The Luxe - The Official Site :: letters-from-anna

Thursday Apr 23, 2009

Posted at 03:42PM Apr 23, 2009 by Anna in General  |  Comments[296]

Hey all!

Sorry I’ve been missing in action again—I was all crazed by the final push to finish a first draft of Splendor, and then after that I went into my sleepy hermit mode. Sigh! But the good news is, that’s one step closer to the book being really, truly done, and soon after that bound in hardcovers and off to stores! In the meantime, it’s been so inspiring to read all of your comments—and I was happy to see a few of you saying nice things about Lina. She is not an easy character to love, I know, but she is in some ways the character I most relate to, because she longs for things she has no birthright to and chases them in her own messy, misguided way, and so it pains me that readers often despise her so thoroughly. Of course, this is what fiction does—it takes us into the minds and motivations of people we can’t possibly admire, hopefully, in the process, making us understand them a little more. As a writer, you must sympathize even with your villains, or risk them becoming caricatures—this is what I strive for, even if I am not always successful.

I wonder if you readers have some of that sympathy for the devil—are there villains in literature or the movies that you just can’t help but love, or see a little bit of yourself in? I’d love to know! Especially when, in a few days, I’ll be getting back my manuscript, and that will mean walking around with Penelope for a little while longer…

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Comments:

I definitely try to understand where the villains are coming from and why they do the things they do, and I can sympathize with them sometimes (especially those in the Luxe - they are like real people, more developed as dimensional, dynamic characters rather than just bad guys), but some things I simply can't understand. For example, I see how Lina is trying to get something she can't have (social status), but the whole thing with Will, how she still insists she loved him although she decided that he wasn't "good enough" for her since she became a lady, I can't fathom why she still does that. And I know Penelope really isn't much without Henry (as she herself said), but she knows he loves Diana (also something she has admitted), why is she still holding on so tightly? I can only understand their motives to an extent, then sometimes it goes a bit over my head. Keep writing (or editing now?), we're all anxiously awaiting Splendor!

Posted by Ivana on April 23, 2009 at 04:13 PM EDT #

Good luck i'm praying for splendor to come out quickly! so exited and i know Lina is just misguided and she needs to find her way! and yay second comment!

Posted by Rosalie on April 23, 2009 at 05:10 PM EDT #

I think that a lot of times you can measure a story in terms of their villains. One of my favorite fictional characters ever is a villain and his story just blew me away. So yeah, a good villain will make a good story, so we should respect 'em and give them a little lovin'.

Posted by Clavie on April 23, 2009 at 05:23 PM EDT #

I love the luxe series they are my favourite! I cant believe that Henry and Teddy have gone to war! I hope that Diana is safe and that she finds Henry safe too. I have grown to hate Penelope because she loves Henry and that she black-mailed him into his life. I can't wait untill Splendor comes out!! I don't want to bug you about it but when do you think Splendor will be on the shelves???

Posted by Devin on April 23, 2009 at 06:24 PM EDT #

I totally understand. At first I hated Lina, but then I began to understand her intentions and motivations. I guess it was hard for her to fit in, so she did what she had to. But I can't help but be mad that she spilled the beans on Diana and Henry. I think you series is brillant, and I can't wait for Splendor. I think Penelope is understated. Everyone hates her soo much, that they don't take the time to realize her brillance. I despise her as much as everyone else, but I think she is a brillant character. I'm also reading The Season, like your books, I was drawn to the cover. Good Luck!

Posted by Danielle on April 23, 2009 at 06:41 PM EDT #

Honestly, i can of love Penelope in all of her wickedness and weakness. She isn't exactly the strongest character but one of the craftiest and I love her for it. Yes I think she is super amazing.

Posted by Aurora on April 23, 2009 at 07:53 PM EDT #

So I don't think this is what you were aiming for, but the killer in Prom Night? So HOT! :)

Posted by Lindsey on April 23, 2009 at 09:54 PM EDT #

Hey Anna, i was wondering if you knew if the Luxe jewelry contest with the necklace sold that peice of jewelry anywhere? I would love to buy it if I didn't win and was wondering if i could find it anywhere. It's gorgeous and it would be so awesome if that were possible. please answer!

Posted by Aurora on April 23, 2009 at 10:01 PM EDT #

Hey everyone!!! Wanna see the cover of Splendor??? Go to goodreads.com and type "Splendor by Anna Godbersen" in the search box in the upper right hand corner. It's beautiful!!!! Also, goodreads is a pretty cool website, if you wanna join. It's like a social networking site, but for book lovers. =] Hope you like the cover as much as I do!

Posted by alyssahh on April 24, 2009 at 08:29 AM EDT #

Yes! If you can't sympathize with villains or at least understand their motivations, then the characters most be horribly one dimensional. I think you do a wonderful job with your villainess Penelope, because sometimes I feel sorry for her and understand how she feels. One villain I adore is Gaston from the animated Beauty and the Beast. He's more interesting than the main characters (I think). And his songs are way better.

Posted by Samantha on April 24, 2009 at 08:55 AM EDT #

Oh, yeah! I'm on goodreads too, it's awesome! And the Splendor cover is gorgeous.

Posted by Samantha on April 24, 2009 at 08:56 AM EDT #

has anyone read the book The Season?? it looked kind of like this series and i was wondering if it was any good? of course its not as good as The Luxe tho!! cant wait for splendor!!

Posted by jelaina <3 on April 24, 2009 at 05:51 PM EDT #

I absolutely love the Luxe books. I'm an old-fashioned girl and I adore old New York! My favorite character is Diana, I was shocked after what she did with Grayson, but nevertheless I love her, because I relate to her! She lives through books, at least before Henry, who I also adore. Penelope is also one of my fav characters, its fun to see what she'll come up with. Anna they are amazing! And Lina isn't all bad, but she's definitely not my favorite.

Posted by Angel on April 25, 2009 at 02:32 AM EDT #

You can find out more about "The Season" by going to: http://www.amazon.com/Season-Sarah-MacLean/dp/0545048869#

Posted by Luxe Girl on April 25, 2009 at 02:27 PM EDT #

I saw the cover of "Splendor" and I totally love it! I used to like Penelope until she made Diana's life miserable. Now Diana is my favorite character.

Posted by Luxe Girl on April 25, 2009 at 02:30 PM EDT #

Is there any way you can make Will come back??? Maybe he didnt actually die from the gunshot wounds, as it never says she saw the body! he could just be in jail recovering... :( Will was just perfect for her and i think it would be a pretty much ideal ending for her to be re-united with him. And great reader satisfaction and twist to the story! :D but yeah... Will deff lives on for her! other than that, i love the books!!! p.s. please bring Will back :)

Posted by Megan on April 25, 2009 at 03:30 PM EDT #

I think the most recent villian I have come across that I have found captivating is the Joker, portrayed by Heath Ledger. He's a different kind of criminal since he has no motivation to cause harm. It's a scary thing when you have no ammo to counteract a villian and that's what made The Dark Knight such a great movie. After what you said about Lina, I'm starting to realize that she is more realistic than I thought. Growing up with very traditional parents, I often try to break boundaries and earn what they seem shouldn't be mine. Yet, I still yearn to see a slightly more giving side of Penelope.

Posted by Leena on April 25, 2009 at 05:26 PM EDT #

I love the series and I know it would make a fantastic movie series! PLEASE make these books into movies! I can't wait for Splendor!

Posted by Please make a Luxe movie!!! on April 25, 2009 at 11:57 PM EDT #

Sometimes I feel like I relate to the villain if they've been troubled or they just want something they can't possibly have.

Posted by Nikki on April 26, 2009 at 06:03 PM EDT #

I also have a question, for the book covers, is Luxe: Elizabeth Rumors: Diana Envy: Penelope? Or is the cover for Rumors supposed to be Penelope?

Posted by Nikki on April 26, 2009 at 06:06 PM EDT #

No, the cover orders are supposed to be: 1.The Luxe--Elizabeth 2. Rumors--Penelope and 3. Envy--Diana

Posted by Luxe Girl on April 26, 2009 at 08:37 PM EDT #

I absolutely LOVE the Luxe books! When I get one I read it all in the same day. They are so... intriguing! Anna, you are a wonderful author, and i swear, Splendor can't come out soon enough!

Posted by <3 on April 27, 2009 at 12:00 AM EDT #

Thank you so much for The Luxe series. I have enjoyed them so much, and I can't wait for Splendor to be released. I always recommend the series to my young adult readers at the bookstore. I hope you dont take too long of a break with your writing after Splendor. We'll all need our Anna fix!

