Few authors capture sweeping family sagas as well as Danielle Steel, and Jewels (1992) is one of her most ambitious novels. Spanning over five decades, it blends romance, history, war, and the complexities of family into a glittering, emotional story that has remained a favorite for many readers.
Storyline & Themes
The novel begins on Sarah Whitfield’s seventy-fifth birthday, where she reflects on a life shaped by love, loss, and resilience. From her short-lived first marriage in New York during the 1930s to her unexpected encounter with William, Duke of Whitfield, Sarah’s journey unfolds against the backdrop of some of the 20th century’s most turbulent events.
Their marriage leads to a new life in Europe, but World War II soon tears them apart. Left to protect her children and survive the German occupation of France, Sarah’s unwavering strength becomes the heart of the story. When William finally returns, the couple rebuilds—not only their lives but also the lives of others—by creating Whitfield’s Jewelry, a luxury business born from compassion and a keen eye for beauty.
At its core, Jewels is about:
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The endurance of love through war and hardship
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The strength of family bonds, even through betrayal and mistakes
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The creation of legacy, both personal and professional
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How jewels—like memories—become symbols of survival, resilience, and hope
Characters
Steel draws readers into the Whitfields’ world through a memorable cast:
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Sarah, the resilient matriarch, whose compassion and determination carry the family.
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William, the Duke, who sacrifices status for love and remains Sarah’s greatest anchor.
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Their four children—Phillip (proud and headstrong), Julian (warm and kind), Isabelle (rebellious), and Xavier (wild, untamed, yet beloved)—each bring drama, heartbreak, and triumph to the family’s story.
The characters’ struggles and triumphs echo through generations, making the Whitfields both relatable and larger than life.
Writing Style
Steel’s prose is classic and accessible, full of vivid descriptions and emotional resonance. The settings—New York, Paris, London, Rome—are richly drawn, and the historical details, particularly about World War II, add a strong sense of realism. Though some critics find the plot melodramatic, fans of sweeping family sagas will find the mix of romance, tragedy, and triumph deeply satisfying.
Product Details
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Author: Danielle Steel
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Publisher: Delacorte Press
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Publication Date: June 1, 1992
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Format: Hardcover, 421 pages
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ISBN-10: 0385304900
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ISBN-13: 978-0385304900
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Customer Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5 from 3,015 Amazon reviews; 4.0/5 on Goodreads, 13,120 ratings)
Verdict
Jewels is a classic Danielle Steel novel—full of grandeur, heartbreak, resilience, and ultimately, love. It’s a story about how families survive through war, passion, mistakes, and time, with the glittering world of jewelry as both backdrop and metaphor. For readers who enjoy family epics and historical romance, this book delivers a deeply engaging read.
⭐ Rating: 4.5 / 5 – A timeless saga of love, survival, and legacy.
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