Rumors: A Luxe Novel
by Anna Godbersen

    RUMORS by Anna Godbersen
    Category:  Historical
    Age Recommendation:  Grades 9+
    Release Date:  6/3/08
    Publisher:  HarperCollins
    Reviewed by:  The Story Siren
    Rating:  4 Stars


    The mysterious death of Elizabeth Holland still hangs onto the hearts of those whom she was close to. Her fiancé
    remembers the look she gave him the last time their eyes met and it continues to haunt him. Only Diana Holland and
    Penelope Hayes know the truth behind Elizabeth’s death. That she didn’t in fact perish, but fled New York to follow
    her one true love, Will Keller.

    Penelope has her heart set on claiming everything that Elizabeth left behind, including her fiancé, Henry
    Schoonmaker. Henry, however, is even more aware of his feelings for the younger Holland sister, Diana.

    Lina Broud, the Holland’s former maid, continues to rise into society as she had often dreamed. Box seats at the
    Opera and lavish parties are now her reality. She also continues to be a cause of trouble for the Holland sisters, with
    the help of Penelope Hayes.

    When Elizabeth receives word that her mother is ill and that the family is in financial disarray, she knows that she
    must return to New York. Even if it means revealing the scandalous nature of her true disappearance. Elizabeth never
    could have imagined what events would unfold next.

    RUMORS was an entertaining and captivating sequel to THE LUXE. If possible, it may be even better than its
    predecessor! Godbersen continues to impress me with her writing and flair for the dramatic. Although I initially
    started reading this book for its historical fiction aspect, I couldn’t help but become engrossed in all components of
    the story!

    Diana continues her reign as my favorite character. I admire her strength and compassion. Penelope, unfortunately,
    continues to be her evil, conniving self, and I only hope that she gets what she deserves in the end. I have come to
    know and care for these characters and I was very surprised and shocked by the ending! I have to say I was a little
    disappointed at first and thought that certain aspects were unnecessary, but not every book can have a happy ending.

    I have faith in Godbersen’s creative mind and I can’t wait to see what she has devised next. I will eagerly be waiting
    for the release of ENVY.