Posted by Jessie Marie on April 27, 2009 at 02:38 PM EDT #

By the way. I would love to see Elizabeth end up with Teddy somewhere down the road. He has been so patient, loyal, loving, and kind. I'm a hopeless romantic. His love would be all I needed for the recovery of a broken heart as well as the realization that life can still hold the promise of happiness, even if it's not what we thought we wanted....???

Posted by Jessie Marie on April 27, 2009 at 02:49 PM EDT #

I also want Elizabeth and Teddy together.

Posted by alyssahh on April 27, 2009 at 05:08 PM EDT #

Okay so I so totally loved Rumors! Couldn't wait to start Envy which I bought ahead of time with excitement! I started it yesterday and couldn't put it down! And now to my dismay I am already on the forty-third chapter most likely going to finish before bedtime! Crapolla I don't like waiting lol. But in response to your last letter I do not like Lina which may be all due to her snitching on Henry and Diana for her own selfishness. But on the contrary I would love for her to be rich and in love with Leland and be loved back for that in the end may lighten her spirit and make her more likable. I don't know but I can say that I have fallen for Henry just as I fell for Edward in Twilight lol how cheesy! I even image him as Robert Pattinson haha I hope that is more of a compliment for it was intended to be one.

Posted by Becs on April 27, 2009 at 06:53 PM EDT #

Oh and I agree with Alyssahh on the whole Elizabeth and Teddy being together that would be excellent!

Posted by Becs on April 27, 2009 at 06:56 PM EDT #

Anna, After reading Twilight, I had an extremely difficult time finding a series that I was excited about. Your character development is exquisite. I found myself completely addicted to them and flew threw all 3 in 3 days. Penelope is my favorite. How I love to hate her! I was a bit of a pistol when I was younger and embarassingly enough, I admit I can relate to Penelope's manipulative ways.*I also had a male boston terrier. LOL!* As an adult, one learns to control their impulses.. we learn to bite our tongue's and not to pick the flowers in others' gardens, so to speak. I love the fact that although she is MORE than aware of her ill mannered behavior's and the negative reprocussions that they may have, Penelope can not restrain herself. I also love her flamboiant sidekick, Buck. I think that another reason I have enjoyed your writing so much is because I can not guess which direction the story is going to go in. I found myself gasping outloud and even crying at various times while reading your work. I anxiously await Splendor and have suggested your work to my friends who are avid readers, such as myself. Anna, thank you so very much for sharing these characters with us all!! Sincerely, Angie

Posted by Angie - www.GillyGals.com on April 27, 2009 at 09:17 PM EDT #

Anna, I found myself completely addicted to your books and flew threw all 3 in 3 days. Penelope is my favorite. How I love to hate her! I was a bit of a pistol when I was younger and embarassingly enough, I admit I can relate to Penelope's manipulative ways. I also had a male boston terrier. LOL! As an adult, one learns to control their impulses. We learn to bite our tongue's and not to pick the flowers in others' gardens, so to speak. I love the fact that although she is MORE than aware of her ill mannered behavior's and the negative reprocussions that they may have, Penelope can not restrain herself. I also love her flamboiant sidekick, Buck. Another reason I have enjoyed your work is because I cannot guess which direction the story is going to go in. I found myself gasping outloud and even crying at various times while reading your work. Anna, thank you so very much for sharing these characters with us all!! Sincerely, Angie

Posted by Angie - www.GillyGals.com on April 27, 2009 at 09:19 PM EDT #

i do not particulary like lina for she was somewhat greedy and kinda used people. but i do like Diana and Henry and hope so badly that they end up together for the true heart will go to much extremes to follow the path god has laid out no matter how difficult that path may be and diana and henry i believe would do that.I do hope to see elizabeth happy (maybe with teddy) i do like that lina has a little hookup. But with all these romances arising who does penelope end up with? Although i do not particulary like penelope i feel a little bad since you can tell she really does love henry.

Posted by shelby on April 27, 2009 at 10:54 PM EDT #

I just finished reading Envy today! On page 404 when Diana was cutting off her hair, I just had a feeling that she was going to play the part of a male to be with Henry. I loved that she didn't reveal her plans to anyone and just up & left in the middle of the night! I love reading about the extraordinary lives of people who are willing to take unbelievably huge risks for the ones they love! You are an amazing author Anna Godbersen!

Posted by Elisabeth on April 27, 2009 at 11:14 PM EDT #

One villain that I really can't help but love is the Phantom in "Phantom of the Opera." In that instance you know the background he has come from and you sympathize with him because he is trying to overcome obstacles in his life. Sometimes is the situations we grow up in that determine our state of minde, whether we will be kind or evil. A lot of times villains come from backgrounds where all they now is evil and never had that little kindness everyone deserves. In the case of the Phantom he shows kindness where it is due and acts out on those who act against him. Those are the villains that really portray human nature and are the easiest to connect with, whether in sympathy or disgust.

Posted by Margaret on April 28, 2009 at 11:24 AM EDT #

I actually do relate to some villains. In the High School Musical movies, i actually LOVE Sharpay. lol. I guess it's sorta 'cause she loves the spotlight as i do too. She sings, dances, and acts, which, i also do. I dont think im as mean, but.......i can be if i want to. lol. I'm so excited for your next book! OMG!!! If i wasnt so busy with singing lessons and writing, and school, i'd prob be going CRAZY sitting here waiting for it! lol. Let's just say.....i love your mind. :D

Posted by Ellen S. on April 28, 2009 at 06:40 PM EDT #

i actually love the character of penelope.. she is so far fetched and insane which is fun to read. its always great to think of what malcious thing she'll do next! and no i usually dont like the villian but with her she truly doesnt care about what people think and does whatever she wants to get her wayy

Posted by shana on April 28, 2009 at 08:36 PM EDT #

I'm not a huge fan of lina or penelope but i can understand why they do what they do. Most people in life strive to be the hero or i guess are taught that the hero always over comes evil. so in society we just look at a bad guy or girl and automatically say we don't like them because they are considered villians. People need to realize that we are all human and make mistakes good and bad. The choices we make shape who we are and what we want to become. Villians in a sense are people we love to hate because they have flaws that we as people never want to show because we know we'd be judged harshly. I love chuck and blair from gossip girl because they are essentially the vilians of the show. Really without vilians to stir things up we would never have amazing stories. so lina and penelope are a must in the luxe series because they keep things fresh. I have no idea if i have made any sense at all but i just wanted to get my opinon out there. love the books and can not wait til splendor hits the shelves.

Posted by Kate on April 28, 2009 at 11:43 PM EDT #

hey, I just wanted to say that your series are GREAT. I love them!!! I soooo hope that Diana and Henry are getting back together and Elizabeth and Teddy! Anyway, I think that Lina just doesn't ad anything to the story and I don't care what will happen to her. Ofcourse its sad that she was born so poor but that is no excuse for ruining everything for Diana and Henry! I hope Penelope get's some payback for all the mean things she's done. Anyway can't wait for Splendor and hope it's going to be a happy ending.

Posted by Helena on April 29, 2009 at 07:50 AM EDT #

Hi Anna!!, ok, so i was wondering......who is on the cover of "Envy"? I mean, its obvious Elizabeth is on the cover of "Luxe", and Penelope is on the cover of "Rumors". But I can't seem to figure out who is on the third cover. I would try to email you, Anna, directly....but I can't find contact info. Please post the answer....me and my friends are dying to know! and to answer your question..I seem to have some sympathy for Penelope. But she never shows an innocent side, even when thinking to herself. There is always a selfish motive for her...but that is why she is so interesting. Without her, the story would have no immediate scandal.

Posted by Luxe Grl on April 29, 2009 at 04:06 PM EDT #

Hey, i love you books and got sucked into them rightaway. I love them. I still can not believe that Diana went to the army but i understand her motive, and want her to follow her dreem. I want to see what happends when Tedy and Elizabeth see each other again. And when Carolina and Lenard see each other again. The tension is growing. Also, i want the Hollands to rise back to the top(money wise i mean). Well reply back soon i hope i want to know when the next book will come out if you have a clue!!??!! Well thanks, i love your books and never want you to stop. I have so many books i am reading and the other books are not out of the series. And i am dying for them to be done. but the one i want to most is yours!!!!!!

Posted by Nikita on April 29, 2009 at 08:09 PM EDT #

Hey Anna! I'm so excited about Splendor! There actually IS a few "evil" characters from books and shows that I love :D I understand why Lina does everything she does to be noticed....But I guess I don't really like her. My favourite evil guy of all time is "Benjamin Linus" from this show I love called "Lost". He is SO CLEVER! And such a stratagist? (Sorry don't know how to spell that..) Even though he is really mean I love him :) What happens to Teddy and Henry! They don't DIE right?? Right ? Can't wait to read Splendor! -Bella

Posted by Bella Casey on April 30, 2009 at 03:03 PM EDT #

For some strange reason I'd love for Teddy and Diana to become a couple...it could work out I suppose...

