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The House of Closed Doors #4
The Jewel Cage
Does love conquer all? Nell’s not so sure. Adjusting to wedlock isn’t easy for a woman whose initial aversion to the married state took her to the Poor Farm. When a tragedy out of the blue prompts her to repay past debts, her charitable instincts threaten to wreck her happy new life. What does she really want—and what does she really need? Attraction to an old friend shakes Tess’s world. Can she change his indifference to love? Martin struggles with demons from his own past as he oversees the rebuilding of the store and the creation of a new home. Will his ambitions hurt those he loves the most? Young Sarah faces the antagonist who knows the secret that might ruin her future. Join the beloved characters from the House of Closed Doors series as we bridge the years between Nell’s story and Sarah’s, interweaving stories of love and despair, darkness and light in the turbulent Chicago of the late 1870s.
550 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 13, 2020
588 people are currently reading
424 people want to read
About the author
Jane Steen
11 books965 followersDear Reader,
Welcome to my page. Now, I could talk to you about myself in the third person, as if my author-self were someone else, but instead let me give you the Most Important Fact:
I was named after Jane Eyre.
I swear that this decision of my mother's influenced my entire life. I've always felt that I lead only half my existence here (here being wherever I happen to be) while the much more interesting stuff goes on in my head.
It also doomed me to spend most of that head-time in the nineteenth century, hence my books. My aim is to write entertaining fiction that hovers somewhere in the PG range (no graphic sex or nasty stuff unless the plot totally demands it) and is neither dumbed-down nor pretentiously intellectual. In short, it's the type of fiction I like to read when I just need to RELAX.
You can get to know me a lot better by subscribing to my newsletter.
The short biography is that I've lived in England, Belgium, the United States and England. The problem with moving around is that you end up torn between different countries and cultures; the advantage is that you get to speak more languages (my second language is French).
I've had an interestingly varied employment history (editor in a law firm, translating a Belgian aerospace magazine into English and real estate marketing spring to mind, but there were others), and have absorbed more education than is good for me. I'm married to a nice American, and have two adult daughters.
Welcome to my page. Now, I could talk to you about myself in the third person, as if my author-self were someone else, but instead let me give you the Most Important Fact:
I was named after Jane Eyre.
I swear that this decision of my mother's influenced my entire life. I've always felt that I lead only half my existence here (here being wherever I happen to be) while the much more interesting stuff goes on in my head.
It also doomed me to spend most of that head-time in the nineteenth century, hence my books. My aim is to write entertaining fiction that hovers somewhere in the PG range (no graphic sex or nasty stuff unless the plot totally demands it) and is neither dumbed-down nor pretentiously intellectual. In short, it's the type of fiction I like to read when I just need to RELAX.
You can get to know me a lot better by subscribing to my newsletter.
The short biography is that I've lived in England, Belgium, the United States and England. The problem with moving around is that you end up torn between different countries and cultures; the advantage is that you get to speak more languages (my second language is French).
I've had an interestingly varied employment history (editor in a law firm, translating a Belgian aerospace magazine into English and real estate marketing spring to mind, but there were others), and have absorbed more education than is good for me. I'm married to a nice American, and have two adult daughters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
February 6, 2021
Well, that was a marathon read. I enjoyed the book, but it was my least favorite in the series. The writing was there, but the story lagged enough to bring on the biggest reading rut I've had in years. I still love all the characters, in fact, even more so than before, but... there just wasn't enough happening here to keep up the momentum of the other books. I do however, look forward to Sarah's story sometime in the future.
Read
December 15, 2020It's becoming traditional to put my own books on my Read list, since I have read them--a lot. I hope the rest of you enjoy it.
December 21, 2020
In September I had the pleasure of being a part of the beta read team for this novel, my first beta read ever! Jane Steen made it a delightful experience for the 12 of us, graciously listening to all our suggestions with such good humor and kindness. The beta version of the novel was already a 5-star read for me and has become my favorite book in the series. I can’t wait to read the finalized version and update my review.
