Beautiful Days by Anna Godberson (Young Adult, Historical)

1st September 2011, Razorbill

368 pages, Paperback

Review copy

Young Adult, Historical 

Themes: life in the 1920's, friends moving on from each other, careless & reckless behaviour, selfishness, growing up, saying sorry, talent, family ties, taking hold of responsibilities, sparkly jewellery, lots of edge of the seat moments, kidnapping, stalking, opening a business, mild romance, some laughs, tissues needed. 

Summary from Puffin

The fabulous sequel to Bright Young Things. 

Scandal, intrigue, and romance follow the three beautiful young friends, Letty, Cordelia and Astrid as they each try to find love and fortune in glamorous Jazz Age New York. 

Nayuleska's reasons for loving Letty...she has a gift which she learns isn't as perfect as it could be without some guidance, but it's more than good enough that eventually, including in this book, all the disappointment and hardships she faces are more than worth it. 

Is there another character who deserves a mention? Cordelia and Astrid who act like total ninnies a lot of the time, who don't engage their brains but who get shocked into opening their eyes and really seeing both the reality of life as well as all the fun parts. 

How evil/nasty is the enemy? It is so easy to forget the dangers when those around you protect you from the darkness, keeping you occupied with sparkly things. But the look and grip of dangerous men will stay with you forever. 

Are there plenty of plot twists and surprises? The rollercoaster lives of each girl which began in the first book, Bright Young Things, had more twists that left me happily stunned. 

One of my favourite parts was....when Cordelia realises where she truly belongs, and starts putting effort into the right things. 

This gets a solid 10/10 from me. 

You can find out more about Anna and her books on her website. 

Suggested read

Definitely read Bright Young Things where all the excitement kicked off for the girls.