perfection.
It may take a majority of the book for Fender to finally understand what's happening with his feelings, as this sensation of love is very new to him, but it’s worth it. There are many ups and downs in both Fenders and Gingers lives and these moments serve to give these characters depth and give us a better understanding of where they are both trying to get to in life.The epilogue is a reminder that happily ever afters come in many forms. I highly recommend this book and I think its ideal for a book club read. There’s just so much to explore in all the characters and the story transcends many ages, so there is really something here for everyone. Again, I highly recommend this as a Book Club read - discussing Fenders' quirks alone would entertain for hours.
We get most of the story through the eyes of Fender, who is a most unusual character. See, Fender is socially awkward, so much so that its hard to even imagine him ever having any type of relationship with a women. I loved watching Fender reason through his emotions and his plan to approach Ginger. What he has to share with her wouldn't be easy for most anyone to attempt to convey, but with Fender awkwardness, its even harder for him to get the words out, driving the storyline along a delightful path.
Gingers story is mostly us watching her grieve the accidental death of her boyfriend, Brad. Ginger is in recovering mode, not knowing exactly how to grieve and how to move past it his death. In Gingers story, our experience with her is completely different from Fender. Ginger approaches life cautiously and she romanticizes her life with Brad which makes her slow to recover and move on. Knowing what we know from Fenders perspective, you’ll find yourself wondering if Fender even needs to do what he sets out to do, the what and why behind his action of coming to know Ginger. But, Fender isa man with good intentions and we need to see how he and Ginger come to terms with the secret he’s carrying.
Beck Anderson has an amazing talent of writing an emotionally complex and charming story. There were many moments I found myself smiling at the characters actions and thoughts and at the dialogue. Some of the best wit and banter comes from Fender’s relationship with Sam, his best friend. These two know each other too well, and Sam’s directness with Fender, his inability to placate Fender prompts a great part of Fenders actions. Sam acts as Fenders conscious which helps and hurts Fender, but ultimately drives Fender down a path very new to him, one of romantic love. All of the secondary characters, Gingers friends’ Molly and Bodhe,and Fenders father add so much to the story, so much to the lives of our main characters, and all are written to perfection.
It may take a majority of the book for Fender to finally understand what's happening with his feelings, as this sensation of love is very new to him, but it’s worth it. There are many ups and downs in both Fenders and Gingers lives and these moments serve to give these characters depth and give us a better understanding of where they are both trying to get to in life.The epilogue is a reminder that happily ever afters come in many forms. I highly recommend this book and I think its ideal for a book club read. There’s just so much to explore in all the characters and the story transcends many ages, so there is really something here for everyone. Again, I highly recommend this as a Book Club read - discussing Fenders' quirks alone would entertain for hours.
November 9, 2014
This is one of those books I pick because of the sexy cover and I was right about it. The first thing I noticed was the name of the characters, they are unique names: Fender and Ginger. It rhymes! HaHaHa! And then the plot was very intriguing. I wanted to know how Fender was going to reveal the engagement ring to Ginger, specially after he falls for her.
Ginger was a cool girl. I like her. I like how she is discovered, along the book, how she really felt and what she wanted in life. I like her friendship with Fender and how it gradually became from a physical attraction into something else. I like how she tried so hard to respect the memory of her “DBF” (Dead boyfriend) but at the end accepted that she needed to start living again.
Fender was a weird character. Don't get me wrong, I liked him, but he was weird. His self esteem wasn't the best, he really thought the worst of himself and it was really hard for him to take the next step with Ginger.
I loved the romantic moments between Fender and Ginger, and what Fender did to get Ginger back at the end of the book was really awesome.
The secondary characters were so helpful in Ginger and Fender’s relationship. Molly and Sam were like the conscience for Ginger and Fender. They gave the right advices at the right time. I really liked the little time Ginger and Pop spent in the cemetery.
IMO the male characters in this book were weird, they thought and acted a little like women.
In general, the book was very good, I liked the plot, the twists of events, how Fender, with the help of Sam and Molly, finally got the girl he was madly in love.
