The Hope Keeper

by Heather Webb

1919, Washington D.C. Elisabeth Beaumont comes from a renowned jeweler family, but after the untimely death of her twin brother, she's left on her own to run the failing family business. Desperate for work, she approaches the affluent crowd her brother Julien once courted to expand Beaumont Jewelers. Their ringleader is wealthy socialite Evalyn McLean, owner of the world's most infamous gemstone, rumored to curse all who travel within its orbit. 

The Hope Diamond.

As Elisabeth is swept into Evalyn's toxic world of dark opulence, the lines defining who she is and where she belongs begin to blur, leading Elisabeth to question all she once believed. She's no longer certain she wants to take over the family business and be beholden to the wealthy elite of D.C. But she can't fathom leaving her father in the lurch. There's also Evalyn to consider, and the Hope Diamond, which beckons Elisabeth to admire it, touch it, care for it, despite every warning she's been told.

When tragedy strikes one night, not only is Elisabeth's fragile friendship with Evalyn put to the test, but her carefully constructed glamorous new life comes crashing down. Now Elisabeth must face the truth about her brother's death and decide what matters most. 

 

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction, Mystery, Historical, Young Adult, Adult Fiction

368 pages, Hardcover

Published May 19, 2026

About the author

Heather Webb is the USA Today Bestselling and award-winning author of historical fiction, including Strangers in the Night, The Next Ship Home, Last Christmas in Paris, Meet Me in Monaco, Rodin's Lover, and more. In 2017, Last Christmas in Paris won the Women's Fiction Writers Association award, and in 2019, Meet Me in Monaco was shortlisted for both the RNA award in the UK and also the Digital Book World Fiction prize.

Heather's currently hard at work on a novel releasing in early 2024 called Queens of London about a true-to-life, all-female gang led by the most notorious criminal, Diamond Annie, set in grimy and glamorous 1925. Also, look for her fourth collaboration with her beloved writing partner, Hazel Gaynor, Christmas with the Queen releasing in the fall of 2024

When not writing, Heather flexes her foodie skills, geeks out on pop culture and history, or looks for excuses to head to the other side of the world.

***Heather's review policy on Goodreads is to only rate books that she enjoys. She believes there's enough negativity in the world and would rather share the positive with her reader friends. The negative she lets swirl down the drain of her bathtub.

Reviews

[Shelley's Book Nook · Rating 3 out of 5]

My Reviews Can Also Be Found On:
The Book Review Crew Blog


⭐⭐⭐
The Hope Keeper
Heather Webb
Publication Date: May 19th, 2026
Sourcebooks Landmark
368 Pages
Amazon | Bookshop.org
Genre: General Fiction | Historical Fiction | Women's Fiction

I have never read anything by this author before. While I enjoyed this book for the most part, it didn't wow me. It's set in the exclusive world of Washington, D.C., in 1919. The story is about the Hope Diamond and the supposed curse that follows it. Elisabeth's brother has died in an accident; her family are well-known jewellers, and Elisabeth now has to save their family business. Elisabeth then joins the social circles her brother used to belong to. It is there she meets Evalyn, who owned the Hope Diamond. Elisabeth then becomes Evalyn's jeweller. This is when Elisabeth starts to learn about her brother's secrets and the dark side of the upper-class D.C. elite.

I loved entering the Jazz Age and the way the author brought it to life. Elisabeth was a character I liked, especially when she had to enter what was mostly a man's world. She is trying to get over her brother's death while saving the family business at the same time. She was amazing in trying to find answers about her brother's death. I did not like Evalyn at all, but the author did a good job showing the working class versus the spendthrift. The diamond of all diamonds is sort of a character as well, and I enjoyed reading about its history and the curse. I found the so-called friendship of Elisabeth and Evalyn a little unrealistic; it was very toxic, and Evalyn and her behaviour got to be a bit repetitive. I also found the middle of the book and getting to know the social circles of D.C. a tad drawn out, and then the answers about Julian's death felt rushed.

Overall, this would be a good read for historical fiction fans who enjoy a story around true events with a touch of mystery and suspense. Because of the uneven pacing, it isn't always as great as it could be, but the emotional needs of the protagonist and the interesting look into the history of the world-famous diamond make it worthwhile.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

[theliterateleprechaun]

3⭐

Heather Webb transports her readers to Washington, DC, during the Jazz Age and immerses us in an intriguing story centered around the lure and legend of the Hope Diamond.

I absolutely loved the unique intro and conclusion - the diamond’s POV!

While Webb gives us the essential facets of the Hope Diamond legacy, her story is centered around a choice. Elizabeth Beaumont, of a renowned jeweler family, is torn between keeping her father’s business afloat after the death of her twin brother and the opportunity to care for the mysterious diamond. As Elizabeth works out her allegiance, readers are introduced to a wealthy socialite, Evalyn McLean (the Gilded Age heiress who actually owned the diamond for years in real life) and her posse, and are swept away by the dark legacy of the jewel. Just as this gemstone is surrounded by majesty and mystery, so is the mystery of what happened to Elizabeth’s twin.

As the novel closes, you’ll feel like you have more questions than you started with! Is the beauty of the world’s most expensive and most famous diamond truly shrouded in misfortune, or has it become a cursed object as a result of perpetuating legends?

This slow-burning mystery will keep you turning pages!

I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.

