The Luxe Series
Reviewed by Libby, age 13, Wisconsin
If you think gossip and drama only exist in this century, you haven't read Anna Godbersen's The Luxe series. The Luxe does a great job of showing how much drama and gossip did exist in the late 1800's. Reading The Luxe, I got to experience a time when social classes and ranking in society really did matter. This series is set in New York during the late 1800's, just before the start of the 20th century. As people become anxious about the new century drama begins to stir.
The Luxe
Elizabeth Holland has everything any girl wants. She's from a wealthy family, is a stunning beauty, and is very much accepted as a lady in her society. But after the devastating death of her father her luck runs out. When their money is gone, Elizabeth's mother forces her to marry the wealthy Henry Schoonmaker. Not only is Henry irresponsible and a player, he is not Will, Elizabeth's true love interest. It's after their engagement that her friend Penelope Hayes becomes jealous. Penelope has loved Henry and will do anything to snatch him from Elizabeth. Can Elizabeth find a solution that will satisfy both herself and everyone, or will secrets be revealed that have her plummeting down the social ladder?
Rumors
In Rumors, the second book in the series, tragedy strikes the Holland family once more. While their mother grieves, Diana's feeling for Henry Schoonmaker, her sister's fiance, continues to flare. All the while rumors begin about her sister's sudden disappearance. As their money runs out, her mother sells off their items, leaving them with an empty house. It's after Diana's relationship with Henry turns sour that she finally reaches out for help. But will it come late, or will it bring even more tragedy?The Luxe series brings the drama of the 1800's into the modern day. This book is suited for anyone who likes the 19th century time period, a book full of drama and rumors and forbidden romances. The reason I fell in love with this series is the plot. It kept me on the edge of my seat and kept me turning the page. With two books out already Anna Godbersen has plans to spread this series further. The third (unknown if it is the final book), Envy, comes out on January 27, 2009.
I give the first two books in The Luxe series 4 stars (of a possible 5).