February 18, 2015
I received a reviewer's copy of this book from ATOMR Tours in exchange for an honest review and as part of the book's blog tour promotions.
I found this book funny. It's a light, enjoyable read that provides good entertainment and sweet romance. The hero, Fender, is not like most heroes these days. He is described to be bad at relationships and with women. However, it's not because he is a jerk or a player. In fact, he is awkward and weird in a cute way.
The heroine is also quirky. She loves her closest friend, but still takes the time to think of mean thoughts about the girl. She's a real person who struggles with the loss and guilt of having lost her boyfriend, whom she had no idea was going to propose to her.
The Jeweler won't take you to a rollercoaster of emotions. It won't heat you up if the weather is freezing because the sex scenes were barely even mentioned. It won't leave you hanging with a puzzle that you'd die to solve. What it will do, though, is take you with its characters until you could swear to yourself that you personally know Fender and can testify to his antics. It's a book that speaks of very normal people who fell in love under unique circumstances.
I found this book funny. It's a light, enjoyable read that provides good entertainment and sweet romance. The hero, Fender, is not like most heroes these days. He is described to be bad at relationships and with women. However, it's not because he is a jerk or a player. In fact, he is awkward and weird in a cute way.
The heroine is also quirky. She loves her closest friend, but still takes the time to think of mean thoughts about the girl. She's a real person who struggles with the loss and guilt of having lost her boyfriend, whom she had no idea was going to propose to her.
The Jeweler won't take you to a rollercoaster of emotions. It won't heat you up if the weather is freezing because the sex scenes were barely even mentioned. It won't leave you hanging with a puzzle that you'd die to solve. What it will do, though, is take you with its characters until you could swear to yourself that you personally know Fender and can testify to his antics. It's a book that speaks of very normal people who fell in love under unique circumstances.
February 20, 2015
The Jeweler is filled with all kinds of kismet and hilarity - it is a fun and enchanting read. Fender and Ginger's romance is not your typical romance book. It's filled with heartache, plot twists but it's definitely worth checking out.
The romantic hero, Fender is a bit of a pessimist. In some books that might not be charming but with Fender it is. He was quirky and rude but I thought he was hilarious. I loved him. His misadventures with this ring and Ginger made me laugh out loud.
The story is balanced out with Ginger, who is dealing with a major loss in her life. Except her story isn't amusing. She is lost and unbalanced with the sudden change in her world. The Jeweler is just as much about her recovery and finding herself as it is about Fender realizing he deserves love.
Beck Anderson wrote a terrific story about interesting characters and it's awesome. She was a new to me author and thanks to The Jeweler, I look forward to reading more from her in the future. Definitely check out her book.
The romantic hero, Fender is a bit of a pessimist. In some books that might not be charming but with Fender it is. He was quirky and rude but I thought he was hilarious. I loved him. His misadventures with this ring and Ginger made me laugh out loud.
The story is balanced out with Ginger, who is dealing with a major loss in her life. Except her story isn't amusing. She is lost and unbalanced with the sudden change in her world. The Jeweler is just as much about her recovery and finding herself as it is about Fender realizing he deserves love.
Beck Anderson wrote a terrific story about interesting characters and it's awesome. She was a new to me author and thanks to The Jeweler, I look forward to reading more from her in the future. Definitely check out her book.
December 7, 2014
La situación descripta en la sinópsis pasa muy rápido y no se entiende realmente porqué el joyero, un hombre que se lo pinta como cínico, se acercaría por propia voluntad a quien era la destinataria del anillo, meh... no funcionó para mi porque tampoco se sintió química entre los personajes y se tardó varios capítulos en relacionarlos.
October 3, 2017
The guy was a bit misogynistic and he disappointed me page by page (I don't know how)
I was like 'really? Are you dumb enough to do that? You know it's going to end in catastrophe'. Very ridiculous situations...
I was like 'really? Are you dumb enough to do that? You know it's going to end in catastrophe'. Very ridiculous situations...