February 3, 2021
A worthy, well-told portrayal of life with joy and challenges
Another magnificent display of writing skill and story construction. Nell’s story hasn’t even a hint of retelling past events however the present is built on foundations of earlier lessons and that fact is prevalent in the fresh, new experiences of this continuing blossoming from youth into responsibility. I am struck by Ms. Steen’s ability to grant her readers a truly revealing glimpse of the strength and weaknesses of her characters from the reactions and thoughts of those who interact with them. Martin evolves into a solid wall of comfort and stability. Sarah blossoms like a fresh new rosebud. Tess who most would consider too obviously incapable becomes the very picture of sensitivity and faithfulness. Thea is a trial to all who care for her as she struggles to break from the chains that bind her, although rivers run deep and there is hope that impetuous youth will not destroy her before she acknowledges those who have loved her in spite of her unloveliness. As far as I am concerned, this saga could continue until old age disposes of each dynamic character. Every page turned offered solid anticipation to unfold the next event and ponder the revelations with lessons as the progress of living proceeds. The variety of experiences presented are proof of a vivid imagination solidly founded on reality. I desire to read Sarah’s story soon.
Another magnificent display of writing skill and story construction. Nell’s story hasn’t even a hint of retelling past events however the present is built on foundations of earlier lessons and that fact is prevalent in the fresh, new experiences of this continuing blossoming from youth into responsibility. I am struck by Ms. Steen’s ability to grant her readers a truly revealing glimpse of the strength and weaknesses of her characters from the reactions and thoughts of those who interact with them. Martin evolves into a solid wall of comfort and stability. Sarah blossoms like a fresh new rosebud. Tess who most would consider too obviously incapable becomes the very picture of sensitivity and faithfulness. Thea is a trial to all who care for her as she struggles to break from the chains that bind her, although rivers run deep and there is hope that impetuous youth will not destroy her before she acknowledges those who have loved her in spite of her unloveliness. As far as I am concerned, this saga could continue until old age disposes of each dynamic character. Every page turned offered solid anticipation to unfold the next event and ponder the revelations with lessons as the progress of living proceeds. The variety of experiences presented are proof of a vivid imagination solidly founded on reality. I desire to read Sarah’s story soon.
January 1, 2021
Beautifully written
I loved every word of this book. Reading over the span of years during the Victorian Era is enlightening and delightful. My grandmother was born in 1878 and worked as a seamstress in a little General Store in the late 1800s until she married. I'm so looking forward to reading more about the challenges and achievements of Martin and Nell, Tess and Donny, and definitely Sarah!
I loved every word of this book. Reading over the span of years during the Victorian Era is enlightening and delightful. My grandmother was born in 1878 and worked as a seamstress in a little General Store in the late 1800s until she married. I'm so looking forward to reading more about the challenges and achievements of Martin and Nell, Tess and Donny, and definitely Sarah!
March 23, 2021
AWESOME !!
I can’t say enough about how good this series is .I have read all 3 of the Nell and Martin books- bought individually...Can’t wait for the next one ( or two,since Nell is having a baby !) I love the detail of the way of life back then. The way they cut,hand sewed,and
Embellished the dresses...Jane Steen is one of the best writer’s
So you should definitely read her books !
I can’t say enough about how good this series is .I have read all 3 of the Nell and Martin books- bought individually...Can’t wait for the next one ( or two,since Nell is having a baby !) I love the detail of the way of life back then. The way they cut,hand sewed,and
Embellished the dresses...Jane Steen is one of the best writer’s
So you should definitely read her books !
March 7, 2021
Another wonderful book!
Jane Steen's 4th book in the "The House of Closed Doors", is another wonderful book. I absolutely love this author's writing style which completely envelopes the reader into the continuation of Nell's and her "family" of
Jane Steen's 4th book in the "The House of Closed Doors", is another wonderful book. I absolutely love this author's writing style which completely envelopes the reader into the continuation of Nell's and her "family" of
March 30, 2022
Engrossing
Ah, how I've enjoyed this series. It has everything one would like in it. Love, adventure, deceit, Thea...
Wish I could say more but I don't want to give you too many clues. You'll love these novels!
Ah, how I've enjoyed this series. It has everything one would like in it. Love, adventure, deceit, Thea...
Wish I could say more but I don't want to give you too many clues. You'll love these novels!
March 24, 2021
I enjoyed this series. The last book ended and I had so many questions. I look forward to Sarah’s story.
April 12, 2024
This is the 4th and final book in Jane Steen’s House of Closed Doors series, and it’s just as good as the previous three. Ms. Steen tells us in her notes at the end that she hadn’t originally intended to write this book, but I’m so glad she did. Those of us who have read the entire series have cheered on Nell, her daughter Sarah, and her friend Tess since the first book and her days at the Poor Farm. Now Nell is married to her childhood friend Martin, but life is never easy sailing for her and her family. She is settled in Chicago but the past comes back to vex her. There is no real mystery to solve here as in the previous books, but there is plenty of action and intrigue. It’s another page turner and I’m sad to see this series come to an end.