[Heather~ Nature.books.and.coffee · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book I've read by Webb and I thought it was such a great historical fiction book. Our main character, Elisabeth Beaumont, comes from a family of jeweler's in DC in 1919. After the death of her twin brother, she is on her own to try and build her failing family business. But when she meets and befriends Evalyn, who's the owner of The Hope Diamond, she learns that the diamond is known to curse its owners and that her brother was involved in some secrets that she wasn't aware of. Wow…..this book was so compelling. I thought the author did a fantastic job with the characters development and the plot had some unexpected twists. I found the history of The Hope Diamond really interesting and it was such a unique aspect for a historical fiction book. I really enjoyed it and how everything came together. Definitely recommend!!

Thank you to the publisher, author, and netgalley for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.

[DeAnn · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Diamond Stars

Historical fiction centering around the mystique of the Hope Diamond. Does the owner fall into bad luck? Is the diamond cursed? This tale is set in 1919 Washington and centers around the Beaumont Jewelers. Elisabeth Beaumont is trying to keep the family jewelry business alive after the death of her twin brother. Her father, their main designer, has fallen into a deep depression.

To save the family business, Elisabeth tries to get into Evalyn McLean's circle, the diamond’s wealthy current owner. She’s drawn into the world of socialites, politics, and money. She’s hoping that Evalyn and her friends will buy some of the family’s pieces. As Elisabeth begins to find success with the circle, she starts to change and becomes enchanted with the idea of cleaning and caring for the Hope Diamond. Will she also uncover the truth about her brother’s death? Will her own designs finally take off? What about her interest in mineralogy?

This one was interesting, although it was a bit of a slow burn in the middle. I’ve seen the diamond, now on display at the Smithsonian. It’s interesting to read another take on the piece's history. I also enjoyed the author’s notes at the end and more of the history of women employed at the Smithsonian.

My thanks to Sourcebooks Landmark for the opportunity to read and honestly review this one.

[Christine M in Texas (stamperlady50) · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Hope Keeper
By: Heather Webb
Pub Date: May 19, 2026
Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark

Webb always gives her readers a beautiful story.
💎
The Hope Diamond and its cursed past and how through the years its fascinated so many makes for a captivating historical fiction plot.
💎
Step back in time filled with mansions, styles of the times and family intrigue.
💎
Thank you Sourcebooks for this mesmerizing and beautiful novel.

[Literary Redhead · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful histfic novel about the Hope Diamond and its cursed history. Immersive and well written!

[Bernadette Chappell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Heather Webb, Sourcebooks, and net galley for allowing me to read this latest release. This book was a mystery and fast paced book. Elizabeth is the lead female character who has to solved the mystery of her brothers death and try to keep the family business running. The epilogue of the book was worth reading til the end.

[Cara Elizabeth | justanotherbookishgal · Rating 2 out of 5]

So this one was sadly a let down. I was excited about a story so unique as to center around the hope diamond and its supposed curse. While I really expected this book to center more about the death of the main characters brother and the mysterious curse of the Hope diamond, it was really about a group of socialites from this time period. To say I was a little bored was an understatement. The book dragggedddd. And oh my god did Lizzie and her incessant whining about not fitting in and not being a good enough jeweler and not knowing what she’s going to do with her life and about money to pay off debts… it was so repetitive and too much. And then Evelyn… dear lord that woman. All those socialites were bitches. I just didn’t care about them and their snarky attitudes and the storyline much at all. I finished and kind of thought to myself, so what was the point of the book? Because I think I kind of missed it….

[Stefanie Verhelst · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story combines historical fiction and fantasy, a cursed diamond.

It’s a very gripping story, heart wrenching and is very hard to put down. While reading, you expect that things aren’t what they seem and it’s all too perfect! But the twist is still outstanding!

I was touched by this book and will probably read it again!!!

[Ferne (Enthusiastic Reader) · Rating 4 out of 5]

1919. Washington, D.C.

Elisabeth Beaumont is fighting to save her family's three-story home and the Beaumont Jewelers storefront in Logan Circle, as her father, Gérard Beaumont, has been unable to work since an accident six months ago that claimed her brother Julien's life. Without her father's unique jewelry designs and Julien's salesmanship, the business's reputation is fragile, and foreclosure looms if she fails. She doesn't possess her twin's charismatic personality or her father's design talent. Although she has started her own collection, she knows it lacks the creativity of her father's work.

Elisabeth believes it is crucial to secure the business of wealthy socialite Evalyn McLean, even though she knows her father would strongly oppose her becoming Evalyn's exclusive jeweler. It would put Elisabeth in proximity to the Hope Diamond, a gem shrouded in mystery and, according to legend, associated with bad luck, a belief her father firmly holds. For Elisabeth, there's a deeper motivation. She needs to uncover how her brother's connection to this family contributed to his untimely death, driving her pursuit of truth amidst growing danger.

My fascination with the atmospheric writing began with the first sentence,

"I am born of fire and earth."

With the Hope Diamond a character in and of itself, the history starts, and I wondered if the diamond would have more to tell. Thoughtfully developed characters and their dialogue, each vital to the storytelling, reveal the cultural attitudes: society separated by financial status and class. The attitudes of men toward women, of women toward men, of men toward men, and of women toward women hold firm. Above all, it is a riveting, creatively crafted portrayal of the legend of the Hope Diamond.

This captivating blend of historical fiction, mystery, legend, and thriller is an exceptional experience, whether you are already familiar with the legend, the period, or the gemstone, or if this is your first introduction to any or all of them. Just as the beauty of a cut and polished diamond lies in its unique character, the allure of this historical fiction novel is found in its clarity, making the events feel entirely plausible. Once you step between the pages, you may genuinely believe that every creative element transpired.

At the novel's end, additional meaningful features include the Author's Note, which offers inspiration for the novel, "Fact Versus Fiction," and "The Smithsonian Institution and Its Women." Book clubs will appreciate the Reading Group Guide, and all readers will enjoy the Q&A format of "A Conversation with the Author."