January 23, 2015
Terrible, nothing good about it not ecen the names of the characters, they just seem to have separate lifes and it just doesn't make sense at alla.
A shame the idea of the plot was good
A shame the idea of the plot was good
February 22, 2015
3.5 stars, review to follow.
*An ARC was received for an honest review.
*An ARC was received for an honest review.
February 23, 2015
This is my first time to read a Beck Anderson novel, and as far as I know, this is her sophomore novel. What intrigued me to pick it up was the interesting premise of the story, told in the perspective of the male main character (most of the books I’ve read have females for main characters, so this is somewhat a refreshing thing).
Fender Barnes owns a jewelry store and he’s characterized as cynical and jaded. When he sells an engagement ring to a young man who figures into an on-the-spot accident, Fender is burdened with the responsibility of getting in touch with the woman who the ring was intended for. When he meets ski instructor (and woman in question) Ginger Stevens, he stalls and takes his time in letting her know about the ring. The book details on how Fender struggled with himself in keeping up with the secrecy, until the inevitable shitstorm happened when Ginger found out and he was left to fix the mess he brought upon himself.
I had this preconceived idea that Fender was the typical male character who was suave, cool, and collected. I guess it came from the thought that he was a jeweler and maybe most of the people in the business of selling jewelry would have some sort of personality like that. When I got to know Fender a lot more, I realized he was the exact oppposite—he was awkward and weird, but in an adorable way. On the other hand, Ginger was a conflicted character. Throughout the most part of the story, she struggled with her guilt and self-esteem issues, especially at the wake of her boyfriend’s death. I sympathized with her at first, but later on, she sounded like she was whining way too much and pitied herself far more than I would care to read about. It became tiring for me to read about her POV; Fender’s was a lot easier to read despite my earlier impression.
While I appreciated the author’s simple and easy-to-read prose, the story moved at a glacial pace. I was more than halfway through the book and I was still reading about Fender’s dilemma and Ginger’s pity party. Some of the scenes were somewhat boring that I had to skip through the most part to know what happens next. Beyond the conflict revelation, I also found it a bit too sudden about Ginger’s epiphany on her feelings with Fender. I think there was too much air time on the scenes leading to the big reveal that it didn’t give enough room for me to feel the sincerity of Ginger’s emotions. However on the upside, I liked how the author tied up the loose ends to give the two characters an ending they deserve. It was satisfying to read about how Fender and Ginger ended up to be better individuals and how their relationship progressed to something more meaningful. I also think it was a good thing that the author gave supporting characters Sam and Molly good exposure to balance things between the good and better characterizations. These two brought the laugh factor to a fun level, especially when I experienced those slow moments in the story.
While this novel may lack the steam I initially expected, I enjoyed the witty banter of Fender and Sam, even Molly’s crazy antics. I wish the romance element could have been amped up more, but overall I had no qualms as I got the satisfying ending I was looking for.
Review posted on WillReadForFeels. I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Fender Barnes owns a jewelry store and he’s characterized as cynical and jaded. When he sells an engagement ring to a young man who figures into an on-the-spot accident, Fender is burdened with the responsibility of getting in touch with the woman who the ring was intended for. When he meets ski instructor (and woman in question) Ginger Stevens, he stalls and takes his time in letting her know about the ring. The book details on how Fender struggled with himself in keeping up with the secrecy, until the inevitable shitstorm happened when Ginger found out and he was left to fix the mess he brought upon himself.
I had this preconceived idea that Fender was the typical male character who was suave, cool, and collected. I guess it came from the thought that he was a jeweler and maybe most of the people in the business of selling jewelry would have some sort of personality like that. When I got to know Fender a lot more, I realized he was the exact oppposite—he was awkward and weird, but in an adorable way. On the other hand, Ginger was a conflicted character. Throughout the most part of the story, she struggled with her guilt and self-esteem issues, especially at the wake of her boyfriend’s death. I sympathized with her at first, but later on, she sounded like she was whining way too much and pitied herself far more than I would care to read about. It became tiring for me to read about her POV; Fender’s was a lot easier to read despite my earlier impression.
