J'nell Ciesielski's The Winged Tiara whisks readers on a thrilling post-WWI adventure of romance, danger, and high-stakes treasure hunting. The novel opens with Esme Fox waking up the day after the Great War's end to discover she has accidentally married Jasper Truitt. With her instinct to leave before being abandoned, Esme slips away, only to reappear four years later at a charity event, where Jasper, now a successful jewel thief, is on the hunt for a priceless heirloom: the Valkyrie tiara. This glamorous setup launches the pair into a whirlwind reunion that is anything but simple, as both are pursuing the same treasure for different reasons.

Ciesielski's ability to blend romantic tension with fast-paced action creates an engaging story. The sparks between Esme and Jasper are undeniable, yet their complex history and contrasting motivations keep them at odds, even as they're forced to work together. Their chase across Europe—from the French Riviera to Venice and beyond—is infused with a sense of cinematic adventure. Each setting is vividly brought to life, creating a luxurious yet dangerous atmosphere that feels both exciting and immersive. The stakes are raised even higher with a hitman in pursuit, adding suspense and urgency to the pair's pursuit of the tiara.

At its core, The Winged Tiara is a story about second chances, not just in love, but in life. Esme and Jasper’s reunion is filled with witty banter and emotional depth, their romance sparkling amid the chaos of their quest. Ciesielski’s knack for snappy dialogue and historical detail makes this a truly enjoyable read. Whether it's an opulent ball or a dramatic horseback escape, every scene brims with tension and elegance. With both hearts and treasures on the line, the novel delivers a captivating blend of romance, intrigue, and adventure that will leave readers eagerly turning pages to the very end.

I liked the concept of the story. I was expecting it to be a little more on the Christian side in ways of language and other aspects. I enjoy reading about this time in history this just wasn’t my favorite because of the above mentioned parts of the book.
Thanks for the advanced copy

Funny (even sexy) rom-com from the roaring 20s, where two - still married - thieves chase after the famous Valkyrie tiara.
They had married 4 years ago, after the Great War ended and people celebrated, so did they. Some champagne, some sparks, some kisses - but in the morning the now sober bride had run away.
But here are they now, chasing after the bejewelled tiara. And while they traipse all over the glamorous hotels, castles and mansions to get the tiara, they realize that they might have some more things in common. And by that I mean their sad childhoods and the hearts broken by being left out.

This novel reads like a movie - all glamorous, all glitzy, all charm. And it IS enchanting, cool and fun. Esme and Jasper have great chemistry and they simply belong together, because of all the people they could accept each other in the whole, with all the unconventional, broken and messy parts of themselves. Even in their ambitious selves!
But...you should not go into this with a strictly logical approach. This is an affair of heart. But this heist would, of course, never work in the real world and the authoress could go deeper with the psychology of the characters.
But having said all that, I still enjoyed this funny ride.

Great mystery/thriller from another time. The Winged Tiara had intrigue, lust and plenty of mystery. Jasper and Esme were at odds but were magnetically pulled back together time and time again. Thanks Netgalley for the ARC!

Great book! Very fast paced which kept me not wanting to put it down.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

**The Winged Tiara** is a notable work that combines elements of romance, adventure, and historical fiction. Author J’nell Ciesielski excels in crafting a vivid, immersive world and demonstrates strong character development throughout the novel. Although the fast-paced narrative may not appeal to all readers, those who appreciate an exciting, romantic adventure will find much to enjoy in this book.

I highly recommend **The Winged Tiara** to enthusiasts of historical romance and adventure genres. The novel's engaging characters, detailed settings, and compelling storyline contribute to its memorability. Whether you are a long-time admirer of J’nell Ciesielski or encountering her work for the first time, this book is likely to leave a lasting impression.

The Winged Tiara is a wonderful historical mystery. Two jewel thieves with a past trying to obtain the same Tiara, what could go wrong? The story will grab you from the beginning and keep you entertained till the very end. I highly recommend this book.

A really good historical mystery, suspense romance set after WWI in Europe.
Emma and Jasper has a connection to each other they where married only for a short time.
They both are looking for the Winged Tiara for different reasons.
Lots of drama,suspense,fun,adventure and romance.
Really enjoyed reading.
Voluntarily reviewed.