Posted by Nikki on April 30, 2009 at 09:25 PM EDT #

I actually liked Lina alot, not because we share almost the same name, but because she is quite a fiesty and opinionated character, who struggles to find her place in the world and that is why I enjoy reading about her so much. She isn't very logical, but she does use her head, but not her heart that often. I really do want her to find her place in the world, but I don't want Mr Longhorn to use her as an experiment and I really do believe that if she actually listen to her heart then she could end up, being just as adored as Elizabeth.

Posted by Caroline on May 01, 2009 at 12:56 PM EDT #

All I can say is: "toss that Twilight book out the window and pick up The Luxe. A real page turner and must-read!" I heard that Splendor is the last book of The Luxe series which kind of disappoints me because I wish for the story to go longer. Anywho, I am very excited for Splendor to come out, we all are. Please keep writing books even though The Luxe comes to an end. Expect me to be reading your other books and probably a hundred more people!

Posted by Kim on May 03, 2009 at 01:50 PM EDT #

love your books, love the splendor cover !!!! fits lina perfectly, i love lina she has got the best luck in world she deserves to be in the spotlight for what she did to diana, by telling Penolppe. I can't wait till your final book and the hopes of diffrent series.

Posted by rose on May 03, 2009 at 04:32 PM EDT #

Im axiously awaiting for Splendor to come and I'm sure it will be just as great as the three before it! :) Hmm Lina's character is, hate to say it, one of my least favorite characters in the book (first being Penelope- I mean who doesn't hate her?) and although she does everything to make up for the way shes been treated all her life she does tend to get a bit snotty in the process.

Posted by Mayra on May 03, 2009 at 07:39 PM EDT #

Hi Anna :) I am totally inlove with your books, your an amazing author! I found The Luxe on a random day at borders and i went crazy over it, i rushed back the next day for rumors! I had to wait a month for envy to come to any book store near me (i live in australia) because there was some problem with getting them. I went to the shop about three times a week, any time that i could, to see if it might of came early! lol! And then yesterday i went to check and it wasnt there, so i was hanging round waiting for my mum and i herd a girl stacking books and so i looked and she was stacking Envy!!! I got so exsited she started laughing at me! I read it in less than a day and i cannot waitttttttt for splendor!!!! I know you have said Splendor is the last installment but as much as i really really really want splendor.. im dreading it coming because it will be the last one!!!

Posted by laura on May 04, 2009 at 04:11 AM EDT #

Any plans to make a film out of the books? :D

Posted by Hannah on May 04, 2009 at 11:56 AM EDT #

I've always appreciated Bram Stocker's Dracula. Even if Dracula is an awful, crual & bloodthirsty character we can't really hate him. I mean he has been cursed because of his passionate love for his wife who has committed suicide believing him dead. Their love was so strong that neither Death or God could restrain it. He is quite beastly, almost an animal but everytime I read the book, he always affects me. He is this particular kind of villains that you can understand and who help us to realize that human always have a dark, beastly and hard part. I believe Dracula is a reflexion of the complexity of the human nature. - Sorry for the schoolish english, once again, French are hopeless at languages but I've found this question very interesting so I wanted to answer to it -. Take care. Greatings from France !

Posted by Mara on May 04, 2009 at 12:29 PM EDT #

i am sooo sorry i sais what i said about ur cover my friends say they like it and also my friend also told me that you dont actually make the cover that someone else makes the cover again i apologize and i just would like to know a clue of what happens to dianna and henry it comes out in like wat feels like 100 years i cant wait that long...

Posted by yanna on May 04, 2009 at 05:06 PM EDT #

Where did yall find the cover of Splendor? I've been dyin to see it but cant find it anywhere! Diana is by far my favorite character cause she is exactly like me, but i LOVE Penny too. The villians in books that you just love to hate because you also love them lol are the best. It makes you look at your own actions and see if you would be doin the same thing they are.

Posted by Summer on May 04, 2009 at 07:38 PM EDT #

i loved lina sooo much and she still rox, even if she is a bit evil.... but i hope it all works out in splendor!!! i LOVE your books, so keep writting more books! Love your fan!

Posted by Arianne on May 04, 2009 at 08:40 PM EDT #

i totally understand what you are saying. I feel for Lina because she can only get what she wants by being manipulative. I mean you have to feel for these characters because of how sad they really are. They're human and they're deprved of something they want. You can't blame Penelope or lina for wanting something and then doing something about it(even if it may be the wrong way to do it) at least they had the guts to do something about it.

Posted by michaela on May 04, 2009 at 09:18 PM EDT #

I am so excited for Splendor. I have been reading each book the moment they have come out. I plan on spending the summer passing the time by getting my friends to pick up the series and have the first three read before the fourth comes out. I also hope this becomes a movie. I have never loved a piece of literature so much.

Posted by Logen on May 05, 2009 at 09:09 AM EDT #

Hello Anna, I am a huge fan. I was so sad when Will died & felt so bad for Liz. I really hope you'll allow a happy ending for Diana and Henry because true love has to overcome ..so far it hasn't for anyone..& possibly even Teddy & Liz. What I am really looking forward to reading about is the explanation of Snowden. You have mentioned his reasons for helping the Holland family to be his partnership with Mr. Holland however, for me, doesn't explain why is he so overly helpful.. perhaps he is really searching for the oil?..that Mr.Holland only spoke about to Will & is hoping that by marrying Liz that he may find the location?..Really pushing for Henry and Diana tho..they are my favorites! can't wait for the next book..you really have talent :)

Posted by Madalina on May 06, 2009 at 03:46 PM EDT #

can we have a hint as to what happens to henry and diana idk how they r going to turn out but whatever it is it better be good and please dont make anyone die even penelope cause she is one of my favorites...oh and also a hint as to what happens to elizabeth cause u said that she finds out something about her past and i think it may involve will like maybe her mom told them thta they were there or maybe snowden cairns did it to have elizabeth to himself??? so many questions... oh yeah when does splendor come out cause 1 place said it was november 1st and 1 place said october 27th so yeah please just give us a hint...PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by yanna on May 06, 2009 at 07:00 PM EDT #

I recently started reading the Luxe serious and I absolutly fell in love with it!! Is there going to be a movie in the making? That would be super awesome!!

Posted by kathy River on May 07, 2009 at 04:54 PM EDT #

Yes! I love these books so much! I can't wait until Splendor comes out.... when is it coming out? What will I do while I'm waiting?!?!?!?! Anyway, I love all the charicters and no matter how many times I try to hate any them, I think of what wouldn't have happened if they hadn't been so hateful... if you know what I mean... ha ha!!! Can't wait for Splendor!!!!!

Posted by Julia Downs on May 07, 2009 at 08:06 PM EDT #

hey im new to the series and im on chapter 17 reading the book the luxe which is the first book ok i just got rumor im going to get envy could anybody tell me when the next book is coming out

Posted by Marissa on May 09, 2009 at 04:15 PM EDT #

Anna, is there any possible way you can get Splendor out sooner? Please say yes. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE say yes.

Posted by Jayla on May 09, 2009 at 05:51 PM EDT #

I can't wait for the book to come out. I can't see how you think Lina is the Villan. I find her the most intresting. It is Penelope I can't stand.

Posted by Katie on May 10, 2009 at 10:21 PM EDT #

Speculation on the book covers is getting very irritating. If you would read the description of the characters in the book you would know who is who. Elizabeth was the first one, obviously. Diana is the second (dark brown hair, not stick skinny). Lina is the third (dirty blonde hair, more of a simple look to her). I would assume that Penelope would be the third cover. If you think about it, the covers have to do with the content. The first book was mainly about Liz, the second Diana, the third Carolina and her attempt to rise into society, the fourth will most likely have alot of content on Penelope and how she'll deal with Henry going off to war and possibly leaving her for Diana. Hopefully that will clear up questions about the covers.

Posted by Liz on May 11, 2009 at 12:55 PM EDT #

liz: actually, i'm pretty sure that it's elizabeth on the first, penelope on the second, and diana on the third, leaving lina for the fourth

Posted by katie on May 11, 2009 at 02:29 PM EDT #

WOW im so excited for your last book to come out! I saw the cover and i loveeeeeeeee it im CRAZY pumped to read it:] i really hope you had a lot of fun writing these books, they're truely amazing! Since Splendor doesn't come out for a while, I'm actually rereading the books! This is honestly my favorite series, and you DEFFIENTLY deserve a movie offer for this book! Seeing it on the big screen would blow our minds! I really think that after The Luxe Series, you should take a nice long break, but of course, WRITE ANOTHER SERIES! You are such an amazing author; I think we would all really love to read another one of your books if you wrote one! You're extremly creative in your writing; I think you could come up with another hit series:]

Posted by Jordan on May 11, 2009 at 05:54 PM EDT #

Jordan again, just saying that Katie is right about the book covers. It's elizabeth; penelope; diana; and leaving the last for lina. The second book cover has to be penelope; if you read the book correctly, you'd know red is HER color!

