_onemorechapter_'s review
adventurous
challenging
emotional
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
mysterious
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
๐ญ It is a captivating literary masterpiece that enthralls us with its exquisite craftsmanship and profound storytelling prowess. With eloquence and finesse, Stuart weaves a tapestry of words that transported me to an immersive world of creativity, passion, and untold mysteries.ย
This is a sweeping dual-time story that spans a century, and it is a captivating blend of historical and contemporary fiction.
When I read that this book was about the Faberge eggs that were gifted to the Czar of Russia and his family, I knew that I had to read it. There's something about the mystery of the end of the Romanov era. There's also something tantalizing about the what-ifs of history. This story blends both along with a dual-time narrative that wraps a hunt for a possible unknown Faberge egg with the history of the Master Craftsman. It has moments of National Treasure blended with the poignancy of a black-and-white film. I learned so much about Russia and the Russian Resolution (1906-1917/21) through all the historical facts which were written as part of this story.
Kelly's masterful command of narrative structure shines brightly in this opulent tome.ย
The pacing, perfectly balanced between exhilarating crescendos and serene interludes, kept me firmly entranced, eagerly turning each page with bated breath.ย
It delves deep into the human psyche, exploring themes of ambition, passion, and the pursuit of artistic excellence.ย
Through her profound character development, Stuart unveils the intricate layers of the human condition, unearthing the depths of the human soul with profound insight and sensitivity.ย
๐ธ๐ด๐ ๐น๐๐๐๐๐: โญโญโญโญ
๐ธ๐ฎ๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐ ๐ ๐น๐๐๐๐๐: 4.06 (632)
๐ธ๐ฎ๐๐๐๐: Historical Fiction
๐ธ๐น๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐: Yes!!ย
"The Master Craftsman" is not simply a book; it is a symphony of words, a masterpiece of literary composition.ย
It is a must-read for connoisseurs of the written word, a treasure trove of intellectual and emotional stimulation, and A captivating homage to the creative process, this book resonates long after the final sentence, leaving an indelible impression on the reader's soul.
๐ธ ๐ญ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ธ๐๐๐๐๐:
โSometimes we turn out like our parents without even really trying.โ
This is a sweeping dual-time story that spans a century, and it is a captivating blend of historical and contemporary fiction.
When I read that this book was about the Faberge eggs that were gifted to the Czar of Russia and his family, I knew that I had to read it. There's something about the mystery of the end of the Romanov era. There's also something tantalizing about the what-ifs of history. This story blends both along with a dual-time narrative that wraps a hunt for a possible unknown Faberge egg with the history of the Master Craftsman. It has moments of National Treasure blended with the poignancy of a black-and-white film. I learned so much about Russia and the Russian Resolution (1906-1917/21) through all the historical facts which were written as part of this story.
Kelly's masterful command of narrative structure shines brightly in this opulent tome.ย
The pacing, perfectly balanced between exhilarating crescendos and serene interludes, kept me firmly entranced, eagerly turning each page with bated breath.ย
It delves deep into the human psyche, exploring themes of ambition, passion, and the pursuit of artistic excellence.ย
Through her profound character development, Stuart unveils the intricate layers of the human condition, unearthing the depths of the human soul with profound insight and sensitivity.ย
๐ธ๐ด๐ ๐น๐๐๐๐๐: โญโญโญโญ
๐ธ๐ฎ๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐ ๐ ๐น๐๐๐๐๐: 4.06 (632)
๐ธ๐ฎ๐๐๐๐: Historical Fiction
๐ธ๐น๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐: Yes!!ย
"The Master Craftsman" is not simply a book; it is a symphony of words, a masterpiece of literary composition.ย
It is a must-read for connoisseurs of the written word, a treasure trove of intellectual and emotional stimulation, and A captivating homage to the creative process, this book resonates long after the final sentence, leaving an indelible impression on the reader's soul.
๐ธ ๐ญ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ธ๐๐๐๐๐:
โSometimes we turn out like our parents without even really trying.โ
mackeylime's review against another edition
Only read the historical fiction portion
mischia's review
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
4.0
keepingyouonread's review
3.0
In this dual timeline historical fiction, Alma is a master craftsman at Faberge right before, during and after the Russian revolution. In the present day, Avaโs father recruits her to finish one last treasure hunt for him - find a missing previously unknown Faberge egg.
What I liked: Iโve always had an interest in imperial Russia, so for me, the past storyline was the most interesting with a detailed look at the workings of Fabergeโs workshop.
The mystery of would they find the egg kept my interest in the present day story. While the egg is fake, the author wove in facts about Alma, a real person, and Faberge/Russia with ease.