While I appreciated the author’s simple and easy-to-read prose, the story moved at a glacial pace. I was more than halfway through the book and I was still reading about Fender’s dilemma and Ginger’s pity party. Some of the scenes were somewhat boring that I had to skip through the most part to know what happens next. Beyond the conflict revelation, I also found it a bit too sudden about Ginger’s epiphany on her feelings with Fender. I think there was too much air time on the scenes leading to the big reveal that it didn’t give enough room for me to feel the sincerity of Ginger’s emotions. However on the upside, I liked how the author tied up the loose ends to give the two characters an ending they deserve. It was satisfying to read about how Fender and Ginger ended up to be better individuals and how their relationship progressed to something more meaningful. I also think it was a good thing that the author gave supporting characters Sam and Molly good exposure to balance things between the good and better characterizations. These two brought the laugh factor to a fun level, especially when I experienced those slow moments in the story.
While this novel may lack the steam I initially expected, I enjoyed the witty banter of Fender and Sam, even Molly’s crazy antics. I wish the romance element could have been amped up more, but overall I had no qualms as I got the satisfying ending I was looking for.
Review posted on WillReadForFeels. I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
March 21, 2015
The Jeweler by Beck Anderson
Source: Author
My Rating: 3/5 stars
My Review:
Fender Barnes spends his days enabling those lost in love. Couple after couple comes into his jewelry store buying and enhancing love in the form of diamonds in platinum settings. With the divorce rate being what it is, Fender has very little respect for love and even less for the institution of marriage but he has to pay the bills and so he continues to enable the fools in love. Case in point, the guy who comes in right at closing time to buy an engagement for his girlfriend. The guy is intent on buying “the perfect” ring and thus ensuring a happily ever after and Fender is intent in dumping a custom ring that was never claimed. Though Fender gets his way, the man does not for seconds after leaving the jewelry store, the man is struck down on the sidewalk by a car.
For months following the death of her boyfriend, Ginger Stevens has struggled to get back on her feet. Though she misses her boyfriend, part of the struggle comes from facing the fact that he may not have been her forever man. Ginger is somewhat of a free spirit with a love of skiing, skate boarding and, nature. For the time she was with her boyfriend, Ginger often gave into his desires for her life and abandoned some of the things she loved in favor of her relationship. With his death, Ginger has slowly begun to reclaim her life and some of the reclamation includes working as a ski instructor. On the mountain, Ginger can not only support herself but indulge in two of the things she loves most, nature and skiing. Her clients range from dynamic and fearless kids to free-wheeling blue hairs who love to spend the day with Ginger as much as on the slopes.
Convinced he should give Ginger the engagement ring that was meant for her, Fender arranges a private ski lesson and quickly figures out two things, he actually likes Ginger and, he is a terrible skier. Braking Ginger’s heart is the last thing Fender wants to do and with every encounter, he falls a little more in like with her and finds yet another excuse not to give her the ring. As the weeks drag on, Ginger becomes increasingly more interested in Fender but knows he is hiding something. When the truth finally comes out, Ginger has to not only deal with the knowledge that she was more than just a girlfriend, the harsh reality of what her answer to “Will you marry me?” would have been and, her now totally confused feelings for Fender.
The Bottom Line: The Jeweler is Anderson’s second novel and like her first, I found it to be a decent though not overly exciting read. Ginger is not necessarily broken by the loss of her boyfriend but more by the truth of her feelings for him. She feels guilty over her true feelings and liking Fender only enhances her guilt. Fender is basically a lost soul with no belief in love until he meets Ginger but he meets her under false pretenses and out of fear of losing her, waits far too long to tell her about the ring. Like Fix You, The Jeweler is a sweet love story that holds very few surprises. With that being said, this sweet, heartfelt romance will appeal to lovers of the genre and fans of HEAs.
