If you're a fan of Gossip Girl, you'll definitely enjoy The Luxe series by Anna Godbersen. These novels are very similar with the exception that The Luxe is set in late 1800s Manhattan instead of present day ... but there's all the same back stabbing, scheming and romance. Just add in some ball gowns in place of Chanel and Gucci. It's a young adult series, but I tend to enjoy YA books just as much as "grown up" ones. All in all, these books are an addictive mix of chick lit and historical fiction.
So far the series consists of three books -- The Luxe, Rumors and Envy. The fourth one, Splendor, will be released this October. I recently read the first two books, and am looking forward to reading Envy to see what happens next.
The books' main characters are Elizabeth Holland and her sister, Diana. They come from an old Manhattan family, and when they realize their family's wealth isn't quite what everyone thinks it is, they are forced to take somewhat desperate measures to ensure their place in society. Each chapter focuses on a different person, including friends and suitors, so it's interesting to dive into each character's head...especially the servant girl, Lina, who turns out to be just as spiteful and tricky (if not more so) than the wealthy girls. Each chapter starts with a pretend clipping from the society pages, which play a big part in their lives.
Although they're what I'd classify as "light reading," the books do comment on a woman's place in society at that time: lack of choice, family commitment over personal happiness, marriage for love vs. money. Elizabeth especially, is the most reluctant to stray from the norm and do what her heart wants versus what her family and society expects of a girl in her position, but even she has some pretty dirty secrets.
Also worth noting are the gorgeous covers -- each features one of the characters in a beautiful ball gown that stretches across the front and back covers. Some of the prettiest covers I've ever seen.
To learn more, visit www.theluxebooks.com
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