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Pandora
London, 1799. Dora Blake, an aspiring jewelry artist, lives with her odious uncle atop her late parents' once-famed shop of antiquities. After a mysterious Greek vase is delivered, her uncle begins to act suspiciously, keeping the vase locked in the store's basement, away from prying eyes--including Dora's. Intrigued by her uncle's peculiar behavior, Dora turns to young, ambitious antiquarian scholar Edward Lawrence who eagerly agrees to help. Edward believes the ancient vase is the key that will unlock his academic future; Dora sees it as a chance to establish her own name.
But what Edward discovers about the vase has Dora questioning everything she has believed about her life, her family, and the world as she knows it. As Dora uncovers the truth, she comes to understand that some doors are locked and some mysteries are buried for a reason, while others are closer to the surface than they appear.
Steeped in mystery and rich in imagination, an exhilarating historical novel set in Georgian London where the discovery of a mysterious ancient Greek vase sets in motion conspiracies, revelations, and romance.
But what Edward discovers about the vase has Dora questioning everything she has believed about her life, her family, and the world as she knows it. As Dora uncovers the truth, she comes to understand that some doors are locked and some mysteries are buried for a reason, while others are closer to the surface than they appear.
Steeped in mystery and rich in imagination, an exhilarating historical novel set in Georgian London where the discovery of a mysterious ancient Greek vase sets in motion conspiracies, revelations, and romance.
408 pages, Paperback
First published January 17, 2022
About the author
Susan Stokes-Chapman
7 books536 followersSusan Stokes-Chapman was born in 1985 and grew up in the historic Georgian city of Lichfield, Staffordshire. She studied for four years at Aberystwyth University, graduating with a BA in Education & English Literature and an MA in Creative Writing. Her debut novel, PANDORA, was shortlisted for the Lucy Cavendish Fiction prize 2020 as well as longlisted for the Bath Novel Award that same year. You can find Susan on Instagram and Twitter under the handle @SStokesChapman. Her website is www.susanstokeschapman.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,229 reviews
February 3, 2023
an interesting premise for a story! greek mythology retellings have been sooo overdone lately, so it was quite refreshing to read something thats inspired by a myth, but set in a completely different historical context. add in the mystery and suspicious characters and you have a strong formula for an engaging story.
the thing that lost my attention was the writing itself. the story definitely could have been condensed, the dialogue could have been tighter, the references could have been more seamless, and the narrative itself could have had more consistency.
so while i think the concept is a good one, the authors writing style just isnt for me, unfortunately.
thank you for the ARC, harper perennial.
↠ 2.5 stars
the thing that lost my attention was the writing itself. the story definitely could have been condensed, the dialogue could have been tighter, the references could have been more seamless, and the narrative itself could have had more consistency.
so while i think the concept is a good one, the authors writing style just isnt for me, unfortunately.
thank you for the ARC, harper perennial.
↠ 2.5 stars
January 19, 2023
Twenty-one-year-old Pandora “Dora” Blake lives and works in her late parents' antiquities shop in Georgian London. Her parents had been renowned antiquarians specializing in Grecian artifacts and had made their living excavating tombs in South-Eastern Europe. Their untimely death in a mishap during an excavation twelve years ago left Dora orphaned and under the care of her unscrupulous and corrupt uncle Hezekiah Blake who promptly took over the shop and is responsible for its present state of disrepute, dealing mostly in forgeries and objects with not much historical significance. Dora aspires to be a jewelry designer and spends time honing her craft with her faithful pet magpie Hermes by her side, despite the constant beratement and ridicule of her uncle who would rather be rid of her.
One day her uncle acquires a mysterious crate and stores it in the basement of the shop under lock and key. Hezekiah’s obsession with the object and strange sounds coming from behind the locked door of the basement fuel Dora’s curiosity and she manages to trick her uncle and enter the basement and is fascinated by what she sees. The crate contained a rare Grecian jar or “pithos” in pristine condition with images of Greek mythological figures across its surface.
“There is a sudden sigh, a hum, a fluttering. It comes not from behind but in front of her, from within the vase, and Dora hears all at once its siren call, its darkling plea. It is the hush of wind, the whisper of waves, the music of grief, and she cannot help it, she cannot resist. Dora lifts the lid.”
The intricate patterns on the artifact inspire Dora’s new designs that she hopes will attract the interest of local jewelers who up until then haven't been too impressed with her sketches. To find out more about the pithos and its origins she enlists the help of bookbinder and aspiring antiquarian Edward Lawrence, who expresses a scholarly interest in the same, in hopes that his research into this mysterious artifact would earn him a place with the Society of Antiquaries, an endeavor in which he has been unsuccessful so far. It also appears that the pithos has brought with it a bout of bad luck to those involved in the acquisition- the Coombes brothers who extracted it from a shipwreck are each afflicted with strange injuries and illnesses that won’t heal and Hezekiah incurs an injury while transporting it to his shop which also seems to fester. Together as Dora and Edward dig deeper into the origin and history of the pithos and also try to figure out how it ended up in Hezekiah's possession, they uncover much about Hezekiah’s nefarious dealings as well as the secrets and myth surrounding the pithos and how it connects to Dora and her family.
Susan Stokes-Chapman's Pandora is an impressive debut novel. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story with its historical backdrop of Georgian England, a cast of interesting characters, engaging narrative and a mystery with the Greek myth of Pandora at its core. The prose is elegant, the story is well-paced and the setting is quaint yet atmospheric. I found the segments detailing facets of the antiquarian trade and illegal practices in the sale of valuable artifacts prevalent in that era very interesting. The cover design of the physical book is stunning and worthy of display. I would definitely recommend this novel to fans of historical fiction who don't mind a bit of fantasy and myth thrown in for good measure.
One day her uncle acquires a mysterious crate and stores it in the basement of the shop under lock and key. Hezekiah’s obsession with the object and strange sounds coming from behind the locked door of the basement fuel Dora’s curiosity and she manages to trick her uncle and enter the basement and is fascinated by what she sees. The crate contained a rare Grecian jar or “pithos” in pristine condition with images of Greek mythological figures across its surface.
“There is a sudden sigh, a hum, a fluttering. It comes not from behind but in front of her, from within the vase, and Dora hears all at once its siren call, its darkling plea. It is the hush of wind, the whisper of waves, the music of grief, and she cannot help it, she cannot resist. Dora lifts the lid.”
The intricate patterns on the artifact inspire Dora’s new designs that she hopes will attract the interest of local jewelers who up until then haven't been too impressed with her sketches. To find out more about the pithos and its origins she enlists the help of bookbinder and aspiring antiquarian Edward Lawrence, who expresses a scholarly interest in the same, in hopes that his research into this mysterious artifact would earn him a place with the Society of Antiquaries, an endeavor in which he has been unsuccessful so far. It also appears that the pithos has brought with it a bout of bad luck to those involved in the acquisition- the Coombes brothers who extracted it from a shipwreck are each afflicted with strange injuries and illnesses that won’t heal and Hezekiah incurs an injury while transporting it to his shop which also seems to fester. Together as Dora and Edward dig deeper into the origin and history of the pithos and also try to figure out how it ended up in Hezekiah's possession, they uncover much about Hezekiah’s nefarious dealings as well as the secrets and myth surrounding the pithos and how it connects to Dora and her family.
Susan Stokes-Chapman's Pandora is an impressive debut novel. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story with its historical backdrop of Georgian England, a cast of interesting characters, engaging narrative and a mystery with the Greek myth of Pandora at its core. The prose is elegant, the story is well-paced and the setting is quaint yet atmospheric. I found the segments detailing facets of the antiquarian trade and illegal practices in the sale of valuable artifacts prevalent in that era very interesting. The cover design of the physical book is stunning and worthy of display. I would definitely recommend this novel to fans of historical fiction who don't mind a bit of fantasy and myth thrown in for good measure.
February 13, 2022
An atmospheric story set in Georgian England that combines elements of Greek mythology, with age old treachery, deceit, and greed. A wonderful story full of suspense and intrigue but also charming and delightful, as we take a trip into the fascinating world of antiques. This historical adventure is inspired by the story of Pandora as Edward and Dora attempt to learn more about the history of an ancient vase and an unopened chest that has brought them both together. An unlikely pairing except for their love of antiques.
The Plot
Pandora / Dora lives with her uncle Hezekiah at an antique shop that was once owned by her parents. However, over the years, Dora has learned very little about her parent’s death, except they died suddenly following an accident at an archelogy site, leaving many unanswered questions.
Having finished school Dora now focuses her ambitions in designing jewellery, so when an ornate vase arrives at the shop, her interested is piqued immediately. Not because this treasure is a thing of beauty and mysterious, but she is able to take inspiration from its rare qualities and designs, when designing her own jewellery range. However, her interest only grows in a different direction when the secrecy, value and historical reference attributed to this piece of antique comes to light.
