Luxe

Luxe
By Anna Godbersen
2007
448 pages
Book 1

Summary: In 1899 Elizabeth Holland rules Manhattan’s social scene. She is beautiful, popular and rich. However, when she discovers that her family’s status is at risk due to her father’s poor investments, her life is turned upside down. In order to keep her family’s secret she’ll have to give up the things she cares most for and proceed with a rush engagement to wealthy and widely desired Henry. She’ll also make a lot of enemies along the way, enemies who wouldn’t mind if Elizabeth was out of the picture – for good.

Review: There are a lot fantastic elements about Luxe that would appeal to YA readers. There is mystery, romance, betrayal and a fantastic historical setting. Godbersen does a great job of keeping up the pacing, moving the story along with suspense and a few surprises. The story doesn’t just focus on one character which I felt better served the nature of the plot. However, for this reason, some readers might have difficulty connecting to the story. I especially liked the mixture of the glamorous historical elements with the more socialite storyline that is found in books like Gossip Girls. There was a lot happening plot wise, which might overwhelm some readers, but I feel Godbersen did a good job at keeping it all together. Overall, this was a very fun read and I’m looking forward to the rest of the series.

Also by Anna Godbersen: Rumors, Envy, Spendor, Bright Young Things

If you liked Luxe, you might also enjoy: Anastasia’s Secret by Susanne Dunlap, A Great and Terrible Beauty by Libba Bray, Secret Society by Tom Dolby and Another Faust by Daniel and Dina Nayeri

Author website: http://www.theluxebooks.com/

Rating: W3/4 C3/4 P3/4 O3/4 PP4/4 CR4/4
Grade Level: S