Cartier's Hope

A Novel

By: M. J. Rose

Narrated by: Tavia Gilbert

From M.J. Rose, New York Times bestselling author of Tiffany Blues, “a lush, romantic historical mystery” (Kristin Hannah, The Nightingale), comes a gorgeously wrought novel of ambition and betrayal set in the Gilded Age.

New York, 1910: A city of extravagant balls in Fifth Avenue mansions and poor immigrants crammed into crumbling Lower East Side tenements. A city where the suffrage movement is growing stronger every day, but most women reporters are still delegated to the fashion and lifestyle pages. But Vera Garland is set on making her mark in a man’s world of serious journalism.

Shortly after the world-famous Hope Diamond is acquired for a record sum, Vera begins investigating rumors about schemes by its new owner, jeweler Pierre Cartier, to manipulate its value. Vera is determined to find the truth behind the notorious diamond and its legendary curses—even better when the expose puts her in the same orbit as a magazine publisher whose blackmailing schemes led to the death of her beloved father.

Appealing to a young Russian jeweler for help, Vera is unprepared when she begins falling in love with him…and even more unprepared when she gets caught up in his deceptions and finds herself at risk of losing all she has worked so hard to achieve.

Set against the backdrop of New York’s glitter and grit, of ruthless men and the atrocities they commit in the pursuit of power, this enthralling historical novel explores our very human needs for love, retribution—and to pursue one’s destiny, regardless of the cost.

Critic reviews

"Adding to her expansive library of narrations, Tavia Gilbert lends her vocal skills to author Rose's latest historical fiction. In 1920, Vera, one of New York City's elite 400, lives a double life as both a society woman and an investigative journalist. When the Hope Diamond is brought to America, Vera takes the opportunity to use it in avenging her father's death. Gilbert gives an understated yet authentic performance. Using her versatile talents, she aptly presents characters full of emotions, bringing them to life and making each believable. With clear, clipped articulations, Gilbert keeps the pace moving. An overall wonderful listen for those who like a little romance and mystery in their historical fiction."

Loved the story!

I always learn so much from MJ Rose’s majestic novels! This is my second book from this author and it’s not my last.

The history of the diamond

I always like the way the author builds her characters and discusses real events in places that took place in that area.

Wow that was amazing story

MJ Rose is fast becoming my favorite author. The narrator was engaging and didn't let you go until the end.

Strong Hero Who Happens To Be Female

Didn't want this one to end. I had a hard time putting it down. Historical fiction at its best. Beautifully read.

Great story. Missing a little

This was an excellent story. I loved getting a glimpse into the history of stones and the deception that was so common amongst the industry.
For an MJ Rose book, the story did miss a bit of the mystery that I am used to with her. But... still an excellent story.