Meanwhile, Edward Lawrence comes into her life through her uncle, a book binder seeking acceptance into the Society of Antiquaries by writing a piece on rare antiques, and so their worlds collide. We are taken on a voyage of discovery and a journey into a dangerous web of fraud and deception, as the plot thickens, and the revelations expose duplicitous and illegal activities, and Dora must face truths she is not ready to accept.
Comments
A beautiful book to snuggle up and read, a story for everyone, a plot and setting that is really interesting and blends history with mystery and a dose of fantasy. The characters are mostly likeable and there is enough intrigue and beautiful storytelling to keep the reader interested to the end. The connection to Greek Mythology is quite light despite its title and advertising pitch, which was a bit of a disappointment for me because I wanted more from that part of the story. Hence the 4 stars. Nevertheless, what’s not to love about this little box/book of treats, named Pandora.
The Plot
Pandora / Dora lives with her uncle Hezekiah at an antique shop that was once owned by her parents. However, over the years, Dora has learned very little about her parent’s death, except they died suddenly following an accident at an archelogy site, leaving many unanswered questions.
Having finished school Dora now focuses her ambitions in designing jewellery, so when an ornate vase arrives at the shop, her interested is piqued immediately. Not because this treasure is a thing of beauty and mysterious, but she is able to take inspiration from its rare qualities and designs, when designing her own jewellery range. However, her interest only grows in a different direction when the secrecy, value and historical reference attributed to this piece of antique comes to light.
Meanwhile, Edward Lawrence comes into her life through her uncle, a book binder seeking acceptance into the Society of Antiquaries by writing a piece on rare antiques, and so their worlds collide. We are taken on a voyage of discovery and a journey into a dangerous web of fraud and deception, as the plot thickens, and the revelations expose duplicitous and illegal activities, and Dora must face truths she is not ready to accept.
Comments
A beautiful book to snuggle up and read, a story for everyone, a plot and setting that is really interesting and blends history with mystery and a dose of fantasy. The characters are mostly likeable and there is enough intrigue and beautiful storytelling to keep the reader interested to the end. The connection to Greek Mythology is quite light despite its title and advertising pitch, which was a bit of a disappointment for me because I wanted more from that part of the story. Hence the 4 stars. Nevertheless, what’s not to love about this little box/book of treats, named Pandora.
September 9, 2022
This book presents a great mash up: Greek mythology and history blended in 1799’s London setting perfectly! Storytelling via three different perspectives was quite fascinating as well. I got intrigued by each of the characters’ own secrets and the big mysteries which made me turn the pages a little faster.
Both of three POVs kept my interest intact!
At the opening we get introduced to aspiring jewel artist Dora Blake, working at her late parents’ once-famed shop of antiques with her uncle. She works hard to bring the business back to the shop as like old days her parents brilliantly ran the place.
When a valuable Greek vase is sent to the shop, Dora’s uncle starts acting suspiciously and locking the valuable piece at store’s basement.
Dora decides to team up with extra ambitious, pretentious Edward Lawrence who can risk anything to unlock his academic future.
But when they discover the secrets about the case, Dora’s entire life turns upside down. Anything she knows about her life, her past, her family is questionable! It seems like some things should be buried forever!
Overall: I loved the historical setting, the intriguing mystery, lovely romance, riveting pacing! One of the greatest historical functions I’ve read lately!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Harper Perennial and Paperbacks for sharing this amazing digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
Both of three POVs kept my interest intact!
At the opening we get introduced to aspiring jewel artist Dora Blake, working at her late parents’ once-famed shop of antiques with her uncle. She works hard to bring the business back to the shop as like old days her parents brilliantly ran the place.
When a valuable Greek vase is sent to the shop, Dora’s uncle starts acting suspiciously and locking the valuable piece at store’s basement.
Dora decides to team up with extra ambitious, pretentious Edward Lawrence who can risk anything to unlock his academic future.
But when they discover the secrets about the case, Dora’s entire life turns upside down. Anything she knows about her life, her past, her family is questionable! It seems like some things should be buried forever!
Overall: I loved the historical setting, the intriguing mystery, lovely romance, riveting pacing! One of the greatest historical functions I’ve read lately!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Harper Perennial and Paperbacks for sharing this amazing digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
March 5, 2023
Dnf 300/ około 460
Może nie jest to jakiś wielki zawód, ale czekałam na tę powieść. Wszystko zapowiadało lekturę bardzo w moim guście - koniec XVIII wieku, zainteresowanie starożytną Grecją, retelling mitu i opowieść o kobiecie, która stara się uniezależnić.
Całość wypada blado i przede wszystkim szalenie ✨nudno✨, bo Pandora składa się tak naprawdę z dwóch wątków na krzyż, czterech sekwencji, a na dodatek ma złoczyńcę z kartonu. It’s a no from me.
Może nie jest to jakiś wielki zawód, ale czekałam na tę powieść. Wszystko zapowiadało lekturę bardzo w moim guście - koniec XVIII wieku, zainteresowanie starożytną Grecją, retelling mitu i opowieść o kobiecie, która stara się uniezależnić.
Całość wypada blado i przede wszystkim szalenie ✨nudno✨, bo Pandora składa się tak naprawdę z dwóch wątków na krzyż, czterech sekwencji, a na dodatek ma złoczyńcę z kartonu. It’s a no from me.
January 26, 2023
Enter into the world of Georgian England and ancient antiquities, shrouded in mystery, myth, and magic. A real gem of a debut novel. Bravo! 🏺
January 8, 2022
4.5****
I really enjoyed this book!!
The plot:
This book is set in Georgian London, where Pandora “Dora” Blake is an aspiring jewellery designer who currently lives with her Uncle, Hezekiah, in what use to be her parents famous shop of antiquities. Since her parents deaths 12 years ago, Dora has seen the shop turn from fame and genuine artefacts, to the crooked and more questionable ways of her Uncle.
When a highly anticipated Greek pithos is delivered to the shop, Dora wonders why her Uncles behaviour is so suspicious and wants to find out the mystery for herself. Dora enlists the help of Edward Lawrence, a bookbinder looking for acceptance into the Society of Antiquities, for help on information of the pithos. Dora sees the pithos as a chance to escape her life and restore her parents shop to its former glory.
What she was not expecting was the number of revelations and questions that the pithos and its discovery brings up.
Review:
This book was a beautiful book of historical fiction. I loved the setting of 1799 London as it was so interesting to read of street names I currently walk over and what it could’ve been like in that period of history. Also the author holds nothing back and created a realistic picture (the squalor and the scent of shit which seems to be left out of historical- drama tv) of London.
She also captured the class system and the different varied characters of London in a realistic way- you could easily imagine the setting and the people.
I really liked the 3 character POV in this book. Each character additionally has their own mysteries and secrets to them and I was turning the pages to discover more!
Dora was such a great character and even has a magpie as a pet called Hermes, which was a great accurate name for the bird (and my favourite “being” in the book!). I really enjoyed reading her and Edwards ambition, intellect and dedication to their own dreams and not giving up despite their set-backs.
The author does well to capture the villainy of some of the characters too: I definitely saw one of the characters as a Vernon Dursley type from HP and it was so easy to despise him!
I obviously especially LOVED all of the Greek myth and Greek history references throughout this book. This book satisfied my un-dying love for them.
I could keep going on but this book just had everything: it had the mystery, the atmosphere, the intrigue and just the right amount of romance. I enjoyed the history and myth telling, and the talk of “curses”.
One thing I will say is that the author has left me with some interesting questions that I need answering!
Thank you so much to the author, Susan Stokes-Chapman, for gifting me with this physical ARC copy. This is out 27th January 2022.
I really enjoyed this book!!
The plot:
This book is set in Georgian London, where Pandora “Dora” Blake is an aspiring jewellery designer who currently lives with her Uncle, Hezekiah, in what use to be her parents famous shop of antiquities. Since her parents deaths 12 years ago, Dora has seen the shop turn from fame and genuine artefacts, to the crooked and more questionable ways of her Uncle.
When a highly anticipated Greek pithos is delivered to the shop, Dora wonders why her Uncles behaviour is so suspicious and wants to find out the mystery for herself. Dora enlists the help of Edward Lawrence, a bookbinder looking for acceptance into the Society of Antiquities, for help on information of the pithos. Dora sees the pithos as a chance to escape her life and restore her parents shop to its former glory.
What she was not expecting was the number of revelations and questions that the pithos and its discovery brings up.
Review:
This book was a beautiful book of historical fiction. I loved the setting of 1799 London as it was so interesting to read of street names I currently walk over and what it could’ve been like in that period of history. Also the author holds nothing back and created a realistic picture (the squalor and the scent of shit which seems to be left out of historical- drama tv) of London.
