Amber Jakeman - House of Spades- Book 3 of House of Jewels Series
House of Spades of the House of Jewels series (Volume 3) by Amber Jakeman exudes fire, warmth and earthy passion. The title sticks true to the previous novels House of Diamonds and House of Hearts, as the deck of cards concept continues. This time the story focuses on Stella’s mother, Flame, and the enchanting Byron Bay hinterland. The reader is whisked away to a calming country setting where birds are chirping among the heavy foliage. But the opening scene is dampened (pardon the pun) when Flame is caught in a heavy downpour. (Australia is known as a land of extremes. There’s always a feast or famine with floods or droughts.)
In this case the tumultuous weather reflects the main character’s inner turmoil where we quickly move into the initial drama of Flame engaging in a fiery battle with widower ‘hermit’ Ross—her closest neighbour. For she has arrived to her temporary ‘home’ setting amidst the heavy rainfall to find her caravan missing. Her first instinct is to accuse Ross. Has he stolen it, or moved it? She is horrified and angry and threatens to call the police. He, of course, has tried to save her mobile home from ‘being washed away in the floodwaters.’ And he reminds her she has actually trespassed on his property. She is caught off guard by this revelation for she was told it was public land. But Ross assures her it is not. And he suggests she is free to collect her caravan and leave. Until she confesses she no longer has a car. This tugs on Ross’s heartstrings and his kinder nature surfaces. He suggests they park it under his tool shed for the time being. It is obvious he does not want her to be homeless or in a predicament.
The journey of their new found relationship begins and it is a touching story of loss, love, second chances, healing, hope and happiness. There are a number of conflicts within and without, including trust issues, questions of whether those of different backgrounds (more and less privileged) can be compatible. But it is a beautiful journey nonetheless of learning new things, looking past appearances, seeing how love can blossom in unlikely places. It is also a story about transformation and acceptance. Which leads me to the next point…
Just as the title suggests, Spades are part of this story: not only as relating to a deck of cards in Flame’s hands as a casual fortune teller, but it’s also a garden tool. And this new life inspires Flame to become a nature lover alongside her environmentally conscious neighbour, Ross, who wants to revitalise his land. Flame sets her heart on also being part of that change, learning preservation and conservation. But her new interest in soil is not the only thing that germinates in her mind. Her attitude alters towards Ross as she gets to know him. Even though her history of bad relationships dampens her emotions and dashes her hopes at times, Ross’s kindness persuades her to open up to possibilities. She realises there may be more to him than meets the eye. Once she gets past his seemingly rough exterior, she realises the type of man he really is and that his scruffy appearance has been brought on by a life changing loss. As they get know each other and become closer, those shackles begin to fall away. And although there are still many bumps in the road ahead with many issues to overcome, like one tree grafted to another, some lovely blossoms begin to show.
Whether Amber consciously used Spades as a double symbol I don’t know but in the case of a deck of cards, it has been said the Ace of Spades symbolises the winter of life or one might say the mature age of an individual in society. This is the time when wisdom is seen to be bountiful and definitely in House of Spades this is evident. For Flame and Ross are two seniors that gain knowledge, find acceptance and are transformed.
I loved the ending with a few surprising twists, tender resolutions, the meeting up with Stella, a dip into the Huntleys’ family history, a chance to mend relationships and experience second chances. Transformation of other characters happen, too, that are important to Ross. Also Flame’s confidence, plus her need for approval from her daughter Stella and Ross’s daughters, are all part of this wondrous growth.
It is a pleasant and heart-lifting story that I certainly recommend. I am keen to read the next instalment after glimpsing the cover. (It is based on another senior member of the family but from the Huntley side.) The ongoing saga is a lovely finely spun drama that slowly puts the puzzle pieces of these two families together with each book. It started with the younger generation Stella & James, then Will Huntley, now moving on to their parents’ stories: first Flame (Stella’s mom) and next James Huntley’s mother. I think Amber has done a marvellous job linking all these family threads together. And I also look forward to the final grand reunion! But that is not yet. Next month it’s House of Clubs! So, get copies of the three available now before the fourth hits the shelves! 4.5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
