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Second Chance #2
Jewell
"Tender, tense, a sweet yet sexy love story. In Jewel, Tina DeSalvo takes us inside our deep fears and fantasies in a tale as poignant as it is innovative and satisfying." Stella Cameron, New York Times Bestselling Author of the Alex Duggins Mysteries.
Once invited into New Orleans’ historic mansions to evaluate prized antiques, Dr. Jewell Duet held a coveted professorship at a top university. With her deep knowledge of Louisiana history and antiquities, she was the go-to person for anyone requiring professional appraisals. But, one hasty decision cost her both her reputation and possibly her freedom. Now, as she waits to discover if her future includes prison, Jewell knows that taking the job at Sugar Mill is necessary if she is to support her beloved grandmother who has advanced dementia.
Charming, sexy lawyer Beau Bienvenu's attraction to the intriguing historian vies with his distrust of her motives. Beau has one simple goal when it comes to the family that rescued him and made him part of their clan…protect them at all costs. He doesn't trust Jewell, nor her reason for taking the lowly job at Sugar Mill Plantation. What is she really up to? Is it possible Jewell and her quirky grandmother are there to try to profit from a Bienvenu family mystery? If so, both women are out of luck.
Jewell and Beau are at odds about almost everything. The only things they agree on are that family is everything…and that their mutual attraction is inconvenient.
Hope, Love and Second Chances Continue in the heart of Cajun Country
Once invited into New Orleans’ historic mansions to evaluate prized antiques, Dr. Jewell Duet held a coveted professorship at a top university. With her deep knowledge of Louisiana history and antiquities, she was the go-to person for anyone requiring professional appraisals. But, one hasty decision cost her both her reputation and possibly her freedom. Now, as she waits to discover if her future includes prison, Jewell knows that taking the job at Sugar Mill is necessary if she is to support her beloved grandmother who has advanced dementia.
Charming, sexy lawyer Beau Bienvenu's attraction to the intriguing historian vies with his distrust of her motives. Beau has one simple goal when it comes to the family that rescued him and made him part of their clan…protect them at all costs. He doesn't trust Jewell, nor her reason for taking the lowly job at Sugar Mill Plantation. What is she really up to? Is it possible Jewell and her quirky grandmother are there to try to profit from a Bienvenu family mystery? If so, both women are out of luck.
Jewell and Beau are at odds about almost everything. The only things they agree on are that family is everything…and that their mutual attraction is inconvenient.
Hope, Love and Second Chances Continue in the heart of Cajun Country
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 23, 2015
13 people are currently reading
2963 people want to read
About the author
Tina DeSalvo
13 books278 followersTina DeSalvo grew up in the suburbs of New Orleans, only minutes from the French Quarter. She moved to Cajun Country after college to take a job as a broadcast journalist. Like New Orleans had, now she gathered inspiration for what would become her wonderful fiction characters from the rich culture, unique traditions and lively events of the bayou community. Tina's Second Chance Novel Series are Contemporary stories of love, mystery, laughter and Cajun Charm.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
July 14, 2019
Jewell by Tina DeSalvo was a cute, romance-mystery mix!
This book has a very slow start, and at first seems rather boring. Tina DeSalvo introduces the book well, but it drags on quite a bit. Once you get about 1/4th into the novel, it suddenly speeds up and gets exciting - there's mystery, there's potential romance, there's comedy! It's such a great book! You just have to get through the first little bit of the book and suddenly it's fantastic!
It's not your typical romance book - the main characters have to build their relationship over the course of the book, and they do. They also have to deal with realistic situations - Jewell's professional reputation is being threatened, her Grandmother has Alzheimer's, and then there is family drama to deal with.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. Despite the slow start, the book is beautifully written! There's the perfect mix of mystery, drama, comedy and romance all wrapped into this book!
Four out of five stars - due to the slow start.
I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
This book has a very slow start, and at first seems rather boring. Tina DeSalvo introduces the book well, but it drags on quite a bit. Once you get about 1/4th into the novel, it suddenly speeds up and gets exciting - there's mystery, there's potential romance, there's comedy! It's such a great book! You just have to get through the first little bit of the book and suddenly it's fantastic!
It's not your typical romance book - the main characters have to build their relationship over the course of the book, and they do. They also have to deal with realistic situations - Jewell's professional reputation is being threatened, her Grandmother has Alzheimer's, and then there is family drama to deal with.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. Despite the slow start, the book is beautifully written! There's the perfect mix of mystery, drama, comedy and romance all wrapped into this book!