She also captured the class system and the different varied characters of London in a realistic way- you could easily imagine the setting and the people.
I really liked the 3 character POV in this book. Each character additionally has their own mysteries and secrets to them and I was turning the pages to discover more!
Dora was such a great character and even has a magpie as a pet called Hermes, which was a great accurate name for the bird (and my favourite “being” in the book!). I really enjoyed reading her and Edwards ambition, intellect and dedication to their own dreams and not giving up despite their set-backs.
The author does well to capture the villainy of some of the characters too: I definitely saw one of the characters as a Vernon Dursley type from HP and it was so easy to despise him!
I obviously especially LOVED all of the Greek myth and Greek history references throughout this book. This book satisfied my un-dying love for them.
I could keep going on but this book just had everything: it had the mystery, the atmosphere, the intrigue and just the right amount of romance. I enjoyed the history and myth telling, and the talk of “curses”.
One thing I will say is that the author has left me with some interesting questions that I need answering!
Thank you so much to the author, Susan Stokes-Chapman, for gifting me with this physical ARC copy. This is out 27th January 2022.
February 28, 2022
Actual rating is 2.5 stars.
I’m sorry to say it, but this book disappointed me. Some of the scene setting was very strong and a couple of the characters were quite intriguing, but the plot was painfully slow moving and besides a couple of vaguely interesting scenes, I didn’t feel like anything of note happened. The mystery of the vase turned out to be very predictable and the villain felt like he had just stepped out of a cartoon. There were also a couple of plot points that were left hanging at the end. All in all, I just didn’t feel like this book fulfilled its potential. All the ingredients were there to create a cracking Gothic yarn, but it ended up feeling somewhat flat to me. It’s a shame as I was really looking forward to reading it.
I’m sorry to say it, but this book disappointed me. Some of the scene setting was very strong and a couple of the characters were quite intriguing, but the plot was painfully slow moving and besides a couple of vaguely interesting scenes, I didn’t feel like anything of note happened. The mystery of the vase turned out to be very predictable and the villain felt like he had just stepped out of a cartoon. There were also a couple of plot points that were left hanging at the end. All in all, I just didn’t feel like this book fulfilled its potential. All the ingredients were there to create a cracking Gothic yarn, but it ended up feeling somewhat flat to me. It’s a shame as I was really looking forward to reading it.
April 6, 2021
I was lucky enough to read an early draft of this, and let me be very clear: you are in for a treat. Mark this as TBR ASAP. An absolute knockout.
October 30, 2022
The action of "Pandora" takes place in London in 1799, Padora Blake, orphaned 12 years ago, lives with her guardian uncle and a maid in the attic above an antique shop owned by her parents. Uncle Hezekiah declared himself the heir of the store, the girl was not kept in a black body, but without the privileges that she could count on by birthright, and she dreams of becoming a jewelry designer. And now she's 20, and he's talking more and more insistently about how he intends to push off the burden. Poor Dora, terrified, assumes the worst.
When I read about jewelry design in the first chapter, I immediately thought that there should be female solidarity towards the end. In such books, the heroine's ally suddenly becomes the most unpleasant female person. So, this will also happen: Uncle's lover, the maid Lottie, who has been treating her for twelve years, suddenly becomes inflamed with friendly feelings. And one duchess there, literally from the first hour of acquaintance, will become on a short leg with our cutie.
"Лавка древностей"& "Дядя Сайлас"для бедных
Помилуйте! Я разочарован в вас обоих. Не думал, что услышу столь смехотворные, столь глупые рассуждения.
На днях СМИ порадовали новостью об исландском премьер-министре Катрин Якобсдоуттир, которая написала в локдаун детектив, писательница Сьюзен Стокс-Чепмен свой роман написала тогда же. Просто внезапно образовалось очень много времени и появилась возможность воплотить давнюю мечту - написать георгианский роман. На самом деле, хотелось еще про мистику, про древнегреческие мифы и про экзотику, и вот, пожалуйста, все совместилось
Действие "Пандоры" разворачивается в Лондоне 1799, Падора Блейк, осиротевшая 12 лет назад, живет с дядей-опекуном и служанкой в мансарде над антикварной лавкой, принадлежавшей родителям. Дядя Иезекия объявил себя наследником магазина, девочку держал не то, чтобы в черном теле, но без привилегий, на которые могла рассчитывать по п��аву рождения. И вот теперь ей 20, а он все настойчивее заговаривает о том, что намерен спихнуть обузу. Бедняжка Дора в ужасе предполагает худшее. Нет, не замужество, а публичный дом.
Шта? Ага Барышня из хорошей семьи, которой и слов-то таких знать не положено. И это я еще не сказала, что она мечтает стать дизайнером ювелирных украшений. И ее сильно волнует морально-этический аспект превращения родительской лавки в место, где новодел и подделки выдаются за подлинные раритеты. И еще у нее ручная сорока по имени Ганимед. Представили? Ага, помесь Сиротки-Марыси с мультяшной Ариэль с образом мыслей современной девицы.
Теперь герой, его зовут Эдвард, у него было трудное детство, он работает в переплетной мастерской, но мечтает работать в Обществе Древностей, потому что интересуется историей. О своих устремлениях он говорит буквально так: "Мое ремесло обеспечивает мне скромный доход, но оно мне не интересно. Оно меня не вдохновляет." Что-то я не пойму, у нас юноша из XVIII или хипстер из начала нынешнего века?
И такая дребедень все время. Я когда в первой главе прочла про ювелирный дизайн, так сразу и подумала, что ближе к концу должна быть женская солидарность. В подобных книжках союзницей героини внезапно становится самая неприятная особа женского пола. Так вот, это тоже будет: дядина полюбовница служанка Лотти, третировавшая ее на протяжении двенадцати лет, внезапно воспылает дружескими чувствами. И одна там герцогиня, буквально с первого часа знакомства сделается с нашей милашкой на короткой ноге.
Блин, такое чувство,что у автора желание написать георгианский роман существовало автономно от мысли, что нужно как-то матчасть поизучать. чтооле. Ну открыла бы хоть Джейн Остен, там все доступно: вот так могла вести себя, одеваться, ходить, говорить, думать приличная барышня, а так ни в коем случае не могла, а если оставалась наедине с молодым человеком (не переезжала к нему жить. заметьте. как это ничтоже сумняшесь делает Дора) - просто оставалась в комнате, общество ждало от него предложения руки и сердца. А титулованные особы, да еще богачки, держали серьезную дистанцию от простых мелкопоместных дворян, что уж говорить о дочери лавочников, хотя бы даже и образованных, полугречанки к тому же.
В общем. те еще получились пироги с котятами. А чтоб не скучно - мистический кувшин пифос, который в огне не горит и в воде не тонет, прямиком от самого Зевса. Ну такоэ.
When I read about jewelry design in the first chapter, I immediately thought that there should be female solidarity towards the end. In such books, the heroine's ally suddenly becomes the most unpleasant female person. So, this will also happen: Uncle's lover, the maid Lottie, who has been treating her for twelve years, suddenly becomes inflamed with friendly feelings. And one duchess there, literally from the first hour of acquaintance, will become on a short leg with our cutie.
"Лавка древностей"& "Дядя Сайлас"для бедных
Помилуйте! Я разочарован в вас обоих. Не думал, что услышу столь смехотворные, столь глупые рассуждения.
На днях СМИ порадовали новостью об исландском премьер-министре Катрин Якобсдоуттир, которая написала в локдаун детектив, писательница Сьюзен Стокс-Чепмен свой роман написала тогда же. Просто внезапно образовалось очень много времени и появилась возможность воплотить давнюю мечту - написать георгианский роман. На самом деле, хотелось еще про мистику, про древнегреческие мифы и про экзотику, и вот, пожалуйста, все совместилось
Действие "Пандоры" разворачивается в Лондоне 1799, Падора Блейк, осиротевшая 12 лет назад, живет с дядей-опекуном и служанкой в мансарде над антикварной лавкой, принадлежавшей родителям. Дядя Иезекия объявил себя наследником магазина, девочку держал не то, чтобы в черном теле, но без привилегий, на которые могла рассчитывать по п��аву рождения. И вот теперь ей 20, а он все настойчивее заговаривает о том, что намерен спихнуть обузу. Бедняжка Дора в ужасе предполагает худшее. Нет, не замужество, а публичный дом.
Шта? Ага Барышня из хорошей семьи, которой и слов-то таких знать не положено. И это я еще не сказала, что она мечтает стать дизайнером ювелирных украшений. И ее сильно волнует морально-этический аспект превращения родительской лавки в место, где новодел и подделки выдаются за подлинные раритеты. И еще у нее ручная сорока по имени Ганимед. Представили? Ага, помесь Сиротки-Марыси с мультяшной Ариэль с образом мыслей современной девицы.
