Splendor by Anna Godbersen
Published by Harper
Publication Date October 27, 2009
Source: Library
Genres: Young Adult
Goodreads
New Beginnings.
Shocking Revelations.
Unexpected Endings.As spring turns into summer, Elizabeth relishes her new roles as a young wife, while her sister, Diana, searches for adventure abroad. But when a surprising clue about their father's death comes to light, the Holland girls wonder at what cost a life of splendor comes.
Carolina Broad, society's newest darling, fans a flame from her past, oblivious to how it might burn her future. Penelope Schoonmaker is finally Manhattan royalty - but when a real prince visits the city, she covets a title that comes with a crown. Her husband, Henry, bravely went to war, only to discover that his father's rule extends well beyond New York's shores and that fighting for love may prove a losing battle.
In the dramatic conclusion to the bestselling Luxe series, New York's most dazzling socialites chase dreams, cling to promises, and tempt fate. As society watches what will become of the city's oldest families and newest fortunes, one question remains: Will its stars fade away or will they shine ever brighter?
Overall, I enjoyed The Luxe series but even after a week to reflect on the conclusion I’m still unsure how I feel about it. But one thing I have agreed upon is the universal theme of unrequited love.
No matter how you spin it the ending of the Diana/Henry romance will satisfy a very small handful but at the end of the day I think Diana would have suffocated if she accepted an expected life of a Holland. Instead, Elizabeth chooses that route but only after a hellish ride with D. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.
Penelope and Henry really deserve each other and to live in unhappiness and regret. Carolina, finally gets her just desserts which I have been waiting for since book one and even though she still maintains her position in society, is reminded as to where she comes from and at least is denied what she most desires.
At the end of the day, Splendor was an appropriate conclusion to The Luxe series but at the same time I would have wished for a little more juice to splatter like a blueberry.
I loved this series so much!