Source: Author
My Rating: 3/5 stars
My Review:
Fender Barnes spends his days enabling those lost in love. Couple after couple comes into his jewelry store buying and enhancing love in the form of diamonds in platinum settings. With the divorce rate being what it is, Fender has very little respect for love and even less for the institution of marriage but he has to pay the bills and so he continues to enable the fools in love. Case in point, the guy who comes in right at closing time to buy an engagement for his girlfriend. The guy is intent on buying “the perfect” ring and thus ensuring a happily ever after and Fender is intent in dumping a custom ring that was never claimed. Though Fender gets his way, the man does not for seconds after leaving the jewelry store, the man is struck down on the sidewalk by a car.
For months following the death of her boyfriend, Ginger Stevens has struggled to get back on her feet. Though she misses her boyfriend, part of the struggle comes from facing the fact that he may not have been her forever man. Ginger is somewhat of a free spirit with a love of skiing, skate boarding and, nature. For the time she was with her boyfriend, Ginger often gave into his desires for her life and abandoned some of the things she loved in favor of her relationship. With his death, Ginger has slowly begun to reclaim her life and some of the reclamation includes working as a ski instructor. On the mountain, Ginger can not only support herself but indulge in two of the things she loves most, nature and skiing. Her clients range from dynamic and fearless kids to free-wheeling blue hairs who love to spend the day with Ginger as much as on the slopes.
Convinced he should give Ginger the engagement ring that was meant for her, Fender arranges a private ski lesson and quickly figures out two things, he actually likes Ginger and, he is a terrible skier. Braking Ginger’s heart is the last thing Fender wants to do and with every encounter, he falls a little more in like with her and finds yet another excuse not to give her the ring. As the weeks drag on, Ginger becomes increasingly more interested in Fender but knows he is hiding something. When the truth finally comes out, Ginger has to not only deal with the knowledge that she was more than just a girlfriend, the harsh reality of what her answer to “Will you marry me?” would have been and, her now totally confused feelings for Fender.
The Bottom Line: The Jeweler is Anderson’s second novel and like her first, I found it to be a decent though not overly exciting read. Ginger is not necessarily broken by the loss of her boyfriend but more by the truth of her feelings for him. She feels guilty over her true feelings and liking Fender only enhances her guilt. Fender is basically a lost soul with no belief in love until he meets Ginger but he meets her under false pretenses and out of fear of losing her, waits far too long to tell her about the ring. Like Fix You, The Jeweler is a sweet love story that holds very few surprises. With that being said, this sweet, heartfelt romance will appeal to lovers of the genre and fans of HEAs.
May 5, 2015
The Jeweler by Beck Anderson is a standalone romance novel. It is not a heavy and hot romance by any means but it is tense and will keep you reading just to see what happens with that darn ring!
Fender Barnes is a cynic. He is now running his fathers jewelry business but is not overly happy about it. He see's so much manipulation in his store that he truly thinks the institution of love is a farce. When a tragic accident befalls a customer just outisde his store he does the strangest thing. He takes the ring the customer just bought. He doesn't know why and is eventually cajoled into taking it to the man's significant other at his funeral. He can't bring himself to give it to her though and a calamity of sweet and awkard events happens over the months following.
Ginger is a ski instructor that is having a hard time moving past the loss of her boyfriend. Months pass and when she finally starts going about her normal routine she is confronted by the strangely behaving Fender and his complete lack of skills on the powder. She enjoys their lessons together but despite the ring almost always being present at their meetings, he never quite has the courage to broach the subject to return it to her. As time goes on and they develop a friendship and the attraction grows, the whole situation becomes more awkward.
With humurous sidekicks and sweet moments throughout this slow-paced but pleasant romance will have you wondering about fate and love and what makes the universe tick.
Fender Barnes is a cynic. He is now running his fathers jewelry business but is not overly happy about it. He see's so much manipulation in his store that he truly thinks the institution of love is a farce. When a tragic accident befalls a customer just outisde his store he does the strangest thing. He takes the ring the customer just bought. He doesn't know why and is eventually cajoled into taking it to the man's significant other at his funeral. He can't bring himself to give it to her though and a calamity of sweet and awkard events happens over the months following.