Теперь герой, его зовут Эдвард, у него было трудное детство, он работает в переплетной мастерской, но мечтает работать в Обществе Древностей, потому что интересуется историей. О своих устремлениях он говорит буквально так: "Мое ремесло обеспечивает мне скромный доход, но оно мне не интересно. Оно меня не вдохновляет." Что-то я не пойму, у нас юноша из XVIII или хипстер из начала нынешнего века?
И такая дребедень все время. Я когда в первой главе прочла про ювелирный дизайн, так сразу и подумала, что ближе к концу должна быть женская солидарность. В подобных книжках союзницей героини внезапно становится самая неприятная особа женского пола. Так вот, это тоже будет: дядина полюбовница служанка Лотти, третировавшая ее на протяжении двенадцати лет, внезапно воспылает дружескими чувствами. И одна там герцогиня, буквально с первого часа знакомства сделается с нашей милашкой на короткой ноге.
Блин, такое чувство,что у автора желание написать георгианский роман существовало автономно от мысли, что нужно как-то матчасть поизучать. чтооле. Ну открыла бы хоть Джейн Остен, там все доступно: вот так могла вести себя, одеваться, ходить, говорить, думать приличная барышня, а так ни в коем случае не могла, а если оставалась наедине с молодым человеком (не переезжала к нему жить. заметьте. как это ничтоже сумняшесь делает Дора) - просто оставалась в комнате, общество ждало от него предложения руки и сердца. А титулованные особы, да еще богачки, держали серьезную дистанцию от простых мелкопоместных дворян, что уж говорить о дочери лавочников, хотя бы даже и образованных, полугречанки к тому же.
В общем. те еще получились пироги с котятами. А чтоб не скучно - мистический кувшин пифос, который в огне не горит и в воде не тонет, прямиком от самого Зевса. Ну такоэ.
April 15, 2022
Pandora è stata decisamente una bella sorpresa, è una lettura molto scorrevole con una prosa elegante e mai sopra le righe.
Ho particolarmente apprezzato le atmosfere della storia, i personaggi e tutti i riferimenti al mito di Pandora.
Nonostante il finale molto frettoloso e scontato ho finito la lettura con una certa soddisfazione.
Sono molto curioso di leggere altro dell’autrice in futuro.
Ho particolarmente apprezzato le atmosfere della storia, i personaggi e tutti i riferimenti al mito di Pandora.
Nonostante il finale molto frettoloso e scontato ho finito la lettura con una certa soddisfazione.
Sono molto curioso di leggere altro dell’autrice in futuro.
April 24, 2022
If this book had a more fully fledged plot to go with its immense artistic merit and extraordinary writing style, then it would be an absolute masterpiece. Atmospheric and stunningly immersive from the very first page, it paints the most vivid of pictures while exploring fascinating concepts and introducing us to a range of compelling characters, yet these things do not mask all of its flaws.
It is primarily a historical fiction, but with rather enticing elements of Greek mythology that give it that little bit of extra intrigue. These transpire to be more akin to magical realism than fantasy and along with the double meaning of the title, bring a lot of promise that something mesmerising awaits at the end. There is certainly lots to enjoy, only the mythology merely exists within the narrative rather than being the thing around which it is based.
The year is 1798 and after the death of her parents twelve years earlier at the site of an archaeological dig, Pandora Blake is living with her uncle Hezekiah at Blake's Emporium, a shop selling antiquities and other curious cultural artefacts. The goods Hezekiah sells are mostly forgeries or items obtained illegally, and Dora spends much of her time in her attic room feeling unloved with only her pet magpie Hermes for company, harbouring aspirations to be a renowned jewellery designer.
Meanwhile, Edward Lawrence is a bookbinder with a passion for material culture, determined to overcome his less than privileged upbringing to gain acceptance into the prestigious Society for Antiquaries. In a coffee house one afternoon, he is approached by a mysterious old man who directs him to Blake's Emporium to speak to Dora, explaining that she might be able to help him in his endeavours.
At around the same time, Hezekiah takes the delivery of a large item which he stores in the shop's basement and attempts to hide from Dora. However, she manages to get inside and there she discovers an enormous Grecian jar known as a pithos, with illustrations depicting the legend of Pandora. Something about it seems alive and she wonders what is inside. Then she meets and becomes close friends with Edward, and they begin working together in order to unlock the truth about the pithos.
There is so much packed into this story and every detail is a joy to read, but while the pithos maintains a constant presence and at first seems to be front and centre of everything, it ends up playing somewhat second fiddle to Dora's jewellery venture and her burgeoning relationship with Edward. Although these other plotlines are perfectly enjoyable, the pithos and its mystique are given such attention early on that it creates false expectations.
Those issues aside, the plot as a whole is brimming with depth and all the topics it covers from jewellery to mythology to antiquities, have been impeccably researched. It takes some unexpected directions as certain characters are introduced and you always look forward to finding out what is going to happen next, especially as Edward learns more about the origin of the pithos and Hezekiah grows increasingly desperate to uncover its contents.
The author still manages to devote a lot of time to character development, and Dora in particular is given a lengthy backstory. This does mean that some sections involve telling rather than showing, but that felt appropriate as an extra timeline would have made things over-complicated - indeed the pacing felt just right all the way through. What was slightly more frustrating was that some important events happened off the page and we are only told about them afterwards, rendering them less impactful.
All of it is written in the third person, focusing on the three separate perspectives of Dora, Edward, and Hezekiah. This worked well and brought a good degree of contrast, with the tone of Hezekiah's chapters noticeably darker than the others and providing more of an insight into his motives. Also, the storylines of Dora and Edward compliment each other nicely as they are both enduring difficult lives until they meet.
Dora is a character made more interesting by her family history, but is likeable and over the course of the book develops a strong level of independence. That, and the growing success of her jewellery designs, make you really start to root for her as she emerges from her uncle's oppression. The fact she has a pet magpie also adds that little bit of quirkiness.
As for Edward, his story is fairly moving in places and he comes across as shy and unassuming. He is caring and kind-hearted, although he does become a bit too over-protective of Dora as his feelings for her grow. If you were instead hoping for Edward to be involved in a romance with his friend and benefactor Cornelius - as is heavily implied at the start - then you will be left disappointed.
Indeed, Cornelius is an entertaining character to read and it was a shame that he did not receive a happy ending. He is sharp-witted and in front of an oblivious Edward, never makes any attempt to hide his jealousy towards Dora, creating many of book's lighter moments. Lady Latimer was also highly memorable; haughty in the extreme and with an enormous sense of entitlement, yet not without the occasional hint of generosity.
Hezekiah comes across as brutish for the most part and is generally a very unpleasant person, but he is also quite scheming and becomes more dangerous as the story goes on. His maid Lottie is a similarly unlikable character to begin with, but she is given an excellent arc and is more or less fully redeemed by the end.
The historical time period and the Georgian London setting are reflected really well by the atmosphere that prevails throughout and the meticulous attention to detail. The attention given to the study of antiquities and the descriptions of things such as Dora's jewellery, the objects at Blake's Emporium, and Lady Latimer's soiree, all help to give the story even more depth.
That is just one example of how the writing is simply outstanding. The author's prose is a delight to behold, as sentences are weaved together with such beautiful refinement and lyricism, including lots of similes and personification. It is this more than anything that makes you want to keep reading, and for a debut author that is seriously impressive.
As far as the ending goes, that was rather less polished. Some things happen fairly randomly and others were not clearly explained, giving a minor impression that the author was making some of it up as she went along. There were some good twists and revelations along the way, but one or two others did not feel quite right in the context of the story.
Overall, the pure majesty and utterly absorbing quality of the writing makes this book enjoyable, even if the execution of the plot does leave one or two things to be desired. The concept is great and it at least remains intriguing to the last, creating anticipation for each new chapter. It excels in a number of areas, but is just slightly rough around the edges.
It is primarily a historical fiction, but with rather enticing elements of Greek mythology that give it that little bit of extra intrigue. These transpire to be more akin to magical realism than fantasy and along with the double meaning of the title, bring a lot of promise that something mesmerising awaits at the end. There is certainly lots to enjoy, only the mythology merely exists within the narrative rather than being the thing around which it is based.
The year is 1798 and after the death of her parents twelve years earlier at the site of an archaeological dig, Pandora Blake is living with her uncle Hezekiah at Blake's Emporium, a shop selling antiquities and other curious cultural artefacts. The goods Hezekiah sells are mostly forgeries or items obtained illegally, and Dora spends much of her time in her attic room feeling unloved with only her pet magpie Hermes for company, harbouring aspirations to be a renowned jewellery designer.
