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Enchantée #1
Enchantée
Paris in 1789 is a labyrinth of twisted streets, filled with beggars, thieves, revolutionaries—and magicians...
When smallpox kills her parents, Camille Durbonne must find a way to provide for her frail, naive sister while managing her volatile brother. Relying on petty magic—la magie ordinaire—Camille painstakingly transforms scraps of metal into money to buy the food and medicine they need. But when the coins won’t hold their shape and her brother disappears with the family’s savings, Camille must pursue a richer, more dangerous mark: the glittering court of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette.
With dark magic forbidden by her mother, Camille transforms herself into the ‘Baroness de la Fontaine’ and is swept up into life at the Palace of Versailles, where aristocrats both fear and hunger for la magie. There, she gambles at cards, desperate to have enough to keep herself and her sister safe. Yet the longer she stays at court, the more difficult it becomes to reconcile her resentment of the nobles with the enchantments of Versailles. And when she returns to Paris, Camille meets a handsome young balloonist—who dares her to hope that love and liberty may both be possible.
But la magie has its costs. And when Camille loses control of her secrets, the game she's playing turns deadly. Then revolution erupts, and she must choose—love or loyalty, democracy or aristocracy, freedom or magic—before Paris burns…
When smallpox kills her parents, Camille Durbonne must find a way to provide for her frail, naive sister while managing her volatile brother. Relying on petty magic—la magie ordinaire—Camille painstakingly transforms scraps of metal into money to buy the food and medicine they need. But when the coins won’t hold their shape and her brother disappears with the family’s savings, Camille must pursue a richer, more dangerous mark: the glittering court of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette.
With dark magic forbidden by her mother, Camille transforms herself into the ‘Baroness de la Fontaine’ and is swept up into life at the Palace of Versailles, where aristocrats both fear and hunger for la magie. There, she gambles at cards, desperate to have enough to keep herself and her sister safe. Yet the longer she stays at court, the more difficult it becomes to reconcile her resentment of the nobles with the enchantments of Versailles. And when she returns to Paris, Camille meets a handsome young balloonist—who dares her to hope that love and liberty may both be possible.
But la magie has its costs. And when Camille loses control of her secrets, the game she's playing turns deadly. Then revolution erupts, and she must choose—love or loyalty, democracy or aristocracy, freedom or magic—before Paris burns…
449 pages, Hardcover
First published February 5, 2019
About the author
Gita Trelease
5 books616 followersHi there! I hope you'll follow me on GR for updates and on Instagram and Twitter, where I post about my books, my process, and random musings. Hope to see you there!
I was born in Sweden to Indian and Swedish parents and have lived in lots of places, including New York, Paris, and a tiny town in central Italy. I attended Yale College and New York University, where I earned a Ph.D. in British literature. Before becoming a novelist (what I'd always dreamed of becoming if I didn't become a spy), I taught classes on writing and fairy tales—some of which have seeped into my stories.
With my husband and son, I divide my time between a spooky old village in Massachusetts and the coast of Maine, where I'm still searching for a secret portal that will take me back to Versailles.
I was born in Sweden to Indian and Swedish parents and have lived in lots of places, including New York, Paris, and a tiny town in central Italy. I attended Yale College and New York University, where I earned a Ph.D. in British literature. Before becoming a novelist (what I'd always dreamed of becoming if I didn't become a spy), I taught classes on writing and fairy tales—some of which have seeped into my stories.
With my husband and son, I divide my time between a spooky old village in Massachusetts and the coast of Maine, where I'm still searching for a secret portal that will take me back to Versailles.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,857 reviews
March 21, 2019
merging historical fiction with fantasy is so IN right now and i am here for it!
this is your classic les mis meets aladdin who is close friends with caraval and introduces them to glitter. its honestly just a great time for all involved, myself included. and although it feels like there are many elements gently borrowed from other familiar stories, this still has a fresh and unique feel to it.
the magic system in this is really quite something. i do think it could have been developed a little better in some areas, but im hoping that the change from being a standalone to a series will allow more opportunities to do so down the line. but what is far from lacking is the setting. my goodness, it felt like i was immediately back in paris, smelling the bread baking on the corner boulangerie, being awed by the ornate style of versailles, and feeling the rising tension of the revolution. the exploration of the city and french lifestyle is really well done.
because there is such a focus on the atmosphere of the story, the pacing can feel a little slow at times. there is a lot of page time dedicated to describing court life and all its intricacies and the emotion of the historical political drama that it doesnt feel like much is happening for the main characters. and although i didnt mind it, i know that might deter some readers.
but i thought this was a really fun and magical read. i do kind of wish it had remained a standalone (i honestly cant keep up with all my unfinished series that i have started) but i am interested in how this story will progress from here!
↠ 3.5 stars
this is your classic les mis meets aladdin who is close friends with caraval and introduces them to glitter. its honestly just a great time for all involved, myself included. and although it feels like there are many elements gently borrowed from other familiar stories, this still has a fresh and unique feel to it.
the magic system in this is really quite something. i do think it could have been developed a little better in some areas, but im hoping that the change from being a standalone to a series will allow more opportunities to do so down the line. but what is far from lacking is the setting. my goodness, it felt like i was immediately back in paris, smelling the bread baking on the corner boulangerie, being awed by the ornate style of versailles, and feeling the rising tension of the revolution. the exploration of the city and french lifestyle is really well done.
because there is such a focus on the atmosphere of the story, the pacing can feel a little slow at times. there is a lot of page time dedicated to describing court life and all its intricacies and the emotion of the historical political drama that it doesnt feel like much is happening for the main characters. and although i didnt mind it, i know that might deter some readers.
but i thought this was a really fun and magical read. i do kind of wish it had remained a standalone (i honestly cant keep up with all my unfinished series that i have started) but i am interested in how this story will progress from here!
↠ 3.5 stars
November 17, 2018
ARC provided by Flatiron in exchange for an honest review.
“Remember—magic is a cheater’s game, and everyone who sees it wants to play.”
Enchantée is a book that is set in historical Paris, during 1789, but this is a version of Paris unlike any other. Yes, the French Revolution is beginning, and the people are starving and rioting, while Marie Antoinette and other aristocrats ignore their pleas. But some people in this alternative history are able to wield magic to help make their lives a little easier.
In this world, there are three different types of magic:
➽ Magie Ordinaire - changing things
➽ Glamoire - changing oneself
➽ Magie Bibelot - making objects sentient
This book stars Camille, a young girl able to wield magic, but is very scared to get caught because the stakes are so high. Yet, she still turns magic into scrap metal so that they have a little money to live off of. But her younger sister Sophie is not in the best of health, and both of their parents have just died to smallpox. The only person who is supposed to be looking out for them is their older brother, Alain, who is drinking and gambling away what little money they do have.
But when Camille helps out a couple hot air balloon makers, then she finds a magical dress that is hidden away in a secret trunk, and she ends up taking her and her sisters future into her own hands and will stop at nothing to ensure their health and safety. From there, she throws herself into a world of aristocracy, filled with nobles who do not even realize the food they are wasting while people in the streets are starving.
I wanted to love this so much, friends. But sadly, it just fell so very short for me. I felt like the author was trying to cram so many important things that happened in France in that time into this book, while also trying to write her own story, and both elements just made this entire story feel disjointed and left a lot to be desired. And honestly? Even my synopsis of this book sounds a lot better than the book actually is.
I was so bored throughout. I just kept waiting for something more exciting to happen, but it never did. The twists and turns were so predictable and so lackluster. And them ignoring the gross behavior that Alain displayed made me so angry. And their constant views on sex workers made my eyes almost roll out of my head completely. Oh, and the villain was straight up from a comic, twirling his mustache, I swear!
I will say that one of the main side characters, Lazare, is biracial (Indian and French) and he does have a really good discussion about how he feels like the French never let him forget that he isn’t white. I really appreciated that. I also appreciated that Camille was willing to do whatever it took to care for Sophie. You all know I’m always here for good sibling relationships. But besides these two elements? I really didn’t enjoy this one.
I’m so sorry, friends! I do feel like I’ve been really not enjoying a lot of the historical stories I’ve read in 2018, so maybe you will enjoy this a lot more than I did. A lot of my friends have actually given this one really high praise, too. But I’m wishing you all happy reading, always.
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The quote above was taken from an ARC and is subject to change upon publication.
Content and trigger warnings for degrading comments about women (I honestly feel like I read the word “whore” at least twenty times), slut shaming, physical abuse, emotional abuse, verbal abuse, illness of a loved one, alcoholism, gambling addiction, loss of a loved one, blood depictions.
Buddy read with Mia at Pens and Parchment, Amy at A Court of Crowns and Quills, & Kayla at Books and Blends! ❤
October 25, 2018
I loved this one!