What didnโt work for me: Some of the dialogue was awkward, for me, this was most noticeable in the present day storyline. On a related note, some of the present day characters felt like stereotypes, for example, awkward but lovable nerd in not so secret love with the main character.
The end of the treasure hunt storyline felt a little unbelievable and wrapped up pretty quickly.
Who should read it: If you think a movie that combines Anastasia with Indiana Jones or National Treasure sounds interesting this book may be right for you.
Thank you uplit reads for my gifted copy
What I liked: Iโve always had an interest in imperial Russia, so for me, the past storyline was the most interesting with a detailed look at the workings of Fabergeโs workshop.
The mystery of would they find the egg kept my interest in the present day story. While the egg is fake, the author wove in facts about Alma, a real person, and Faberge/Russia with ease.
What didnโt work for me: Some of the dialogue was awkward, for me, this was most noticeable in the present day storyline. On a related note, some of the present day characters felt like stereotypes, for example, awkward but lovable nerd in not so secret love with the main character.
The end of the treasure hunt storyline felt a little unbelievable and wrapped up pretty quickly.
Who should read it: If you think a movie that combines Anastasia with Indiana Jones or National Treasure sounds interesting this book may be right for you.
Thank you uplit reads for my gifted copy
reader_mama's review
4.0
In this dual timeline historical fiction, readers are taken between 1917 Russia, where the Faberge eggs are commissioned for the tsar by a group of master craftsmen. There were 52 known eggs, but in 2015, treasure hunter Nick Laine and his estranged daughter Ava are brought together to hunt the mysterious 53rd egg.
This was a large and in charge book, but I was hooked. I loved the dual timeline stories, especially learning about the craftsmen behind the Faberge eggs, which were so ornate and made of jewels and diamonds. The tsar of Russia was hoarding jewels and riches while the people of Russia were suffering from poverty. The tsar was eventually overthrown, and those who worked for him were in immediate danger. It was so interesting to learn about this time in history.
I also really enjoyed the present timeline with the treasure hunt. The Laineโs were searching for an egg that was smuggled out of Russia by one of the female craftsman to work on the Faberge eggs. I enjoyed following the clues and binge read the second half of the book when the two storylines came together โจ
This was a large and in charge book, but I was hooked. I loved the dual timeline stories, especially learning about the craftsmen behind the Faberge eggs, which were so ornate and made of jewels and diamonds. The tsar of Russia was hoarding jewels and riches while the people of Russia were suffering from poverty. The tsar was eventually overthrown, and those who worked for him were in immediate danger. It was so interesting to learn about this time in history.
I also really enjoyed the present timeline with the treasure hunt. The Laineโs were searching for an egg that was smuggled out of Russia by one of the female craftsman to work on the Faberge eggs. I enjoyed following the clues and binge read the second half of the book when the two storylines came together โจ
ksmithcpa's review
5.0
4.5 stars
This book was fascinating! I had no real knowledge of Fabrege eggs so this was all new territory for me and I loved every minute of learning. Kelli Stuart has added so much intrigue into the discussion of how many Fabrege eggs were really created and where are they all.
Set in the early 1900โs and present day, Stuart creates a tale that will give the reader a lot of background into Russian history in general and Fabrege in particular and also a current timeline with a fractured family trying to be restored.
Thank you UpLit Reads for including me on this campaign!
This book was fascinating! I had no real knowledge of Fabrege eggs so this was all new territory for me and I loved every minute of learning. Kelli Stuart has added so much intrigue into the discussion of how many Fabrege eggs were really created and where are they all.
Set in the early 1900โs and present day, Stuart creates a tale that will give the reader a lot of background into Russian history in general and Fabrege in particular and also a current timeline with a fractured family trying to be restored.
Thank you UpLit Reads for including me on this campaign!
melmo2610's review
5.0
I completely enjoyed this book! This dual time story that delves into the history of the famed Fabergรฉ Eggs was so so good! I really liked the mystery of the present-day layer of the story and the characters in it. There were several moments that made me laugh which was a favorite element of the story for me. The history layer was good and set up the mystery of the present-day layer really well. This was a great read!
I received this book from the publisher and purchased my own Audible copy. I was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
I received this book from the publisher and purchased my own Audible copy. I was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
michellef's review
5.0
The Master Craftsman is a historical dual-time fiction novel written by author Kelli Stuart. The historical setting is set in Russia, in the early 1900s. The present-day setting is set in Florida.
WOW! I really loved The Master Crafstman. Ms. Stuart is a new-to-me author who is now on my author watch list. In fact, I already added her other books to my cart. After you read The Master Craftsman Iโm sure youโll agree.