My review begins with the beautiful cover. When I saw it, I instantly wanted to read the synopsis.

A great historical book that tells the story of Esme Fox and Jasper Truitt. They met in 1918 at a celebration of the end of WWI. Esme woke up the following morning and found that they had gotten married. She snuck out of the room before Jasper woke up. They crossed paths again 4 years later. They were professional thieves searching across Europe for a winged tiara know as the Valkyrie tiara. There were amusing situations as they each tried to be the one to locate the tiara ~ then working together with a hitman on their tail. Will Jasper be able to forgive Esme for leaving him and trust her enough to take another chance at love?

This is the first book I've read by this author. I will be looking to see what else she has written.

I appreciate receiving an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

An epic cat and mouse hunt through Europe. Twists and turns pile up to keep the reader guessing what path the story will take to get to the ending everyone hopes for. Romance rises off the page like champagne bubbles that start the whole story off. J"nell Ciesielski has an amazing gift to bring words from the pages of a book and create a movie for the readers to immerse in. This book is no different, with swift fingers, impressive plans, and romance constantly distracting both Esme and Jasper. These characters feel so real, I often felt like I was being pulled along behind them as they nipped, ran, and hunted for the prize they are both fighting over. Who will win the greatest prize? And will it be what they think it will?
This story takes the reader on a trip through a number of European destinations that J"nell Ciesielski brings to life with stunning detail. It is amazing how different locations can fell like they spring to life before your eyes even though you never leave the house. What a wonderful talent!
The sizzling romance that sweeps the reader in and the wonderful twists that comes with 2 thieves trying to outdo each other and win the ultimate prize. But what if losing means the chance to win?
I can't recommend this book enough. It is a marvelous trip through all the sparkle and danger of the 1920s. Plan for a long weekend of no interruptions when you get it, you will not want to put this book down until you find out what surprises are around the last bend. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

You know how they say you should never judge a book by its cover? Well, I did, and boy was that ever a mistake. The lovely artwork on the jacket of The Winged Tiara envelopes a slap-sticky 1920s heist plot starring two very shallow characters glamorously traversing the world in search of a particular item while accidentally falling in love.

November, 1918: Jasper Truitt has spent the last four years watching better men than he lose limbs, sanity, health, and life in the trenches of The Great War. When it finally ends, and the streets of Paris fill with post-war celebrations, he is all too happy to soak his memories in wine, women, and song. Esme Fox is delighted to be his partner in celebration. As a nurse, she saw the same suffering Jasper did and was equally eager to forget it all in a whirl of champagne, music, and kisses. Jasper is her every dream come true in those moments – handsome and whole, witty, charming, and as drunkenly in love as she is. Her dislike of anything smacking of permanence returns in the morning, which is why she quickly gathers her belongings and slips out of the room, not even leaving a note propped next to the wedding certificate so prominently displayed on the table.

French Riviera, 1922: Jasper is back in France once more, this time searching for the elusive Valkyrie Tiara for his grandfather. It’s a family heirloom of sorts through rather questionable ownership, and was lost/stolen (it’s complicated). Jasper, the by-blow of an esteemed peer, is known for his penchant for and skill at acquiring items that are not his own, so he has been sent to retrieve the Valkyrie. His sources assure him it will be displayed at a gala thrown by the Rothschilds to make money for a children’s hospital. Jasper’s charm, good looks, excellent manners, and stylish persona guarantee he will fit in perfectly at the event, despite his lack of an invitation. It’ll be an ideal opportunity to grab the piece and go home. As models wearing all manner of glittering jewels promenade down the opulent runway, Jasper waits patiently for the tiara to be displayed. When it finally arrives, it comes with a nasty shock. His very elusive, erstwhile bride is the person wearing it.