It's a beautiful mix between historical fiction and fantasy, and it's easy to get lost right alongside Camille - a girl struggling with poverty - as she uses magic to thrust herself into the glittering world of the French Court. In fact, what I loved most about Enchantee was not only the high stakes that will keep you on the edge of your seat, but the constant tension thrust into every scene. I found myself turning those pages like none other.
Camille is a fantastic MC - mostly because she's perfectly imperfect. She's an older sister, who has the weight of caring and providing for her younger sister on her shoulders. Both girls - along with their horrible older brother - were left with nothing when their parents died. And while the brother * could * have provided for the girls with his position in the military, he gambles everything he makes away. Thus, Camille is left with the one thing she does have from her family - a mysterious magic box. And while she knows it is dangerous, she'll do anything to get her and her sister out of poverty's choking grasp.
Turns out, the box has a little something special that allows Camille to not only transform her appearance to that of a courtier, but she learns the art of illusion in full - including how to change the face of cards. Which means she can gamble... and win. The problem? The cost might be too high for Camille to play as she learns the consequences of her magic.
I don't want to say much more, but alongside the high stakes, there's a romance behind the scenes that I quite enjoyed, and of course, when things get messy - they get REALLY messy.
Overall, I loved exploring this world, and I'll definitely be hoping for another book from the author one day soon!
My Blog ~ Instagram ~ Twitter
It's a beautiful mix between historical fiction and fantasy, and it's easy to get lost right alongside Camille - a girl struggling with poverty - as she uses magic to thrust herself into the glittering world of the French Court. In fact, what I loved most about Enchantee was not only the high stakes that will keep you on the edge of your seat, but the constant tension thrust into every scene. I found myself turning those pages like none other.
Camille is a fantastic MC - mostly because she's perfectly imperfect. She's an older sister, who has the weight of caring and providing for her younger sister on her shoulders. Both girls - along with their horrible older brother - were left with nothing when their parents died. And while the brother * could * have provided for the girls with his position in the military, he gambles everything he makes away. Thus, Camille is left with the one thing she does have from her family - a mysterious magic box. And while she knows it is dangerous, she'll do anything to get her and her sister out of poverty's choking grasp.
Turns out, the box has a little something special that allows Camille to not only transform her appearance to that of a courtier, but she learns the art of illusion in full - including how to change the face of cards. Which means she can gamble... and win. The problem? The cost might be too high for Camille to play as she learns the consequences of her magic.
I don't want to say much more, but alongside the high stakes, there's a romance behind the scenes that I quite enjoyed, and of course, when things get messy - they get REALLY messy.
Overall, I loved exploring this world, and I'll definitely be hoping for another book from the author one day soon!
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June 7, 2019
Enchantée is a debut novel that will make you believe in magic, set in the most beautiful city of the World Paris, Gita merges magic and romance in a perfect way to give us an addictive and utterly delightful story! So the story takes place during 1789 or better known as The French Revolution, and the story elaborates very fascinating topics which we all want within a book, cheaters, people fighting in streets, magic, a bad government and French romance! Gita makes this a very unique and delightful story to read for every reader!
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As a debut book I really am speechless by Gita's experience to write such a masterpiece, she writes in a very professional way if I wouldn't see that this is a debut I would never believe it, her perspective in the book takes very interesting and important acts that you can't find it everywhere! Also the background settings are the best part which I loved so much, reading this made me think I was in Paris.
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The story follows the main character Camille who is a very strong and smart young girl who can do magic, she lives only with her sick sister and her useless brother!
There are three types of magic in France and the story has different twists which will come in perfect times and the Author knows how to mix your feelings so fast, so all the book is with these three trying to survive in this miserable world!
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Reading Camille's adventures will make you cry many times as she fights so much to keep her family safe as she is scared that she's becoming a different person, Gita's imagination is beyond perfection I really devoured ENCHANTÉE in maximum best way, she has created a World that is intriguing and intoxicating, every page will leave you speechless and wanting more from it, but the ending was a suprise for me, mostly I get dissapointed but this time I see a very clever ending which was so unexpected but looking throughout the journey Gita makes this a very unique and special book for all of us! If you love Caraval and Les Misérables than this book is perfect for you! I really give this a solid five star and I can say that it is one of the most powerful debut book of the Year also Gita as the best debut Author!!
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As a debut book I really am speechless by Gita's experience to write such a masterpiece, she writes in a very professional way if I wouldn't see that this is a debut I would never believe it, her perspective in the book takes very interesting and important acts that you can't find it everywhere! Also the background settings are the best part which I loved so much, reading this made me think I was in Paris.
.
The story follows the main character Camille who is a very strong and smart young girl who can do magic, she lives only with her sick sister and her useless brother!
There are three types of magic in France and the story has different twists which will come in perfect times and the Author knows how to mix your feelings so fast, so all the book is with these three trying to survive in this miserable world!
.
Reading Camille's adventures will make you cry many times as she fights so much to keep her family safe as she is scared that she's becoming a different person, Gita's imagination is beyond perfection I really devoured ENCHANTÉE in maximum best way, she has created a World that is intriguing and intoxicating, every page will leave you speechless and wanting more from it, but the ending was a suprise for me, mostly I get dissapointed but this time I see a very clever ending which was so unexpected but looking throughout the journey Gita makes this a very unique and special book for all of us! If you love Caraval and Les Misérables than this book is perfect for you! I really give this a solid five star and I can say that it is one of the most powerful debut book of the Year also Gita as the best debut Author!!
November 13, 2018
I started reading Enchantee on 10/30/2018 and finished it on 11/13/2018. This book is an excellent read! I enjoy reading about Paris life in 1789. It’s definitely sad to be among the poor and definitely fun to be among the rich. Nights at Versailles sounds magnificent. I like how gambling and hot air balloon is the excitement at that time. The fashion with silk dress and hats are interesting to read. The divide between rich and poor is sad, and somehow I didn’t think it exists in Paris because Paris is always advertise as the glamorous tourist destination. I like that Queen Marie Antoinette play a role in this book.
This book is told in the third person point of view following Camille Durbonne, 17, the responsible middle sister to drunken brother Alain, 19 and ill sister Sophie, 15. Camille can turn metal into coins using sorrow, but it weakens her when she overdoes it. They all are orphans living on minimum and behind on rent. It was the year 1789 in Paris, where the poor are abundant and aristocrats are wasteful. Sophie dreams of marrying rich to get out of the slump and Alain takes what little his sisters have to pay off his gambling debts. Camille dreams of a change, the forbidden magic or the hot air balloon explorer Lazare she met, may just give her the new life she craves.
Enchantee is very well written. I enjoy the romance a lot, especially all those flirting. I like the magic, though it seems not something to celebrate as the magic conjures sorrows instead of happiness. I like the communication at the time because it’s proper and sophisticated even between teenagers. This book has great set of characters, main and supporting. I like Rosier and his passion for the balloons. I like the twist to the dark magic. I like learning some french terms from this read! I recommend everyone to read this book.
Pro: fast paced, page turner, magic, Paris, hot air balloon, siblings, flirting, revolution, gambling
Con: none
I rate it 5 stars!
xoxo, Jasmine at www.howusefulitis.wordpress.com for more details
This book is told in the third person point of view following Camille Durbonne, 17, the responsible middle sister to drunken brother Alain, 19 and ill sister Sophie, 15. Camille can turn metal into coins using sorrow, but it weakens her when she overdoes it. They all are orphans living on minimum and behind on rent. It was the year 1789 in Paris, where the poor are abundant and aristocrats are wasteful. Sophie dreams of marrying rich to get out of the slump and Alain takes what little his sisters have to pay off his gambling debts. Camille dreams of a change, the forbidden magic or the hot air balloon explorer Lazare she met, may just give her the new life she craves.
Enchantee is very well written. I enjoy the romance a lot, especially all those flirting. I like the magic, though it seems not something to celebrate as the magic conjures sorrows instead of happiness. I like the communication at the time because it’s proper and sophisticated even between teenagers. This book has great set of characters, main and supporting. I like Rosier and his passion for the balloons. I like the twist to the dark magic. I like learning some french terms from this read! I recommend everyone to read this book.
Pro: fast paced, page turner, magic, Paris, hot air balloon, siblings, flirting, revolution, gambling
Con: none
I rate it 5 stars!
xoxo, Jasmine at www.howusefulitis.wordpress.com for more details
May 13, 2019
I really loved this book , it’s about 2 sisters and a brother who’s parents have died from small pox . They are very poor but Camille can work magic so she does to try to earn money to make their situation better . There’s an evil villain, a romance and a little action. It’s taking place during the fall of the French monarchy it has bit of everything. It’s was very good I loved it.