The Jewel Cage serves as a bridge between Nell’s story and the upcoming series telling Sarah’s story. While this book can be read on its own, there isn’t much backstory given this time. A reader new to the series may have some questions, so if you can, read the series from the start. It’s well worth it. Ms. Steen has a wonderful way of bringing 1870s Chicago to life in this book, and includes a number of historical events in the story. You feel the plight of the workers, their long days and often poor working conditions (although not at Nell and Martin’s business), and you feel the discomfort of Nell and Tess trying to fit into “high society” in Chicago while having come from not-so-high places in their journey from rural Illinois to Kansas to bustling Chicago. Ms. Steen pays attention to detail but that never distracts from the story – rather, it enhances the story so much that I completely lose myself in all her books, not just this one. The prose is well written, the editing is excellent, and the enjoyment of reading her books is boundless. I highly recommend The Jewel Cage and all the books in both this series, the House of Closed Doors, and Jane Steen’s other series, set in Victorian England: The Scott – De Quincy Mysteries.
The Jewel Cage serves as a bridge between Nell’s story and the upcoming series telling Sarah’s story. While this book can be read on its own, there isn’t much backstory given this time. A reader new to the series may have some questions, so if you can, read the series from the start. It’s well worth it. Ms. Steen has a wonderful way of bringing 1870s Chicago to life in this book, and includes a number of historical events in the story. You feel the plight of the workers, their long days and often poor working conditions (although not at Nell and Martin’s business), and you feel the discomfort of Nell and Tess trying to fit into “high society” in Chicago while having come from not-so-high places in their journey from rural Illinois to Kansas to bustling Chicago. Ms. Steen pays attention to detail but that never distracts from the story – rather, it enhances the story so much that I completely lose myself in all her books, not just this one. The prose is well written, the editing is excellent, and the enjoyment of reading her books is boundless. I highly recommend The Jewel Cage and all the books in both this series, the House of Closed Doors, and Jane Steen’s other series, set in Victorian England: The Scott – De Quincy Mysteries.
December 28, 2020
Nell is happily married to Martin, a successful dressmaker and designer and partner in a thriving business. her life should be complete but it isn't. Her husband makes no secret of his desire for a child and their wealth sits uneasily with Nell given her background. When the opportunity arrives to help the children of her now-dead friend, Nell jumps at the chance but Teddy and Thea are not easy to help. Chicago in the late 1870s is not an easy place and Nell needs to reassess to move forward.
This is the fourth book in a series and not having read the previous three I was definitely at a disadvantage. The storyline is promising, Chicago in the 1870s, on the cusp of industrial greatness but with progress moving at a pace. There is some excellent background material here but the book disappointed in the fact that it focused more on the minutiae of emotions and repetition of the back story than it did on key events. The strikes and riots were severely underwritten and the final crime seemed rushed, even though the book had been leading up to it.
This is the fourth book in a series and not having read the previous three I was definitely at a disadvantage. The storyline is promising, Chicago in the 1870s, on the cusp of industrial greatness but with progress moving at a pace. There is some excellent background material here but the book disappointed in the fact that it focused more on the minutiae of emotions and repetition of the back story than it did on key events. The strikes and riots were severely underwritten and the final crime seemed rushed, even though the book had been leading up to it.
December 5, 2025
This is book 4 of The House of Closed Doors series, yet it read like a stand alone novel. Which is great because this is the first book I've read by this author. Now I want to read the previous ones to learn more about these characters' earlier lives.
Set in 1870s Chicago, the lead characters run a high end department store where the wife is a highly sought after dress designer and the husband loves to build things - markedly the jewelry vault which is the at the center of the storyline.
In 1877, there was growing railroad strike across the country. When it made it's way to Chicago, the riots and crime escalated. That was an interesting piece of history I did not previous know about. I took some time to dig into the subject before going back to the book. I love when an author brings in these tidbits of history that send people like myself running down rabbit holes.
I truly enjoyed reading this book and added the previous books to my wishlist.
Set in 1870s Chicago, the lead characters run a high end department store where the wife is a highly sought after dress designer and the husband loves to build things - markedly the jewelry vault which is the at the center of the storyline.
In 1877, there was growing railroad strike across the country. When it made it's way to Chicago, the riots and crime escalated. That was an interesting piece of history I did not previous know about. I took some time to dig into the subject before going back to the book. I love when an author brings in these tidbits of history that send people like myself running down rabbit holes.
I truly enjoyed reading this book and added the previous books to my wishlist.