Posted by Jordan on May 11, 2009 at 05:56 PM EDT #

My friend Anna and I LOVE your series!!! We're actually considering going as characters for Halloween. Other great series/books that are like The Luxe are Bewitching Season, La Petite Four, and The Season. Ms. Godbersen- Is there anywhere we could buy jewelry and dresses/patterns like the dresses in the books? We'd love to buy them. Thank you so much for writing such wonderful books!

Posted by Adelaide on May 11, 2009 at 06:49 PM EDT #

Your books are truely incredible. I find myself hiding the books so for fear of finishing them. I get completely wraped in them and im not a reader so thats saying something. PLEASE tell me youre going to write another series???? These books are just way too incredible to be done with.

Posted by Julie on May 11, 2009 at 07:29 PM EDT #

I just finished with Envy. It was ok I I have no idea why I read these books? I think it maybe due to the fact the author loves the bad girl and hates the good girl. You have written 3 books pushing Penelope and Lina to the center of the action and making people like them. You must really like Penelope because you really write her well and with care. I think Diana is your favorite and you hate her sister Elizabeth. I really hope Spelndor hits home I don't think it will have a happy ending but i do hope that Teddy has a happy ending. Maybe even Prudie, she should come into her own and take on her brother's wife.

Posted by chasity on May 12, 2009 at 04:19 AM EDT #

Anna, hands down, my favorite series to come across!! :) im in love with all of the characters, even though at some time i do tend to have a little hate for them. I love Teddy with a passion, and the way you sent him off to war right before Elizabeth was able to see him, killed me. I wanted them to be together, he would make her completely happy and I think she would be happy with him. I long for Di to be with Henry but at the one point when Grayson was actually falling in love with Diana made me kind of like him and wanted them to be together, but of course everyone wants Henry with Diana. end of discussion. You are an amazing writer, please keep up the work! :)

Posted by Ali :) on May 12, 2009 at 07:15 PM EDT #

OMG! My friends and I just can't wait to read Splendor. We also want to know if they are ever going to make your books movies, because after we read books then we either rent or go see their movie. And this would be an extremley intense movie. We are drama freaks, movie lovers, and LOVE to read your books SO MUCH. My guess is that Lina will be on the Splendor cover this time. My friends say it will be Mrs.Holland. But I don't think so.Can't wait. Love ya!

Posted by Jessica Rowan on May 13, 2009 at 07:31 PM EDT #

CAN I JUST SAY UR BOOKS R WWWWWWAAAAAAAAYYYYYYYY BETTER THAN TWILLIGHT IF ANY ONE AGREES WITH ME SAY "I"!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by yanna on May 14, 2009 at 10:13 PM EDT #

aright about the covers...i was reading the comments and personally i think its Elizabeth on the first cover, either diana or penelope on the second, because although the book content was about diana majority of the time, the girl has a dark look about her and could in fact be penelope, and on the third i believe it to be carolina. If i was anna i would put henry on the forth...since im sure it will be about him the most..or a male version of diana...since thats a drastic change for a girl to do to herself.

Posted by Madalina on May 14, 2009 at 10:16 PM EDT #

First book has to be Elizabeth; second book is Penelope; and the third is Diana. And you can see the cover of Splendor on www.goodreads.com - definitely Lina in a lavender dress. And my comment - I received Luxe as a gift, and didn't think I would like it. But to my surprise, I loved it, and now I'm impatiently waiting for Splendor to come out. :)

Posted by Melissa on May 15, 2009 at 11:01 AM EDT #

Ive been reading the comments. And I haven't read the books since January and I don't remember di having blue eyes. So i thought the covers always went lizzie, penny and then di. and most deff lina on splendor, Anna can you plz clear this up? lol Can't wait for Splendor!

Posted by Shelby on May 15, 2009 at 09:24 PM EDT #

Well first of all i absolutely love you books so much! A bunch of my friends are currently into the series right now too! I am very anxiously awaiting the arrival of Splendor!!!! My mom read the books and loved them too and my friends and I always discuss them too. I feel like i really know the characters. Oh your books are just amazing!!! Though i do hope that Splendor is happier than Rumors, even thought that was really good. But i cant wait to see what happens!

Posted by Sarah on May 15, 2009 at 10:36 PM EDT #

Anna, your books are brilliant, i love them. Lina annoys me at times for the obvious reasons but i can also empathise with her. I love how she inherited Longhorns possessions, i'm looking forward to all the snobbery and arrogance from her in Splendour! And i would just like to say i think its completely unfair Australia gets the release of the book later, i'm dying to read the 4th! :D and Henry, he is the personifcation of babe! haha he is beautiful, great male role you've created. Pen is also fantastic as the villain, very Blair Warldorf. Looking forward to Splendour like crazyyy. love Bianca

Posted by Bianca on May 16, 2009 at 06:16 AM EDT #

Penelope adn Henry are by far my favourite characters. I dont think of her as a villain, becasue she does evil only to get her dreams. I admire people like that in real life because they chase their dreams and not sit around all day aiting for them. She seems quite insecure to me and that is hy she is hiding behind this mask. I imagine her taking off the mask in the next book, or changing significantly. I also imagine that she is actually pregnant. I hope that Henry and Penelope ill end up together adn that he ill love her. xxx cant ait for ur next boook. i love them

Posted by Nina on May 16, 2009 at 06:21 AM EDT #

Okay, this is really annoying me. If its Lina on the cover of Envy, then who is it on Splendour?? And why does everyone seem to hate Lina?! Shes my favourite character, I always look forward to her chapters. I didnt even realise she was a 'villian' until I came on this site. I love that she says she hates Penelope, yet she gets more and more like her with every chapter. Shes not a truly bad person, shes just ..... determined...? I just felt that someone should stand up for poor lil' Lina. Looking forward to Splendour, Amy

Posted by Amy on May 16, 2009 at 11:56 AM EDT #

i love the series!!! is there going to be a movie?? that would be so amazing! i love reading about high-society in the 19th century. <3 z

Posted by Z on May 16, 2009 at 07:00 PM EDT #

the first book is definatly liz because she wears a pale pink dress, the second is penny because red is her color and she wears a red dress in the book, the third is di because at the begining henry dreams of her in a white dress, and she is the most envious in my opinion. I LOVE THIS SERIES!!!!! im so addicted and cant wait till Splendor!

Posted by Summer on May 16, 2009 at 11:46 PM EDT #

I absolutely love the Luxe books, I am a "wanna-be writer" I guess I'd classify myself as, and when I read this series it inspired my to write, I've always wanted to write books just like this series, but can never find a perfect beginning, any tips or hints? Thanks so much!!! Keep writing!

Posted by Daisy on May 17, 2009 at 09:01 AM EDT #

Oh my gosh, I don't know what I would do without The Luxe Series in my life! I live in England so I'm half way through Envy and I soooo can't wait to see what happens next. I will actually spend the rest of my life crying if Diana and Henry don't like happily ever after, no pressure ;). Keep up the amazingness. x P.S. Please, please, please bring Will back to life, even if he has to be a zombie or something!

Posted by Bethyy on May 17, 2009 at 04:46 PM EDT #

live* hehe (:

Posted by Bethyy on May 17, 2009 at 04:48 PM EDT #

OMG! could u like make a movie cause that would be cool cause i have read like every book except splendor. I love these books they make me want to go back in time and live there thats why the movie would be cool to see what other people think. Movies are FUN! i will even be a actress. thanks.

Posted by ashley on May 17, 2009 at 09:48 PM EDT #

i LOVE your books they are fantabulously amazing!!! i can't wait for Splendor to come out!!! the only thing that i really didn't like was when will died!!! he and elizabeth were soooo perfect for each other!!! but i guess that would have been to fairy tale ending!!! i hope that diana and hennry get back together and that he doesn't go back to penelope!!! p.s. this would make an awesome movie!!!