February 4, 2019
Enchantée by Gita Trelease is a young adult historical fantasy that takes place at the time of the French Revolution. While the book has events and figures from this time in history it is a fantasy read with the use of magic being involved with the characters.
Camille Durbonne’s family had never been rich but when her parents both pass away from smallpox Camille and her siblings are left to fend on their own. Camille’s older brother however only gambles away any little bit he gets a hold of and is often abusive to Camille and her younger sister.
In order to protect herself and her sister, Sophie, Camille begins to dabble in the dark magic that had always been forbidden. Instead of only turning bits of metal into coins to survive Camille begins to transform herself to pass as a baroness to enter the high stakes gambling in the Palace of Versailles.
First for the positive side of this one I would readily admit the author did a good job incorporating magic into the historical time frame and bringing it all to life. However, with this one being close to 500 pages yet again I felt as if it just wasn’t going anywhere. I’m not a huge fan of such a slow burning story and want way more action happening than I found in this one. While this one was just so-so to me though I’m sure those that prefer a slow build would love it.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Camille Durbonne’s family had never been rich but when her parents both pass away from smallpox Camille and her siblings are left to fend on their own. Camille’s older brother however only gambles away any little bit he gets a hold of and is often abusive to Camille and her younger sister.
In order to protect herself and her sister, Sophie, Camille begins to dabble in the dark magic that had always been forbidden. Instead of only turning bits of metal into coins to survive Camille begins to transform herself to pass as a baroness to enter the high stakes gambling in the Palace of Versailles.
First for the positive side of this one I would readily admit the author did a good job incorporating magic into the historical time frame and bringing it all to life. However, with this one being close to 500 pages yet again I felt as if it just wasn’t going anywhere. I’m not a huge fan of such a slow burning story and want way more action happening than I found in this one. While this one was just so-so to me though I’m sure those that prefer a slow build would love it.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
October 16, 2020
*Updating this review because apparently there's been a title change? This book is now called All That Glitters.*
Enchantee is something unique in today’s current YA fantasy market—it's a luxurious, atmospheric, grounded-in-history tale that I can’t stop thinking about.
Concept: ★★★★★
Immersion into time period: ★★★★★
Characters: ★★★★
Pacing: ★★★
Gita Trelease has done something special. Enchantee is, at its heart, a story about one woman’s quest to have a voice over her own agency in a time period and setting determined to decide her own reality for her. Paris during the reign of King Louis XVI is on the brink of collapse—the people are talking of revolution, and Versailles is a glittering shell hiding the stink of rot.
Camille has the gift of la magie, a changeling-inspired magic that has a cost for each use. I found the magic system to be the least important aspect of Enchantee. We almost didn’t need it? Camille’s strong plot line and her relationship with the city and her cast of supporting characters was so strong that I found myself not needing the magic component to like it. That was so rare! Normally I’m a fantasy junkie.
However, don’t expect too much of Marie Antoinette. The marketing for Enchantee includes allusions to Marie Antoinette, and Camille’s life intertwined with the daily life of Versailles at the brink of collapse. While it’s true that Camille spends much of her time infiltrating Versailles pretending to be a baroness—there is an incredibly strong tie to the Cinderella concept—Marie Antoinette and the high brow court of Versailles is NOT the core of the novel. Camille’s time at court is very much centered on the gambling nightlife. This did not detract from the plot, but I have to admit I did have to reorient my expectations after expecting the traditional YA infiltrate-the-court-and-become-a-core-member-living-at-court trope.
Overall, I loved almost everything about Enchantee....except the pacing. As someone who normally flies through YA, this novel did take its sweet time to get places. For those who love to deep dive into every novel, I imagine this read is an easy 5 star. However, for me I found certain chapters to be slower than necessary and I found myself struggling to read more than 100 pages in one sitting as the content was both too dense for a quick read and also incredibly tension-filled (due to the nature of the plot).
A quick note for readers: I found myself utilizing quite a bit of my dusty high school French to understand many of the French phrases that are peppered organically throughout the novel. BUT pro tip! Trelease includes a French glossary in the back for each phrase she includes.
Chat with me on my Bookstagram !
Enchantee is something unique in today’s current YA fantasy market—it's a luxurious, atmospheric, grounded-in-history tale that I can’t stop thinking about.
Concept: ★★★★★
Immersion into time period: ★★★★★
Characters: ★★★★
Pacing: ★★★
Gita Trelease has done something special. Enchantee is, at its heart, a story about one woman’s quest to have a voice over her own agency in a time period and setting determined to decide her own reality for her. Paris during the reign of King Louis XVI is on the brink of collapse—the people are talking of revolution, and Versailles is a glittering shell hiding the stink of rot.
Camille has the gift of la magie, a changeling-inspired magic that has a cost for each use. I found the magic system to be the least important aspect of Enchantee. We almost didn’t need it? Camille’s strong plot line and her relationship with the city and her cast of supporting characters was so strong that I found myself not needing the magic component to like it. That was so rare! Normally I’m a fantasy junkie.
However, don’t expect too much of Marie Antoinette. The marketing for Enchantee includes allusions to Marie Antoinette, and Camille’s life intertwined with the daily life of Versailles at the brink of collapse. While it’s true that Camille spends much of her time infiltrating Versailles pretending to be a baroness—there is an incredibly strong tie to the Cinderella concept—Marie Antoinette and the high brow court of Versailles is NOT the core of the novel. Camille’s time at court is very much centered on the gambling nightlife. This did not detract from the plot, but I have to admit I did have to reorient my expectations after expecting the traditional YA infiltrate-the-court-and-become-a-core-member-living-at-court trope.
Overall, I loved almost everything about Enchantee....except the pacing. As someone who normally flies through YA, this novel did take its sweet time to get places. For those who love to deep dive into every novel, I imagine this read is an easy 5 star. However, for me I found certain chapters to be slower than necessary and I found myself struggling to read more than 100 pages in one sitting as the content was both too dense for a quick read and also incredibly tension-filled (due to the nature of the plot).
A quick note for readers: I found myself utilizing quite a bit of my dusty high school French to understand many of the French phrases that are peppered organically throughout the novel. BUT pro tip! Trelease includes a French glossary in the back for each phrase she includes.
Chat with me on my Bookstagram !
September 5, 2018
Wow wow wow. C’est dingue!
April 29, 2019
Enchan-TEA time:
After sitting on whether I wanted to write a review on this or not, I've finally decided that I don't. I really don't have anything to say other than this had a whole lot of magic, ballgowns, and boredom. So, I'd rather not sit here and try to find a way to write a full review describing how bored I was.
I hope this works out better for y'all than it did for me.
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After sitting on whether I wanted to write a review on this or not, I've finally decided that I don't. I really don't have anything to say other than this had a whole lot of magic, ballgowns, and boredom. So, I'd rather not sit here and try to find a way to write a full review describing how bored I was.
I hope this works out better for y'all than it did for me.
Blog | Twitter | Instagram
January 16, 2019
Quite fun read and a solid debut.
This fast paced, entertaining book is a Fantasy set in 1700's Paris.
As a setting, it was really original and interesting to read about pre-revolution France. I loved reading about the etiquette, the class differences, the palace, the dresses, etc. It was very atmospheric.
I usually find YA fantasies, especially series dragging on and on. But, this book was very fast paces, and full of action, which was great. I think Trelease is a very good story teller and I'll be reading from her more in the future. I'm grateful that she wrote a stand a lone, not a series. It made this book very rich, otherwise the content would be spread through pages. I liked Camille as a strong female lead, and I loved the sisterhood between her and Sophie. The magic system was simple, but I liked it for that. It was a perfectly balanced book between atmosphere, characters and magic world. I really enjoyed, I'd recommend.
Thanks a lot to the publisher for sending me an early complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
This fast paced, entertaining book is a Fantasy set in 1700's Paris.
As a setting, it was really original and interesting to read about pre-revolution France. I loved reading about the etiquette, the class differences, the palace, the dresses, etc. It was very atmospheric.
I usually find YA fantasies, especially series dragging on and on. But, this book was very fast paces, and full of action, which was great. I think Trelease is a very good story teller and I'll be reading from her more in the future. I'm grateful that she wrote a stand a lone, not a series. It made this book very rich, otherwise the content would be spread through pages. I liked Camille as a strong female lead, and I loved the sisterhood between her and Sophie. The magic system was simple, but I liked it for that. It was a perfectly balanced book between atmosphere, characters and magic world. I really enjoyed, I'd recommend.
Thanks a lot to the publisher for sending me an early complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 6, 2019
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Review also found here at Booked J. I was sent an eARC of this novel from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. This does not change my view in any shape or form.
