Property of a Noblewoman

Ms Steel has done it again! What a wonderful story. In her last several works, her writing and focus has improved. Her stories are more "special" and leave the reader with a good feeling about the world at large. In this story, she managed to make an epic novel by using flashbacks and marvelous little vignettes. Her description is amazing. I loved the descriptions of the jewelry and could imagine each piece perfectly. The characters she used to create this story were perfectly formed. There was no deliberate effort to make them seem like the people I know, however, that is the feeling with which I came away. The story is entirely believable and trans-generational. I really liked that. My heart went out to the very young Countess who experienced so much heartache and loss even int he face of wealth and a man who adored her. As well, my heart was touched at the wonderful love the mother had for her son and how she molded her lift to be sure that he was included. I loved the fact that as she had given so much to her husband and her son, she found wonderful love late in life--almost a reward for keeping the faith. My heart went out to the sweet little law student who hated her job but was determined to do it to the best of her ability even when her personal life was falling apart. Ms. Steel managed to give her all kinds of redeeming characteristics in her reaction to the tyrant of a boss she had to endure. Then, the young man who had given his life to studying art and art history found himself thrown into handling jewelry instead of the art he loved claimed a part of my heart as well. Again, he gave his job his all and more and was "rewarded" with not only the job he coveted but the woman of his dreams. So much unhappiness in each life was tempered with the desire to make life count and do for others which earned them the reward of enduring happiness. I loved this book.

I've read this book a couple times, and each time I have such a hard time setting it down! With the surprises, twists, mystery, and romance it's such an amazing book! If you want to get lost in a book and go on a vacation in your mind then this is the book to read! Danielle Steel has such a way with words to where they just captivate you. She's always been a fave! You won't regret reading this book!

Why can't Ms. Steel take the time to actually craft the first chapter so that it doesn't read as though she published her working outline? Here is a prime example of a truly intriguing plot but instead of drawing us into the story, we have endless exposition. Writing instructors teach students to "show, don't tell." Ms. Steel isn't above such basic advice. Once we plod through the beginning and the story finally unfolds, it is a gem in many respects. Character development is mostly well-crafted once we can finally experience their interaction rather than just being told about them in a preachy-type manner. The character of Winnie is over-the-top ridiculous. The plot unfolds predictability, but with a few surprises.Perhaps Ms.Steel is trying to publish too many books in too brief a time. Doesn't she have three coming out for the summer? At least she doesn't seem to be working with a ghost writer. Seriously, what's the rush? She doesn't need the money. I'd love to see the work that she's capable of writing.

Another great book n life, people. Families and fate. Love her books can't wait to read the next one n enjoy it

I loved the story line...the coincidence and surprises and the characters in the story. The twists and the length as it wasn't cut short but given the respect and full consideration that it deserved. The love, rewards and passion behind every good intention with a self sacrificing, unconditional love that most do not reach to that honorable degree. Happily ever after for both Mother, Son and companions with extended family that was the flavor of topping. I could have read more and more with the art, sailing and love for living and adventure. Lovely in every way. Slept well after visiting this story each night. Thank you.

I'm a big fan of Danielle Steel's and have read most of her books. However, I've noticed something annoying with the last few of her books. She seems to find it necessary to constantly tell you what a good, kind, smart, compassionate blah, blah, blah her main character is. After a while it's like...we get it...ENOUGH! She also tends to describe the protagonist repeatedly as unhappy, bitter, lonely, blah, blah, blah...yeah...we get it! This book is no exception. The main character is apparently flawless, she was the perfect wife with the perfect marriage with the perfect son etc. Her sister is a stuffy conservative, lonely miser who is miserable to be around.Also her plot lines seem very familiar and are similar to earlier and better books. You can pretty much guarantee that her books will be based in California, NY, Paris, or Rome and if they aren't based there the characters will end up there at the same hotels, restaurants, stores etc. since most of her stories talk about them every time. Her characters are almost always involved with the movie industry, lawyers, jewelers or artists. Anyone slightly conservative or conventional is always portrayed as as stuffy, humorless, boring or not a nice person. Evidently only bohemian, artsy, liberals from California or NY/New England are fun and have exciting lives.Danielle Steel's best books are when she breaks out of these standard plots and mixes it up a bit. The last book of hers that I really loved was Sisters.

Loved the book and the story. The developing of the story line kept me reading. And wanting more. Would definitely refer to ithers

I enjoy her books

Great characters, gripping storyline, full of intrigue, and a wonderful 'feel good' factor throughout. An engaging and uplifting book. Another masterpiece from this talented and prolific author. Loved it!

Maravilhoso

Il libro è molto brllo da leggere, ma ho reso questo in quanto la versione tascabile non mi garbava e ho acquistato lo stesso libro in versione copertina rigida. Consiglio assolutamente

This is definitely a book you cannot put down. From the very first page you are right into a fast moving brilliantly written story. I loved the way the characters arrive one at a time and you have a chance to really know them before you meet the next one. Just as we do in life. The safety deposit box and it’s stunning extraordinary contents bring these people all together in a way that is intriguing and beautiful. You must read it.

This novel had everything. A mystery, conflicting characters, romance and the unraveling of a story that covered many decades.