Posted by matti on May 18, 2009 at 04:25 PM EDT #

I just finished The Luxe last night and just wanted to say that I think your writing is amazing and captivating, just the sort of writing I'm trying to do. I keep seeing this The Luxe trailer, is it becoming a movie and tv series or something? That'd be amazing if it did. Is there going to be a forth book? I eagerly await for it's release. Now, it's on to Rumors. Angie

Posted by Angela on May 19, 2009 at 09:24 AM EDT #

Dear Anna- I love Penelope! If anything, I suppose I sort of love to hate her...Yet I see myself in her. She is willing to do whatever it takes to get what she wants, yet she does have a heart and feelings, no matter how cold she often seems. I hated Lina at first, but she is growing on me. I actually felt sympathy for her when she was looking for a job after that lawyer was so brutal to her, and then celebrated a little when she was given an inheritance from Carey Lewis Longhorn. Your books are written so beautifully! I read all 3 of them in a matter of days! I cannot wait for Splendor! I am sure you hear it all the time, but these books would make an amazing mini-series or movie! The characters have absolutely captured my heart and imagination :)

Posted by Lexie on May 20, 2009 at 12:01 PM EDT #

Hey Anna, I just found your book and I read The Luxe and parts of Rumors in a day.. and I love Elizabeth and Will so much, I mean they fought to be together and sacrificed a lot and I cried when Will died..can you please please make a miracle happen? the last part when they said 'I Love You' to each other was really really sad I love the twist when at the beginning you made it like Elizabeth was dead but it turned out she didn't, can you make it the same with Will?pleaseeee and I love Diana and the way you portray Henry's character when he's with Diana

Posted by PM on May 21, 2009 at 07:19 AM EDT #

Dear Anna, I agree with what you mean, about the villians you love to hate. Penelope is one of my fave characters, just because she's evil but has a really human side and i think she cares for Henry in her own kind of way. I also like Lina(she's my actual fave character)and I was really pleased when she got the inheritance from Longhorn.I hope she and Leland get together in Splendor!

Posted by Madeline on May 21, 2009 at 12:37 PM EDT #

I agree that i sometimes try to find the good in the villian or at least where they are comming from, but i still don't like Lina or Penelope. there are times where i feel bad for them, that they are willing to lose so much and often do just to stay on top. i relate most to elizabeth, so i started out feeling bad for them and wondering what had made them so horrible, but after all they have done i'm passed it. now all i want is to know what happens after envy!!!. by the way i love your books.

Posted by Caroline on May 23, 2009 at 06:05 PM EDT #

wow! i love the luxe,i fell in love with the characters! they are all so dramatic,mysteriuos and devious,i love it!!! i didn't expect the ending! i can't wait to finish "Rumors" and read the rest of the series!

Posted by stacy on May 23, 2009 at 11:06 PM EDT #

I love this series! I love Diana, she is the most interesting to me. And I really hope that Teddy comes home and Elizabeth marries him and doesn't stay with Snowden. Teddy is so sweet, I love him! Also, I hope Henry and Diana get married, it seem. I am happy that Lina got the fortune, and she found a love, Leland. Also, anyone who is commenting, do you know of any other series similar to the Luxe? If so, please post it here because I would be interested! And the sweepstakes necklace is SO pretty! Where could I find it if I don't win? (I think someone mentioned this before) I can't wait for Splendor, the dress on the cover is beautiful!

Posted by Meredith on May 24, 2009 at 05:37 PM EDT #

Also, I hope the Luxe series becomes a movie! It would be amazing!!!

Posted by Meredith on May 24, 2009 at 05:38 PM EDT #

Yup! I totally want the luxe series to become a movie! I bet it might be a bigger hit than Twilight!! I am soooooooooo anxious for Splendor and am praying for it to come out soon!! Me and my best friend absolutely LOVE the series and can't wait till the next book comes out!! Thanks Anna for a great series!! Plus about ur post i Totally feel i relate to Diana and i like Lina but wish Will would come back!! :)

Posted by Michelle on May 26, 2009 at 06:50 AM EDT #

If Will comes "back to life" it would be totally cheesey! It would be WAY to similar to a soap opera, and I am a huge fan of Days of Our Lives but come on! That would be way too out-to-lunch! LOL

Posted by Liz on May 26, 2009 at 12:51 PM EDT #

I understand why some people would hate Lina. Many people, I think, see her as an outsider, and someone who shouldn't be there. She wasn't born into it? So why should she have the same things, or more, as Diana or Penelope? All that aside, I believe that she is my favorite character, despite Diana. Much luck writing Splendor!

Posted by Emily on May 26, 2009 at 08:49 PM EDT #

okay. so i totally love penelope! lol. i think it is the cutest name. i actually know a lot of social climbing "penelopes" in my life. i love a scandal! i love henry's comment, "i've had a lot, but not enough to make me want to spend the evening with you, my dear." fantastic! i have a thing for tortured souls (edward cullen, jasper hale, and HENRY SCHOONMAKER. it's so great to have a good book after twilight. i'm young, but i swear i should have been born in the 19th century. i still look for chivalry, so i jumped at books about my fave part of history. i find myself plugging these books into my life right along with twilight. thnks fr th bks!

Posted by Morgan on May 27, 2009 at 12:14 AM EDT #

Anna - I know that you must be very busy with the new book, but if you don't update us soon, this comment list is only going to get even longer.... ~Riley~

Posted by Riley on May 27, 2009 at 05:23 PM EDT #

Hey, I check your website everyday, and there is still the same letter there. I know you are buesy with Spleandor, wich i am happy, VERY happy, but maybe a little less MIA and it would be perfect!

Posted by Isabella on May 27, 2009 at 07:39 PM EDT #

I read the first three books in three weeks, during school exams. My friends don't understand the love I have for pretty novels like The Luxe, Rumours and Envy and can't understand why I read them. In a world so filled up with terror and stuff it's great to be able to pick up a wonderful book and be taken to a completely different world. I would also like to thank you because I used The Luxe as a related text for one of my English assessments for power and persuasion. Looking forward to Splendour, please bring it out soon!!!!!

Posted by Maddi on May 28, 2009 at 04:50 AM EDT #

i totally used penelope and diana in my english exam to compare and contrast. my teacher said she would love to read these books if i can write a 2 page paper on two characters. yay for Luxe!

Posted by mOrGi on May 28, 2009 at 11:47 AM EDT #

I cant wait for Splendor to come out...im halfway done with Envy and my heart ACHES knowing that i wont be able to immediately jump into the next book. I shall try to remain patient...but please know it wont be easy!! xoxoxo your AMAZING!!!

Posted by Kelcey Wilkins on May 28, 2009 at 12:49 PM EDT #

I am going crazy! I just finished Envy and cannot wait for Splendor to come out. Diana is my favorite character and I hope it all works out for Diana and Henry in the end. I know that if it doesn't, I might just cry and/or throw the book against the wall (I would then pick it up and soothe it). And then slam it down and stop reading for 10 seconds before continuing in my sad state. (I have it all planned out.) I really want Liz to be with Teddy and her child and live well. Lina should be with Leeland, she may not be my favorite but she deserves it. Penelope can just go die. I really do hate her. I feel no sorrow for her at all. She is decietful and full of manipulation. Grr. I want to kick her in the shins. =] AHHH! Ready for Splendor.

Posted by Jelli on May 28, 2009 at 06:57 PM EDT #

OMG! I can't wait for the next book to come out!!!! I'm so excited! I love all these books. They are so amazing. I'm praying for the next one to come out soon!

Posted by Katie on May 28, 2009 at 08:49 PM EDT #

ok...so these books are amazing :D. I am often found at one in the morning reading them...and they really inspire me as I am attempting to become a budding author. But i have a question about Envy...and this could be because its late and im tired, but does anyone know (or anna could you tell me) who you are referring to in the prologue's first discription, the one that reads, "For that lady-recently married into one of New York's great families-was unhooking her corset in the company of a man who looked nothing like her husband..." For some reason I can't figure it out...considering all of the other characters are (at least I thought) named later. Thank you!

Posted by victoria on May 30, 2009 at 12:16 AM EDT #

I adore your books.I don't have a favorite character, I love them all, even just the little ones,like Mr.James and mmm I can't remember the name of Diana's friend the writer,but I find a lot of myself in Elizabeth, that's why I like her a lot.I love the crazy adventures of Diana,not being bad,but not actually behaving.I love henry,and I became amazed,again for the third time,about your incredible ability of turning the whole story in just three pages.Lina is nice though I liked her more on the first two books,it was upsetting that she forgot Will so fast,but incredible that she works hard for what she wants, though not the ways I would or the things I will work that hard for,but her perseverence and self confidence are amazing.I cant wait to read Splendor, but I live in Mexico and it's very difficult to get them here, so you should tell your editorial to bring them here,I'm sure they would be a great hit.

Posted by Mitsue on May 30, 2009 at 08:20 PM EDT #

I love The Luxe series! I can't wait until SPlendor comes out. By the way, when is it coming out? Anna, you need to post more info, I'm dying here!! Please, please, please!! I am on my hands and knees! (Hee hee, that rhymed).

