I’m delighted to share this wonderful review from the Historical Novel Society. HNS was founded in the United Kingdom in 1997 as a way to champion historical fiction via their Solander magazine. Since that time, the magazine has morphed into the Historical Novels Review, a quarterly magazine that offers thoughtful reviews of newly released historical novels.
Review:
“1927. After crossing a powerful and vengeful fairy godmother (part of the Fées Gardiennes), 22-year-old Celeste is on a ship bound for America and, hopefully, a safe place from retribution. Upon her arrival in Los Angeles, Celeste quickly discovers that Hollywoodland’s silent film era boasts its own unique form of royalty than in Europe. Her mission is to find a protégé, ignite a spark of inspiration, and kindle a beacon of hope visible to the world. Achieving this will enable her to become a true Fée Gardienne. However, the exceedingly optimistic Celeste, accompanied by her stoat companion Sebastian, soon uncovers a chilling curse enveloping the movie studio where her potential protégé works. While a godmother’s gift comes with a cost, Celeste becomes entangled in a plot to upset the balance between light and dark forces.
This is an enjoyable spin on the classic fairy godmother’s trope. From set constructions to costume design, the allure of Hollywoodland comes alive as Celeste experiences snippets of behind-the-scenes movie studio glamour. Celeste’s developing skills and her growing partnership with Sebastian are enjoyable plot threads. Celeste has an “old soul” coupled with an adorable optimism, so I often forgot she was only 22. As the plot unfolds, Celeste’s initial naivety is starkly contrasted by dark events as a movie studio’s bad luck/curse culminates into a grisly murder. The ending is bittersweet, effectively illustrating the complexity of finding happiness. There are a few loose ends, but it appears there is another book slated for 2026.”
Thank you HNR!
