Introduction

When Gerel Garnier, Paris’ up-and-coming jewelry designer, is commissioned by Britain’s famous art patron William Blackwell IV to create a replica of the 19th Century Qing Dynasty Empress Seal, she believes that her artist’s dream is finally coming true. Blackwell’s name and fortune could catapult her to the status of crème de la crème in the world of couture art design. Little does she know that the dream job will lure her into a web of treachery, deceit and murder.

While attending the unveiling of the original Empress Seal at the Forbidden City, Gerel stumbles on a startling secret about her family roots, and she is a woman on a mission ever since. From the Forbidden City back to Paris, she careens from dark secrets to illuminating revelation as the truth of her lineage emerges. An enlightening epiphany hits her: She Gerel Garnier, is the heir of the face of the Empress Seal–a rare gemstone that has witnessed centuries of love, hatred, faith and bloodshed. Now the face of the seal has fallen unexpectedly into her hands. What is she going to do with the gemstone that seems to be a curse to whoever possesses it yet still hunted by the dark forces of the world?

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Excerpt

CHAPTER 4


Paris, two months before the murder

She was putting final touches on a sketch of gingko leaf earrings when her cell vibrated on the coffee table. She leaned forward to look at the screen. Some number she didn’t recognize. She hit the “decline” button and settled back on the couch. The cell buzzed again, began to shimmy toward the edge of the table. She caught the phone before it could fall to the floor. This time the screen displayed a name, André, Design Directeur of the Cartier House, her most important client. ... view entire excerpt...

Discussion Questions

1. Gerel grew up and lives in current day in Paris France while Sarnai was born and lived in 19th century China. What have and have not changed between now and then for young women like Gerel and Sarnai in their struggle for freedom and independence?
2. What did you like most and least about the book?
3. Do you have a favorite quote from the book? Why did this quote stand out?

4. What feelings did this book evoke for you?
5. Which character in the book would you most like to meet? Which places in the book would you most like to visit?
6. How original and unique was this book?
7. How well do you think the author built the world in the book?

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