Posted by Rachael Larose on June 01, 2009 at 09:20 AM EDT #

HI Anna,Im soo obsessed with the luxe series. I pray that the fourth book is not the last. Your the reason why I started reading again. MY favorite character is of course diana. when is splendor coming out I cant wait pleeeeeeease let me know.

Posted by sha-sha on June 01, 2009 at 04:12 PM EDT #

I hope we didn't scare you away with all our input and comments!!! I'm trying to keep myself occupied with my kids and reading until the release of "splendor" this fall. I just wanted to throw some good thoughts your way. We love you Anna. Hope everything is coming along and that you're getting some "me time" too. Looking forward to hearing from you soon!

Posted by Jessie Marie on June 01, 2009 at 10:30 PM EDT #

Heey I absolutely love the Luxe, they're so awesome, my fave book series now, XD On the covers, there are the girls, The Luxe is Elizabeth & Rumours is Penelope but who are Envy & Splendour? Me and my friends are trying to work it out but we can't! haha awesome books can't wait for Splendour, make a movie!! :) x

Posted by Ellie on June 03, 2009 at 12:08 PM EDT #

Hey, Wo I love the luxe books! they are stunningly done. I must confess that these books would make a amazing movie! I know a ton of people would who go and see it. Miss Anna I would think about it because it would be amazing!

Posted by Samantha on June 03, 2009 at 03:31 PM EDT #

I adore the Luxe series!!! My favourite character ,by far, is Miss Diana Holland. I also love Penelope and Elizabeth but Diana is so different from the rest!! I am very excited about Splendour!!! I wish to be a writer and I have already wrote two books!! For anyone who doesn't know who is on the front cover of Envy, it's Diana. I pity poor Teddy Cutting who is hopelessly in love with Elizabeth. Penelope is such a schemer, threatening to ruin Diana's reputation if Henry doesn't do exactly what she says! If any Americans are wondering about my spelling that is because I'm Scottish!! Please, Anna, make Henry and Diana together unless you have chosen a very different, more dramatic fate for them!!

Posted by Georgia on June 03, 2009 at 03:41 PM EDT #

This is a comment from like a long time ago Jessica posted it but I TOTALLY AGREE WITH YOU JESSICA I I I AND I AGAIN! Anywayz, do you (Anna) have any idea when Splendor might come out I can't wait any longer! I am going crazy!

Posted by Zoe on June 03, 2009 at 08:06 PM EDT #

I love love love The Luxe novels!!! I can't wait for Splendor! Diana is defintely my favorite character. Do you have a fan mail address? If i send a stamped envelope can you autograph a bookplate for me!?! that would be SOOO cool!!

Posted by Crystal on June 04, 2009 at 09:57 AM EDT #

Lady, you sure know how to write a sad story. I finished Envy in two days because I was madly flipping pages to get to the happy part... but there wasn't one. Please bring Henry back. Diana needs him. <3 Jayla

Posted by Jayla on June 04, 2009 at 08:04 PM EDT #

I began reading your novels and i just have to say that it is a delight to have a book with the modern twists but residing in the 1900s. When I first bought the book I was doubtful about reading it because I lack time management. Fortunately, your writing and creativity is addicting and i can't pull away from it! I end up in my bed reading them at midnight on a school night but it's worth it. By the way, you should make a movie out of this series.

Posted by Kaitlyn on June 06, 2009 at 03:33 AM EDT #

i just love you books! i've only read the first two.. but i cant wait till the next one.. envy.. i actually cried at the end of rumours when will died! i just didnt see it coming.. why!? why did you kill him? oh well, i love liz.. but my fav character is di.. i hope she gets henry. thanks for your great books, tahlia xx.

Posted by Tahlia on June 06, 2009 at 03:38 AM EDT #

i love all of these books! please make a movie out of these... that would be so amazing! :)))))

Posted by melissa on June 06, 2009 at 08:45 PM EDT #

when is splendor going to come out. I might burst with anticipation for it to come out. What will happen? And yes a movie of the luxe would be amazing. I would watch it a million times. I love the luxe series.

Posted by Holly on June 06, 2009 at 09:40 PM EDT #

I love the luxe series. I recently had a friend of mine read them because I thought she would enjoy them. She called me and said they were a rip off of the Age of Innocence. I have never read this book but its on my Too Read list. Either way I love the Luxe Series. Just an FYI.

Posted by Brianna on June 07, 2009 at 05:44 PM EDT #

In regards to the girls on the covers, I thought Lina was on the cover of Envy...

Posted by Hannah on June 08, 2009 at 01:40 AM EDT #

THE RELEASE OF "SPLENDOR"... Don't anyone quote me (but I needed to draw attention). According to amazon the release date for "Splendor" is October 27th 2009, and on goodreads it states November 2009 as it's publishing date. Let us hope that it will be released this fall, but remember these dates are not set in stone.

Posted by jessie marie on June 08, 2009 at 02:22 AM EDT #

Dear Mrs.ann I am only 15 with big dreams for the futre film industry but if you get around to reading this one comment i hope you take this advice. After twilight more teens read now more than ever and like stephanie myers mrs.libba bay and your self a re great writters one that right love storys and weather theres a happy ending or sad you shold try making your brillant book into a movie im syre lots of people have told you this and im a voice in a crowd but im hoping that to add another voice will make the crowd louder untill you grwo deaf :) please consider macking your books the movie they deserve to be now is the time fro writters everywhere to do so ;)

Posted by Timmeka on June 08, 2009 at 04:18 AM EDT #

I just started reading The Luxe... my friends tried o convince me not to get it but I already love it, and I am about finished with it!!!

Posted by Taylor on June 08, 2009 at 03:16 PM EDT #

for everyone asking anna to make a movie out of this series i dont think its up to her.. u should ask a movie company but i would love to see it on the big screen anyways love this series and cant wait for splendor!!!

Posted by jelaina <3 on June 08, 2009 at 06:26 PM EDT #

I love Penelope! She's really mean but I cant help but love her. And I also really love Henrys character! I kind of wish he were real!

Posted by Kaylan on June 08, 2009 at 11:40 PM EDT #

Oh yeah and who will be on the cover of Splendor? Also who was on the cover of Envy? Lina?

Posted by Kaylan on June 08, 2009 at 11:44 PM EDT #

I love The Luxe Series, I hate Penelope. Diana is my favorite character. It would be awsome if you made the books into a movie. Please do. Also, I know your busy and everything but could you please update soon. I check your website three times a day. Thanks.

Posted by Alice on June 09, 2009 at 12:05 PM EDT #

I love The Luxe Series, I hate Penelope. Diana is my favorite character. It would be awsome if you made the books into a movie. Please do. Also, I know your busy and everything but could you please update soon. I check your website three times a day. Thanks.

Posted by Alice on June 09, 2009 at 12:06 PM EDT #

i absolutely love these books. i read all 3 of them in like two weeks. i would not put them down. my mom always told me to read, the nafter i found these books, she was telling me not to read, because i would not come out of my room. i am so excited for splendors to come. can't wait!!!!!

Posted by anne :) on June 10, 2009 at 12:50 AM EDT #

To me, it seems like a lot of the evil characters tend to be my favorite. Probably because they can get away with a lot. For instance, my all time favorite evil character is Medea from the Icemark Chronicles. She's completely evil, but for some reason, she seems more likeable. Maybe because she doesn't dwell on what she's trying to do. Or maybe I can understand the feeling of wanting revenge on someone. Lina is not my all time favorite character, but from this point in the book series (I'm only on Rumors, though. I'm new to the series) I can see kind of where she is coming from. She can't have what she wants, and Elizabeth gets it all. She's jealous and tries to ruin Elizabeth. To me, I can now sort of see where she is coming from.

Posted by Becca on June 10, 2009 at 01:14 PM EDT #

hay anna i can't wait for splendor i absoulty loved your last 3 book and is antipicitating thhe next. but i have one question.....do you have any inkling of what charracter might be on the cover of splendor?anyway i don't want to worry you and i just hope that you have great sucess in the future and i will deffinatly will be buying the next book in the series .also i hope diana finds her love and lina has hope in the future book.

Posted by amy bernett on June 10, 2009 at 04:05 PM EDT #

anna, thank you soo much for writing these books! me and my friend are addicted to them and are so excited for SPLENDOR! i am defintely getting it right when it comes out! i am also excited to see the new cover! these books are like nothing i have ever read before and i love the timeline! your creativity is GREATLY appriciated:)

Posted by jessie on June 11, 2009 at 01:42 PM EDT #

I have this thing where I can't help but feel sympathy for the characters with black hair, having black hair myself. It's superficial and silly, but I simply can't help it! Ergo, I've always been rooting for Penelope, and I still hope she finds her happy ending. [I'd just rather it not be with Henry.] In regards to the Harry Potter series, my favorites have always been Bellatrix, Tom Riddle, and Luna Lovegood. Luna aside, the other two are clearly villains, but I think the way JKR potrays them, I have a deep pity and understanding of them that always made me wish they'd had a happier ending themselves.