Four out of five stars - due to the slow start.
I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
May 5, 2016
Jewell by Tina DeSalvo
A sweet romance where family and honor are the basis of living.
Dr Jewell Duet is hired to determine the value of the barn's contents. Beau Bienvenu doesn't trust easily but he is captivated by the smart doctor and her grandmother.
A sweet romance where family and honor are the basis of living.
Dr Jewell Duet is hired to determine the value of the barn's contents. Beau Bienvenu doesn't trust easily but he is captivated by the smart doctor and her grandmother.
February 9, 2018
Just like in Elli, Tina DeSalvo brings out the spunk of an older cajun character in Mimi. I will keep reading the second chance series. I love them!!
May 13, 2016
This was very spot on as far as caring for a family member with dementia. It was very interesting about the historical findings and events that charted the course for the Bienvenue family. I am looking forward to Abbey and Jackson's story and you can't forget Rachel
September 27, 2018
Really enjoyed Jewell and Beau! Great story!
December 3, 2015
"Jewell" by Tina DeSalvo is part of the ‘Second Chance’ series and centers around Dr. Jewell Duet as she tries to cope with a pending lawsuit, her beloved grandmother’s deteriorating memory and the downward spiral of her career. A new job provides her a much-needed lifeline but the mysterious connection that her grandmother has for the house Jewell is working in raises suspicion in the owner’s cousin, Beau Bienvenu. Unfortunately for Beau, the rest of his extended family seems to be warmly welcoming the attractive antiquities expert but he can’t reconcile what he sees with what he’s heard about her and it’s tough to trust his heart, given his past. The two must learn to work together to solve the various mysteries they are faced with, but it may become a moot point since time is quickly running out for Jewell.
This contemporary romance provides an entertaining glimpse of Southern society and some of the regional customs. It was fun to see the interactions between the various generations and the glimpses of events from a past life are nicely interspersed with the unfolding of a present-day mystery. The poignant depiction of the impact of age-related mental deterioration is thought-provoking and one cannot help but be fascinated by the quirky secondary characters who provide spice and local color. I would like a little more insight into the main characters because for some reason, even though pieces of their pasts are gradually revealed, I don’t seem to have a strong rapport with either of them. I enjoyed the gradual deepening of their relationship and I suspect that it would have helped to have read the first book in the series to get a better feel for some of the characters who suddenly pop up but there is no problem reading this as a stand-alone story. This was an entertaining gentle romance and I will be interested to see what other stories are added to this series.
A copy of this title was provided to me for review
This contemporary romance provides an entertaining glimpse of Southern society and some of the regional customs. It was fun to see the interactions between the various generations and the glimpses of events from a past life are nicely interspersed with the unfolding of a present-day mystery. The poignant depiction of the impact of age-related mental deterioration is thought-provoking and one cannot help but be fascinated by the quirky secondary characters who provide spice and local color. I would like a little more insight into the main characters because for some reason, even though pieces of their pasts are gradually revealed, I don’t seem to have a strong rapport with either of them. I enjoyed the gradual deepening of their relationship and I suspect that it would have helped to have read the first book in the series to get a better feel for some of the characters who suddenly pop up but there is no problem reading this as a stand-alone story. This was an entertaining gentle romance and I will be interested to see what other stories are added to this series.
A copy of this title was provided to me for review
December 7, 2015
I received a copy of this book from the author and Paranormal Romance & Authors that Rock, in exchange for an honest review. The majority of the story is built around one important place, the Sugar Mill Plantation. This place is where all events fall into place. It makes you think how the term “everything happens for a reason” really works for this story. The leading lady, Jewell, takes a job at Sugar Mill with two motives. First, she’s struggling to find work after being accused of theft and is awaiting trial, and she’s really in need of the money for legal bills and to provide care for her Grandmother who is deteriorating quickly from dementia. Second, she’s on a mission to find Twinnie before her Grandmother loses her memory completely. The catch, Jewell doesn’t know if Twinnie is a real person or a figment of imagination in her Grandmother’s deteriorating mind.
