Title: Sprawling Tale of Dangerous Adventures in the Gem Trade
Review: If this book had a better editor, it would surely have been a 5 star effort.As is, it's a colorful journey into the world of an international gem dealer. It's part autobiography, as we learn about his early life, military career and initial foray into the jewelry business in Hawaii.The story really takes off when he does - journeying to far-off lands in search of exotic gemstones, often getting more than he bargained for.Primarily focusing on harvesting lapis lazuli out of Afghanistan, he navigates international politics, Pakistani border guards and Taliban warlords. Exciting stuff.And then when he finally gets out into the mountains, he has to mine the dusty Afghan ranges, mainly using dynamite to blast the lapis from rock.Great true-life adventure, if a tad meandering. Loved the story, if not ALL of the book.
Is this product review negative?