A man travels to Israel to uncover a diamond’s remarkable past in this vivid historical saga from the New York Times–bestselling author of The Physician. A diamond cutter and seller from a long, respected line of precious-gem dealers, New Yorker Harry Hopeman is intrigued by the story of the so-called “Jerusalem Diamond,” a magnificent yellow jewel rumored to date back to the biblical time of … back to the biblical time of King Solomon. So when he’s asked to broker a deal that will return the legendary gemstone to Israel, he eagerly accepts.
Arriving in the volatile Middle East, Hopeman soon discovers that his assignment will be anything but easy. Representatives of the Holy Land’s three major religions—Judaism, Christianity, and Islam—are all laying claim to the priceless jewel that once adorned the miter of Pope Gregory, and they will do anything to possess it.
Partnering with Israeli government agent Tamar Strauss—a beautiful and courageous Yemenite war widow who inspires the visiting American’s passion as well as his respect—Hopeman is soon entangled in a web of mystery and intrigue that crosses continents and stretches back thousands of years. As the duo follows the twisting travels of the gem and the bloody conflicts it has ignited throughout its extraordinary past—a history that intertwines with Hopeman’s own family saga—the story of a breathtaking land and its people unfolds in all its drama and glory.
International-bestselling author Noah Gordon—whose acclaimed historical novel The Physician was the inspiration for the major motion picture of the same name starring Ben Kingsley— “has packed a suspense tale with religious, historical and archeological underpinnings, along with fascinating insights into an industry whose conduct is generally shrouded from outside scrutiny” (The Philadelphia Inquirer).
more
This is an older book (1979). However, it seems so current that I didn’t check the publishing date until the lead character gave his son a portable typewriter for a Bar Mitzvah gift. The reason for my time warp is that it is about a business trip to Jerusalem and, unfortunately, the situation in Israel hasn’t have changed much. Noah Gordon has …
Noah has a remarkable talent for delving into the past and connecting it effectively with current events. This is a compelling look into Jewish history. Almost as interesting is his description of the age old jewelry trade. Great history coupled with real characters. I read out in about a day and a half. Didn’t put out down.
I read this awhile ago can’t remember specifically what I liked about it
After reading this Noah Gordon book I subsequently bought and read the rest of his books. The Cole trilogy was my favorite. It was a joy to find an author so both literate and interesting.
Intriguing
A little heavy handed at times, but still a really good read.
marvelous look into the Jewish life and interaction between two cultures and two different generation.
So so
Noah Gordon attempts a multi-layered book, such as those Michener writes. Unfortunately Gordon is not as skilled a writer. The book begins with the ancient Hebrews creating a treasure map etched on copper. The map tells where the most significant religious artifacts from the Temple are to be hidden before Jerusalem is overrun in battle and the …
Slow going, and just not my cup of tea. For someone else, it might be fantastic.
It is the kind of historical novel that I always like and learn from.
Noah Gordon is an excellent writer. The places described are very real.
Interesting tale with descriptions of Israel locations and some anecdotal histories in Spain, Italy, USA, Israel. Published in 1979, I found it dated in language and social attitudes.
A good read, with a different approach to the male-female relationship.
The ending is somewhat different and suprising
This a great author who creates great characters and develops a truly unique story! I like this author and his story lines. His characters are fleshed out and realistic! I look forward to reading his books!
I thoroughly enjoyed the historical aspects of this book; however, I feel the author added too much romance which almost turned and otherwise enjoyable book into a romance novel.
The story of the diamond and diamond cutting through the generations was fascinating.
Very well- written historical novel. While it was not a page-turner, the plot moved along quickly enough to hold my interest throughout. I learned a great deal about Jewish history, and really enjoyed the story-telling. (Even the surprise at the end)
Interesting but hard to follow as it jumps from Biblical times to present day and times in between with no idea that the time period has changed
It was good but not as good as other books he had written.
to hard to get into-lost interest. not like his other books