I'm calling it now Enchantée: is one of THE books that you can't miss in 2019. It's definitely one of my favourites so far and I'm so in love with the vision that Gita Trelease paints for us throughout this book. This was such an exhilarating, vivid read! I mean--sign me up, all day every day, for historical fictional that is written this beautifully.
(And that cover. Oh-My-God.)
Admittedly, I went into Enchantée full of intrigue but I wasn't certain I'd end up liking the book let alone loving it. When I started it, I was all in within a few pages. It's pure magic. In-fact, I'd imagine that Trelease herself used some sort of magical compulsion to get me lured into this story because I was completely captivated and could scarcely look away.
What I found most enchanting (ha!) about Enchantée was the way in which Trelease portrays history. It reminded me, not wholly, of the way Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell presented that indulgent set of magical elements mixed with historical whims. The plots are, of course, highly different, but I got that same feeling of intrigue from both books.
My experience reading it, too, felt very similar in tone and excitement. Curled up on a cold, rainy day, with a cup of piping hot coffee and a delectable read. Does it get any better than that?
The answer is no. Not for a reader.
Trelease took me by surprise. I devoured this book and am positively aching for (a) a physical copy of it and (b) more books from her. All I could think up of for my review of Enchantée was "wow" so I think I deserve a pat on the back for managing more than just one word. However, I stand by that wow, because this book certainly wowed me.
There were some moments in Enchantée that I wasn't terribly keen on (the approach to sex workers and the general moments of slut shaming) but that I felt, still, were essential to the timeline and setting of the book. In short, the exchanges/thoughts/approach to these things were unfortunate and gross but not unrealistic for the times in which Enchantée takes place.
Overall, I'm obsessed with this book and can't sing its praises enough. Although it won't be for everyone, it is definitely worth the read if you're into magic and historical fiction.
Review also found here at Booked J. I was sent an eARC of this novel from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. This does not change my view in any shape or form.
I'm calling it now Enchantée: is one of THE books that you can't miss in 2019. It's definitely one of my favourites so far and I'm so in love with the vision that Gita Trelease paints for us throughout this book. This was such an exhilarating, vivid read! I mean--sign me up, all day every day, for historical fictional that is written this beautifully.
(And that cover. Oh-My-God.)
Admittedly, I went into Enchantée full of intrigue but I wasn't certain I'd end up liking the book let alone loving it. When I started it, I was all in within a few pages. It's pure magic. In-fact, I'd imagine that Trelease herself used some sort of magical compulsion to get me lured into this story because I was completely captivated and could scarcely look away.
What I found most enchanting (ha!) about Enchantée was the way in which Trelease portrays history. It reminded me, not wholly, of the way Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell presented that indulgent set of magical elements mixed with historical whims. The plots are, of course, highly different, but I got that same feeling of intrigue from both books.
My experience reading it, too, felt very similar in tone and excitement. Curled up on a cold, rainy day, with a cup of piping hot coffee and a delectable read. Does it get any better than that?
The answer is no. Not for a reader.
Trelease took me by surprise. I devoured this book and am positively aching for (a) a physical copy of it and (b) more books from her. All I could think up of for my review of Enchantée was "wow" so I think I deserve a pat on the back for managing more than just one word. However, I stand by that wow, because this book certainly wowed me.
There were some moments in Enchantée that I wasn't terribly keen on (the approach to sex workers and the general moments of slut shaming) but that I felt, still, were essential to the timeline and setting of the book. In short, the exchanges/thoughts/approach to these things were unfortunate and gross but not unrealistic for the times in which Enchantée takes place.
Overall, I'm obsessed with this book and can't sing its praises enough. Although it won't be for everyone, it is definitely worth the read if you're into magic and historical fiction.
October 14, 2019
I WAS SO EXCITED - AND SO DISAPPOINTED 😭
✨ Popsugar Reading Challenge 2019✨
✨✨A debut novel✨✨
Actual rating: 1.5 ⭐️ for the wasted potential
French Revolution, magic, YA romance, beautiful cover art... there were many things I was excited about when I picked up this book. Sadly, in spite of the great potential, it fell flat for me. I absolutely hated the two main characters and the plot was so thin I saw right through it from page 1.
👎 THE THINGS I DISLIKED 👎
Plot: Well, if you can call it a plot... Seriously, I knew right from the beginning where this was going. The fact that the main character, Camille, was so clueless (when I had it all figured out) just made me so infuriated with her!
Camille: It has been a loooooong time since I was last this frustrated by a literary heroine. Camille just pushed all my buttons in the wrong way. First, I didn't understand why she did what she did, I didn't get her motivation for her action. Secondly, she was selfish especially in regards to her younger sister, Sophie. She set Sophie up for heartbreak! Thirdly, I couldn't understand how she could be so blind/dense, she didn't see reality/truth even though it was screaming her right in the face!
Lazare: ... I really don't know where to begin with this guy. He was just... blah. Uninteresting. Distant. Aloof. Insincere. Unlikeable. I really felt like he didn't actually care for Camille, that he was just toying with her. That's what his actions indicated, though he said otherwise.
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✨ Popsugar Reading Challenge 2019✨
✨✨A debut novel✨✨
Actual rating: 1.5 ⭐️ for the wasted potential
French Revolution, magic, YA romance, beautiful cover art... there were many things I was excited about when I picked up this book. Sadly, in spite of the great potential, it fell flat for me. I absolutely hated the two main characters and the plot was so thin I saw right through it from page 1.
👎 THE THINGS I DISLIKED 👎
Plot: Well, if you can call it a plot... Seriously, I knew right from the beginning where this was going. The fact that the main character, Camille, was so clueless (when I had it all figured out) just made me so infuriated with her!
Camille: It has been a loooooong time since I was last this frustrated by a literary heroine. Camille just pushed all my buttons in the wrong way. First, I didn't understand why she did what she did, I didn't get her motivation for her action. Secondly, she was selfish especially in regards to her younger sister, Sophie. She set Sophie up for heartbreak! Thirdly, I couldn't understand how she could be so blind/dense, she didn't see reality/truth even though it was screaming her right in the face!
Lazare: ... I really don't know where to begin with this guy. He was just... blah. Uninteresting. Distant. Aloof. Insincere. Unlikeable. I really felt like he didn't actually care for Camille, that he was just toying with her. That's what his actions indicated, though he said otherwise.
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February 6, 2019
Disclaimer: This book was sent to me by the publisher, Flatiron Books, via NetGalley for an honest review.
Opinion:
There once was a young French girl and her little sister,
Who were poor beyond belief due to their gambling brother.
The death of their parents turned their life quite tragic,
That’s why the eldest sister Camille turned to gambling and magic.
A dress that requires blood to enchant and disguise,
Was all that she’d need to sneak into Versailles.
But little was said about the toll on the soul that trickery would take,
Or the consequences that come from a life lived fake.
Livres, love, ball gowns and hats,
Hot air balloons so high, that one tip and you’ll splat.
Versailles may be enchanting, with a Queen like Marie
But nothing in Versailles is black and white, and nothing is free.
Hold on to your wigs, there’s a new Versailles tale in town!
My dear Vicomtes and Vicomtesses, Enchantée is EVERYTHING and MORE that you could EVER ask for in a historical fiction set in late 1700 Versailles!
It is extravagant, it is DANGEROUS, and it is exactly what you would expect a palace of courtiers to be like.
JEALOUSY is CLAWING at my insides, my brain is working mercilessly to assure me that I will never be able to step into this beautiful world, and it is taking EVERY bit of self-control to not throw myself on the ground and weep.
Weep because I will never experience the abhorrent glory that was Versailles in 1789.
OR a Versailles with magic and trickery.
Enchantée was all the things I hoped for when I read its description: cinched waists, expensive dresses, powdered faces, dapper men with MANNERS galore, magic....and cake. But that’s a given. I think we can ALL agree that any and ALL Versailles retellings are welcome to us book lovers, especially when a Fantasy aspect is thrown into the mix.
You had me at aristocrat and la magie.
Though the beauty of Versailles may pull you in to reading this book, or even the cameo of Marie Antoinette, I can assure my lovelies…you will stay for the characters, plot and writing. Gita Trelease has outdone herself! This book is elegant and suave, delectable and enticing. I was swept away in the world that she presents on a golden platter smattered in frosting and wine, and I am horribly STRICKEN that it is over. The author has fused fact with fiction and given readers a story that is both historical, while also fantastical in that it is filled with magic. She included events leading up to the French Revolution, the prices in bread increasing and the eventual riots, while also capturing the voices of the rich and the poor beautifully. These courtiers are the typical snooty aristocrats that you know and love, so enjoy.