Thank you to Heather Webb, NetGalley, and Sourcebooks Landmark for the opportunity to read an eARC of this novel.

[Colleen Maclennan · Rating 3 out of 5]

The book centred around the Hope Diamond and the supposedly curse attached to it . The death of Elizabeth’s brother Julien , a promising jeweler brings anguish to herself and her father . The Beaumont jewelry business suffers and to help alleviate growing debt Elizabeth befriends some rich society women . This part of the book is boorish and repetitive This book is a.sad commentary on a woman trying to make it in a man’s profession , the life of the rich and how relationships often suffer for various reasons and circumstances.
.

[Booksandcoffeemx · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read most of Heather Webb’s books, so I knew I was in for a treat the moment I started this one.

Not only does she write fascinating historical fiction inspired by real events, but she also has a way with words that completely draws you in through her immersive storytelling.

This time, the story centers around the Hope Diamond and its legendary curse, and of course I immediately went down the rabbit hole to do my own research.

I loved this book, beautifully written, rich in history, and another fantastic story from this author.

[Dottie Legatos · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an interesting historical fiction tale about the “cursed” Hope Diamond. Set in Washington DC in 1919, Elizabeth is mourning the death of her twin brother. Trying to find answers and also keep the family’s jewelry business from collapse, she enters into the world of the elite of DC. It was hard for me to like some of these frivolous and pretentious characters, although I’m sure this was the author’s intent. Thanks to Sourcebooks and Netgalley for this advanced copy in return for an honest review.

[Adam‘’s book reviews · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Hope Keeper by Heather Webb is a historical novel set in Washington, D.C., during the late 1910s. The story follows Elizabeth Beaumont, a young jeweler dealing with the recent death of her twin brother, Julian. While trying to help rebuild her family’s jewelry business, Elizabeth becomes connected to the wealthy McLean household and the famous Hope Diamond. As she spends more time among Washington’s elite, she also begins reflecting on the circumstances surrounding her brother’s death and the complicated world of high society that surrounds the diamond.

The novel spends significant time exploring the social atmosphere of the period, particularly the divide between working professionals and wealthy social circles. Through Elizabeth’s experiences, the story highlights the transition away from older Victorian social traditions while still showing how rigid class expectations remained. The book also looks closely at friendship, reputation, and the pressures that come with moving through elite social groups.

I found the social commentary interesting, especially the way the book shows how lonely wealthy society can be despite the constant gatherings and connections. Many of the relationships in the story feel competitive or strained, and even friendships sometimes come across as transactional rather than genuine. That contrast between outward glamour and private isolation was one of the stronger elements of the novel.

However, I personally felt the pacing moved quite slowly. Much of the book focuses on conversations, social visits, and reflection, which sometimes made the story feel repetitive. While those scenes help build the atmosphere of the time period, they did not always move the plot forward in a way that kept me fully engaged.

Overall, The Hope Keeper offers an interesting look at grief, class dynamics, and social life during the late 1910s. Readers who enjoy slower-paced historical fiction centered on social settings and character observations may appreciate the story, even though it did not fully connect with me as strongly as I hoped.

Thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for providing an advance copy.

[Jennifer Wolfe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just finished The Hope Keepers and absolutely loved it from beginning to end. I was captured by the main character and their connection to the Hope diamond. Of course, the intrigue around the legend of the diamond, and the curses on those own or touch it makes for some interesting twists. The story blends history and real characters with a well crafted fiction to keep the reader dazzled to the end. Definitely makes me want to visit the Smithsonian and see the diamond in person again! #TheHopeDiamond #HeatherWebb #NetGalley #Bookstagram

[Cindy Spear · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fascinating story! This novel just floats along with the exceptional prose of Heather Webb. I loved it from cover to cover and felt transported to the setting and time of 1919. The characters were well drawn and developed and they took me on an unforgettable journey of both tears and joy. The author gives us a chance to see both sides of the gem world but through one character’s eyes. One in their role as a jeweller but also as an observer who gets an inside view of a collector’s life of rare jewels. To see the rich and famous lifestyle of the real Evalyn McLean, a wealthy socialite, was quite a treat.

The Hope Keeper starts with the gentle whispers of Hope Diamond itself. The magical allure of science and superstition are spun together into a fantasy approach as we get the point of view of Hope Diamond discussing how it was created ‘born of fire and earth.’ Next we learn how it was found, its value and meaning. And the stories that began from the strange events that occurred around its various owners/ keepers/ holders/ onlookers. For hearts and lives are changed when they are mesmerised by its unique brilliance. It becomes a symbol of power—for those who want to flaunt its presence in their lives. But this power is dangerous for it seduces. This talisman, a keeper of secrets, proclaims there is a curse that hangs over its ‘dark blue depths’. We wonder: is Hope Diamond really cursed? In answer to that question, we are sent on a fact finding journey with people who have been part of its sphere of influence. There have been serious mishaps in its caretakers’ lives but have these been caused by a curse on the diamond as some say or just coincidence? The novel leaves us to decide, once all the stories are told. And it also ends with a message from Hope Diamond again. To beware. This stone is legendary: a true mix of lies and truths. Does it carry the darkness some claim? Again, the reader is left to make his/her own conclusion.

