Review of 'House of Diamonds' by Amber Jakeman

What a delightful surprise! From the start, I quickly entered Stella’s world fully engaged. Amber Jakeman’s House of Diamonds is the first novel of the House of Jewels Series. I had never read Amber’s books before and did not really know what to expect but when she approached me with a review copy, I accepted. I must add, that I don’t usually read dedicated romance stories, as I am mainly a historical fiction, contemporary women’s and literary fiction lover. Of course, romance and romantic elements are often part of these stories but not necessarily the main focus. Amber’s novel is definitely contemporary with a romance at its core.

To offer some honest praise after reading House of Diamonds, I am delighted to say the relationship between the characters and the experiences they encounter are challenging, fun, smart and believable. The worldbuilding is perfect. The scenes are well described. And an understanding of human behaviour comes through in these characters’ interactions and their thoughts very well. Amber knows her material and has done her research thoroughly. Her journalism and editing background shine through, too. Added to this, is her fine story-telling ability. For all these attributes have resulted in the creation of a warm, welcoming, joyous and definitely ‘feel good’ Contemporary Romance novel. It is a lovely read that delivers positive results. With all the sadness, despair and sickness invading our worlds, House of Diamonds offers a good spoonful of hearty uplifting medicine.

The story is told through two points of view: Stella Rhys and James Huntley the Third. Therefore, the narrative is not one-sided. This provides a well rounded picture of each main character and what these two are thinking, plus the reasons behind their actions and reactions. It’s a smart technique that draws us deeper into their lives. We can step into their shoes and sympathise with them in their predicaments. The character and background differences of jewellery designer Stella and that of handsome jeweller James Huntley (of a longstanding top jewellery store) are extensive. But that’s what makes them so intriguing. The negative and positive interaction between these two opposites creates some wonderful sparks in the plot. 

Stella has moved from Perth to Sydney to live with her married sister and her family. Stella’s aim is to start over. She hopes to leave behind a broken heart and issues of dependence upon and attraction to certain types of men. But these very things she seeks to be free from are present in her new life and challenge her on an epic level. It becomes increasingly difficult to trust her own feelings after certain encounters. 

We also discover this move for Stella serves another purpose. One of bigger importance to her personal growth. She has left her day job in Perth to carve out her life-long dream of setting up an independent jewellery design business. She has an artistic gift that needs an outlet with room to grow. So she gets a plan together, buys a stall space in Sydney and prepares to sell her home-made works of art. These original pieces of jewellery draw some unexpected attention from the first day she sets up. On her maiden voyage she literally makes waves— especially when she refuses to move her stall for a very expensive publicity stunt set up by Huntley’s House of Diamonds. She feels she has paid for her spot fair and square and stands her position. The result proves quite surprising for Stella. And for the Huntleys. This obstinance starts a jewellery war. It is an enjoyable journey for the reader as these characters (and others who assist them) play out their lives, loves and events that offer much insight in the jewellery design industry (and business in general). And although we learn more through James Huntley the issues he is dealing with in business, we can sympathise with Stella’s drive to stand on her own and to achieve the independence she desires.

During the reading of House of Diamonds, I could clearly see how it would make a great series. There is plenty of scope for other characters to further their stories in separate books. This is a sure win for fans and a good selling point for the author. Amber has done just that with Books 2 and 3 already released, plus another two to follow. 

I am definitely a new fan and will be reading through the whole set as I enjoyed Amber’s ‘feel good’ story style. The first book was well-crafted and I am sure this will continue through the series. I recommend this novel to all who need a bit of sunshine, light and joy in their lives. For this is an enjoyable romantic read with a happy ending. 4.5 Stars. A real winner!

Thanks to Amber for a copy to review.

Visit Amber Jakeman’s website for news, her blog and details on her 3 released books plus a cover reveal of her fourth!