As a thief with a reputation for acquiring rare items, Esme has been charged by an aging opera diva to obtain the Valkyrie Tiara. The old lady plans to give one final performance while wearing the spectacular headpiece, and time is of the essence. Somehow, Esme manages to get herself a job showcasing the diadem, which will allow her sufficient access to acquire it. It sounds simple because it should be simple. However, a complication occurs when Esme’s long-lost husband appears and insists on talking to her. He wants a divorce (reasonable). She doesn’t care. It’s not like she wants to marry anyone else, so why tangle herself up in court appearances and paperwork when she can just pretend the whole thing never happened? After distracting him by giving him a closer look at the tiara, Esme gives him the slip and delivers the stolen goods to the buyer. The only problem is that the item is fake. Oh, and now Esme is under a death threat from a known assassin if she doesn’t find it. (No, it doesn’t make sense, but were you really expecting it to at this point?)

Jasper knew right away that he was looking at a cheap mockup of the Valkyrie Tiara and leaves the party ready to chase new leads. Esme, desperate to keep from dying, is doing the same. Naturally, Jasper and Esme cross paths repeatedly in their pursuit of the bauble and realize the spark that initially brought them together still burns bright.

If the historical romance you love is all about adventure, glitz, and ridiculous conversations mixed with rather shallow characterization, this novel is what you have been waiting for. It has all of the above in spades. What it doesn’t have is a sensible plot, an understandable hero and heroine, or pretty much anything of substance at all.

I’m not going to say much about the characters because they are given some of the most ridiculously complicated and convoluted backstories I have ever encountered. The author relies on this past experience to shape her hero and heroine, but the end result is that we have a lot of ludicrous history that doesn’t equate into personality. The writer also does something rather extraordinary with one of the two villains: she’s based him on the baddie from Despicable Me 2, complete with his chicken sidekick. The dude in the movie had way more depth.

I was especially disappointed with the romance. Jasper learns early on that Esme is under threat by a homicidal maniac if she doesn’t deliver the goods. Yet he is determined to get to the tiara first, while simultaneously waxing lyrical on how she is different from any other woman he has ever known, he thinks they should give their relationship another chance, etc., etc. It never occurs to him to let Esme take the jewels to her employer – thus conveniently saving her life – and then steal the item from them. It also never occurs to him that they might have a mutual problem. After all, if the killer is willing to off Esme if she can’t deliver, what is to stop them from doing the same to Jasper once he does have them?

A few things keep The Winged Tiara from getting an F. The author does a nice job of capturing the over-the-top opulence and zaniness of an early twentieth-century-based heist film, and you have to admire someone who has the chutzpah to use a children’s cartoon villain as the inspiration for an adult criminal. There isn’t much more for me to say except that I am sorry, but I can’t recommend this book.

“May the best thief win!” - The battle-cry as the hunt for the prized Valkyrie Tiara stretches across Europe. J’Nell Ciesielski’s characters, Esme Fox and Jared Truitt, are endearing and maddening at the same time. Four years after their marriage and separation, the famed tiara draws the two jewel thieves into competition. Esme, from the East End theater world of London, is quite a match for Jared, a war veteran with an aristocratic family tree. Their spirited banter keeps the reader alert and the wealthy aristocrats unaware. J’Nell Ciesielski’s The Winged Tiara, a magical, entertaining mystery showcases the wit, skill, and heart of two jewel thieves as they navigate the personalities, parties, and unusual pets of the aristocrats of Europe’s grand estates! A rollicking read!

I love novels set in France during the 1900’s. I will add this to my list of historical fiction that I have thoroughly enjoyed. Mystery, love, danger, and a chase over Europe for a tiara that’s holds different meanings for all involved. Very descriptive writing and a twisting plot made this an enjoyable and fun read. I would definitely recommend!

#TheWingedTiara #NetGalley

I did enjoy the story, but I found the romance a bit toxic and the content decidedly unchristian for a historically Christian publisher— even if they are looking to renter the clean general market genre. Booze in excess, drunk one night stand marriage, toxic relationship traits, cursing, and more made this one disappointing. I have nothing against clean general market, but felt that this one crossed the line and so many elements brought me out of the story. I loved the story setting, time period, and the idea of the jewel thieves. The content is what is preventing me from recommending this to my audience in good conscience. I have loved other books by this author, so I am hoping this changes in the future.

In the flurry of Armistice celebrations at the end of the Great War, soldier and war nurse, Jasper and Esme, rush into a hasty marriage only to find themselves regretting the decision the next day. Years later, they come back into contact as jewel thieves seeking the same prize—the winged Valkyrie tiara. Each much compete to steal it before the other without past feelings getting in their way.