This story is a classic romance. It’s realistic and believable. Honestly, if you told me it was based on a true story, I’d probably believe it. The story itself is slow moving, but I think this is what makes it such a classic love story. There are minimal steamy scenes and they aren’t overdone, they are believable. I recommend this book for mature readers due to detailed sexual content. My only criticism would be about Beau. That man gave me whiplash with his bouncing emotions. One minute he wanted to rub all up on Jewel and the next he wanted nothing to do with her because his paranoia kicked in that she was trying to screw over his family. He constantly flip-flopped and I found it a little aggravating. It was like, Geez make up your mind already dude! Overall, I rate this book (5) stars. If you’re in the mood for a heart-gripping story about personal struggle, family, and love with an HEA, then this is a book for you.
This story is a classic romance. It’s realistic and believable. Honestly, if you told me it was based on a true story, I’d probably believe it. The story itself is slow moving, but I think this is what makes it such a classic love story. There are minimal steamy scenes and they aren’t overdone, they are believable. I recommend this book for mature readers due to detailed sexual content. My only criticism would be about Beau. That man gave me whiplash with his bouncing emotions. One minute he wanted to rub all up on Jewel and the next he wanted nothing to do with her because his paranoia kicked in that she was trying to screw over his family. He constantly flip-flopped and I found it a little aggravating. It was like, Geez make up your mind already dude! Overall, I rate this book (5) stars. If you’re in the mood for a heart-gripping story about personal struggle, family, and love with an HEA, then this is a book for you.
September 12, 2015
Life is a mystery. This isn’t meant to be a cliché. It just well, really is a mystery.
I am enamored with the story of Jewell Duet. Yet I also adore Jewell’s grandmother, Mignon “Mimi” Duet. The banter between Jewell and Mimi is classic. There were so many moments where I couldn’t help smiling and laughing with them. I felt an immediate connection with Jewel and Mimi. From their loyalty to each other, and love of family traditions, I felt as if I have always known them. The author infuses French into the book in key parts as well. This is extremely important because the use of French/Cajun French is declining in Louisiana. It is important to know your roots. This is another reason why Jewell and Mimi are so connected to each other. They can both easily switch back and forth between English and French.
On the Sugar Mill Plantation, we are introduced to the Bienvenu family. Jewell has been hired by Elli Bienvenu to uncover and catalogue family heirlooms before a movie shoot. Yet, Elli’s husband, Ben Bienvenu isn’t exactly thrilled that Jewell is there. This might be because, Ben’s cousin, Beau Bienvenu, has unfounded suspicions about Jewell that could jeopardize everything. The Duets’ and Bienvenus’ are about to experience what being on a mysteriously journey means. Although it also helps to have a few pralines and Madeleine’s along the way too!
I received a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
I am enamored with the story of Jewell Duet. Yet I also adore Jewell’s grandmother, Mignon “Mimi” Duet. The banter between Jewell and Mimi is classic. There were so many moments where I couldn’t help smiling and laughing with them. I felt an immediate connection with Jewel and Mimi. From their loyalty to each other, and love of family traditions, I felt as if I have always known them. The author infuses French into the book in key parts as well. This is extremely important because the use of French/Cajun French is declining in Louisiana. It is important to know your roots. This is another reason why Jewell and Mimi are so connected to each other. They can both easily switch back and forth between English and French.
On the Sugar Mill Plantation, we are introduced to the Bienvenu family. Jewell has been hired by Elli Bienvenu to uncover and catalogue family heirlooms before a movie shoot. Yet, Elli’s husband, Ben Bienvenu isn’t exactly thrilled that Jewell is there. This might be because, Ben’s cousin, Beau Bienvenu, has unfounded suspicions about Jewell that could jeopardize everything. The Duets’ and Bienvenus’ are about to experience what being on a mysteriously journey means. Although it also helps to have a few pralines and Madeleine’s along the way too!
I received a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
February 8, 2018
A laugh out loud book with crazy Cajun relatives, a world famous stripper, the handsome Mr. Knucklehead and Jewell. I loved it!!!!
August 22, 2015
In Jewell, the story finds Dr. Jewell Duet trying to put her life back together after allegations of theft have disrupted her job as a sought after appraiser in New Orleans. Now Jewell is accepting jobs that are little more than overseeing garage sales compared to her old opportunities. She has an opportunity to work at the Sugar Mill Plantation, but has to overcome the allegations as well as bring along her grandmother, who is battling dementia and depends on Jewell. At the grand home, she meets the owners cousin, Beau Bienvenu, who is immediately both attracted to Jewell, but also deeply suspicious that the woman is there with nefarious plans to scam his family.
