SEVEN TREASURES by Paul Harmon (Book review #1800)

“Seven Treasures” by Paul Harmon is a richly woven tapestry of love, war, art, and mystery set in the picturesque but hauntingly secretive village of Villemont in the South of France. Harmon masterfully intertwines the present-day art mystery with the harrowing experiences of World War II, crafting a narrative that spans decades yet feels intimately connected through the shared theme of redemption.

At the heart of the story is Mark, a Sydneysider who, in a bid to find new purpose and perhaps love after a series of personal setbacks, impulsively purchases a house in Villemont. His discovery of seven filth-encrusted treasures in the attic, unbeknownst to him, sets the stage for a journey that uncovers a village’s guilt-ridden past and its path to redemption. Harmon’s vivid portrayal of Mark’s evolution from a disillusioned divorcee to a determined seeker of truth is both compelling and relatable, offering readers a protagonist they can root for.

The novel excels in its depiction of the complex relationships and emotional turmoil faced by its characters. Mark’s burgeoning relationship with Monique, a vivacious local woman, adds a layer of romantic intrigue to the story. Their quest to uncover the provenance of a mysterious painting not only draws them closer but also exposes the deep scars left by history on the village and its inhabitants.

Harmon skillfully navigates dual timelines, juxtaposing Mark’s modern-day discoveries with the poignant tale of Josef, an anti-fascist art student forced into Goering’s art-looting unit during WWII. Josef’s moral dilemma and his courageous efforts to save a young Jewish woman and her family’s cherished painting connect the past and present, highlighting the enduring impact of individual actions on future generations.

“Seven Treasures” is not just a novel about uncovering hidden artworks; it’s a profound exploration of the themes of othering, forgiveness, and the human capacity for both cruelty and kindness. The book sensitively addresses the ongoing struggles faced by Villemont’s Syrian refugees, drawing parallels between the historical mistreatment of Jews and the contemporary challenges of acceptance and integration.

Harmon’s writing is both thrilling and empathetic, capturing the beauty of the French countryside while delving deep into the darkness of war and the light of human resilience. The novel’s resolution, culminating in a Louvre-led restitution ceremony, offers a powerful message of healing and unity, reminding readers that redemption is possible, even in the face of unspeakable atrocities.

In summary, “Seven Treasures” is an emotionally compelling and beautifully crafted novel that transcends genres, offering readers a gripping tale of art theft, historical intrigue, and the quest for redemption. Paul Harmon has created a memorable story that resonates with the struggles and hopes of humanity, making it a must-read for fans of historical fiction and art mysteries alike.

Written by Jeyran Main

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