November 7, 2022
Nell and Martin
What a love story! The friendship forged through childhood and the love that came with adulthood made this couple unshakeable. The trials of fitting into society while keeping secrets, was never easy for Nell and makes me so glad I wasn't around in this time of the late 1800's. Sarah's fatherless status shouldn't have mattered, but I'm really looking forward to the book still unwritten about Sarah. I can only imagine what will happen once she is openly living in society with her skeletons, that had nothing to do with her sins, but instead the sins of her mother. Will it make finding a husband hard or will Martin's name perpetuate the lies? Societies standards seemed impossibly high in that day and age. Not to mention, often severely hypocritical. I'm really looking forward to Sarah's book.
What a love story! The friendship forged through childhood and the love that came with adulthood made this couple unshakeable. The trials of fitting into society while keeping secrets, was never easy for Nell and makes me so glad I wasn't around in this time of the late 1800's. Sarah's fatherless status shouldn't have mattered, but I'm really looking forward to the book still unwritten about Sarah. I can only imagine what will happen once she is openly living in society with her skeletons, that had nothing to do with her sins, but instead the sins of her mother. Will it make finding a husband hard or will Martin's name perpetuate the lies? Societies standards seemed impossibly high in that day and age. Not to mention, often severely hypocritical. I'm really looking forward to Sarah's book.
September 17, 2023
I loved this four book series. Following Nell's life, the ups and downs, and the joys and sorrows. Her friendship with Tess, her attempts to honor her friend, Catherine by befriending her children (although that really didn't work out), and her relationship with her daughter, Sarah. Her marriage to Martin and how she went from being anti-marriage to finding joy in her life with Martin was heartwarming.
Be sure to read the author's notes at the end of each book as they will enlighten your understanding of the historical potions and you'll see the parallels that repeat in today's happenings.
Be sure to read the author's notes at the end of each book as they will enlighten your understanding of the historical potions and you'll see the parallels that repeat in today's happenings.
April 23, 2025
I loved this book, more over, I loved the whole series. This brought in so much dimension of Nell, where she came from to where she is now. Her kindness to her friends children, especially her daughter as well as all the relationships with the other characters. Amazing ♥️. Steens description of the dresses and the fabrics brings in another dimension. I can't say enough good things about it. I absolutely love the authors notes of where she was in her life and her plans for Nell. What a beautiful authentic person Jane Steen is
May 15, 2025
easy reading
I love well-researched historical fiction. Jane Steen seems to have put a lot of time into making sure that her settings are accurate. The Jewel Cage follows the Rutherford family and their ventures and adventures. A strong and independent woman, having undergone much difficulty and her young life, now faces more problems during her marriage. With great courage, she stands up against “a woman’s place is in the home“ society, anger from someone from her past, and danger from a criminal element. All in all, this is a good story, well-written with few errors.
I love well-researched historical fiction. Jane Steen seems to have put a lot of time into making sure that her settings are accurate. The Jewel Cage follows the Rutherford family and their ventures and adventures. A strong and independent woman, having undergone much difficulty and her young life, now faces more problems during her marriage. With great courage, she stands up against “a woman’s place is in the home“ society, anger from someone from her past, and danger from a criminal element. All in all, this is a good story, well-written with few errors.
November 6, 2023
Having just recently finished the 4th book in the House of Closed Doors series, I feel quite bereft of the friends I grew so close to as the characters broadened out. I feel Jane Steen covered the historical facts that occurred in America during the mid nineteenth century with a thoroughness quite extraordinary well.
As a dressmaker most of my life I, found the amazing detail of the pattern making and construction of the garments completely absorbing - especially the Paris trip and the association with the House of Worth.
Thank you Jane, for a fabulous series. I can’t wait for any subsequent books taking us onward in the Nellie, Sarah, Tess & Martin saga.
As a dressmaker most of my life I, found the amazing detail of the pattern making and construction of the garments completely absorbing - especially the Paris trip and the association with the House of Worth.
Thank you Jane, for a fabulous series. I can’t wait for any subsequent books taking us onward in the Nellie, Sarah, Tess & Martin saga.
June 21, 2025
Is Married Life Finally Going to Bring ...
... peace and contentment to Nell and Martin Rutherford? Does it do so to any couple, no matter how compatible and prosperous they are? There are always challenges in life that are thrown on one's path that need to be faced and dealt with. The fictional Rutherfords are no exception to the rule. Jane Steen skillfully demonstrates how they manage the conflicts that arise during the first years of their marriage.