DeSalvo brings a great deal of personality to her characters, which really enriches the story. I really loved Jewell and her grandmother’s relationship, it’s funny, sweet, and difficult, and feels like a true situation of the love and hardship of caring for someone with dementia. Jewell and Beau have great chemistry, and both are well written characters. This is the first of DeSalvo’s books that I have read, but with characters like these I would love to read more!
I received a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
DeSalvo brings a great deal of personality to her characters, which really enriches the story. I really loved Jewell and her grandmother’s relationship, it’s funny, sweet, and difficult, and feels like a true situation of the love and hardship of caring for someone with dementia. Jewell and Beau have great chemistry, and both are well written characters. This is the first of DeSalvo’s books that I have read, but with characters like these I would love to read more!
I received a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
December 17, 2015
I really enjoyed reading this book. First, I loved the Southern setting. I live in the South myself so anything set here is good to me. Who doesn't love old Southern plantations filled with handsome, dashing, young men? Of course, the man in question doesn't trust Jewell, the heroine, but he's attracted to her anyway.
I liked Jewell and mostly admired her. Jewell's devotion to her work was impressive, but the part of her character that I liked best was her love and compassion for her grandmother. Jewell's mother was a famous stripper on Bourbon Street. She didn't have any use for children, so Jewell's grandmother raised her. Grandmother has advanced dementia so her mind is slipping, but Jewell tenderly watches over her. However, it did seem to me that Jewell didn't put up as vigorous a legal defense as she should have once she was accused of a crime. She had her reasons, though.
The third thing I liked about the book was the mystery running through it. I wanted to keep reading so I could find out how things ended up.
The book was well written and edited. In South Carolina when someone is a little bit different we may say, "She's a character." There were some really fun characters in Jewell. 5 stars, and I'd read more of her work.
I liked Jewell and mostly admired her. Jewell's devotion to her work was impressive, but the part of her character that I liked best was her love and compassion for her grandmother. Jewell's mother was a famous stripper on Bourbon Street. She didn't have any use for children, so Jewell's grandmother raised her. Grandmother has advanced dementia so her mind is slipping, but Jewell tenderly watches over her. However, it did seem to me that Jewell didn't put up as vigorous a legal defense as she should have once she was accused of a crime. She had her reasons, though.
The third thing I liked about the book was the mystery running through it. I wanted to keep reading so I could find out how things ended up.
The book was well written and edited. In South Carolina when someone is a little bit different we may say, "She's a character." There were some really fun characters in Jewell. 5 stars, and I'd read more of her work.
June 3, 2022
Every life deserves a beautiful Jewell in it!
Join Tina DeSalvo for a second chance at a Second Chance novel and you’ll find yourself swept away by the people, locale and situations of south Louisiana. This beautifully told story offers a look into the life of a woman caught in a maelstrom but determined to protect those she loves. Jewell is beautiful, smart and fiercely independent. Can she learn to overcome the problems facing her and trust the folks of Cane, LA?
If you like romance, mystery and great characters, you’ll love Jewell!
Join Tina DeSalvo for a second chance at a Second Chance novel and you’ll find yourself swept away by the people, locale and situations of south Louisiana. This beautifully told story offers a look into the life of a woman caught in a maelstrom but determined to protect those she loves. Jewell is beautiful, smart and fiercely independent. Can she learn to overcome the problems facing her and trust the folks of Cane, LA?
If you like romance, mystery and great characters, you’ll love Jewell!
July 31, 2015
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. There was just the right amount of mystery, romance and suspense to keep me interested. Jewell and Beau are well developed main characters, but I found I enjoyed the other
characters even more, particularly Jewell’s grandmother and Beau’s older relatives. They added a touch of humor to the story. I look forward to reading other offerings from this author.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
characters even more, particularly Jewell’s grandmother and Beau’s older relatives. They added a touch of humor to the story. I look forward to reading other offerings from this author.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 23, 2018
I have no idea why it took me so late no to read these books. I absolutely love them and the cast of crazy characters. Each one of them reminds me of people I grew up around. The people and places are so familiar that I see them every day. I loved everything about these stories. I am so happy that these stories about second chances in life. By the way, Beau has definitely been added to the ever growing Book boyfriend list. Can’t wait to read what happens between Abby and Jackson!!!