Meanwhile, Edward Lawrence is a bookbinder with a passion for material culture, determined to overcome his less than privileged upbringing to gain acceptance into the prestigious Society for Antiquaries. In a coffee house one afternoon, he is approached by a mysterious old man who directs him to Blake's Emporium to speak to Dora, explaining that she might be able to help him in his endeavours.
At around the same time, Hezekiah takes the delivery of a large item which he stores in the shop's basement and attempts to hide from Dora. However, she manages to get inside and there she discovers an enormous Grecian jar known as a pithos, with illustrations depicting the legend of Pandora. Something about it seems alive and she wonders what is inside. Then she meets and becomes close friends with Edward, and they begin working together in order to unlock the truth about the pithos.
There is so much packed into this story and every detail is a joy to read, but while the pithos maintains a constant presence and at first seems to be front and centre of everything, it ends up playing somewhat second fiddle to Dora's jewellery venture and her burgeoning relationship with Edward. Although these other plotlines are perfectly enjoyable, the pithos and its mystique are given such attention early on that it creates false expectations.
Those issues aside, the plot as a whole is brimming with depth and all the topics it covers from jewellery to mythology to antiquities, have been impeccably researched. It takes some unexpected directions as certain characters are introduced and you always look forward to finding out what is going to happen next, especially as Edward learns more about the origin of the pithos and Hezekiah grows increasingly desperate to uncover its contents.
The author still manages to devote a lot of time to character development, and Dora in particular is given a lengthy backstory. This does mean that some sections involve telling rather than showing, but that felt appropriate as an extra timeline would have made things over-complicated - indeed the pacing felt just right all the way through. What was slightly more frustrating was that some important events happened off the page and we are only told about them afterwards, rendering them less impactful.
All of it is written in the third person, focusing on the three separate perspectives of Dora, Edward, and Hezekiah. This worked well and brought a good degree of contrast, with the tone of Hezekiah's chapters noticeably darker than the others and providing more of an insight into his motives. Also, the storylines of Dora and Edward compliment each other nicely as they are both enduring difficult lives until they meet.
Dora is a character made more interesting by her family history, but is likeable and over the course of the book develops a strong level of independence. That, and the growing success of her jewellery designs, make you really start to root for her as she emerges from her uncle's oppression. The fact she has a pet magpie also adds that little bit of quirkiness.
As for Edward, his story is fairly moving in places and he comes across as shy and unassuming. He is caring and kind-hearted, although he does become a bit too over-protective of Dora as his feelings for her grow. If you were instead hoping for Edward to be involved in a romance with his friend and benefactor Cornelius - as is heavily implied at the start - then you will be left disappointed.
Indeed, Cornelius is an entertaining character to read and it was a shame that he did not receive a happy ending. He is sharp-witted and in front of an oblivious Edward, never makes any attempt to hide his jealousy towards Dora, creating many of book's lighter moments. Lady Latimer was also highly memorable; haughty in the extreme and with an enormous sense of entitlement, yet not without the occasional hint of generosity.
Hezekiah comes across as brutish for the most part and is generally a very unpleasant person, but he is also quite scheming and becomes more dangerous as the story goes on. His maid Lottie is a similarly unlikable character to begin with, but she is given an excellent arc and is more or less fully redeemed by the end.
The historical time period and the Georgian London setting are reflected really well by the atmosphere that prevails throughout and the meticulous attention to detail. The attention given to the study of antiquities and the descriptions of things such as Dora's jewellery, the objects at Blake's Emporium, and Lady Latimer's soiree, all help to give the story even more depth.
That is just one example of how the writing is simply outstanding. The author's prose is a delight to behold, as sentences are weaved together with such beautiful refinement and lyricism, including lots of similes and personification. It is this more than anything that makes you want to keep reading, and for a debut author that is seriously impressive.
As far as the ending goes, that was rather less polished. Some things happen fairly randomly and others were not clearly explained, giving a minor impression that the author was making some of it up as she went along. There were some good twists and revelations along the way, but one or two others did not feel quite right in the context of the story.
Overall, the pure majesty and utterly absorbing quality of the writing makes this book enjoyable, even if the execution of the plot does leave one or two things to be desired. The concept is great and it at least remains intriguing to the last, creating anticipation for each new chapter. It excels in a number of areas, but is just slightly rough around the edges.
February 24, 2022
What a stunning cover, perfectly portraying so many aspects of the story.
I loved this book, historical fiction woven with mystery and Greek mythology? What's not to love?! Dora was a gorgeous character, with heart and a passion for her art and jewellery, but who was living with her awful uncle after the death of her parents. And Edward, lovely Edward. A man who wanted recognition for his work on antiques, but was struggling to get it.
Then the pithos comes into play, and I am desperate to see this in a film. The descriptions in the book just scream 'stunning' and I am certain my imagination comes nowhere near its beauty.
The mystery surrounding the pithos keeps the reader turning the pages, and I definitely saw similarities between my favourite historical mystery 'The Lost Apothecary' and this one in terms of the gripping plot, keeping the reader engaged and thinking about it all day.
The ending was rather complex, but a book that tackles so many intricate details and myths is bound to be, and it was achieved very well.
This book is incredible for a debut!
I loved this book, historical fiction woven with mystery and Greek mythology? What's not to love?! Dora was a gorgeous character, with heart and a passion for her art and jewellery, but who was living with her awful uncle after the death of her parents. And Edward, lovely Edward. A man who wanted recognition for his work on antiques, but was struggling to get it.
Then the pithos comes into play, and I am desperate to see this in a film. The descriptions in the book just scream 'stunning' and I am certain my imagination comes nowhere near its beauty.
The mystery surrounding the pithos keeps the reader turning the pages, and I definitely saw similarities between my favourite historical mystery 'The Lost Apothecary' and this one in terms of the gripping plot, keeping the reader engaged and thinking about it all day.
The ending was rather complex, but a book that tackles so many intricate details and myths is bound to be, and it was achieved very well.
This book is incredible for a debut!
June 16, 2022
„Пандора" от Сюзън Стоукс-Чапман не беше попаднала в списъка ми за четене. С няколко приятели си направихме малък книжен клуб - в началото на месеца всеки от нас предлага четиво и на случаен принцип теглим едно от заглавията. Историята на Дора Блек се оказа, че ще е книгата за месец юни, така че се захванах бързо с нея.
Интересно измислена история, която съдържа добри идеи, която за жалост беше доста предвидима. Някои от елементите в книгата ми се видяха ненужни и излишно утежняващи четенето. Нещо странно - всички герои ми бяха интригуващи с изключение на главната героиня. Не успях да се развълнувам за нея, да резонирам с чувствата, които бушуват в нея.
Въпреки казаното в горния абзац, смятам че историята има доста потенциал и ми беше интересно да чета за гръцка митология, питоси, археологически разкопки и не на последно място - действие, развиващо се през 1799 г. в Лондон. Атмосферата беше добре изградена, а знаете (ако сте чели мои ревюта), че това е важно за мен.
Бих дала шанс на следваща книга от авторката, защото смятам, че ще осъвършенства минусите по-нататък. И не последно място - защото накрая на книгата има материал, в който Сюзън Стоукс-Чапман описва кое от сюжета е спрямо истинската история, кои източници е използвала, кои от споменатите герои наистина са съществували, а също така и къде (и защо) си е позволила да използва художествена измислица.
Реалната ми оценка за книгата е 3.5.
Интересно измислена история, която съдържа добри идеи, която за жалост беше доста предвидима. Някои от елементите в книгата ми се видяха ненужни и излишно утежняващи четенето. Нещо странно - всички герои ми бяха интригуващи с изключение на главната героиня. Не успях да се развълнувам за нея, да резонирам с чувствата, които бушуват в нея.
Въпреки казаното в горния абзац, смятам че историята има доста потенциал и ми беше интересно да чета за гръцка митология, питоси, археологически разкопки и не на последно място - действие, развиващо се през 1799 г. в Лондон. Атмосферата беше добре изградена, а знаете (ако сте чели мои ревюта), че това е важно за мен.
Бих дала шанс на следваща книга от авторката, защото смятам, че ще осъвършенства минусите по-нататък. И не последно място - защото накрая на книгата има материал, в който Сюзън Стоукс-Чапман описва кое от сюжета е спрямо истинската история, кои източници е използвала, кои от споменатите герои наистина са съществували, а също така и къде (и защо) си е позволила да използва художествена измислица.
Реалната ми оценка за книгата е 3.5.
July 1, 2022
Не беше това което очаквах…
Тъгнах с нагласата за модерно градско фентъзи, а завърших с крими/трилър развиващ се в края на 18ти век.
‼️СПОЙЛЕР‼️
Според мен тази книга е всичко друго, но не и фентъзи с митологичен елемент.