Camille is the main character of this story, and her story is quite a sorrowful one at that. Her parents had both died from small pox, her brother is a drunk and gambling addict who cannot control himself, and she must work la magie to provide food for her and her youngest sister. Once things turn worse for Camille’s brother, she is forced to work la magie on a higher scale. She infiltrates the Palace of Versailles posing as a Baroness, in hopes of earning money through gambling by changing cards with her magic. She is quickly swept up in the allure of the courtiers and the palace, and who could blame her?! There are masquerade balls, endless parties and games in the gardens, and cakes and wines all around! Courtiers strewn every which way, running wild with little to no rules to hinder their wants and needs.
Though a wonderfully created world, the truly amazing aspect of this story is the writing. The author has combined French words and phrases with this English version, and it made it THAT much more real and authentic. The reader will feel like they are in Paris in the late 1700’s, walking the streets with Camille or dining with her in Versailles! The creative writing was fantastic, and the setting was described impeccably. The characters were given such vast and comical personalities, while also proving to be well-versed in the etiquette and “ways” of the time period.
Don’t worry darlings, there is INDEED a romance to be had. It is a truly touching and gentle romance at that, and one that I wish I could catch and put into my pocket. It will give you the audible *sigh*, the immense feels, and of course…make you wonder why the hell men aren’t this chivalrous anymore! I thought the author did a wonderful job of keeping the characters true to the era by ensuring proper rules for courting and attire, and even found it to be amusing at the modesty that was displayed back then.
“If he took off his coat, she might expire”
I wish I could say more! With all of that said, I think it’s obvious that I LOVED Enchantée to the gold-encrusted moon and back! It was an incredibly fun and creative read, and I only wish this was a series and not a stand-alone! I suppose I will just be here waiting and hoping that Gita Trelease will write another story that can compare and compete with this. Because I feel as I do at the end of every beautiful party, sorrowful and nostalgic.
Opinion:
There once was a young French girl and her little sister,
Who were poor beyond belief due to their gambling brother.
The death of their parents turned their life quite tragic,
That’s why the eldest sister Camille turned to gambling and magic.
A dress that requires blood to enchant and disguise,
Was all that she’d need to sneak into Versailles.
But little was said about the toll on the soul that trickery would take,
Or the consequences that come from a life lived fake.
Livres, love, ball gowns and hats,
Hot air balloons so high, that one tip and you’ll splat.
Versailles may be enchanting, with a Queen like Marie
But nothing in Versailles is black and white, and nothing is free.
Hold on to your wigs, there’s a new Versailles tale in town!
My dear Vicomtes and Vicomtesses, Enchantée is EVERYTHING and MORE that you could EVER ask for in a historical fiction set in late 1700 Versailles!
It is extravagant, it is DANGEROUS, and it is exactly what you would expect a palace of courtiers to be like.
JEALOUSY is CLAWING at my insides, my brain is working mercilessly to assure me that I will never be able to step into this beautiful world, and it is taking EVERY bit of self-control to not throw myself on the ground and weep.
Weep because I will never experience the abhorrent glory that was Versailles in 1789.
OR a Versailles with magic and trickery.
Enchantée was all the things I hoped for when I read its description: cinched waists, expensive dresses, powdered faces, dapper men with MANNERS galore, magic....and cake. But that’s a given. I think we can ALL agree that any and ALL Versailles retellings are welcome to us book lovers, especially when a Fantasy aspect is thrown into the mix.
You had me at aristocrat and la magie.
Though the beauty of Versailles may pull you in to reading this book, or even the cameo of Marie Antoinette, I can assure my lovelies…you will stay for the characters, plot and writing. Gita Trelease has outdone herself! This book is elegant and suave, delectable and enticing. I was swept away in the world that she presents on a golden platter smattered in frosting and wine, and I am horribly STRICKEN that it is over. The author has fused fact with fiction and given readers a story that is both historical, while also fantastical in that it is filled with magic. She included events leading up to the French Revolution, the prices in bread increasing and the eventual riots, while also capturing the voices of the rich and the poor beautifully. These courtiers are the typical snooty aristocrats that you know and love, so enjoy.
Camille is the main character of this story, and her story is quite a sorrowful one at that. Her parents had both died from small pox, her brother is a drunk and gambling addict who cannot control himself, and she must work la magie to provide food for her and her youngest sister. Once things turn worse for Camille’s brother, she is forced to work la magie on a higher scale. She infiltrates the Palace of Versailles posing as a Baroness, in hopes of earning money through gambling by changing cards with her magic. She is quickly swept up in the allure of the courtiers and the palace, and who could blame her?! There are masquerade balls, endless parties and games in the gardens, and cakes and wines all around! Courtiers strewn every which way, running wild with little to no rules to hinder their wants and needs.
Though a wonderfully created world, the truly amazing aspect of this story is the writing. The author has combined French words and phrases with this English version, and it made it THAT much more real and authentic. The reader will feel like they are in Paris in the late 1700’s, walking the streets with Camille or dining with her in Versailles! The creative writing was fantastic, and the setting was described impeccably. The characters were given such vast and comical personalities, while also proving to be well-versed in the etiquette and “ways” of the time period.
Don’t worry darlings, there is INDEED a romance to be had. It is a truly touching and gentle romance at that, and one that I wish I could catch and put into my pocket. It will give you the audible *sigh*, the immense feels, and of course…make you wonder why the hell men aren’t this chivalrous anymore! I thought the author did a wonderful job of keeping the characters true to the era by ensuring proper rules for courting and attire, and even found it to be amusing at the modesty that was displayed back then.
“If he took off his coat, she might expire”
I wish I could say more! With all of that said, I think it’s obvious that I LOVED Enchantée to the gold-encrusted moon and back! It was an incredibly fun and creative read, and I only wish this was a series and not a stand-alone! I suppose I will just be here waiting and hoping that Gita Trelease will write another story that can compare and compete with this. Because I feel as I do at the end of every beautiful party, sorrowful and nostalgic.
June 29, 2018
Beautiful writing, slow burn romance, magic, courtly politics, revolution--like Victor Hugo and Georgette Heyer had a baby (but with more diverse characters). Loved it!
July 26, 2019
Paris, 1789 – on the eve of the French Revolution. With her parents dead from the small pox, it falls to Camille Durbonne to help herself and her younger sister, Sophie, survive so they won’t be cast into the streets to become part of the starving poor. In desperation, Camille turns to la magie, a power she inherited from her mother. But using la magie comes with problems. For it to work, Camille must focus on dark, depressing emotions. And magic can take a powerful toll on the magic user by sucking energy from her body, which can turn her into an empty shell. Plus, Camille hasn’t figured out how to make a transformation, such as turning metal to money, last. So her own transformation into Cécile Descharlots, Baroness de La Fontaine could return to her real self at inopportune times. Not good.
One day Camille meets Lazare, a hot air balloonist who shares his passion with her. Of course, she’s instantly smitten with him.
Unfortunately, Camille's turning metal to money can’t make ends meet for herself and Sophie. So Camille dons a special magical dress passed down in the family that changes her identity and she heads off to Versailles where the nobles gamble and frolic all night long while the masses starve. There she meets Lazare, who, not recognizing her, makes passes at her. So which version of her does he like: Camille or Cécile? She also meets some rich noblemen and a noblewoman who become her friends. But in the shadows lurks Séguin, an evil nobleman with evil intentions.
And in the background, the rumblings of the downtrodden poor are about to explode into violence.
Enchantée is Gita Trelease’s debut novel. It was a fun read.
One day Camille meets Lazare, a hot air balloonist who shares his passion with her. Of course, she’s instantly smitten with him.
Unfortunately, Camille's turning metal to money can’t make ends meet for herself and Sophie. So Camille dons a special magical dress passed down in the family that changes her identity and she heads off to Versailles where the nobles gamble and frolic all night long while the masses starve. There she meets Lazare, who, not recognizing her, makes passes at her. So which version of her does he like: Camille or Cécile? She also meets some rich noblemen and a noblewoman who become her friends. But in the shadows lurks Séguin, an evil nobleman with evil intentions.
And in the background, the rumblings of the downtrodden poor are about to explode into violence.
Enchantée is Gita Trelease’s debut novel. It was a fun read.
Shelved as 'dnf'
February 12, 2019DNF @ pg120
As a reviewer who reads so much YA fantasy, I find that it's rare to come across a plot that is as unique and fresh as Enchantée. The setting alone is a rarity, but when you add in the aristocratic players such as Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette, coupled with la magie and Camille's responsibility to her family, it's easy to see that Gita Trelease has crafted a genuinely original and creative story here.
Camille is unique in her own rights, too; she's got a level head on her shoulders because she's been forced to grow up so fast, but she wears her responsibilities sensibly and with a quiet acceptance. Rather than railing against her circumstances or trying to find an escape, she's committed every ounce of her being to protecting her younger sister and keeping them safe and sheltered. She's an easy protagonist to like, and she feels authentic; despite her commitment to her sister, she still allows herself to dwell occasionally on how hard her life is or how much she wishes certain things would change.