June 5, 2018
Jewel
Tina DeSalvo has once again brought a love story to her books to match all others. The story of Jewel and Beau makes you laugh, cry and roll your eyes. You meet family as great as Mimi and Tanty Tizzy (every family needs these two ladies). It shows how hard childhoods can make for the most protective and loving families. Beau’s feeling for Jewel are shown in many ways in his story and Jewell’s love and caring for Mimi would bring any Grandma great joy.
Tina DeSalvo has once again brought a love story to her books to match all others. The story of Jewel and Beau makes you laugh, cry and roll your eyes. You meet family as great as Mimi and Tanty Tizzy (every family needs these two ladies). It shows how hard childhoods can make for the most protective and loving families. Beau’s feeling for Jewel are shown in many ways in his story and Jewell’s love and caring for Mimi would bring any Grandma great joy.
October 29, 2017
I thought I loved her first book Ellie but I really loved Jewel. The way Tante Izzy talks is like listening to my grandmother. I am really enjoying reading books that feel like they are writing about my hometown.
June 30, 2015
Once again Tina DeSalvo hits the nail on the head. Both Jewell and Beau take protecting their families to the next level. Alzheimer's is an ugly disease, but Tina DeSalvo handled it beautifully.
August 24, 2015
It had enough romance and mystery to keep me wanting to read more. Well developed characters.
I won this book through goodreads.
I won this book through goodreads.
September 10, 2015
This is a great book. I loved it.
January 18, 2019
Many families are dysfunctional. Jewell was unfortunately born to a woman who totally undervalued her, so much that she was raised by her grandmother, Mimi, while her mother pursed other interests.
The blessing to Jewell was that her beloved Mimi was a treasure and loved her with her entire soul. Jewell achieved so much with Mimi’s support.
Now the tables have turned and since Mimi developed dementia, Jewell is the caregiver in return for all the love she received. I especially loved the parts of the story showing what was going on in Mimi’s mind. Her thoughts of her memories, of losing her memories, her concern for what will happen to Jewell. It seems so realistic and heartbreaking to me.
Beau had a less than ideal childhood also, living with an alcoholic father and a non-acting mother. He also was saved from that situation, by a loving family he accepted as his own.
Years later, as adults, Jewell and Beau have personalities formed from their childhoods. They are very protective of those that they love and will do anything I their ability to keep them safe.
At first glance, it would seem these two are a perfect pair, but they meet with baggage that has to be resolved before they can trust each other.
As the course of the story progresses, this of course happens. This is a romance book, so yes, it has a happy ending, as we wish all people would have in “real life”.
This is the second book in the Second Chance Series. I do not think it is necessary to read the first book, Elli, to enjoy or understand this book, but I would advise you to read it, since I thought it was great.
Tina DeSalvo does an amazing job of character and plot development and I feel like I know each of the people I met in this book and struggled along with them. I adore Jewell’s grandmother Mimi. I love to read books with a person of the older generation. I feel that they teach so much to others by just living life with grace, wisdom and spunk.
The Cajun setting is so special and I was welcomed back to the area in this book, which I fell in love with in the first book in this series.
I totally enjoyed this story and am excited to continue the series and spend more time in Cane, Louisiana.
The blessing to Jewell was that her beloved Mimi was a treasure and loved her with her entire soul. Jewell achieved so much with Mimi’s support.
Now the tables have turned and since Mimi developed dementia, Jewell is the caregiver in return for all the love she received. I especially loved the parts of the story showing what was going on in Mimi’s mind. Her thoughts of her memories, of losing her memories, her concern for what will happen to Jewell. It seems so realistic and heartbreaking to me.
Beau had a less than ideal childhood also, living with an alcoholic father and a non-acting mother. He also was saved from that situation, by a loving family he accepted as his own.
Years later, as adults, Jewell and Beau have personalities formed from their childhoods. They are very protective of those that they love and will do anything I their ability to keep them safe.
At first glance, it would seem these two are a perfect pair, but they meet with baggage that has to be resolved before they can trust each other.
As the course of the story progresses, this of course happens. This is a romance book, so yes, it has a happy ending, as we wish all people would have in “real life”.
This is the second book in the Second Chance Series. I do not think it is necessary to read the first book, Elli, to enjoy or understand this book, but I would advise you to read it, since I thought it was great.
Tina DeSalvo does an amazing job of character and plot development and I feel like I know each of the people I met in this book and struggled along with them. I adore Jewell’s grandmother Mimi. I love to read books with a person of the older generation. I feel that they teach so much to others by just living life with grace, wisdom and spunk.