Не мога да кажа, че книгата е лоша, но определено има доста трески за дялкане в самата история и най-вече в персонажите… Боже, толкова да не ми пукаше какво се случва с Пандора/Дора и Едуард, че не е реално 🤣
Според мен, ако ви се чете нещо НЕзатирмозявящо и НЕнатоварващо, с доста описания, доза изкуство, древна вяза, страхотна сврака♥️(най-страхотното нещо в книгата) и лека мистерия, ви предлага да и дадете шанс…
И за да съм по-точен, оценката ми е между 2,5-2,75 та не са пълни 3⭐️
Тъгнах с нагласата за модерно градско фентъзи, а завърших с крими/трилър развиващ се в края на 18ти век.
‼️СПОЙЛЕР‼️
Според мен тази книга е всичко друго, но не и фентъзи с митологичен елемент.
Не мога да кажа, че книгата е лоша, но определено има доста трески за дялкане в самата история и най-вече в персонажите… Боже, толкова да не ми пукаше какво се случва с Пандора/Дора и Едуард, че не е реално 🤣
Според мен, ако ви се чете нещо НЕзатирмозявящо и НЕнатоварващо, с доста описания, доза изкуство, древна вяза, страхотна сврака♥️(най-страхотното нещо в книгата) и лека мистерия, ви предлага да и дадете шанс…
И за да съм по-точен, оценката ми е между 2,5-2,75 та не са пълни 3⭐️
March 23, 2023
2,5⭐️
5/10
5/10
January 28, 2023
This is not a Greek retelling but an intriguing historical fiction novel set in late 1790s London. However, the myth of Pandora's box (which should hereby be renamed Pandora's Jar) is central to the plot.
Elements I enjoyed:
The Georgian setting.
Dora's pet bird, a magpie named Hermes.
The redemption of the "bad" woman, which leads to solidarity among the female characters.
Edward, the love interest is a morally grey.
Dora's deepest desire is to make a living as a jewelry designer. Reading about her designs was fascinating.
This was a quick read and enjoyable as a whole, but the ending felt very rushed and a little unpolished. Overall, I really liked the novel and plan to read the author's next work.
Thanks to Harper Perennial for my gifted copy.
Elements I enjoyed:
The Georgian setting.
Dora's pet bird, a magpie named Hermes.
The redemption of the "bad" woman, which leads to solidarity among the female characters.
Edward, the love interest is a morally grey.
Dora's deepest desire is to make a living as a jewelry designer. Reading about her designs was fascinating.
This was a quick read and enjoyable as a whole, but the ending felt very rushed and a little unpolished. Overall, I really liked the novel and plan to read the author's next work.
Thanks to Harper Perennial for my gifted copy.
December 26, 2022
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: January 17, 2023
After the tragic death of her parents during an archaeological excavation, Dora Blake is now living with her uncle, Hezekiah, in her parents’ antiquities shop. But Hezekiah does not have the interest in antiquities her parents had and he is slowly destroying her parents’ once loved business. Dora is desperate to escape from her uncles’ care, and is hoping to turn her love of drawing and jewelry making into a career, giving her the independence she craves. When her uncle imports a Grecian vase, one so old that it predates time itself, Dora feels an immediate connection. While anyone else who touches it or means it harm is instantly cursed, Dora continues to be the only one to open it and she uses its Greek inscriptions and drawings as inspiration for her jewellery. But Hezekiah has darker plans for the vase, and even darker plans for Dora, and when Dora realizes the true importance of the urn, her life is put at greater risk.
“Pandora” is a historical fiction gem, the debut novel by author Susan Stokes-Chapman. Set in London in 1799, Chapman’s novel manages to merge Greek mythology and Georgian England in a creative and realistic way. The story is told from three POV’s; Dora, Edward (a historian with a passion for antiquities and Dora’s love interest) and Hezekiah himself. I loved how Chapman brought all three characters alternatively into the limelight, as it served to deepen the plot and character development.
Dora is smart, feisty and absolutely fierce, and she instantly became a character to root for. Her background and history is emotional and heartbreaking, yet she does not ask for pity, and only wants to work hard at what she loves in order to gain independence from her manipulative uncle. Stokes-Chapman took some liberties with the historical facts in this novel, and she admits to these herself in the authors’ notes, but it is a fiction novel, and anything she chose to omit or alter only made the novel more enjoyable.
I loved the creativity of this novel, and it stands out for its uniqueness. The fact that this is a debut novel only further highlights the talent that Stokes-Chapman has. “Pandora” is full of intrigue, and I can’t wait to see what Stokes-Chapman delivers next!
Expected publication date: January 17, 2023
After the tragic death of her parents during an archaeological excavation, Dora Blake is now living with her uncle, Hezekiah, in her parents’ antiquities shop. But Hezekiah does not have the interest in antiquities her parents had and he is slowly destroying her parents’ once loved business. Dora is desperate to escape from her uncles’ care, and is hoping to turn her love of drawing and jewelry making into a career, giving her the independence she craves. When her uncle imports a Grecian vase, one so old that it predates time itself, Dora feels an immediate connection. While anyone else who touches it or means it harm is instantly cursed, Dora continues to be the only one to open it and she uses its Greek inscriptions and drawings as inspiration for her jewellery. But Hezekiah has darker plans for the vase, and even darker plans for Dora, and when Dora realizes the true importance of the urn, her life is put at greater risk.
“Pandora” is a historical fiction gem, the debut novel by author Susan Stokes-Chapman. Set in London in 1799, Chapman’s novel manages to merge Greek mythology and Georgian England in a creative and realistic way. The story is told from three POV’s; Dora, Edward (a historian with a passion for antiquities and Dora’s love interest) and Hezekiah himself. I loved how Chapman brought all three characters alternatively into the limelight, as it served to deepen the plot and character development.
Dora is smart, feisty and absolutely fierce, and she instantly became a character to root for. Her background and history is emotional and heartbreaking, yet she does not ask for pity, and only wants to work hard at what she loves in order to gain independence from her manipulative uncle. Stokes-Chapman took some liberties with the historical facts in this novel, and she admits to these herself in the authors’ notes, but it is a fiction novel, and anything she chose to omit or alter only made the novel more enjoyable.
I loved the creativity of this novel, and it stands out for its uniqueness. The fact that this is a debut novel only further highlights the talent that Stokes-Chapman has. “Pandora” is full of intrigue, and I can’t wait to see what Stokes-Chapman delivers next!
September 15, 2022
2.5 stars - Had high expectations for this book (a historical novel set in Georgian London with mythological aspects and a magpie?? Count me in!) Unfortunately it just didn’t deliver imo. The characters felt a bit one-dimensional (any talk of interesting character backgrounds was only brief - felt like it was only included to give the impression of there being more depth to the characters than there actually was); the plot’s pacing felt off (it was very slow at the start and then towards the end it felt really rushed) and the plot in general was just a bit lacklustre tbh.
August 16, 2022
Bland characters, bland romance, mystery badly dealt with a bad silly ending.
Also it looks like the author never heard of social class in 1800, since her protagonists become bff with the higher class in no time being shops clerks.
At a certain point Dora is the "guest of honor" because she created a jewel to this very important noblewoman. Just no. That is not how it worked.
The author has graduated in English let, how could she have skipped every single XIX sec. book?
Also it looks like the author never heard of social class in 1800, since her protagonists become bff with the higher class in no time being shops clerks.
At a certain point Dora is the "guest of honor" because she created a jewel to this very important noblewoman. Just no. That is not how it worked.
The author has graduated in English let, how could she have skipped every single XIX sec. book?
September 21, 2022
I really enjoyed this especially that it was set during the Georgian period which is fast becoming one of my favorite eras.
Set in 1799 Pandora Blake is living with and helping her uncle manage a once prosperous antiquities shop that was run by her parents who were tragically killed in an archaeological dig when she was just a child. The shop once the center of fascinating artifacts her parents collected and sold has become a run down establishment selling cheaply made fakes and forgeries that her shrewd uncle tries to pass off to unsuspecting customers. Knowing this Pandora quietly ekes out her life in the background wishing that one day the custom jewelry pieces she dreams of making for the gentry will one day catch someone's eye and allow her to prosper on her own. During one of her uncle's mysterious shipments to the shop Pandora discovers a beautiful Greek vase locked in the basement that serves as her inspiration to create the elaborate pieces she needs in order to finally gain a commission. But why has her uncle been hiding this spectacular vase if this is what could help put him on the map and be legit? And why is the vase so beautiful yet seems to have a mysterious power to it? Pandora making this discovery in the basement sets off a chain of events that will cause her heartbreak and lead her to unanswered questions surrounding her parents deaths.
This was pretty intriguing for me and nicely finished up the threads of the storyline till the end. I am recommending it.