Posted by Gel on June 11, 2009 at 09:01 PM EDT #

I usually love a good villain. In fact, I tend to root for them over the "good guy" about 90% of the time. But in The Luxe series, I love The Holland girls way too much to like Penelope or Lina. I must admit, Penelope is a great villain! She's sneaky & ruthless, gorgeous & evil. She's amazingly good at being the victim & getting what she wants. A great villain! Thank you so much for these amazing books.

Posted by Katelyn on June 12, 2009 at 04:34 PM EDT #

hi i love the luxe and all of the characters (except penelope and lina) i cant wait to read splendor because i love diana and henry there my favorite couple and i cant wait to find out what happens btw i think taylor handley or ed westwick would make a great henry.

Posted by hussah on June 13, 2009 at 05:45 AM EDT #

i feel sorry for penelope but i dont like her its just that i can sort of relate to her.i love diana holland i love all the hollands and i hope she finds henry and teddy and i hope non of them die because then i might cry myself to sleep for the next week i hope teddy and elizabeth get married and snowden dies (i dont like snowden at all) thank you for writing these beautiful books.i love daydreaming about whatll happen next at night.

Posted by hussah on June 13, 2009 at 05:56 AM EDT #

Altho I agree that Lina isn't 1 of the most luvable charactrs&that I do in fact prety much hate hr,it has ben my exprince in readng gud bux that the least likeable charactrs r the 1s that pul the story along&help 2 fil gaps that may othrwise b in the story w/out thm.I thnk Lina is od&I'm not entirely convincd that she is completly sane (lol), but I do thnk she plays a vital role in the story.Its like a movie the main charactrs or actr r nothng w/out the suporting roles othr actrs who help move the story along not to say that Lina is a suportng charactr in fact I thnk she has bcume a vry majr charactr in the story. What i mean is wethr directly or indirectly, w/out Lina the story&charactrs wudn't b wat it is or who they r w/out hr nor wud the outcum of the story or how the charactrs grow b qite the same.I don't say these thngs 2 dfend Lina's charactr bcuz I like hr, wich i don't, I say these thngs bcuz w/out charactrs like hrs we wud not luv charactrs like Diana or feel soro 4 charactrs like Elizabeth.The bad as wel as gud charactrs make up the vry esence of a gr8 story like this 1&I can't w8 2 finsh Rumors&strt Envy. Anna has creatd an amazng series&tho i have nevr red any of hur bux b4 The Luxe I fuly intnd 2 luk in2 hr othr bux wen I finsh Envy. -(the truth about al gud bux&life in genral) Its not about the destination, its about the journy. XD

Posted by Alana on June 13, 2009 at 11:37 AM EDT #

Anna, I love your books, and have read all three several times! I cannot wait until Splendor, and I hope it's conclusion leaves all the readers satisfied. Although I've grown to like Lina, I find it hard to forgive her actions, however understandable. I can relate to her wanting more than she was born into, but I can't appreciate the lengths she went to to get there. Although I hope there is a happy ending for her, I also hope she realizes the pain and ruin she brought upon the Hollands' and their happiness. Keep up the great working, I'm counting down the days until Splendor! Thanks so much for an amazing series! (oh and is there anyway you could spill some spoilers? I'm dying for a glimpse into the fourth book!) p.s. For those of you who love the Luxe series, you might want to consider reading "A Great and Terrible Beauty," "Rebel Angels," and "The Sweet Far Thing" (all by Libba Bray). It's a great trilogy that I highly recommend, and a great way to pass the time these next few months while waiting for Splendor! :]

Posted by Mell on June 13, 2009 at 11:58 AM EDT #

I love your books, and have read all three many times! I cannot wait until Splendor, and I hope it's conclusion leaves all the readers satisfied. Although I've grown to like Lina, I find it hard to forgive her actions. I can relate to her wanting more than she was born into, but I can't appreciate the lengths she went to to get there. Although I hope there is a happy ending for her, I also hope she realizes the pain and ruin she brought upon the Hollands. Keep up the great work, I'm counting down the days until Splendor! Thanks so much for an amazing series! (oh and is there anyway you could spill some spoilers? I'm dying for a glimpse into the fourth book!) p.s. For those of you who love the Luxe series, you might want to consider reading "A Great and Terrible Beauty," "Rebel Angels," and "The Sweet Far Thing" (all by Libba Bray). It's a great trilogy that I highly recommend, and a great way to pass the time these next few months while waiting for Splendor! :]

Posted by Mell on June 13, 2009 at 12:05 PM EDT #

I just fininshed reading Envy, and Oh My GOODNESS i cannot WAIT for Spendor!!! My friend gave me advice to read your books, and i have not been able to put them doen sence!! :) it's your kind of writing that makes me strive to become a better writer myself. But really, penelope really pisses me off. I mean, without her, the stroy would be nothing, but really, sometimes I just want to kill her off.. that sounds bad, i know :) You know how sometimes when you imagine a cheracter, it's a real person, or actoress, or friend? well I imagine Penelope and Megan Foxx pops into my mind. She's from Transformers... Really beautiful, but you can just tell that she's really just not a nice person, you know? okay, i'm done blabbing. :)

Posted by Stephanie Ferguson on June 13, 2009 at 02:21 PM EDT #

First off, I absoulutely love your books. Second, yes, I do try to understand the villians in the stories I read, but most of the time they are pretty unrelatable to me. I can relate to Lina, a small bit, because she tries so hard to achieve her dream, and she realizes that maybe the life she wants is unattainable, save for a select few. I live in Manhatten right now, and I think it's fun to read about places like Gramercy Park. Probably, the villian that I can't help loving is Mimi Force, from the book Blue Bloods by Melissa De La Cruz. Her personality fits her actual character so well. Anyway, I'm anxiously waiting for Splendor to arrive, and in the mean time, I'll placate myself by looking at the sure to be beautiful cover. Can't wait for that either.

Posted by Eliza on June 13, 2009 at 02:34 PM EDT #

I kind of feel for Elizabeth. I know how hard it must have been, lying and keeping a secret from your parents. I have been doing the same thing, but not with a lover. I have been doing it with a friend I met on a website. My parents are all anti-forums and meeting online friends. I secretly met her online and now have a very strong friendship with her. I email her every day, and we have a great time talking about things we have in common. If my parents found out about her, I would probably be forced to never talk with her, and it would be the worst thing in my life. I can tell her anything. I know she is real, but my parents would never believe me...

Posted by Eliz on June 14, 2009 at 09:57 PM EDT #

Wow I just finished rumors and I hate Penelope. She's a SPOILED ROTTEN BRAT and so EVIL and PROUD and WHO WOULD FORCE A GUY TO MARRY WHEN SHE KnOWS HE HATES her!! And I know I might sound evil, but I'm happy will died. I mean, if every thing was love and flower petals, it would b BORING!!! These books should soooooooo b a movie I'm not kiddin. And during the movie they should play LOVE SONG by tailor swift. And michelle tranchenburg or meagan foxx should b Penelope. Ooooooo and My friend says Christian bale (batman) should b henry....idk..... btw if Liz ends up a single mother fine but 1. Di and Henry MUST b married in Penelope's face, 2.Penelope does NOT have a kid. And 3. Lina has awsome wedding and doesn't invite Penelope (oooohh juicy) ;) ppl keep saying that Lina has to suffer but she's suffered enough thank you. Plz keep on writting !WRITE MORE BOOKS!! U r my fav author!

Posted by Kelly on June 16, 2009 at 12:03 AM EDT #

I think that a good novel can be measured by it's relate ability to readers. I love how in The Luxe series it's so easy to find yourself lost in the realization that there is a little bit of everyone in each character. I found that while reading each book I could relate in some way to all of them. The good, the bad, and the ugly sides to myself, were all there starring back at me in print. I do hope that when the Luxe books are made into feature films (which let's face it they will be!) that they hold an open casting call. I'd like to see some new faces bringing the story to life on the silver screen. Keep up the great work Anna and I eagerly await the release of splendor!

