This, incredible, book was a rather impulse buy from me. It had an incredible cover, was a historical fiction with fantastical elements and set in an era I hadn’t read much about (French Revolution), so on whim I gave it a go. What a masterpiece. We have a high stakes plot with a strong female lead character, a credible love story and complex characters that you’re uncertain whether to root for or not. A definite must read.
Step into late 1780's France where the current way of life is balanced on a knifes edge, the majority of the people of Paris are starving in poverty while nobles and royalty live the high life. Nestled in the rue Charlot, at number 11, resides newly orphaned Camille, her older brother Alain and her younger sister Sophie. When the girls are betrayed by their brother, Camille has to do the unthinkable to save herself and protect her younger sister - she must immerse herself in to la Magie and become what she despises, a noble woman that belongs in such places like the Palace of Versailles. Follow Camille as she navigates the trappings and cheats that come with playing with the courts high rollers, where nothing is quite what it seems.
This book has a little of everything that I adore to read about, we have our historical setting that is the beginning of the French Revolution - not a subject I have a lot of knowledge of, but it is interesting to read about - the book takes a few historically accurate events from the time to help form the plot. Then we have the fantasy element of the book, la Magie, which adds a whimsical element to the story and seems to enchant the surroundings. The element of magic is well thought out with a clear to follow (and incredibly interesting) lore to it. The book is well paced, we start slow in the beginning which signifies Camille's usual pace of life before she is thrown into her double life - very clever. From then on the intricate detailing of the magnificent Palace of Versailles to the poverty stricken Paris completely surround you and make you believe you are standing in the middle of it all, with Camille by your side. If you're a fan of The Night Circus then I think you would like this book.
As you probably know if you've read my reviews before, I love a strong female lead - and I think Camille may just be my favourite ever character from a book. She is a young woman with ideals way before her time, put into circumstances that no seventeen-year-old should ever have to deal with. She does everything for her family, even if they don't deserve it, she is protective and loving to a fault. Camille dreams big and has the courage to chase her desires, she is kind to those she meets and able to find positives in even the worst of people. That's not to say she's faultless, because she isn't and she knows this. Camille paired with the mysterious Lazare makes for a couple with undeniable chemistry. Our leads romantic interest compliments her perfectly, he is another individual way before their time. The charismatic Lazare is more than just a simple romantic interest for the lead, he has his own complex story arc, complete with hopes and dreams. But then that is true of all characters in Enchantée - everyone is there for a reason, and no character is simplified.
Of course, the story has it's fair share of villains, from various members of the noble and royal ranks to Camille's own brother. Each have their own character arcs and the story allows them their own individual time to shine. Gita Trelease allows the reader to understand the villains of the piece - whilst they commit terrible acts, there are also reasons behind everything that is done. There are also various characters supporting our leads, some of my favourites from the book, but I cannot discuss them. This is due to various characters interlinking at different parts of the plot and, I believe, experiencing it first-hand adds to the overall journey of the story. But I can't wait to see how each and every one of them progress and develop into the second book, which is due to be released next year.
As always, I love a message or a lesson within the books I read - and Enchantée doesn't disappoint. Many of the story’s messages are conveyed through symbolism, mostly using phrases relating to card games. The importance of understanding those around you, playing the cards you are dealt in life and the unpredictability of luck being a few. Throughout the book Camille made her own luck, she was the master of her own fate, and her failures tended to coincide with her relying on only luck for events to turn in her favour. There is no such thing as impossible, you just have to believe that you can do anything and push yourself to do the things you are most afraid of - because "people have died sitting in their armchairs" (quote from Enchantée). The story takes the time to note the power in everything, and the possible positive and negative consequences. The influence of hope and power, which can cause positive change, but could also have detrimental effects in the hands of the wrong person. Camille spends the whole journey wishing and craving for freedom, which to a degree she does do, but I also think she desires to be truly seen for who she is. Like putting on a mask but wanting someone to see the person underneath it. The book is a testament to having the strength and courage to do something that needs to be done - no matter how hard, uncomfortable or damaging it could be, you just have to do what is right. And sometimes you have to lose yourself to find yourself.
Truly an enchanting and magical read, you are drawn into Camille's world and all her trials and tribulations. I have never personally felt the emotions of any character as I have felt Camille's - which can only speak volumes to how incredible Gita Trelease's writing is. The story is full of twists and turns that you won't be expecting. You should definitely go and pick this one up, you won't be able to put it down.
Thanks for reading,
Rhi
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