Thanks to Edelweiss and NetGalley and for simultaneously granting me copies of this copy in exchange for my review.
Set in 1799 Pandora Blake is living with and helping her uncle manage a once prosperous antiquities shop that was run by her parents who were tragically killed in an archaeological dig when she was just a child. The shop once the center of fascinating artifacts her parents collected and sold has become a run down establishment selling cheaply made fakes and forgeries that her shrewd uncle tries to pass off to unsuspecting customers. Knowing this Pandora quietly ekes out her life in the background wishing that one day the custom jewelry pieces she dreams of making for the gentry will one day catch someone's eye and allow her to prosper on her own. During one of her uncle's mysterious shipments to the shop Pandora discovers a beautiful Greek vase locked in the basement that serves as her inspiration to create the elaborate pieces she needs in order to finally gain a commission. But why has her uncle been hiding this spectacular vase if this is what could help put him on the map and be legit? And why is the vase so beautiful yet seems to have a mysterious power to it? Pandora making this discovery in the basement sets off a chain of events that will cause her heartbreak and lead her to unanswered questions surrounding her parents deaths.
This was pretty intriguing for me and nicely finished up the threads of the storyline till the end. I am recommending it.
Thanks to Edelweiss and NetGalley and for simultaneously granting me copies of this copy in exchange for my review.
July 14, 2023
Dora is living with her uncle in London, in what used to be her parents’ antiquities shop. She wants to design jewelry, which isn’t exactly something that women get to do in 1799.
When a vase arrives at the shop, Dora suspects that her uncle is up to no good.
Her uncle is becoming more secretive and sinister in his actions.
To try and find answers and stop her uncle, Dora befriends Edward, a book binder who wants to become a full-time antiquarian scholar.
What can they discover about this vase?
Will they be able to stop Dora’s uncle in time?
Is there any truth to the curse waiting to be unleashed?
This book feels like a mix of historical fiction and Greek mythology and the realities of London life during the Georgian era.
The author’s writing gives a sense of a lurking, oppressive dangerous presence felt…no spoilers from me.
Lots of images and feelings, and not always pleasant!
The characters are well-developed.
The story is a fast-paced, page-turner.
When a vase arrives at the shop, Dora suspects that her uncle is up to no good.
Her uncle is becoming more secretive and sinister in his actions.
To try and find answers and stop her uncle, Dora befriends Edward, a book binder who wants to become a full-time antiquarian scholar.
What can they discover about this vase?
Will they be able to stop Dora’s uncle in time?
Is there any truth to the curse waiting to be unleashed?
This book feels like a mix of historical fiction and Greek mythology and the realities of London life during the Georgian era.
The author’s writing gives a sense of a lurking, oppressive dangerous presence felt…no spoilers from me.
Lots of images and feelings, and not always pleasant!
The characters are well-developed.
The story is a fast-paced, page-turner.
January 22, 2023
Characters were pretty boring, nothing that exciting about the story and the writing was a little mediocre and not that enticing unfortunately. Hezekiah was more of a cartoon villain that had a ‘I would’ve gotten away with it too if it wasn’t for you meddling kids’ vibe. Sometimes the scenes either felt rushed or like it had to be made longer to reach a word count. I felt very bored and had to skim read. Nice that Edward and Dora finally got together at the end though.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 2, 2024
Vorlesebuch :-)
Die 3 Sterne sind nur der Atmosphäre und der Idee geschuldet, die Charaktere fand ich ziemlich eindimensional, die Geschichte vorhersehbar.
Die 3 Sterne sind nur der Atmosphäre und der Idee geschuldet, die Charaktere fand ich ziemlich eindimensional, die Geschichte vorhersehbar.
February 27, 2022
A beautiful cover with gorgeous sprayed/stenciled edges about one dimensional characters, a story that goes nowhere and a romance that was in it just for the sake of it... If not for the buddy read, I would have DNFd it for sure
December 27, 2022
Actual rating: 4.5 stars, rounded up.
I received an audio copy of this novel from the publisher, Harper Audio, via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I know you’re not supposed to judge a book by its cover, but that’s what initially drew me to Pandora. While not yet officially available in the US, it’s been out in the UK since January of 2022, and I had read some mixed reviews about it. But something about it still called to me, and when the audio became available to request on NetGalley, I jumped at the chance. I’m incredibly glad that I did, because this story was incredible, and I actually don’t know that I would have enjoyed it quite so much in any other format.
Our setting is London, 1799. Pandora “Dora” Blake is the orphaned daughter of noted antiquarians who specialized in Grecian artifacts and who died tragically on a dig site when Dora was just a girl. Dora’s uncle, Hezekiah, gained custody of both Dora and her parents’ London shop. There is no love lost between them. Hezekiah has always resented Dora, and Dora despises Hezekiah for running her birthright into the ground and slowly ruining the reputation her parents had built during their lifetime. Dora dreams of designing high-end jewelry and buying herself a life free from Hezekiah’s control. Along the way, Dora meets Edward Lawrence, an aspiring antiquarian, and they determine to help one another. When a Greek pithos of indeterminable age and in pristine condition makes its way to the shop, family secrets and buried trauma slowly, and almost sinisterly, comes to a head.
Even though I went into this novel hopeful, I have to confess that I didn’t have very high expectations. I have a serious weakness for anything inspired by Greek mythology, but I also can’t seem to help but judge said inspired stories a bit harshly, as well. And I’m just starting to get into historical fiction, which has always been a very hit-or-miss genre for me. But Pandora was recommended for fans of The Essex Serpent, which made me even more hopeful. My expectations were not only met, but exceeded. I can’t definitely see why it was compared to Sarah Perry’s work, and I can’t wait to get a physical copy to shelf next to The Essex Serpent. While not quite as philosophically profound, Pandora definitely scratched the same itch.
I loved the fact that I couldn’t decide whether or not there was a touch of magical realism to this book. Much like The Essex Serpent, it straddles that divide in such a way that you’re never entirely certain. Though, in this case, I’m leaning strongly in the direction of there being just a touch of the supernatural housed within the story. Especially when it comes to the pithos itself. It’s beautiful and somehow disturbing in its perfection, magnetic and repellant. I loved the undercurrent of similarities between Dora and her Grecian namesake. And the identity hinted at for one particular side character near the end of novel was a very fun touch.
While Pandora got off to a bit of a slow start, the tension and the atmosphere in this book were absolutely fantastic. I really enjoyed my reading of it. I highly recommend this audio version, as Olivia Vinall did an excellent job. This is one of those stories that I’m not sure I would have enjoyed to quite this extent had I read it with only my eyes instead of my ears. Listening to Pandora gave me strong Dickensian vibes, but with less meandering in the storytelling itself. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves historical fiction, or a good mystery. It’s a book that I can see myself reading again, and one that I look forward to adding to my physical collection someday.
You can find this review and more at Novel Notions.
I received an audio copy of this novel from the publisher, Harper Audio, via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I know you’re not supposed to judge a book by its cover, but that’s what initially drew me to Pandora. While not yet officially available in the US, it’s been out in the UK since January of 2022, and I had read some mixed reviews about it. But something about it still called to me, and when the audio became available to request on NetGalley, I jumped at the chance. I’m incredibly glad that I did, because this story was incredible, and I actually don’t know that I would have enjoyed it quite so much in any other format.
Our setting is London, 1799. Pandora “Dora” Blake is the orphaned daughter of noted antiquarians who specialized in Grecian artifacts and who died tragically on a dig site when Dora was just a girl. Dora’s uncle, Hezekiah, gained custody of both Dora and her parents’ London shop. There is no love lost between them. Hezekiah has always resented Dora, and Dora despises Hezekiah for running her birthright into the ground and slowly ruining the reputation her parents had built during their lifetime. Dora dreams of designing high-end jewelry and buying herself a life free from Hezekiah’s control. Along the way, Dora meets Edward Lawrence, an aspiring antiquarian, and they determine to help one another. When a Greek pithos of indeterminable age and in pristine condition makes its way to the shop, family secrets and buried trauma slowly, and almost sinisterly, comes to a head.
Even though I went into this novel hopeful, I have to confess that I didn’t have very high expectations. I have a serious weakness for anything inspired by Greek mythology, but I also can’t seem to help but judge said inspired stories a bit harshly, as well. And I’m just starting to get into historical fiction, which has always been a very hit-or-miss genre for me. But Pandora was recommended for fans of The Essex Serpent, which made me even more hopeful. My expectations were not only met, but exceeded. I can’t definitely see why it was compared to Sarah Perry’s work, and I can’t wait to get a physical copy to shelf next to The Essex Serpent. While not quite as philosophically profound, Pandora definitely scratched the same itch.