Ginger is a ski instructor that is having a hard time moving past the loss of her boyfriend. Months pass and when she finally starts going about her normal routine she is confronted by the strangely behaving Fender and his complete lack of skills on the powder. She enjoys their lessons together but despite the ring almost always being present at their meetings, he never quite has the courage to broach the subject to return it to her. As time goes on and they develop a friendship and the attraction grows, the whole situation becomes more awkward.
With humurous sidekicks and sweet moments throughout this slow-paced but pleasant romance will have you wondering about fate and love and what makes the universe tick.
March 4, 2015
I read this book fairly quickly. It didn't take very long to hook my interest. The concept was very interesting and I enjoyed reading it. There were some parts I of the book I enjoyed more than others, but we'll get into that in a little bit.
I liked Fender. He was usually put together, but being in Ginger's presence turned him into a bumbling mess. It was really quite endearing to see him that way. I liked his frank observations on the customers that came in and even his jadedness with the institution of marriage. Fender has some problems struggling with what to do with the ring that ended up back in his possession and I understood his dilemma.
Ginger was interesting. I wasn't so sure how I felt about her initially, especially after first meeting her in the park with Zoe. It didn't seem like she was really vested in her relationship. However, seeing her after her loss, trying to come to grip with her new reality softened what I thought of her, and I realized she was just adjusting to her new reality.
As much I think the story is unique, I didn't really feel the spark between Ginger and Fender. I felt like there was more chemistry between Fender and his friend Sam, or even Fender and Pops, his father. I didn't see the attraction Ginger and Fender had for each other. I did have some moments of laughter, but there were only a few. Beck Anderson shows great promise in her writing, and having read my first book by her, I know I will be on the look out for more.
I liked Fender. He was usually put together, but being in Ginger's presence turned him into a bumbling mess. It was really quite endearing to see him that way. I liked his frank observations on the customers that came in and even his jadedness with the institution of marriage. Fender has some problems struggling with what to do with the ring that ended up back in his possession and I understood his dilemma.
Ginger was interesting. I wasn't so sure how I felt about her initially, especially after first meeting her in the park with Zoe. It didn't seem like she was really vested in her relationship. However, seeing her after her loss, trying to come to grip with her new reality softened what I thought of her, and I realized she was just adjusting to her new reality.
As much I think the story is unique, I didn't really feel the spark between Ginger and Fender. I felt like there was more chemistry between Fender and his friend Sam, or even Fender and Pops, his father. I didn't see the attraction Ginger and Fender had for each other. I did have some moments of laughter, but there were only a few. Beck Anderson shows great promise in her writing, and having read my first book by her, I know I will be on the look out for more.
January 14, 2015
SOME SPOILERS SPOILER SPOILER That was a boring book. If it was supposed to be said and heart breaking it failed miserably. It was about this girl whose boyfriend died hit by a car after buying her a ring to propose. The jeweler (hero) who sold the ring saw everything and went to look for the girl to give the ring to her. Than I thought it would be a romantic journey where the jeweler fell in love with the girl and struggled to tell her about the ring. It is something like that but NOT romantic at all. You got ski lessons, you got working as a life guard in summer season, you read about the h in her robe letting her dog out and find a band so she tied her hair in a messy bun, you got the H eating cereal outside then he spot a cat and lure him with the plate so the cat can have the left over milk. There were so many useless information, that when all that you can remember for the book was those, what can one say about it. Where was the romance, the grieving, the finding love again? Not in this book. When the dead boyfriend was mentioned, or death itself, was like someone was talking about dead battery. Boring. I brought myself to finish it because I have to finish a book. But I never struggled so much. I
December 1, 2014
3.5 Stars
This story immediately pulled me in. I found Bender to be geeky but yet handsome and awkward but so easily loved. His character was so different from other characters I have read. Yes he is a bit arrogant but he also has insight that most others don’t. After a gentleman guys his girlfriend and engagement ring and then is immediately killed, Bender stresses about the ring. He is on a mission to get the ring to its intended owner and when he finally meets her, let’s just say a big crush ensues..