I was also immediately impressed by the quality of writing in this story. Gita Trelease is a total natural and she paints beautiful scenery. Her storytelling is lush and imaginative, with rich details. Unfortunately, it was almost too richly detailed at times, and that's where my struggles with this book began.
Despite all of the positives I mentioned above, the problem I had with Enchantée is that this book is simply too long. It had potential to be a quick-moving, well-paced plot full of action and intrigue and the occasional suspenseful thrill, but instead, so much time was spent focusing on the opulence around Camille that, while it paints a pretty picture, it's hard to stay very invested in the goings-on.
While Enchantée wasn't a perfect score for me, I honestly believe it's a 'me, not you' situation, because this book has massive potential to be so many people's favorite release of the year, and I mean that with every fiber of my being. I actually fully intend to reread this at a later date (when I'm not struggling with the final vestiges of a reading slump), because I think, had I been able to move past the slow pacing, this would've been an easy winning title for me. I highly recommend anyone who enjoys historical fantasy to check this story out, because I believe it's going to be a massively successful release, and I can't wait to watch Gita Trelease blow us all away.
All quotes come from an advance copy and may not match the final release. Thank you so much to Flatiron Books for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Life is hard enough in 18th-century France, and few know that better than Camille, who's been forced to take care of her younger sister and older, alcoholic brother when their parents pass from smallpox. She uses small magics to convert scraps into coins, but they're barely making ends meet when Camille finally decides to explore a side of magic her mother always warned her away from — a type of 'la magie' that can change her very appearance, and win her a ticket into Louis XVI's palace in search of riches and safety.
As a reviewer who reads so much YA fantasy, I find that it's rare to come across a plot that is as unique and fresh as Enchantée. The setting alone is a rarity, but when you add in the aristocratic players such as Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette, coupled with la magie and Camille's responsibility to her family, it's easy to see that Gita Trelease has crafted a genuinely original and creative story here.
Little by little, magic was erasing her. Sometimes she felt it might kill her.
Camille is unique in her own rights, too; she's got a level head on her shoulders because she's been forced to grow up so fast, but she wears her responsibilities sensibly and with a quiet acceptance. Rather than railing against her circumstances or trying to find an escape, she's committed every ounce of her being to protecting her younger sister and keeping them safe and sheltered. She's an easy protagonist to like, and she feels authentic; despite her commitment to her sister, she still allows herself to dwell occasionally on how hard her life is or how much she wishes certain things would change.
She hated la magie ordinaire, but it was all she had.
I was also immediately impressed by the quality of writing in this story. Gita Trelease is a total natural and she paints beautiful scenery. Her storytelling is lush and imaginative, with rich details. Unfortunately, it was almost too richly detailed at times, and that's where my struggles with this book began.
"What else is there to do with a life than spend it?"
Despite all of the positives I mentioned above, the problem I had with Enchantée is that this book is simply too long. It had potential to be a quick-moving, well-paced plot full of action and intrigue and the occasional suspenseful thrill, but instead, so much time was spent focusing on the opulence around Camille that, while it paints a pretty picture, it's hard to stay very invested in the goings-on.
Though she'd tried so hard to hold it all, in the end it ran away like water through her fingers. Nothing stayed.
While Enchantée wasn't a perfect score for me, I honestly believe it's a 'me, not you' situation, because this book has massive potential to be so many people's favorite release of the year, and I mean that with every fiber of my being. I actually fully intend to reread this at a later date (when I'm not struggling with the final vestiges of a reading slump), because I think, had I been able to move past the slow pacing, this would've been an easy winning title for me. I highly recommend anyone who enjoys historical fantasy to check this story out, because I believe it's going to be a massively successful release, and I can't wait to watch Gita Trelease blow us all away.
All quotes come from an advance copy and may not match the final release. Thank you so much to Flatiron Books for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
February 11, 2019
THIS IS BASICALLY A GENDER-BENT, FRENCH ALADDIN AND I AM IN LOVE <3
Things you should know about me before reading this review:
-Aladdin is my favourite movie of all time
- I'm obsessed with anything French
-My favourite genre is fantasy
-I can be highly cynical when reviewing books
So basically this had all the elements of a book I should enjoy, but if it had been written terribly, this would be a scathing, 1-star review.
HAPPILY NOT THE CASE.
I loved it.
I was a little worried at the beginning, because for some reason I hate reading about poverty? That whole gnawing hunger, would-sell-my-hair-for-table-scraps desperation is just not something I like to read about. I think possibly because of how uncomfortable I am thinking about being that destitute. I mean, I like to talk about how poor I am and everything but I have a steady supply of bread and 2-minute noodles so really I have nothing to complain about. Whereas facing the harshness of real poverty when it was commonplace is something that bothers me. Also, it makes me hungry.
So yeah, the opener was a bit scary. Camille is working pathetic magic to make ends meet for her and her sister but their older brother is drinking it all away and getting aggressive. So depressing. Poor kids.
Enter the handsome Lazare and his merry band of aeronauts, who are obsessed with trying to get their own hot-air balloon up and running. He's a fun distraction from Camille's growling stomach and the heavy weight on her shoulders so Grace a Dieu for Lazare.
Still, it's time for Camille to take action and what better way to get rich quick than to gamble? "Genie, (aka magic), I wish you to make me a fancy Baroness." So off she sneaks to Versailles and what do you know, this book officially reaches French Fever status.
Did I mention I'm obsessed with anything French? Apparently I'm more obsessed with Historical French. Which makes perfect sense since this obsession sprung from my love of The Three Musketeers. But my obsession also led to me travel to France last year and I LOVED EVERY SECOND and now I like to be reminded of that trip as often as possible.
Versailles is absolutely stunning.
It's a magnificent palace filled with splendour and gold and art and is just *happy sigh*. This book brings it to life again, fills it with aristocrats instead of tourists and paints a picture of what the palace was once home to. I loved it so much.
That's probably my favourite thing about this book: It brings Paris and Versailles to life.
Even the Place des Vosges came alive for me, allowing me to fondly remember my own walk around the square. How I'd love to go back and picture this story taking place! This novel shows places so vividly, so even if you haven't been to Paris, you'll be able to picture it rather well as it was in the late 1700s.
There's also a fabulous cast of characters, from the handsome Lazare to the fun-loving aristocrat, Chandon, and the delightfully snarky Aurelie. Seguin is an intriguing, mysterious fellow who instantly repulses, and then there's the pathetic figure of their useless brother, Alain. There's more, of course, and I love them all.
All the gambling did make me a little anxious at times I must admit. I actually love gambling, but I always have a safe limit. How can these reckless people wager everything?! Guh, my anxiety skyrocketed through those scenes. But there are also parties and things as well so it's generally a lot of fun being in this rich world.
There is a lot of French in the writing, which felt like maybe too much for the story but which I absolutely loved. Especially when I knew what it said (There is a handy glossary at the end, though, for those who are unfamiliar with Francais). Naturally, I have reinstated my Duolingo lessons after reading this. I love the language. It seems a little strange in places, since they're supposedly speaking French anyway, but I don't know how many people this will be a problem for because it certainly wasn't for me. To me it helped it feel more real, in a way. Also, very French. Did I mention this tiny French obsession that I have? :D
The story is a little long, but there's still plenty to entertain and it does all come together neatly at the end. I was impatient to get to the glitz and glamour of Versailles so my single complaint would be the depressing and slow start. The magic was a little underwhelming, as well, but I appreciated that it took kind of a backseat to the story. It actually slotted in nicely, I thought.
Overall, this book captivated me pretty quickly and I'm so glad it was as brilliant as the blurb made it sound. I loved it with all my French-loving heart.
Many thanks to Pan Macmillan for my ARC.
Things you should know about me before reading this review:
-Aladdin is my favourite movie of all time
- I'm obsessed with anything French
-My favourite genre is fantasy
-I can be highly cynical when reviewing books
So basically this had all the elements of a book I should enjoy, but if it had been written terribly, this would be a scathing, 1-star review.
HAPPILY NOT THE CASE.
I loved it.
I was a little worried at the beginning, because for some reason I hate reading about poverty? That whole gnawing hunger, would-sell-my-hair-for-table-scraps desperation is just not something I like to read about. I think possibly because of how uncomfortable I am thinking about being that destitute. I mean, I like to talk about how poor I am and everything but I have a steady supply of bread and 2-minute noodles so really I have nothing to complain about. Whereas facing the harshness of real poverty when it was commonplace is something that bothers me. Also, it makes me hungry.
So yeah, the opener was a bit scary. Camille is working pathetic magic to make ends meet for her and her sister but their older brother is drinking it all away and getting aggressive. So depressing. Poor kids.
