Scan barcode
A review by lolabeans
Finding Emilie by Laurel Corona
4.0
If you're looking for a book that gives an in depth look at pre-Revolution France, this is not it. If you're searching for a book that wraps a glimpse into that time period around a lovely story about an unconventional girl, you've found it.
I think when I started reading I was expecting the former, which lead to my being disappointed upon reading the first few pages. Only after letting go of my preconceptions did I start to enjoy the book for what it was.
I'm not going to go into specifics, as I always give too much a way (and really, you can check the the summary for that), but I will tell you what I liked.
The books put a lot of emphasis on French customs, manner and etiquette among the aristocracy. But unlike many things I've read or movies I've watched that take place in the 18th and 19th centuries, it focuses on the differences between what happens behind closed doors and what happens in public. I've never believed that people can be so proper all of the time and this book explores that in really nice way.
There's a bit of romance. I'm kind of a sucker for romance, so let the cheesy grins ensue.
It reignited my interest in philosophy. I've had a list of works that I've meant to read for ages, but that I forgot about long ago. These books have now moved up in my list and I can think this novel for that.
When it comes down to it this book is a starter book. A nice, light read that will get a reader interested in the specifics in this time period. It's very much a coming of age story, suited for a young adult reader. I love the relationship between the two young women as it's something that many people can relate to. That childhood best friend that you grew up with, the one you love even though you're complete opposites. I can see that friend in my head now.
As to the ending. Yes, it is wrapped up in a bow, but I appreciate that. There is no certainty in the future of these characters, so I will gladly soak in their happiness now, because the rest of their lives may not be so bright.
Overall I recommend this book because as long as you go in with the right expectations I see no reason why you shouldn't enjoy it. I do plan on looking up other books from this author and hopefully if I review those the reviews will be more coherent than this one. ;)
I think when I started reading I was expecting the former, which lead to my being disappointed upon reading the first few pages. Only after letting go of my preconceptions did I start to enjoy the book for what it was.
I'm not going to go into specifics, as I always give too much a way (and really, you can check the the summary for that), but I will tell you what I liked.
The books put a lot of emphasis on French customs, manner and etiquette among the aristocracy. But unlike many things I've read or movies I've watched that take place in the 18th and 19th centuries, it focuses on the differences between what happens behind closed doors and what happens in public. I've never believed that people can be so proper all of the time and this book explores that in really nice way.
There's a bit of romance. I'm kind of a sucker for romance, so let the cheesy grins ensue.
It reignited my interest in philosophy. I've had a list of works that I've meant to read for ages, but that I forgot about long ago. These books have now moved up in my list and I can think this novel for that.
When it comes down to it this book is a starter book. A nice, light read that will get a reader interested in the specifics in this time period. It's very much a coming of age story, suited for a young adult reader. I love the relationship between the two young women as it's something that many people can relate to. That childhood best friend that you grew up with, the one you love even though you're complete opposites. I can see that friend in my head now.
As to the ending. Yes, it is wrapped up in a bow, but I appreciate that. There is no certainty in the future of these characters, so I will gladly soak in their happiness now, because the rest of their lives may not be so bright.
Overall I recommend this book because as long as you go in with the right expectations I see no reason why you shouldn't enjoy it. I do plan on looking up other books from this author and hopefully if I review those the reviews will be more coherent than this one. ;)