Belle Epoque — teen review

Ever heard of the phrase “Designated Ugly Fat Friend (DUFF)” ? The term was immortalized in DUFF by Kody Keplinger, used to describe a friend that was less attractive than her peers who, in comparison, made everyone else look better. Belle Epoque is essentially the DUFF set in 19th century France. Because the wealthy are completely focused on rising in the world and accumulating even more money, making good marriages is a huge deal. In order to make a prosperous match, socialites are hiring ugly women to be their companions to make themselves look better. Maude, who never really thought of herself as ugly, starts her career as one of these “ugly women” and is immediately thrown into the thick of things.

The story was pretty predictable. There weren’t really any plot twists or surprises. By the time you read half of the book, you know how it’ll end. Even though it’s set in 19th century France, the basic ideas and storyline are pretty similar to any other Young Adult book that focuses on image/beauty.

The setting is interesting. While there is plenty of historical fiction in young adult, it isn’t the most popular subgenre. Ross does a good job of wielding the setting in a way that makes the 19th century France seem intriguing and alien, but at the same familiar. When the main character gets to attend balls and fancy dinners for the first time, we are right there with her, experiencing it for the first time.

The characters themselves were also pretty straightforward. Besides the main characters, there isn’t really much character development. Characters act in the same way throughout the book. But, they did act and react in a somewhat believable way. There wasn’t a time when I had to stop reading and try to figure out what people were doing.

Overall, Belle Epoque is a good read for those that are interested in the premise, but not for those that want a fairly typical/predictable read.  3 stars. –Kara E., grade 11, teen reviewer

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Find this book in our library: Belle Epoque