The Cajun setting is so special and I was welcomed back to the area in this book, which I fell in love with in the first book in this series.
I totally enjoyed this story and am excited to continue the series and spend more time in Cane, Louisiana.
April 14, 2016
Loved the book! It keep me guessing right up until the end about what really happened with "Twinnie". I kept bouncing around theories in my head trying to figure out exactly what happened. It ended up being a really great story. Also all of the historical, genealogical, and antique story lines in the book were very interesting. Right up until Jewell told of the events that happened that led up to her being charged with theft I had no clue of the twist coming. I had assumed that she was innocent but I did not expect what had transpired. I ended up reading this whole book in one day because I got so caught up with the story and the wonderfully lovable (and quirky) characters. It ended up being one of those books where I could "hear" the characters in my head as I read and I was able to "hear" the Cajun and Parisian accents of the characters. That should tell you that I was pretty involved with this story! I have not read the first book by Tina DeSalvo about Elli and Ben but I really want to now so I think I will be buying that in the future! I also look forward to any other future novels in the "A Second Chance" series.
Disclaimer: I received the book for free through Goodreads First Reads. The opinions I expressed are entirely my own.
Disclaimer: I received the book for free through Goodreads First Reads. The opinions I expressed are entirely my own.
February 11, 2019
I really enjoyed reading this book. I loved all the fun characters and their quirky personalities. I would highly recommend this book.
June 4, 2022
I loved how this story was told. Mimi (grandmother to Jewell) does a sort of foreword to the chapters. She has dementia and isn’t always able to verbalize her thoughts and feelings – the way she wants to do. Mimi’s story is a big part of why Jewell is doing what she is doing – but it’s not all of it, of course – and the folks we meet along the way, even past characters, are (most of the time) hilarious.
Dr. Jewell Duet is one smart, put together woman…who has just misplaced it all lately. She has a lot going on, caring for her grandmother, trying to reestablish her name as a historian, etc., and when she meets up with Elli, from a previous book, I could say her life turns around. Or I could more accurately describe her life has turned into one big pot ‘o’ gumbo! She’s a mess, her life is a mess, but (to me) she remains strong thru it all. Loved that about her.
And then Beau Bienvenu sees her walk into his life and family home…I’m sure there is a Cajun expression for the thunderbolt he felt! I was a wee bit annoyed with how he kept doubting her word and advice; I just felt it went on far too long, may be just for me. It may be fine for someone else. Beau was a great character, though, especially his interactions with not only his family but Mimi, too. He really is a good guy, just trying to watch out for anyone and everyone around him.
Lots of folks to love, lots of folks to…not like at all. Love the Cajun influence in the story; I could hear the conversations in my head. Intrigue, fun, some health issues, and a cast of characters that I enjoyed.
Dr. Jewell Duet is one smart, put together woman…who has just misplaced it all lately. She has a lot going on, caring for her grandmother, trying to reestablish her name as a historian, etc., and when she meets up with Elli, from a previous book, I could say her life turns around. Or I could more accurately describe her life has turned into one big pot ‘o’ gumbo! She’s a mess, her life is a mess, but (to me) she remains strong thru it all. Loved that about her.
And then Beau Bienvenu sees her walk into his life and family home…I’m sure there is a Cajun expression for the thunderbolt he felt! I was a wee bit annoyed with how he kept doubting her word and advice; I just felt it went on far too long, may be just for me. It may be fine for someone else. Beau was a great character, though, especially his interactions with not only his family but Mimi, too. He really is a good guy, just trying to watch out for anyone and everyone around him.
Lots of folks to love, lots of folks to…not like at all. Love the Cajun influence in the story; I could hear the conversations in my head. Intrigue, fun, some health issues, and a cast of characters that I enjoyed.
June 3, 2022
I loved the accents, the food and the people in this mostly Cajun town. Although there is a slow buildup, the hints and clues start to pile up and I kept wondering where they would lead. Jewell is trying to support herself and her grand-mère, who has dementia. A prominent historian and noted expert, Dr. Jewel Duet's life has fallen to pieces after being charged with stealing from a New Orleans estate she was hired to appraise. Now she is holding estate sales away from the city, since no one would hire her in New Orlean. Plus, she is waiting to go to trial for the theft and worrying about who would take care of her grand-mère.
