Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

The Gold Rose is a work of fiction in the historical fiction and interpersonal drama subgenres. It is suitable for the general adult reading audience owing to some very mild language and delicately handled scenes of wartime violence, and was penned by author Jodi Lea Stewart. In this thrilling historical adventure with action, murder mystery, and romance, we follow the tale of the titular organization, which has performed its duties as a covert rescue agency since the early 1940s. Agent Charlotte Hunt-Basse has two targets to save, both of whom were hidden and given extremely unusual childhood experiences. During the civil war of the Communist takeover of China, these two souls will find their skills coming into their own just when it counts.

I love unusual mystery dramas, especially those that feature non-Western history and culture, and author Jodi Lea Stewart pitches this historical piece perfectly to make it inclusive and respectful at the same time as being exotic and exciting. I was absolutely fascinated by the upbringing of both Pinkie and Babe, whose converging and twisting plot lines are individually fascinating. The key to the author’s success is in bringing them together in the wider storyline under Charlotte’s charge, and this makes for some really thrilling conclusions later in the book which are well worth waiting for. I was on the edge of my seat throughout, and would heartily recommend The Gold Rose for fans of atmospheric historical tales and well-penned, well-plotted mysteries that will have you grinning from ear to ear when all is finally revealed.