I loved the fact that I couldn’t decide whether or not there was a touch of magical realism to this book. Much like The Essex Serpent, it straddles that divide in such a way that you’re never entirely certain. Though, in this case, I’m leaning strongly in the direction of there being just a touch of the supernatural housed within the story. Especially when it comes to the pithos itself. It’s beautiful and somehow disturbing in its perfection, magnetic and repellant. I loved the undercurrent of similarities between Dora and her Grecian namesake. And the identity hinted at for one particular side character near the end of novel was a very fun touch.
While Pandora got off to a bit of a slow start, the tension and the atmosphere in this book were absolutely fantastic. I really enjoyed my reading of it. I highly recommend this audio version, as Olivia Vinall did an excellent job. This is one of those stories that I’m not sure I would have enjoyed to quite this extent had I read it with only my eyes instead of my ears. Listening to Pandora gave me strong Dickensian vibes, but with less meandering in the storytelling itself. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves historical fiction, or a good mystery. It’s a book that I can see myself reading again, and one that I look forward to adding to my physical collection someday.
You can find this review and more at Novel Notions.
April 10, 2023
3,75✨
To była niezwykle klimatyczna historia. Niespieszna, traktująca o ludzkiej chciwości i jej konsekwencjach. To wszystko wzbogacone o mitologię grecką, której ja jestem fanką🫶🏻
Niestety zakończenie nie dało mi 100% satysfakcji, bo było lekko przyspieszone a główni bohaterowie osiągnęli to, co chcieli bez zbyt dużego wysiłku.
Niemniej trzeba przyznać, że był to naprawdę dobry debiut!
To była niezwykle klimatyczna historia. Niespieszna, traktująca o ludzkiej chciwości i jej konsekwencjach. To wszystko wzbogacone o mitologię grecką, której ja jestem fanką🫶🏻
Niestety zakończenie nie dało mi 100% satysfakcji, bo było lekko przyspieszone a główni bohaterowie osiągnęli to, co chcieli bez zbyt dużego wysiłku.
Niemniej trzeba przyznać, że był to naprawdę dobry debiut!
December 16, 2021
Set in London in 1799, Pandora tells the story of Dora Blake who lives with her uncle in an antique shop formerly owned by her parents. Dora knows that her uncle doesn’t exactly sell genuine items & is longing for a route out of the life she’s living. She is an aspiring jewellery artist but is continually knocked back by a jeweller due to being a woman (although he won’t admit it!).
Dora discovers that her uncle is hiding a mysterious Greek vase in the basement of the shop & sets out to find out why he is keeping it a secret. The vase appears to have many hidden secrets & it’s discovery by Dora leads her to unravel more about her past & what happened to her parents.
I’m a huge fan of historical fiction & Pandora did not disappoint in that regard. It is a wonderfully descriptive novel in terms of the settings, characters, their mannerisms & costume (particularly Lady Latimer who is a small character with a big personality!).
I also love books with a central female character who doesn’t bow down to men & stays focused on bettering herself against the odds, especially in a time when women were expected to do as they were told! Again, Pandora lives up to my expectations in this regard. I was hugely invested in Dora’s story & was intrigued to discover the truth behind her uncle’s underhand dealings.
Beautifully written, wonderful story, highly recommend!
Dora discovers that her uncle is hiding a mysterious Greek vase in the basement of the shop & sets out to find out why he is keeping it a secret. The vase appears to have many hidden secrets & it’s discovery by Dora leads her to unravel more about her past & what happened to her parents.
I’m a huge fan of historical fiction & Pandora did not disappoint in that regard. It is a wonderfully descriptive novel in terms of the settings, characters, their mannerisms & costume (particularly Lady Latimer who is a small character with a big personality!).
I also love books with a central female character who doesn’t bow down to men & stays focused on bettering herself against the odds, especially in a time when women were expected to do as they were told! Again, Pandora lives up to my expectations in this regard. I was hugely invested in Dora’s story & was intrigued to discover the truth behind her uncle’s underhand dealings.
Beautifully written, wonderful story, highly recommend!
May 8, 2023
3,5✨ - o combinație destul de reușită între ficțiune istorică, mituri grecești, lăcomie umană și dragoste, în câteva din multele ei forme ☺️
CE MI-A PLĂCUT:
• setting-ul. Londra în iarna lui 1799 😍.
• atmosfera a reușit să mă țină constant în poveste.
• personajele. Chiar dacă sunt simple, am empatizat cu cei 2 protagoniști. Dacă ar fi totuși să aleg un personaj preferat, ar fi Dora.
• firul narativ. Și aici tot ceva simplu a fost, dar mi-a fost ușor să-l urmăresc și mi-a stârnit interesul pe tot parcursul lecturii.
• mitul Pandorei. Cartea nu este un retelling, deci a fost interesantă incorporarea mitului grecesc într-o poveste nouă.
• scriitura autoarei s-a pliat pe specificul cărții ❤️.
CE NU MI-A PLĂCUT:
• finalul grăbit. A fost simpatic per total, dar aș fi preferat ceva o idee mai complex.
• ritmul ușor asincron. Au fost momente când ori stătea acțiunea pe loc, ori înainta prea repede. Chiar dacă nu am simțit ceva deranjant pe parcursul lecturii, acum când mă gândesc la cum au evoluat lucrurile, văd dezechilibrul ăsta.
• a lipsit ceva, parcă nu s-au legat chiar cum trebuie elementele lecturii: worldbuilding, setting, personaje, acțiune. Nu e ceva anume pe care pot pune degetul, dar e ceva ce a umbrit cartea.
CE MI-A PLĂCUT:
• setting-ul. Londra în iarna lui 1799 😍.
• atmosfera a reușit să mă țină constant în poveste.
• personajele. Chiar dacă sunt simple, am empatizat cu cei 2 protagoniști. Dacă ar fi totuși să aleg un personaj preferat, ar fi Dora.
• firul narativ. Și aici tot ceva simplu a fost, dar mi-a fost ușor să-l urmăresc și mi-a stârnit interesul pe tot parcursul lecturii.
• mitul Pandorei. Cartea nu este un retelling, deci a fost interesantă incorporarea mitului grecesc într-o poveste nouă.
• scriitura autoarei s-a pliat pe specificul cărții ❤️.
CE NU MI-A PLĂCUT:
• finalul grăbit. A fost simpatic per total, dar aș fi preferat ceva o idee mai complex.
• ritmul ușor asincron. Au fost momente când ori stătea acțiunea pe loc, ori înainta prea repede. Chiar dacă nu am simțit ceva deranjant pe parcursul lecturii, acum când mă gândesc la cum au evoluat lucrurile, văd dezechilibrul ăsta.
• a lipsit ceva, parcă nu s-au legat chiar cum trebuie elementele lecturii: worldbuilding, setting, personaje, acțiune. Nu e ceva anume pe care pot pune degetul, dar e ceva ce a umbrit cartea.
August 9, 2021
London, 1799. Dora Blake has aspirations far out reaching what society deems fit for a lady such as herself; jewellery that befits those of high society and elegance that will be talked about by everyone and Dora wants nothing more than to be an artist to make this happen but sadly she must be under the constant scrutiny of her uncle who has taken ownership of her parents’ once famed shop of the rarest antiques.
One day a mysterious Greek vase which is bigger than Dora herself is delivered and her uncles odd and suspicious behaviour does nothing to dampen her intrigue of what this item is or why it is now locked in the basement out of view from prying eyes.
Edward Lawrence is a young man also seeking acceptance but of a different kind as he strives to be a part of the Society of Antiquities even though those in charge don’t share his views or vision and when Dora enlists him to help her unlock whatever secrets this vase holds, both of them may very well have wish they had left this ancient relic alone….
Upon a shocking discovery by Edward, Dora questions everything she has ever known about her life, her family and her very being. But some things are better left buried as her uncle is privy with his fair share of dark secrets and should Dora discover it, her very world could break apart more quickly than the most precious antique.
Mysterious, enthralling, emotional and original, Pandora is a triumph of a debut.
One day a mysterious Greek vase which is bigger than Dora herself is delivered and her uncles odd and suspicious behaviour does nothing to dampen her intrigue of what this item is or why it is now locked in the basement out of view from prying eyes.
Edward Lawrence is a young man also seeking acceptance but of a different kind as he strives to be a part of the Society of Antiquities even though those in charge don’t share his views or vision and when Dora enlists him to help her unlock whatever secrets this vase holds, both of them may very well have wish they had left this ancient relic alone….
Upon a shocking discovery by Edward, Dora questions everything she has ever known about her life, her family and her very being. But some things are better left buried as her uncle is privy with his fair share of dark secrets and should Dora discover it, her very world could break apart more quickly than the most precious antique.
Mysterious, enthralling, emotional and original, Pandora is a triumph of a debut.
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