Ginger is the unknown owner of the engagement ring. She is a ski instructor going through the emotions of loss. Full of guilt and self-doubt, the one thing she wasn’t counting on was Fender.
Fender intended to tell her the truth but the truth is he ended up falling for her and can’t figure out a way to bring up the ring.
The supporting characters were fantastic, funny and brought great dynamic to the story.
This is a great story about loss, true love, honesty and moving on.
A fun, easy and romantically entertaining read.
This story immediately pulled me in. I found Bender to be geeky but yet handsome and awkward but so easily loved. His character was so different from other characters I have read. Yes he is a bit arrogant but he also has insight that most others don’t. After a gentleman guys his girlfriend and engagement ring and then is immediately killed, Bender stresses about the ring. He is on a mission to get the ring to its intended owner and when he finally meets her, let’s just say a big crush ensues..
Ginger is the unknown owner of the engagement ring. She is a ski instructor going through the emotions of loss. Full of guilt and self-doubt, the one thing she wasn’t counting on was Fender.
Fender intended to tell her the truth but the truth is he ended up falling for her and can’t figure out a way to bring up the ring.
The supporting characters were fantastic, funny and brought great dynamic to the story.
This is a great story about loss, true love, honesty and moving on.
A fun, easy and romantically entertaining read.
April 30, 2015
I was so excited to read this book, it sounded good, but I had to give it only 3 stars because it was so boring at times, it dragged on and on and then when the critical part came the heroine overreacted and I hated how she treated Fender. Towards the end of the book it started to get good, fun, and more of what I expected. Fender's best friend made this book fun, some of the lines the author had coming out of his mouth had me laughing out loud. I could never get a hold on who Fender was, what he liked to do, I could not even tell if he had money or not, seeing how he owned a jewelry store I thought he would be at least comfortable but when he described his condo it sounds like a dump, and then the heroine seems to have two jobs that most college kids have but she has a home and car, the descriptions just don't seem to match. I liked the surprise in the epilogue but I felt like I needed more, after all the trouble Fender went through, all of the waiting, the back and forth to get the girl, I would have liked more at the end.
May 11, 2015
SORRY! 2 STARS ONLY
This is one of those unique plot stories that caught my attention so I quickly grabbed a copy. I expected a lot from this book. I thought the guy was your typical book boyfriend, serious about life and girls everywhere and shit. As I was reading it, the guy (for me) was a bit of a geek or who doesn't give a shit about life. He's stubborn and honestly, he was quite girly. He was annoying! The girl, wew, I didn't even know what to think of her. Seriously, she was also annoying. Baaaah! WHY??!
I was disappointed because I had high hopes for this. I thought, "Finally! A unique story!" Then bam, "What the f*** is this?!" I was expecting a serious flow from this book you know but it was combined with humor that didn't went well together throughout the book. I was giddy when I was starting then I got bored when I was halfway through. The writing style was okay and it's a fast paced story. I wasn't thrilled and convinced because there's so many things going on in the story.
This is one of those unique plot stories that caught my attention so I quickly grabbed a copy. I expected a lot from this book. I thought the guy was your typical book boyfriend, serious about life and girls everywhere and shit. As I was reading it, the guy (for me) was a bit of a geek or who doesn't give a shit about life. He's stubborn and honestly, he was quite girly. He was annoying! The girl, wew, I didn't even know what to think of her. Seriously, she was also annoying. Baaaah! WHY??!
I was disappointed because I had high hopes for this. I thought, "Finally! A unique story!" Then bam, "What the f*** is this?!" I was expecting a serious flow from this book you know but it was combined with humor that didn't went well together throughout the book. I was giddy when I was starting then I got bored when I was halfway through. The writing style was okay and it's a fast paced story. I wasn't thrilled and convinced because there's so many things going on in the story.
October 14, 2017
Don't bother.
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