I read more on Hope Diamond and those who once were keepers of this legendary stone, and I marvelled at its varied voyages. It is obvious Heather Webb has done an incredible amount of research as we get an accurate portrait of Hope Diamond’s history while it was in the hands or around the neck of Evalyn Walsh McLean. American mining heiress and socialite, flaunted her ownership of the rare diamond. Known as a big spender, she threw extravagant parties and surrounded herself with people of position. Heather accurately portrays this woman’s personality of being an attention and thrill seeker, who moved in influential circles. It was easy to imagine who she was, in her social circles, as a friend, enemy, wife and mother. She was a wealthy woman in her own right and married a wealthy man. But her marriage was anything but perfect as her husband had wandering eyes.

Elisabeth Beaumont is a fictional character created by the author to help tell her story of the Hope Diamond’s adventures in 1919. What better angle to tell this tale from but through a renowned jeweller family that Evalyn could have become involved with. Then create an accident that would leave suspicion. Did the man die because of an angry drunk who wanted to scare his opponent or because of his involvement of the Hope Diamond? This fateful accident happened to Elisabeth Beaumont’s twin brother, Julien, who had an active part in the family’s jewellery business and tended to the rare diamond for Evalyn.

Heartbroken, Elisabeth’s loss leads her to Evalyn’s doorstep while her father is bed- ridden dealing with his  own grief. All three family members worked in the family business but now with her father out of commission and her brother dead, Elisabeth is left to pick up the pieces of their failing business and try to keep it going. So her purpose in approaching Evalyn McLean is two-fold: she needs to make a sale to survive and she wants answers to what happened to her brother. For he worked in this rich environment selling and caring for the wealthy owners’ jewels. It is a strange transition for Elisabeth but when she is swept into Evalyn’s realm, she learns of wealth’s seduction and folly. And observes the dangerous race to the top for status and jewels. Caught in the madness that surrounds her, she stops and takes account of who she is and what she wants to be, while learning shocking truths that enlighten her.

This riveting tale spun from fact and fiction is mesmerising. I could not stop reading once I started. I was moved, jarred and enlightened. Heather Webb has captured perfectly the aura, mystery and mayhem surrounding this stone. Yes, there are sad outcomes for many of the characters but not all. Elisabeth’s transformation is uplifting, while the rich heiress’s downfall is tragic. This historical fiction novel will leave you with more questions than answers concerning Hope Diamond’s power or lack of. No questions here, though, for a rating. 5 Glittering Stars without doubt! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thanks to Sourcebooks Landmark and Netgalley for my review copy.

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Grief, glamour, and a cursed diamond walk into 1919 D.C.—and somehow I’m the one spiraling by the final page. Heather Webb’s The Hope Keeper didn’t just pull me in, it wrapped me in silk and shadows and whispered, “trust nothing that sparkles this much.” Thank you to Sourcebooks Landmark and NetGalley for the gifted ARC.

This story isn’t about a jewel—it’s about the dangerous hunger to belong, to be chosen, to be seen in rooms that were never built for you. Elisabeth Beaumont is quietly devastating as a heroine. She’s grieving her twin brother Julien, carrying the weight of a failing family business, and trying to exist in a world that suddenly feels both too small and impossibly large. Watching her step into Julien’s glittering, high-society orbit felt like watching someone walk barefoot across glass—determined, a little desperate, and fully aware it might cost her everything.

And then there’s Evalyn McLean. Magnetic. Excessive. A walking contradiction wrapped in diamonds and chaos. She’s the kind of woman who makes you lean in even when you know better. Their relationship is layered with fascination, tension, and that subtle imbalance of power that keeps you turning pages like your life depends on it. Add in the Hope Diamond—looming, legendary, possibly cursed—and suddenly every interaction feels like it’s being watched by something older, darker, and just a little bit amused.

What I loved most is how this book peels back the illusion of wealth. The parties are dazzling, yes—but underneath? Loneliness. Recklessness. Women clawing for control in a world that only values them as decoration. There’s a line that absolutely stopped me: “Flamboyant lives filled with important people and nothing important at all.” Tell me that doesn’t perfectly sum up the entire vibe.

The atmosphere here is everything—lush, heavy, almost suffocating at times. You can feel the weight of grief sitting on Elisabeth’s chest, even as she’s draped in elegance. And the mystery surrounding Julien’s death threads through it all, not as a loud, flashy plot device, but as this steady pulse of unease. I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop… and when it does, it’s less explosive and more quietly devastating.

This is for readers who love historical fiction that leans into emotion over action. If you want fast-paced twists, this might feel like a slow burn—but if you want to sit inside a character’s unraveling, if you love morally complex women, layered friendships, and a touch of eerie “is this cursed or are we just messy humans?” energy… you’re going to eat this up.

For me, this settled into a solid four-star read. Not flawless, but immersive, haunting, and deeply reflective in a way that lingers long after you close the book. It’s the kind of story that makes you pause and think about what we chase—and what it costs us.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

“Flamboyant lives filled with important people and nothing important at all.”

So now I’m curious… if you had the chance to hold something beautiful that might ruin your life—would you risk it, or walk away?

