The Luxe by Ana Godbersen(Harper Teen, Hardcover)
Rating:
The Luxe tells the story of 5 teens in 1899 Manhattan. Imagine Jane Austen mixed with a lot of Gossip Girl. Society rules are all important and the girls must all decide if they will abide by the rules or make their own.
I really couldn't decide whether to give this book one star or two. The writing is good. Godbersen writes about places so that you can picture them. Her characters are well-written and you could easily picture your best friend or worst enemy saying and doing the things that her characters do. But I wanted to give it one star because about 1/4 of the way into the book, I knew exactly what would happen. Obviously, I didn't know all the intricacies of the plot (there were a few surprises) but I figured most of it out. Plus, the main character was a wishy-washy girl. I hate wishy-washy girls. I mean, if you know what you want, just go after it. Yes, there should be a certain amount of deliberation but this girl arguably ruins everything for herself. I decided, however, to give it two stars because I did finish it. And even though I knew what would happen, it still kept my interest. So, don't rush out and buy the hardcover. But if someone gives it to you as a gift this year, I wouldn't exchange it right away. Plus, the cover is gorgeous. Can you imagine wearing a dress like that??!!
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I just got my copy in from the library. Sorry to hear it was a little predictable!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the heads-up on The Luxe. I'm planning on reading it eventually and now I'll know more of what to expect and not be disappointed.
ReplyDeleteI actually think wearing a dress like that would be painful. It looks terribly heavy.
ReplyDeleteNot sure what Gossip Girls is, but it sure sounds like something that could ruin an Austenesque book!
This book is primed to have major success, and I'm so glad to hear it's well-written!
ReplyDeleteI really, really want a gown like that, heavy or not. Sigh.
I just read that there will be a sequel published next year. Maybe the wishy-washy girl will get her act together. :)
ReplyDeleteOoh, thanks for the review! I'm interested to read it and see what I think now.
ReplyDeletei started the book before i read this comment im only 6 chapters into it, its very boring espite the great descipitons of the scenery of the book but hey its only chapter 6 so ill keep reading
ReplyDeletepeace out!!!
I agree that this was quite well-written. I'm not a big fan of rich kids behaving badly, but sometimes a little melodrama just fits the bill. And I think I came across these at just the right time.
ReplyDelete(I also thought Elizabeth was hugely wishy-washy, but was quite fond of Diana.)
I linked to your review here: http://caramellunacy.blogspot.com/2009/02/luxe-anna-godbersen.html
Thanks!
Lana - Thanks for visiting and for linking to my review! :)
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