Enter the handsome Lazare and his merry band of aeronauts, who are obsessed with trying to get their own hot-air balloon up and running. He's a fun distraction from Camille's growling stomach and the heavy weight on her shoulders so Grace a Dieu for Lazare.
Still, it's time for Camille to take action and what better way to get rich quick than to gamble? "Genie, (aka magic), I wish you to make me a fancy Baroness." So off she sneaks to Versailles and what do you know, this book officially reaches French Fever status.
Did I mention I'm obsessed with anything French? Apparently I'm more obsessed with Historical French. Which makes perfect sense since this obsession sprung from my love of The Three Musketeers. But my obsession also led to me travel to France last year and I LOVED EVERY SECOND and now I like to be reminded of that trip as often as possible.
Versailles is absolutely stunning.
It's a magnificent palace filled with splendour and gold and art and is just *happy sigh*. This book brings it to life again, fills it with aristocrats instead of tourists and paints a picture of what the palace was once home to. I loved it so much.
That's probably my favourite thing about this book: It brings Paris and Versailles to life.
Even the Place des Vosges came alive for me, allowing me to fondly remember my own walk around the square. How I'd love to go back and picture this story taking place! This novel shows places so vividly, so even if you haven't been to Paris, you'll be able to picture it rather well as it was in the late 1700s.
There's also a fabulous cast of characters, from the handsome Lazare to the fun-loving aristocrat, Chandon, and the delightfully snarky Aurelie. Seguin is an intriguing, mysterious fellow who instantly repulses, and then there's the pathetic figure of their useless brother, Alain. There's more, of course, and I love them all.
All the gambling did make me a little anxious at times I must admit. I actually love gambling, but I always have a safe limit. How can these reckless people wager everything?! Guh, my anxiety skyrocketed through those scenes. But there are also parties and things as well so it's generally a lot of fun being in this rich world.
There is a lot of French in the writing, which felt like maybe too much for the story but which I absolutely loved. Especially when I knew what it said (There is a handy glossary at the end, though, for those who are unfamiliar with Francais). Naturally, I have reinstated my Duolingo lessons after reading this. I love the language. It seems a little strange in places, since they're supposedly speaking French anyway, but I don't know how many people this will be a problem for because it certainly wasn't for me. To me it helped it feel more real, in a way. Also, very French. Did I mention this tiny French obsession that I have? :D
The story is a little long, but there's still plenty to entertain and it does all come together neatly at the end. I was impatient to get to the glitz and glamour of Versailles so my single complaint would be the depressing and slow start. The magic was a little underwhelming, as well, but I appreciated that it took kind of a backseat to the story. It actually slotted in nicely, I thought.
Overall, this book captivated me pretty quickly and I'm so glad it was as brilliant as the blurb made it sound. I loved it with all my French-loving heart.
Many thanks to Pan Macmillan for my ARC.
June 12, 2018
Magic ripples through ENCHANTÉE. Gita Trelease’s imagination, the language she uses, the relationships she builds between characters—that is where the magic begins—and of course, there is la magie (both petty and dark) that the main character, Camille Durbonne, wields. This is my favorite kind of book to read, one where I am swept up in the writing, loving each line as much as the story itself. One where the characters take your hand and bring you into the pages with them. One where magic seems entirely possible.
Camille is a character both vulnerable and determined, driven by dire situations to make a better life for her and her sister—even by using dark magic. As she travels back and forth from Paris to Versailles, the contrast between her true life and her false life blur. Who she loves, who she befriends, who she makes an enemy, all collide. And because each character is so well-developed, I cared about their fates, and their relationships, as much as Camille’s.
I would have to recite ENCHANTÉE from start to finish to share all the things I loved about this beautiful book!
Camille is a character both vulnerable and determined, driven by dire situations to make a better life for her and her sister—even by using dark magic. As she travels back and forth from Paris to Versailles, the contrast between her true life and her false life blur. Who she loves, who she befriends, who she makes an enemy, all collide. And because each character is so well-developed, I cared about their fates, and their relationships, as much as Camille’s.
I would have to recite ENCHANTÉE from start to finish to share all the things I loved about this beautiful book!
April 5, 2018
The story of Camille Durbonne is like warm melted chocolate. It woos you with rich velvet details, excites your passions and lingers, so sweetly, on your senses. Her story is rags to riches, but the added twists of dark magic, hidden threats, and a secret double life makes it a heady and unique blend. From the cobbled shadows of the Paris streets, to wild and erudite experiments in hot air balloons, all the way to the lace and luxury of Marie Antoinette’s court, Trelease will deftly lure you through each scene, ramping up the romantic tension in perfect time with the danger. In each new scene, you’ll be betting on Camille to win the day, save her sister, and discover the true prince of her heart. And like all the best hot chocolates, it will leave you sated, but wanting more. Put this on your MUST READ list for 2018. You won't be sorry.
February 17, 2019
FULL REVIEW ON MY BLOG: here 💖
"This was the Paris of the strivers, of those who dwelt low, not high.
This was not the Paris of balloonists.
It was her Paris, and it was the same as it had been this morning.
But she, perhaps, was not."
I first heard about Enchantée in 2018, and fell in love with the cover (I mean, who wouldn't, come on...). I'm a huge history buff so the premise, set during the French revolution, sounded great to my ears! Enchantée did just what the title teased it would, this story was an enchanting, magical fairytale.
What is this book about?
Enchantée follows Camille, who lives in the poor backstreets of Paris. When her parents die of smallpox, and her brother deserts the army to succumb to his alcohol addiction, Camille is left to take care of her ill sister. She uses tame magic "la magie ordinaire" to create an income, and give her sister and herself the care she needs. But when that no longer suffices, Camille has to go somewhere else for money. Using her mother's ancient darker magic, she transforms herself into Baroness de La Fontaine to blend in with the French high society at the court of Louis XVI. At first, providing for her and her sister is all that's on her mind, but when she meets a young balloonist by the name of Lazare, a dangerous hope starts breeding inside Camille that can't wait to get out.
"Disorder is the beginning of change, Papa had said.
When taxes rise, when the harvest fails, and bread prices rise:
see what happens."
What did I think of Enchantée?
Enchantée was everything I hoped it would be and more. I know people say "don't judge a book by a cover" but I still kind of do that from time to time (don't blame me!). However, this gorgeous cover lived up to a gorgeous story. Paris during the French revolution has always insanely intrigued me. I love the rich atmosphere that the author describes when it comes to the lavish court in Versailles. This, in combination with the stark contrast to the gritty and dark streets of Paris really set the tone for this story.
Plot-wise, this book reminded me of a Disney movie in the nicest way possible. Camille's quest in Versailles really had that Cinderella-esque feel. Mix this with the interesting, but relatively simple magic system, it worked very well. I'm always a little apprehensive when it comes to fantasy stand-alones because of the way it needs to wrap everything up in the span of one single book. Whereas duologies or series would have numerous books for world-building and setting up the plot, this all needs to be done within one when it comes to a standalone. Pacing is something I find extremely important in general, but more so when it comes to books like this. I can honestly say there wasn't a boring moment in this book. Because the magic system was relatively simple, there wasn't too much of the book devoted to explaining it, which I loved. The beginning pulls the reader right into 1789 Paris, and there isn't a dull moment since.
Character-wise, I loved Camille's character. She's a great heroine, and a very human one at that. Her constant responsibility for her sister, as well as the selflessness and her imperfections made her really likeable to me. Also really nice was to see that her brother didn't actually get a redemption arc despite being her family. It bothers me when authors try to excuse abusive behavior, and there was none of that with this book. Beware that there's a trigger warning though when it comes to alcoholism and physical abuse!
Romance-wise, I adored Lazare as a love-interest and as a character. I loved their romance together and I their interactions were SO CUTE! Lazare's kind, smart, and intelligent, which I much prefer to the broody dark male love-interest that is often presented in YA literature. Their dynamic felt really fresh, I loved it! Lazare is half Indian, and the book briefly addresses racial tensions, which I find not a lot of historical YA fantasies tend to do very often, so I thought that was refreshing! Because of how soon they met, there was a danger of the romance feeling a little insta-lovey, but because this is a standalone, and due to the fairytale-like atmosphere and feel of the story, this didn't necessarily bother me.
Because the plot was so magical and well-paced, I wasn't bummed that there wasn't much of the actual revolution going on. As much as I love history, I don't go into historical fantasies for the historical accuracy. I thought this book was a really refreshing take on this time-period, and an absolute gem (especially considering this is a DEBUT novel, like whaaaat?) in the YA standalone department. I will 100% read Gita's next novel, and this book has now been added to my 'favorites' list! J'ADORE!
"This was the Paris of the strivers, of those who dwelt low, not high.
