The Luxe, by Anna Godbersen, reminds me a little of a Jane Austen novel in that the rules of society can be imprsioning and can cause much tragedy and heartache. The story takes place in Manhattan at the very end of 1899. It is the story of the elite, the upper class, the wealthy. They live in their own world, filled with dancing, parties, social visits, the opera, lavish dinners, and rules. The rules determine what one can and cannot do, say and not say, at least in public. It is a world where a few words spoken to the right person can ruin a woman’s reputation, and hence, her future as the Holland sisters, Elizabeth and Diana, discover to their dismay and sorrow. The Luxe tells the story of several well-bred, wealthy, privileged young adults who are trying to navigate their rigidly structured world to find love, happiness and a secure future. I must admit that what first drew me to this book was the cover - a fantastic, luscious dress that I would love to try on even as I wonder if it’s possible to move while wearing it. The Luxe is the first of four books in a series. It is followed by Rumors 
, Envy 
and Splendor 
.