#TheHopeKeeper #HeatherWebb #HistoricalFiction #WomensFiction #Bookstagram #NetGalleyReads #SourcebooksLandmark #BookReview #CozyReads #DarkGlamour #HistoricalReads #ReadersOfInstagram #BookishThoughts #SlowBurnReads #BookRecommendations

[Jerica Mercado · Rating 4 out of 5]

Heather Webb's new historical fiction novel, The Hope Keeper, blends historical fiction and intrigue as a young woman sets out to discover what her brother was tangled up in before his untimely death. Convinced that her twin brother's death was not just an accident, Elisabeth Beaumont knows she has to befriend the social set her brother had been involved with, so she goes to the queen bee, socialite Evalyn Walsh McLean. The daughter of a jeweler, Elisabeth approaches Evalyn under the guise of working for her to maintain the shine and integrity of her vast collection of jewels, including the infamous Hope Diamond. As Elisabeth spends more time in Evalyn's circle, though, she starts to wonder if her brother was a victim of the diamond's famed curse.
When I picked this up, I will admit I was enticed more by the setting of the story than the allure of the Hope Diamond. The setting is just as sparkly and faceted as a diamond--we meet Elisabeth and Evalyn in Washington, D.C., in 1919, when the country is just coming back to itself following the Great War, and the decade of opulence that was the Roaring Twenties is just about to begin. The houses in this novel are grand, and the parties described are even grander, raging until all hours, with champagne and whiskey and gin flowing until the early hours of dawn. Webb describes the chaos of the parties and the partygoers in a way that had me itching to put on my favorite flapper-inspired headband and reach for a champagne flute myself. While I hadn't heard of Evalyn Walsh McLean before this story, I did recognize a few of her more well-known companions like Florence Harding, who in 1919 was soon to be First Lady, married to President Warren G. Harding. It was fun looking up images of these society women and imagining them through the lens of this story.
And just like Elisabeth and Evalyn, I was drawn in by the diamond. Claiming it to be her good luck charm, Evalyn wears the Hope Diamond daily, allowing it to glitter and shine and demand attention wherever she goes. Elisabeth is fascinated by the diamond, but she's heard that the gem is believed to be cursed, and so she looks at it with a mix of awe and horror. Characters throughout the story recount the various ills attributed to the diamond, blaming it for various deaths and injuries. Sprinkled throughout the novel are short vignettes from the diamond's point of view, describing the gem's journey from India to France and ultimately to its place in Evalyn McLean's collection. While I knew of the Hope Diamond, I had no idea of its long history, and I found this a very interesting inclusion.
It's been a while since I read a historical fiction that had me so enthralled; I was completely entranced by the story of Evalyn and Elisabeth and watching Elisabeth work to learn more about her brother's fate. I loved the real historical elements Webb wove into this story, and I deeply appreciate her bringing such a colorful character to light as Evalyn Walsh McLean. This was my first historical fiction by this author, but it definitely won't be my last.
*I received an advanced e-copy of the book from NetGalley and the publisher, Sourcebooks Landmark; this review is entirely my own.

[C.R. Comacchio · Rating 4 out of 5]

Many thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks for an advance copy of this book.

The ‘hope’ referenced in the title is none other than the Hope diamond, about which much myth has been spun since it was initially ‘discovered,’ or, actually stolen by colonizers, as were many previous cultural artifacts belonging to the colonized until very recently. There were few questions, fewer qualms, and a great many self-justifications on the part of the rich and powerful who collected what belonged to others for their own pleasure and profit.

Heather Webb is a seasoned writer of historical fiction and this most recent addition to her repertoire typifies her careful historical research and her flair for character development and storytelling. The story opens in bustling 1919 Washington DC, where family-run Beaumont Jewellers caters to the newly-distinguished industrial elite of the post-war years. Prestige and status no longer belong to the ‘old’ families but were increasingly premised on ostentatious spending.

Elizabeth Beaumont, together with her twin brother Julian, were on the verge of expanding the business with their father when Julian suddenly died. The elder Beaumont, overtaken by sorrow for the loss of his only son, could scarcely get out of bed and was feared to have become addled by grief. Although a capable and skilled jeweller in her own right, Elizabeth feared that she had neither the talent nor the ability to carry on in the elite trade they had enjoyed. With their company tottering, she summons the strength to pick up the invitations of such high-society ladies as Evalyn Smith, owner of the priceless Hope Diamond.

Although resilient and persistent in getting back in Evalyn’s good graces and thereby opening the gates to the young, rich and beautiful of Washington’s high society, Elizabeth is well aware that more is required of her as a jeweller than would be the case for Julian. Personal will, her resolve to save the family business, take care of her ailing father and also find answers about Julian’s demise, keep her on a steady path. Slowly, as she becomes immersed in an environment that she finds uncomfortable, Elizabeth starts to sort out the truth of what happened to her twin from the fear-inducing stories about the cursed diamond.

I enjoyed the story, which has enough intriguing characters and enough action, sometimes dangerous, to keep readers going to the end. The characters are often portrayed mostly in terms of good and evil. There are few nuances. This means that the mostly good Elizabeth and mostly bad Evalyn tend to be one-dimensional and rather dull. Evalyn is pretentious, mean-spirited and self-centred; Elizabeth’s continual moaning and self-doubt are just as bad. The idea of giving the diamond its own POV is imaginative but soon (for me) becomes rather silly. But the diamond really is the star of the show, and I learned a lot about it from reading this historical mystery.

[Annette · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Hope Keeper centers on the true fact of the infamous Blue Diamond also known as the Hope Diamond and the last but one owner, the mining heiress and socialite, Evalyn McLean. After her death, American jeweler Harry Winston bought it and donated to the Smithsonian Institution.

Elisabeth Beaumont of Beaumont Jewelers, after the untimely death of her twin brother, tries to rescue the failing family business by approaching Evalyn McLean to gain her patronage and her influence.

Elisabeth’s father believes in superstition and wants to stay away from any clientele attached to the supposedly cursed blue diamond. Elisabeth questions this rumored curse. There are a lot of indications pointing to this curse, but is it true? Did the death of her brother have anything to do with this curse? Her brother saw the influence of the affluent clientele as the path for Beaumont jewelry to rival Cartier.

As Elisabeth approaches the Evalyn, she gets swept into the world of influence which quickly shows its true colors, the influence in its all forms, including the dark side.