Ava hasnโt seen her father in ten years and now the news is that he is dying. Nick Laine, Avaโs father, was a treasure hunter. Just like her father Ava had a dream of adventure. So Ava became his padawan to hunt for the 53rd Faberge Egg.
I had not heard of the Faberge Eggs so I Googled them. Why not? I found them to be a real thing and quite elegant. Most were made for Empress Maria Feodorovna of Russia. The Master Craftsman is about a missing Faberge Egg. Google says there are 8 Imperial eggs still missing.
The Master Craftsman is a fascinating tale with adventure and a slight bit of romance. I highly recommend The Master Craftsman to fans of dual-time historical fiction.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissionโs 16 CFR, Part 255
WOW! I really loved The Master Crafstman. Ms. Stuart is a new-to-me author who is now on my author watch list. In fact, I already added her other books to my cart. After you read The Master Craftsman Iโm sure youโll agree.
Ava hasnโt seen her father in ten years and now the news is that he is dying. Nick Laine, Avaโs father, was a treasure hunter. Just like her father Ava had a dream of adventure. So Ava became his padawan to hunt for the 53rd Faberge Egg.
I had not heard of the Faberge Eggs so I Googled them. Why not? I found them to be a real thing and quite elegant. Most were made for Empress Maria Feodorovna of Russia. The Master Craftsman is about a missing Faberge Egg. Google says there are 8 Imperial eggs still missing.
The Master Craftsman is a fascinating tale with adventure and a slight bit of romance. I highly recommend The Master Craftsman to fans of dual-time historical fiction.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissionโs 16 CFR, Part 255
valodniece's review
3.0
2.5 stars, I'll round up to 3 to be generous. I mean, it wasn't awful. But it isn't a masterpiece either. I've read far better adventure books on similar topics. The plot was mostly predictable until an unsatisfying ending. And I'm bothered by the fact that someone who claims to be fluent in Russian would make such rookie transcription mistakes in Russian dialogue.
sassybookishmama's review
3.0
This is my first book by this author and when presented to me the summary sounded amazing and it is a dual timeline which is a favorite type of read for me. Definitely a story that I could get lost in but sadly that wasn't the case for me. There is a lot to be said for this book but I will keep my thoughts brief. Let's start with the positives. I absolutely loved the historical part of this story. The timeline that takes place in Russia was definitely my favorite part of the book. You can tell that the author did extensive research on the Faberge eggs and Faberge himself which I found quite interesting. If she wrote a book solely on that time period I may take a chance on it.
I know a lot of authors are trying this concept of writing dual timelines and I must say that after reading and reviewing quite a few of them some are more successful than others. I just felt like it was disjointed. The contemporary storyline was a bit slow and hard to get into. The characters were not relatable and I must admit that Ava just grated on my nerves. Oh, and the almost uses of mild cussing was just not necessary I also felt like the ending left some things unresolved which left me in a more blah mood about this book.
This book had no faith element whatsoever. It had no mentions of anything relating to God whatsoever. I am no prude. I am no "holier than thou" person nor do I pretend to be. I do prefer to read Christian fiction or Clean Fiction that perhaps has nothing to do with religion. So I definitely don't expect every single book that I read to have some type of faith element. However, if a book is published by a Christian publisher I do expect to be some type of mention of God or anything relating to faith. Sadly, that was not the case here.
Had it not been for her impeccable historical research this book would've been a 2 star for me but that alone brought it up to an almost 3. Obviously don't go by my thoughts, this is just my review of what I feel about the book. You may completely enjoy it so if you enjoy adventure, treasure hunt type books then give it a try and let me know what you think!
I received a copy of this book through the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
I know a lot of authors are trying this concept of writing dual timelines and I must say that after reading and reviewing quite a few of them some are more successful than others. I just felt like it was disjointed. The contemporary storyline was a bit slow and hard to get into. The characters were not relatable and I must admit that Ava just grated on my nerves. Oh, and the almost uses of mild cussing was just not necessary I also felt like the ending left some things unresolved which left me in a more blah mood about this book.
This book had no faith element whatsoever. It had no mentions of anything relating to God whatsoever. I am no prude. I am no "holier than thou" person nor do I pretend to be. I do prefer to read Christian fiction or Clean Fiction that perhaps has nothing to do with religion. So I definitely don't expect every single book that I read to have some type of faith element. However, if a book is published by a Christian publisher I do expect to be some type of mention of God or anything relating to faith. Sadly, that was not the case here.
Had it not been for her impeccable historical research this book would've been a 2 star for me but that alone brought it up to an almost 3. Obviously don't go by my thoughts, this is just my review of what I feel about the book. You may completely enjoy it so if you enjoy adventure, treasure hunt type books then give it a try and let me know what you think!
I received a copy of this book through the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.