A review by keepingyouonread
The Master Craftsman by Kelli Stuart
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, Ava’s father recruits her to finish one last treasure hunt for him - find a missing previously unknown Faberge egg.
What I liked: I’ve 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 Faberge’s 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 didn’t 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: I’ve 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 Faberge’s 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 didn’t 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