At first, Elisabeth likes the approval of Evalyn. As a woman jeweler in man’s world she was denied or pushed aside at festivals and showrooms, but the approval of Evalyn makes Elisabeth feel validated. It’s a validation that she never needed and comes to realize it when she gets to experience the toxic world of money. (To make it clear, money in itself is not bad, it’s what you do with it).

As Elisabeth gets closer to Evalyn, she discovers about her brother’s past relationships that give her clues. But getting closer to Evalyn also means getting closer to the Hope Diamond. And that is followed by warning messages which become an additional piece of the puzzle which she tries to solve.

The backstories are seamlessly woven into the whole fabric of the story. Those backstories are mainly in two driving forces: the brother’s and the blue diamond’s journeys, revealing some pieces of information which makes the story highly engrossing.

The Hope Keeper, written with splendid prose, it intrigues with different facets of this story: the history of something beautiful and tangible having an incredible power over humans, of human behavior around different influences, of self-discovery, and staying true to yourself, thus, following your passion and not the one of your parent(s).

Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Linda Zagon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kudos to Heather Webb, the Author of ‘The Hope Keeper” for this dazzling, captivating and intriguing masterpiece., gem of a story. Heather Webb has done extensive research on “The Hope Diamond” and the history surrounding it. The Genres for this book are: Historical Fiction, Mystery, Suspense, Romance and Fiction. The timeline for this unique story is set in the Jazz Age, in Washington, D.C. I love that parts of the story are actually spoken by ‘The Hope Diamond”. A quote from the introduction from Heather Webb, “ I am born of fire and earth. I lie in wait for him to find me. I don not count days or years:I do not measure time, for I am immortal. Sam a talisman, a keeper of secrets, and my dark-blue depths a well of misfortune, or so it is said. But perhaps you should read on. Perhaps you should decide the truth for yourself."

The author vividly describes the timeline, the scenery, the costumes, and the dark and dramatic characters. The characters can be described as complex, complicated, flawed, toxic, jealous, and greedy. There are betrayals, threats, danger, and deaths. The Hope Diamond is perfection, seduction, and beautiful. Can it be a curse? Elizabeth Beaumont, comes from a well known jewelry family, Beaumont Jewelers. After a tragic death of her twin brother, Elizabeth is forced to run the company while her father is still grieving. Elizabeth visits wealthy Evalyn McLean, the keeper and owner of The Hope Diamond. Elizabeth is hoping to expand and sell jewelry pieces, or even get paid to take care of the precious stones. Evalyn runs in the most elite circles in society and interacts with a variety of wealthy characters. Evalyn has given Elizabeth this job, and buys her dresses, and pays for Eliabeth to have her hair done to fit in with the other women. Elizabeth notices the cruelty and pettiness among the women. They is plenty of liquor, and food, and the women gossip. The husbands tend to be flirtatious, and also often drunk.

As Elizabeth views this lifestyle, she wonders if she wants to remain in the jewelry family business, or work in a museum. There seems to be accidents and tragedies to those people who are near “The Hope Diamond”. After a major falling out with Evalyn, Elizabeth has choices to make. I highly recommend this memorable, thought-provoking Historical Fiction novel.

[MeganLikesToRead · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 ⭐️⭐️⭐️✨

Elisabeth Beaumont is on a quest to save the family store, Beaumont Jewelry from going under after the loss of her brother, Julien, to a terrible car accident, and the decline in her fathers ability to work and create new designs in his grief. Through this, she meets the wealthy socialite, Evalyn McLean, who wears the hope diamond around her neck. While knowing her father wanted her to leave Evalyn and the cursed hope diamond alone, Elisabeth believes befriending Evalyn will help the shop stay afloat although, the shop was her father’s and brother’s passions, and not her own. Through this, the story goes for a ride following Elisabeth’s story through her new status, her quest to save the store, and her journey through grief as well as Evalyn’s and the hope diamonds story.

This story centers around the curse of the Hope Diamond, the mystery of her brother’s untimely death, keeping the shop afloat, and the shifts in relationships throughout. The atmosphere surrounding the Hope diamond was maintained so well throughout this book linking all bits of the story together. People are enamored by this breathtaking gem and willing to push aside the supposed curse to stay in Evalyn’s socialite circle despite the many hardships observed whether cursed or coincidental.

The author does well in blending historical fiction, mystery, myth/lore, and friendship/family throughout this story. The atmosphere and descriptions are beautiful. I felt that the pacing was a bit uneven in places. I wished at time, that I could have learned more about the relationship with her father or with Henry (family friend), and maybe less on her relationship with the socialite circle. However, in all it was a fairly solid story. The author also included a fact vs fiction section at the end which I can always appreciate when molding a story around real life events / people. I think many will enjoy this story and I’m interested in reading another story by this author.


Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks landmark for a copy of this eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

[MicheleReader · Rating 4 out of 5]

In 1919, Washington, D.C. serves as the backdrop where Elisabeth Beaumont is working in her family's jewelry business. Beaumont Jewelers had been thriving but after the tragic death of her twin brother Julien, everything changed. Her father, who was a master at designing jewelry, was left too traumatized to continue his work. The responsibility of saving the business along with the family home rested on Elisabeth's shoulders, despite her own grief. Julien had been successful in hob-knobbing with the area's wealthiest people to cultivate sales, so Elisabeth makes it her mission to enter this exclusive world. She manages to enter the social circle of heiress Evalyn Walsh McLean. The wealthy socialite takes Elisabeth under her wing and introduces her to her friends, all potential jewelry buyers. Evalyn also hires her to clean her extensive collection of jewels, which includes The Hope Diamond, a gem with a long history of bringing misfortunes to its owners and those who have come in contact with it. Could the curse of this legendary deep-blue diamond be linked to Julien's death? Elizabeth is determined to uncover the truth.