This was a spectacular ride! Full of atmosphere, snappy dialogue, and adventure, as well as a slow-burn, closed-door romance. At times, the writing is a bit predictable and the characters too flat, but the wit and banter are excellent and well worth your time. I preferred the audiobook performance to the physical copy—Ann Marie Gideon puts on a mean Transatlantic accent.

The Winged Tiara
A Historical
J'nell Ciesielski, author

A darling fun story full of angst between the two main characters.....

I enjoyed this quick read. It was fast paced with a continuous action-packed plot. Occurring during the Great War, otherwise known, as World War I, Jasper and Esme play a game of chase in pursuit of the last Valkyrie tiara.

Once married, they now seek a fast divorce, as they both feel it was a rash decision on their parts and want to seek out their fortunes on their own without the accompaniment of the other. With shots being fired, arrests taking place, and that blasted diamond tiara in the hands of others, will they accomplish the task of actually obtaining the jewel? And what will happen to their personal relationship? Can it be amended or is it doomed? I highly recommend this enchanting tale to be read. You're sure to laugh at the characters antics and set on the edge of your seat while turning the next page to see what is about to happen next.

I read the book and listened to the audio while doing so. It was a lovely afternoon and into the night read. I was afforded an advanced reader copy of both the book and the audio book from Netgalley, the publisher and the author. I leave this review of my own volition. I do so happily. Thank you for the opportunity to read this book. I have read this author for years and enjoy each book she writes. Do yourself a favor and get yourself a copy. I promise you'll enjoy the ride.

Esme finds herself married after a night full of champagne celebrating the end of the Great War. She sneaks off and leaves her newly married husband, Jasper. Little does Esme know that four years later, she and Jasper will be chasing the same tiara.

Esme is a no nonsense gal! She is not gonna be tied down! And she is not gonna lose! But don’t worry, Jasper gives her a run for her money! He knows exactly what strings to pull to get his way. He even lands Esme in jail!

I loved the banter between these two characters. Esme just cracks me up! But it also helps that the narrator, Ann Marie Gideon, is amazing. I swear! She is Esme!

Need a good historical fiction tale with two criminal characters…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today!

I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.

Can banter be delicious? Because the banter in this book absolutely is. Glamour just oozes from each paragraph, and I was hooked from the first line. The 1920s have always entranced me, and this book is the 20s personified.

I'm really not trying to talk in clichés, but this book-I just can't say enough about it, and my fingers are having trouble keeping up with my brain!

In the author's note, she says that this book is an easy breezy read, and maybe it is, but it certainly isn't boring! I did not want to put this one down!

Shoot, I have to keep going back and fixing typos because my brain is just whirring with excitement, so I'm gonna stop. But I LOVED this book with its excitement, mystery, suspense, and glamour. Not to mention that banter!

If I could give this book more than 5 stars, I definitely would.

Caveat:
There is cussing in this book, which I didn't expect, since I thought this author was a Christian. There's also a lot of talk about seduction, but nothing even came close to cracking that bedroom door open, and there's a LOT of drinking. And honestly, all of it fit with the plot and the time period. It didn't detract from the story for me, but it did take me by surprise.

~I received a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~

I was so excited to read this story. I however DNF"d at 20%. While the premise of Jasper and Esme's whirlwind marriage and shared profession as jewel thieves. However, the amount of clichés that are used was too distracting for me to get past. They knew each other for one night and got married which I could get past. But they both keep referencing each other like they had been in some sort of long term relationship and had more than a one night stand.

Join Jasper and Esme in this cross-continental caper in a race to see which thief can capture the winged tiara-and the other’s heart-first! Set against the backdrop of post-WW1 Europe with a wide-ranging cast of interesting supporting characters, J’Nell Ciesielski is back with another glittering Gilded Age novel. This book is full of rich descriptions and fast-paced action that kept me on my toes! I really enjoyed reading this book and may be my favorite to date of Ciesielski's. If you like treasure hunts, heist movies, the board game Ticket to Ride, or all of the above, this marriage of convenience with a twist story may be perfect for you!

*I received a free ARC of this book from Netgalley and the publisher. I was not required to give a review and all of the above opinions are my own.