The focus is on family, friends and love, and I so wanted Jewel to find what she was looking for. The tempo started to build, and I kept wondering where the story would lead. The farther into the story, the better I enjoyed it.
I received a copy of Jewel and this is my honest opinion.
The focus is on family, friends and love, and I so wanted Jewel to find what she was looking for. The tempo started to build, and I kept wondering where the story would lead. The farther into the story, the better I enjoyed it.
I received a copy of Jewel and this is my honest opinion.
June 17, 2022
When who you are comes into question??
Tina has taken secrets, love and family and made it an amazing story. To not truly know who you are can leave many unanswered questions and an imagination to run wild. When your character comes into question and you just want to piece it back together because that’s all you know and have can make you fear the worst. But when just a little time, trust, support and love enters the equation the difference it can and will make.
Many people will be able to relate to Jewell in some way. But don’t give up and don’t be afraid to ask the questions that you have. Jewell learned that family isn’t just about Genetics! It is about the love you have for another being that matters most to you!!
Beau and Jewell a rare find as they learn to trust love and let go and live. Tanta Izzy and MiMi will make you laugh and enjoy the time youz have with youz seasoned family memberz!!
Tina has taken secrets, love and family and made it an amazing story. To not truly know who you are can leave many unanswered questions and an imagination to run wild. When your character comes into question and you just want to piece it back together because that’s all you know and have can make you fear the worst. But when just a little time, trust, support and love enters the equation the difference it can and will make.
Many people will be able to relate to Jewell in some way. But don’t give up and don’t be afraid to ask the questions that you have. Jewell learned that family isn’t just about Genetics! It is about the love you have for another being that matters most to you!!
Beau and Jewell a rare find as they learn to trust love and let go and live. Tanta Izzy and MiMi will make you laugh and enjoy the time youz have with youz seasoned family memberz!!
July 15, 2022
What a fantastic story! So many characters to love…and some that are not very likable. Jewell has a very special bond with her Mimi who raised her. Now, as Mimi advances more into dementia, Jewell is working to have a plan in place to care for Mimi in case she goes to prison. This story has a lot of funny moments that make you laugh out loud, especially when Tante Izzy is involved! This book is very hard to put down!
I received an advance copy of this book from the author, however, I voluntarily wrote an honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.
I received an advance copy of this book from the author, however, I voluntarily wrote an honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.
June 19, 2022
I was a little slow in getting hooked by this book because I had not read the first book in the series, so I didn’t know the characters. But after about the first quarter I was fully invested and couldn’t wait to find out what happens. There were so many hilarious moments with certain characters to make this so enjoyable. I need to read the first book!
June 22, 2022
This is a slow burn book with lots of emotional meaning. But when the burning happened it was 🔥! The loyalty and affection was so very heartfelt. Tina's descriptions made me feel like I was in Louisiana with the characters. I could feel my skin tingling and looking around for spiders when reading the barn scene. The secondary characters added meaning to this wonderful story.
May 20, 2022
Loved it! Great book to “take you away” :)
November 19, 2015
This book is amazing!!!
Jewell is full of mystery, romance, family matters, and a grand plantation with some secrets.
The story grabs you since page one, and seriously, is so full of twists and turns that it was impossible to put it down until I saw The End. All the characters are likeable and loveable, especially Mimi who in spite of suffer a terrible mental disease, gave us so many laughable moments!! Jewell and Beau (whom has a really sexy accent) have high amounts of chemistry and sexual tension and it was a pleasure witnessing how they let their guard down and unleashed their feelings.
Overall, the story is beautifully written, with wonderful dialogues, heartfelt moments and a lot of mystery!!
Highly Recommended to all types of readers.
*I received a Free copy in exchange for an Honest Review*
Jewell is full of mystery, romance, family matters, and a grand plantation with some secrets.
The story grabs you since page one, and seriously, is so full of twists and turns that it was impossible to put it down until I saw The End. All the characters are likeable and loveable, especially Mimi who in spite of suffer a terrible mental disease, gave us so many laughable moments!! Jewell and Beau (whom has a really sexy accent) have high amounts of chemistry and sexual tension and it was a pleasure witnessing how they let their guard down and unleashed their feelings.
Overall, the story is beautifully written, with wonderful dialogues, heartfelt moments and a lot of mystery!!
Highly Recommended to all types of readers.
*I received a Free copy in exchange for an Honest Review*
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