The Hope Keeper by Heather Webb is an entertaining mix of historical fiction and mystery. I enjoyed how Webb made the Hope Diamond a separate character, with its own voice, revealing its history. Although the story of Elisabeth and the Beaumonts is fictional, Evalyn Walsh McLean was a real person and the last private owner of the Hope Diamond, before it was acquired by Harry Winston Jewelers and subsequently donated to the Smithsonian. Webb vividly captured the extravagance of individuals like Evalyn who hosted endless soirees. If you enjoy being transported back in time and are intrigued by the Hope Diamond, be sure to check this book out.

Many thanks to Sourcebooks Landmark for the advance.

Review to be posted on MicheleReader.com.

[Michelle Beckwith · Rating 4 out of 5]

3+ rounded up

“A jeweler is a storyteller, chérie…This is what gives the stone its true value. The wearer becomes a part of that story and sees a reflection of the person they long to be in a gem’s facets.”

A number of years ago I was absolutely entranced by the non fiction book The Cartiers: The Untold Story of the Family Behind the Jewelry Empire by Francesca Cartier Brickell, so it came as no surprise that I would be drawn to this brand new work of historical fiction by Heather Webb. Like a matched set of something sparkly, this made for a perfect pairing.

Early 20th century Washington, D.C.; the champagne is flowing, the gossip is flying and the wealthy are spending.
Elisabeth Beaumont is a young jeweler, trained by her father and works in the family business. When her twin brother dies in a hit and run accident it’s up to her to pick up the pieces, attend to her grieving father and get things back on track. Looking to drum up some desperately needed sales, Elisabeth enters the orbit of Evalyn McLean, a privileged and renowned socialite with many friends and many secrets.

The famous Hope Diamond, rumored to be cursed, is the star of the story with some fascinating chapters written from the point of view of the diamond itself. I wish there was a deeper exploration into the history of the stone and the Smithsonian Institute, as I found the fictional plot line stalled on a few occasions and could have benefitted from editing in the early to midpoint chapters. An underlying story of the roots of feminism in our nation’s capitol did not go unnoticed by this reader! I found the detailed author’s note to be an intriguing read in and of itself, and appreciate all of the dedicated, meticulous research.

Readers who enjoy historical fiction titles with a non-WWII timeline will especially appreciate Ms. Webb’s latest!

Many thanks to Sourcebooks Landmark and Net Galley for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review

[Jenna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Elizabeth Beaumont is an aspiring jeweler in 1919 Washington, D.C. A series of unfortunate events, including the death of her twin brother, has left her family business floundering. Desperate to turn things around, and feeling like the weight of her family's future is on her shoulders, Elizabeth seeks out Evalyn McLean, the socialite owner of The Hope Diamond. Before his death, Elizabeth's brother, Julien was part of the McLean's crowd, wowing them with Beaumont Jeweler's designs and his overwhelming charm. Determined both to save the family business and discover the secrets Julien was keeping from her, Elizabeth sets off to convince Evalyn to hire her to care for her extensive jewelry collection. Instead, she gets pulled into Evalyn's world of glittering parties, decadence and excess.

My interest in The Hope Diamond and my adolescent obsession with Titanic and The Heart of the Ocean (and also Leo, of course) led me to this story. I was fascinated by the backstory surrounding The Hope Diamond and read about it on the Smithsonian's website before I began the book. The idea of the curse and how it possibly impacted many of the characters in the story was absolutely fascinating. I found some of the action and Elizabeth's interactions with Evalyn and her social circle to be somewhat repetitive. Elizabeth would arrive at the house and at some point when she was there, someone would say something unkind or she would discover one of the secrets her brother was keeping from her and she would flee the house. Rinse and repeat for their next interaction. I loved how the story was really building up to Elizabeth discovering that there is a whole new world of possibilities open to her that she had never considered.


Thank you to Sourcebooks Landmark and NetGalley for an eARC of the Hope Keeper.

[Laurie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Hope Keeper - Heather Webb pub date 5/19

The year is 1919, and Elisabeth Beaumont is struggling to keep her father’s jewelry business afloat, as well as come to terms with her twin brother’s recent tragic accident that took his life. Her father is a shadow of the man he once was, as grief swallows him and leaves him in bed and feeling that there is no purpose left in his life. Elisabeth pushes down her emotions and grief, and seeks new ways to find employment. When a chance encounter puts her in the path of ultra wealthy Evalyn McLean - owner of the famed Hope Diamond - she jumps at the chance and is quickly pulled into the society of “women who lunch” -and drink and not much else.

Despite strict orders from her father to avoid “that women” due to the supposed curse of the necklace and the possible involvement in her brother’s death, Elisabeth presses on. Knowing that her brother also knew these women and their husbands, she hopes by infiltrating the circle she will learn what really happened and who is responsible for his death. Also, she hopes to gain new business from the other wealthy women. As more time is spent with these women, she realizes that she’s sacrificing her principles to find out an answer that just may derail all their lives.

I completely understood Elisabeth’s desire to hold the Hope in her hand - I remember seeing it when I was a teenager at The Smithsonian, and there’s an undeniable enchantment to that necklace.  I also loved that the author included snippets written from the diamond's point of view - very original! I thoroughly enjoyed this book and couldn’t put it down - highly recommend! Thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks for an ARC of this book, all opinions are my own.

[Karren Sandercock · Rating 4 out of 5]

1919, America. Gérard Beaumont is French and he runs a successful jewellery shop in Washington D. C. His daughter Elisabeth knows a lot about stones, but she doesn’t have the talent for design and drawing her dad and twin brother Julien has.