... peace and contentment to Nell and Martin Rutherford? Does it do so to any couple, no matter how compatible and prosperous they are? There are always challenges in life that are thrown on one's path that need to be faced and dealt with. The fictional Rutherfords are no exception to the rule. Jane Steen skillfully demonstrates how they manage the conflicts that arise during the first years of their marriage.
September 11, 2025
Last book in this series, But the best
I have enjoyed all four books in this series! This author writes books that grab your interest, and I find I can not stop reading them easily. I always looked forward to the next book. I am sorry this series has ended but look forward to her new series. Perhaps someday the author will add another book or two to this series, letting us know what happened in the Rutherford's life.
I have enjoyed all four books in this series! This author writes books that grab your interest, and I find I can not stop reading them easily. I always looked forward to the next book. I am sorry this series has ended but look forward to her new series. Perhaps someday the author will add another book or two to this series, letting us know what happened in the Rutherford's life.
January 10, 2021
The Jewel Cage by Jane Steen is part of a series (book 4 of The House of Closed Doors). Reading it as a one off, I was shown insights into Chicago society in the late 1800s. It is all very fancy, with beautifully designed dresses by the main character Nell and she compares and contrasts her life now to her former life on the poor farm. Would make a lovely tv series.
September 17, 2022
I am not sure what to say… I received The House of Closed Doors through BookBub and had to keep reading! I have thoroughly enjoyed each and every one of the 4 books in this story! I couldn’t wait to find out what happened with Every character, even Thea.
Thank you Jane Steen for an absolutely enjoyable read!
Thank you Jane Steen for an absolutely enjoyable read!
November 12, 2022
Wonderful
As I finished this book, I couldn’t help but wonder if there would be more to Nell’s story. I was pleasantly surprised to read Jane Steen’s notes on the subject and know that the story will someday continue through Sarah’s story. I will happily await these new chapters as I feel I have found friends within the pages.
As I finished this book, I couldn’t help but wonder if there would be more to Nell’s story. I was pleasantly surprised to read Jane Steen’s notes on the subject and know that the story will someday continue through Sarah’s story. I will happily await these new chapters as I feel I have found friends within the pages.
June 1, 2023
awesome!
I never read period novels, like these set in the 1800’s but decided to read the first one, I liked the cover, and I never read the about the book, I though5 I was gettin* a detective type book. Boy was I surprised. I loved it so much I read all 4. Now to see if there will be a 5th book. Totally worth it!
I never read period novels, like these set in the 1800’s but decided to read the first one, I liked the cover, and I never read the about the book, I though5 I was gettin* a detective type book. Boy was I surprised. I loved it so much I read all 4. Now to see if there will be a 5th book. Totally worth it!
June 13, 2023
This was an interesting book although a bit heavy on the "romance" side of things. I don't typically read romance novels, preferring mysteries and historical fiction. Fortunately, this book had a great deal of historical references to keep it interesting rather than too maudlin. I also enjoy the strong female characters.
March 21, 2024
Good read. Since the book started with Thea Lombardi and the issues she brings, I was expecting more on this topic. This storyline seemed to fall flat once she went to live with a family in another state. Overall, I do enjoy reading about Martin, Nellie, Sarah and Tess. It's nice when good things come their way.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 12, 2024
The Jewel Cage is an interesting story in a series of stories that started with the House of Closed Doors. This story moves with a slow pace and leaves much unresolved. There is no murder mystery in this one. However, it is nice seeing the characters continue their lives. I just wish there was more going on.
January 20, 2025
3.5 rounded up as always because it's basically a soap opera, but interesting historically. I get a little annoyed by how they are supposedly so good, caring, generous people, but still believe their hard work means they deserve to live so much better than most people. And they work in the fashion business which is all about having new clothes and jewels all the time.
January 10, 2021
I really enjoyed the Closed Door Series, so I was glad to get to revisit Nell and Martin again. I’m looking forward to the next series of books that will revolve around the life of Nell’s daughter Sarah.
October 13, 2021
Disappointed Ending
I loved all four books
I would recommend all four
The only thing I didn't like was the ending of
The Jewel Cage that was a disappointment to me
but I still gave it five stars
I loved all four books
I would recommend all four
The only thing I didn't like was the ending of
The Jewel Cage that was a disappointment to me
but I still gave it five stars
February 10, 2022
A REAL story!
I thoroughly enjoyed the entire series and look forward to reading more of Jane Steens work. Fascinating information about the time period - takes place during the lifetime of my great grandmother.
I thoroughly enjoyed the entire series and look forward to reading more of Jane Steens work. Fascinating information about the time period - takes place during the lifetime of my great grandmother.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews