"Far Above Rubies" by Cynthia Polansky is a captivating historical fiction novel that transports readers to the 19th century. The story revolves around Miriam Ethan Allen, a young woman who defies societal conventions and explores her true self in the face of adversity. Set against the backdrop of New York City and the untamed American West, this book offers a well-crafted narrative filled with vivid descriptions and authentic historical details.

One of the greatest strengths of "Far Above Rubies" lies in its immersive historical setting. Polansky intricately recreates both the opulent world of New York City's elite and the rugged landscapes of the frontier. These rich details add depth and believability to the story, allowing readers to truly immerse themselves in the time period and experience the contrasting lifestyles firsthand.

The character development in this novel is exceptional, particularly with the protagonist, Miriam. As she embarks on her journey of self-discovery, readers witness her growth, newfound resilience, and unwavering determination. Miriam's struggles and aspirations are relatable, making her a compelling and empathetic character that readers can root for.

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Polansky's writing style is eloquent and evocative, painting vibrant pictures of the scenes and landscapes. The author's prose flows effortlessly, captivating readers from the first page to the last. The well-balanced pacing alternates between intense action sequences and introspective moments, making the book a compelling and engaging read.

Overall, "Far Above Rubies" is a captivating historical fiction novel that seamlessly blends a captivating storyline with meticulous attention to historical detail. With its rich setting, well-developed characters, and engaging prose, this book is sure to enthrall fans of both historical fiction and compelling narratives of self-discovery and empowerment.

What are readers saying?

The novel "Far Above Rubies" by J.D. Dixon has received a variety of reviews from readers on Goodreads. The opinions on the book's quality were mixed, with some readers enjoying the captivating storyline and well-developed characters, while others were disappointed by the pacing and lack of depth in certain aspects of the narrative.

A number of reviewers praised the captivating and intricate plot of "Far Above Rubies." They found the story to be engaging and appreciated the blend of romance and mystery. The exploration of the protagonist's journey through different historical settings was particularly well-received, as readers enjoyed the attention to detail and the immersive experience created by the author.

Readers generally found the character development in the book to be well-executed. They described the protagonists as relatable and nuanced, with their struggles and growth depicted in a realistic manner. Many readers also highlighted the strong female characters and their complex relationships as a standout aspect of the book.

However, some reviewers expressed criticisms regarding the pacing and depth of "Far Above Rubies." They felt that the story dragged at times, with certain sections being slow-paced and prolonging the overall narrative. Additionally, some readers wished for further exploration of certain plot elements or characters, feeling that the book lacked depth in these areas.

Opinions on J.D. Dixon's writing style were divided among readers. Some praised the author's descriptive prose and ability to transport them to different time periods. However, a few found the writing to be verbose or unnecessarily convoluted, which hindered their enjoyment of the book.

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