When he’s killed in a car accident, her father refuses to get out of bed and it’s up to Elisabeth to keep business running. The bills are piling up, she desperate for work, she approaches the rich crowd her Julien was hanging out with prior to his death.

Their leader is socialite Evalyn McLean, she has a huge collection of jewellery and she owns the Hope Diamond, a deep greyish blue stone Evalyn purchased from Pierre Cartier and it’s said to be cursed.

Evalyn has as a group of society friends, Elisabeth is invited to morning teas, boozy lunches, parties and she feels very out of place and drawn into another world and one where Evalyn calls the shots.

Elisabeth has always enjoyed visiting the National History Museum, women are starting to work here and how can she leave her father and Evalyn's influence?

I received a copy of The Hope Keeper by Heather Webb from Edelweiss + and Sourcebooks in exchange for an honest review. The narrative is based around real facts and people, did those who owned the Hope Diamond just have terrible luck or was something so stunning and beautiful cursed?

It also looks at Evalyn’s extravagant lifestyle and marriage, relationships with her friends and peers and how she had no boundaries, liked to play games and was this the cause of her problems.

Four and a half stars from me, the story is full of secrets, lies, drama, intrigue, legends and I recommend reading The Hope Keeper if you like historical fiction based famous around jewellery, people and superstitions.

[Tori Boudreau · Rating 3 out of 5]

As a 90s girl, one of the biggest movies of the era for me was Titanic 🚢💙. I definitely had the double VHS tapes, and of course one of the most iconic moments is Rose wearing nothing but the Hope Diamond during the “paint me like one of your French girls” scene 😅. Ever since then I’ve been fascinated by the Hope Diamond, especially all the legends surrounding its supposed curse 👀. So when I saw a book centered around it, I was immediately interested.

One thing I didn’t realize before picking this up was that it’s actually YA, which honestly explained a lot once I finished it 📚. The most unique aspect of the novel was definitely the POV from the diamond itself, following it from owner to owner throughout history. I absolutely loved those sections and honestly wish there had been even more of them. At times it could be a little confusing switching perspectives though, and I wish there had been clearer chapter markers for when the diamond was narrating.

The main human perspective follows Elizabeth, whose family owns a jewelry store after her twin brother dies while spending time with socialite Evalyn Walsh McLean and her glamorous circle ✨. Unfortunately, Elizabeth herself felt a little bland and naïve to me, though once I realized this was YA, her characterization made more sense. I did appreciate the growth she experiences by the end of the novel.

Overall, I really loved the concept and especially the diamond’s perspective, but I wish the story leaned harder into the curse and history surrounding the Hope Diamond itself 💎. I would have preferred more mystery and obsession over the diamond rather than so much focus on Elizabeth finding herself among socialites. Still, it was an enjoyable read, especially for anyone fascinated by the Hope Diamond lore ✨📚.

[Kirsten · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Hope Keeper is a compelling historical fiction novel exploring the so called curse of the real life Hope Diamond and its last owner Evalyn Walsh Mclean. Elizabeth Beaumont works for her family’s jewelry business which is struggling due her brother Julian recent death and her father’s grief. Julian had been working the McLean family, the owners of the renowned Hope Diamond. Elizabeth goes to the McLean household to secure work to keep the family business afloat and to seek answers around her brother’s death.

Evalyn takes Elizabeth under wing, which is a double edged sword. It was nice to get a glimpse into the elite society of Washington of its time, see the roles of women, class difference, power plays and politics of the time. I don’t think I’m cut out for high society with all the barbed jabs! The relationship between the two women was complex and fascinating to read about. Evalyn seemed equal parts kind and cruel as she put her head in the sand about all the tragedy around her. Elizabeth on the other hand was consumed with grief. I particularly enjoyed seeing her transformation over the novel and seeing her find own way.

Webb’s research was evident throughout the novel. She really brought post war Washington to life. I could picture all the luxurious houses and gardens, jewels, the Smithsonian and Elizabeth at work in her workshop. I enjoyed the way Heather brought the characters to life and interweaves the real life stories of Evalyn, the Hope Diamond and its legends and the history of the Smithsonian and women workers. Another engaging story perf for those who enjoy a bit of glamour, glitz, legend and stories based on real life events.

[Tami · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Hope Diamond is famously surrounded in mystery. In 1919, Washington DC, Evelyn McLean is the owner of the diamond, which she believes it her good luck piece. Others see things differently.

Julian Beaumont from Beaumont Jewelers is hired to clean her jewelry and is taken into the fold of her wealthy friends. When he dies suddenly, it brings attention to the diamond’s reputation for tragedy. Julian’s twin sister, Elisabeth is blinded by grief at this death, as is her father. Left to pick up the pieces and to continue running the business, Elisabeth tries to take Julian’s place with Evalyn McLean.

As Elisabeth is brought into the circle of wealthy elite women, she finds they are gossipy, insulting and often cruel to others. Still, Elisabeth continues to be in their presence. The longer she continues these ‘friendships’ the worse things get until one night at a party things come crashing down.

I did not care for Elisabeth or the other women characters. Elisabeth was a better person than to put up with the awful treatment Evalyn sent her way. Eventually she comes to realize that and gets her life in order.

Meanwhile, throughout the story, readers hear from the hope diamond herself how she was discovered and her journey from owner to owner. I especially liked that part of the story and wish the author had imagined more from the diamond’s perspective.

Is the diamond bad luck? Read and decide for yourself.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for allowing me to read and review an advance copy. I am happy to post my review and recommend to other readers of historical fiction.