This was not the Paris of balloonists.
It was her Paris, and it was the same as it had been this morning.
But she, perhaps, was not."
I first heard about Enchantée in 2018, and fell in love with the cover (I mean, who wouldn't, come on...). I'm a huge history buff so the premise, set during the French revolution, sounded great to my ears! Enchantée did just what the title teased it would, this story was an enchanting, magical fairytale.
What is this book about?
Enchantée follows Camille, who lives in the poor backstreets of Paris. When her parents die of smallpox, and her brother deserts the army to succumb to his alcohol addiction, Camille is left to take care of her ill sister. She uses tame magic "la magie ordinaire" to create an income, and give her sister and herself the care she needs. But when that no longer suffices, Camille has to go somewhere else for money. Using her mother's ancient darker magic, she transforms herself into Baroness de La Fontaine to blend in with the French high society at the court of Louis XVI. At first, providing for her and her sister is all that's on her mind, but when she meets a young balloonist by the name of Lazare, a dangerous hope starts breeding inside Camille that can't wait to get out.
"Disorder is the beginning of change, Papa had said.
When taxes rise, when the harvest fails, and bread prices rise:
see what happens."
What did I think of Enchantée?
Enchantée was everything I hoped it would be and more. I know people say "don't judge a book by a cover" but I still kind of do that from time to time (don't blame me!). However, this gorgeous cover lived up to a gorgeous story. Paris during the French revolution has always insanely intrigued me. I love the rich atmosphere that the author describes when it comes to the lavish court in Versailles. This, in combination with the stark contrast to the gritty and dark streets of Paris really set the tone for this story.
Plot-wise, this book reminded me of a Disney movie in the nicest way possible. Camille's quest in Versailles really had that Cinderella-esque feel. Mix this with the interesting, but relatively simple magic system, it worked very well. I'm always a little apprehensive when it comes to fantasy stand-alones because of the way it needs to wrap everything up in the span of one single book. Whereas duologies or series would have numerous books for world-building and setting up the plot, this all needs to be done within one when it comes to a standalone. Pacing is something I find extremely important in general, but more so when it comes to books like this. I can honestly say there wasn't a boring moment in this book. Because the magic system was relatively simple, there wasn't too much of the book devoted to explaining it, which I loved. The beginning pulls the reader right into 1789 Paris, and there isn't a dull moment since.
Character-wise, I loved Camille's character. She's a great heroine, and a very human one at that. Her constant responsibility for her sister, as well as the selflessness and her imperfections made her really likeable to me. Also really nice was to see that her brother didn't actually get a redemption arc despite being her family. It bothers me when authors try to excuse abusive behavior, and there was none of that with this book. Beware that there's a trigger warning though when it comes to alcoholism and physical abuse!
Romance-wise, I adored Lazare as a love-interest and as a character. I loved their romance together and I their interactions were SO CUTE! Lazare's kind, smart, and intelligent, which I much prefer to the broody dark male love-interest that is often presented in YA literature. Their dynamic felt really fresh, I loved it! Lazare is half Indian, and the book briefly addresses racial tensions, which I find not a lot of historical YA fantasies tend to do very often, so I thought that was refreshing! Because of how soon they met, there was a danger of the romance feeling a little insta-lovey, but because this is a standalone, and due to the fairytale-like atmosphere and feel of the story, this didn't necessarily bother me.
Because the plot was so magical and well-paced, I wasn't bummed that there wasn't much of the actual revolution going on. As much as I love history, I don't go into historical fantasies for the historical accuracy. I thought this book was a really refreshing take on this time-period, and an absolute gem (especially considering this is a DEBUT novel, like whaaaat?) in the YA standalone department. I will 100% read Gita's next novel, and this book has now been added to my 'favorites' list! J'ADORE!
January 1, 2019
This fantastic retelling of Les Miserables was a powerful and fabulous journey. I am so grateful for this incredible novel. The main character was a powerhouse and I loved the diversity of the characters both sexually and racially. The descriptions were flawless and this was an absolute joy to read.
April 2, 2020
It took me forever to get through this book... at the end of the day, it was just boring. I really loved the magic aspect and the time at court, but I could have completely done without the entire balloon/Lazare story line.
I still think it was a good story, but I don't think I'll be continuing with the series.
I still think it was a good story, but I don't think I'll be continuing with the series.
November 17, 2017
Preciso desse livro em português!
April 7, 2019
Audiobook narrated by Justine Eyre 12 hours 56 minutes 56 seconds
Before I talk about the audiobook, can we all just take a moment to sit back with our cup of whatever preferred drink and discuss the beauty of its cover? Favorite cover of 2019?Enchantée consider yourself a member of the category. Awards will only be handed out on January 1st 2020. But oh the artwork just takes my breath away.
A novel set in 18th century France, surrounding the events that led up to the French Revolution, and the promise of both magic and a bit of romance were all very alluring. Unfortunately, this book just failed to resonate with me. The narrator, Justine Eyre, has hundreds of audiobooks under her belt, but I feel that this book and she were not a good fit for my listening ears. It's a shame because this is was on my much anticipated list. Not feeling a desire for book 2.
Before I talk about the audiobook, can we all just take a moment to sit back with our cup of whatever preferred drink and discuss the beauty of its cover? Favorite cover of 2019?Enchantée consider yourself a member of the category. Awards will only be handed out on January 1st 2020. But oh the artwork just takes my breath away.
A novel set in 18th century France, surrounding the events that led up to the French Revolution, and the promise of both magic and a bit of romance were all very alluring. Unfortunately, this book just failed to resonate with me. The narrator, Justine Eyre, has hundreds of audiobooks under her belt, but I feel that this book and she were not a good fit for my listening ears. It's a shame because this is was on my much anticipated list. Not feeling a desire for book 2.
July 7, 2018
What did I love about this book? EVERYTHING. Trelease transported me from 2018 to late 18th century France, and I was truly enchanted with every second of the ride. Her world-building is stellar as she moves us through Paris streets to the glamorous, but decaying, palace of Versailles sweeping us through Parisian fashion, print-making, hot-air ballooning, and parlor games. Woven into this story of magic, trickery, romance, and loss, is the history of the storming of the Bastille, which highlights the differences between social class that can drive a person to form dangerous alliances and dabble in dark magic. Add it immediately to your TBR list!
April 2, 2019
Y'all! I actually liked this WAY more than I thought I would! The asshole brother doesn't get to be an asset and then just get a pass (I've read so many damn books like that. Where it's just never challenged or anything). I liked the mc and her sister. I think the politics and magic needed a bit more fleshing out and I think the use of Marie Antoinette was less of a climax than I had expected. Good twist ending and lots of character development. Was actually impressed with everything Release did in one book under 450 pages.
I loved the inclusion of the hot air balloon. I don't know why but it was unexpected, fun and I just love seeing women involved with inventions and STEM.
I loved the inclusion of the hot air balloon. I don't know why but it was unexpected, fun and I just love seeing women involved with inventions and STEM.
July 1, 2018
I've been thinking about this book almost every day since I've read it so I have to update my thoughts a little:
Gita Trelease's debut is strong and beautiful, much like the main character, Camille. With France as a backdrop, a gorgeous bloodthirsty dress, card games, high-class balls, and a boy who flies hot-air balloons Enchantée deftly defies all expectations of reality by wowing you at every turn. Magical. dark, twisty, and wholly inspired, Enchantée sings with a deep vibrato, and is completely unforgettable. One you won't want to miss.
Get ready to meet some favorite characters and my sweet precious boy Chandon. <3 <3
Gita Trelease's debut is strong and beautiful, much like the main character, Camille. With France as a backdrop, a gorgeous bloodthirsty dress, card games, high-class balls, and a boy who flies hot-air balloons Enchantée deftly defies all expectations of reality by wowing you at every turn. Magical. dark, twisty, and wholly inspired, Enchantée sings with a deep vibrato, and is completely unforgettable. One you won't want to miss.
Get ready to meet some favorite characters and my sweet precious boy Chandon. <3 <3
September 8, 2018
Set in a magical Paris and Versailles in the days leading up to the French Revolution, Enchantée enchants with beautiful writing, clearly well-researched details, and fantastic characters that capture hearts in the very first pages. The setting alone is a masterpiece, equally capturing the lush world of Marie Antoinette's court and the less desirable streets of Paris. Fantasy fans will adore the magic as much as historical fans will love the backdrop. Absolutely stunning!
February 17, 2019
I had high expectations for this book and I ended up being a tad disappointed. The things I liked: The writing was good, her research was top notch and I loved the sister relationship. I did not like the romance aspect of the story. One, it just didn't seem necessary to the story and two it wasn't believable to me. It felt detached or maybe forced is a better word. I was hoping to love this book but it was just alright.
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