Posted by Jessi on June 16, 2009 at 05:52 AM EDT #

Hi Anna. I just read finish rumors and i'm absolutely stunned by the ending. I thought it was such a great book but the death of Will is just too much to handle. Is there any way you can bring him back in Splendor? I would really adore the book if you do. Elizabeth and Will were just too perfect for each other and it's terrible for Will to be dead. Maybe Will was seriously injured but he recovers and goes to find his soul mate Elizabeth. I'd just be so happy if Splendor could have a happy ending where Elizabeth and Will are together. Please bring him back. -Your sincere reader from Singapore, Ling

Posted by Ling on June 16, 2009 at 07:30 AM EDT #

Ummmmmmm like I said earlier I'm glad that will died (plz don't hate) cause I always thought teddy and liz were meant 2 b. I absolutely looove the books and I think it would b TOO good if Will came back. If that happens I will put the book down and not read the rest. But don't kill anyone else ok!! I also like the books cause u paint such a clear picture of what's going on and every turn of a page is a thrill, yet you still half know what's going to happen, and then you find out you were so wrong. (my sis watches me reading and she says one moment I'm screaming next page I'm crying and than the next page I'm laughing, "YES!!"---very dramatic book...when they make it into a movie I'm bringing all my friends (they all love romantic/drama chick-flicks)

Posted by Kelly on June 16, 2009 at 02:34 PM EDT #

someone who reads my 2 comments earlier plz tell me the perfect cast for a luxe movie, (michelle trachenburg or meagan foxx for Penelope PLZ) and tell me if I'm alil evil for saying I'm glad will died!!! :D anna u rock keep writting books even if it's not in the luxe series as long as it's by u I'll read!!

Posted by Kelly on June 16, 2009 at 02:48 PM EDT #

Hey anna, I was reading and I found that splendor comes out October 1st. PLEASE TELL ME ITS COMING OUT AUGuST OR SOMETHING!! (I know it's hard to make up a book in two months but ur an awsome author) and come on, we both live in this beautiful state and looking out the window can be a huge inspiration! (yes I live in new York and so does Kelly, who aparently is evil cause she's glad Will died) (kelly's my best friend) so anna awsome book and I hope SPLENDOR will have the perfect ending to a perfect Novel!!!

Posted by JoJo on June 16, 2009 at 07:51 PM EDT #

I love jessi's (no affiliation) comment! I can relate a little to most characters. Lina's desire to be something more than what she was born, Elizabeth's wanting for love above duty, Penelope's urge to hang onto those things that without them, may prove her insignificance (reguardless of what it may cost others), and above the rest... Diana's defiant nature to be herself and follow her heart (and a notion of her brain) to get what she wants out of life. If they do a play or a movie, I would also like open calls. I hate to see characters I've imagined in my head to be people we see everyday on the screen. It belittles the emotion I've imagined.

Posted by Jessie Marie on June 17, 2009 at 03:01 AM EDT #

You people that, wait until she blogs next are aware she blogs more on myspace right?

Posted by GabeFan on June 17, 2009 at 11:57 AM EDT #

i hate wills ending but im happy henry and diana still love eachother even if there both going to war and can both die but im rooting for them GO TEAM DIANA AND HENRY!but as you can see a lot of us relate to lina but penelope (which i hate) i kind of pity because imagine your penelope in love with henry (who by the way i think led her on)it became almost an obsession and she doesnt want him to fall out im not saying she did anything right im just saying i understand and feel sorry for her.i love the hollands and teddy so much i want teddy to end up with elizabeth because i think they deserve eachother fate, but snowden had to come in and ask her for her hand so i wish he could die like will did and then she could marry teddy. but at the moment i only care about diana and henry btw i love them thank you so much for writing this book i love it . though i cant stop imagining ed westwick or taylor handley in his oliver trask look playing henry who i love . keep going i cant wait for splendor

Posted by hussah on June 17, 2009 at 03:47 PM EDT #

I wish she would join twitter, or if she has I cannot find her :-(

Posted by Logen on June 17, 2009 at 05:59 PM EDT #

I think that for the ending Snowden might die or have a heartattack and then Teddy comes back injured. Where they get married. I just hope that Di and Henry don't have kids just ruins the love story.

Posted by GabeFan on June 18, 2009 at 11:15 AM EDT #

GabeFan, I hope ur right. I hope snowden dies. And does he know that liz is preagnant?? (I didn't read envy)

Posted by Kelly on June 18, 2009 at 11:24 AM EDT #

Have you thought about making the Luxe a tv series or a movie just like the Clique? PLEASE consider it! I would love to see the characters come to life! I think many fans would enjoy to see the Luxe come alive on the big screen! I am still on the first book and so far I enjoy the Luxe. Elizabeth Hollard is so far my favorite! =D

Posted by Jennifer on June 18, 2009 at 01:42 PM EDT #

I agree with Jennifer and many others saying luxe should b a show, ppl would b so dumb not make luxe books a tv show or movie (better a show so it could last long) and evry 1 who agrees say so!! maybe we could write a petition or somin like that forcing them to put it on screen lol. Except MY fav charecter is Diana she's awsome and I love reading her chapters!!!

Posted by Kelly on June 18, 2009 at 03:23 PM EDT #

I so love love all of your books!When i read them, i feel like i'm there and i can see whats going on all around.The books put me back in them days long ago.The books make me want to live in those kind of days, i know its alot easer now in the time we live in but,i feel like back in those days you found true love and nothing around you could stop that from happing.Now you have all the every day things that occur and gets in the way of real romance.You're such a bright writer and you take me in a different life where i wish i could be right now.I'm waiting on the next book and i know that its going to be awesome!So, i hope you keep on adding to these series and not let go and leave the fans haning like most writers do.Keep up the hard work.Love,Erica

Posted by Erica Snow on June 18, 2009 at 11:25 PM EDT #

I think I agree with Kelly on her earlier comments, I'm also glad will died, of course though, I was shocked, but I was also kinda happy in the end and I'm done envy (amazing) and now I'm unpatiently awaiting SPLENDOR which I know will hit the shelves and then be taken out of the shelves all In the same minute!! Anna, I love the way you make it seem like I'm right there in the room with the characters and when diana walks out to join the army I felt like a part of me left with her!!

Posted by Cathy DeLuise on June 19, 2009 at 12:19 PM EDT #

I saw on a earlier comment on another entry that there was another Kelly I am NOT that Kelly ok from now on I'll b Kelly D, Xoxo kellyD

Posted by Kelly on June 19, 2009 at 02:26 PM EDT #

Anna, if the Luxe does turn into a movie or television show (which would be awesome) please do not let Megan Fox be Penelope. Actually I think it'd be best to use a bunch of unknown actors and actresses. Twilight used Kristen Stewart, an actress who has been in several films, and we all saw what a disaster that was. I think the Luxe would do well with fresh faces who aren't afraid to really get into character :]

Posted by Mell on June 19, 2009 at 04:22 PM EDT #

hey just wanted to say that i agree with some ppl that if the luxe is made into a movie they should use unknowns but i DONT agree that twilight was a disaster it was a great movie even if it wasnt as good as the books but not many movies are anyways cant wait for splendor!!

Posted by jelaina <3 on June 20, 2009 at 12:01 AM EDT #

Anna, I was just wondering is that Lina on the cover of Splendor? P.S I loved Envy. Can't wait for more!!!

Posted by Natasha on June 20, 2009 at 12:19 AM EDT #

well, writing about Mell's comment, ya it's b cool to use unknown, but sometimes it's harder that since the person has no experience and u would have to maje TONS of auditions aceoss the country and they dont wanna waist all that time. And usually when u c a movie with Christian bale or Lindsey Lohan, or will smith u automatically wanna c the movie so that's what puts ppl in the theaters and brings the cash in. O and just because twilight screwed up with kristen stewart doesn't mean using a well known actress will screw a luxe movie if they made one.

Posted by KellyD on June 20, 2009 at 03:08 AM EDT #

O and I don't think anna has the power to choose who gets to b who. (just guessing)

Posted by KellyD on June 20, 2009 at 03:10 AM EDT #

O and natasha, it's Liz on Luxe cause in rumors it described her in a picture with the pale pink dress and the luxe was really mostly about her, Penelope is on rumors cause she loves red and RUMORS was mostly about her and how she gets henry to marry her, Diana is on Envy cause henry dreams about her in a white wedding dress, and (I'm guessing, envy is mostly about diana) and of course LINA is gonna b on splendor. (who else would b on splendor??) but im also confused cause In rumors and envy it described diana with dark brown curls and in the cover of envy it looks dirty blonde!! So I am honestly confused about that! anna could u explain???

Posted by JoJo on June 20, 2009 at 04:48 PM EDT #

All i have to say is that if luxe is a movie that they need to make a SUPER DUPER DELICIOUS guy for henry like ryan gosling and for teddy they should put like jesse mccartney and they should put ben barnes in idk how he would fit in cause he is brittish but hes just soooo hott it would be a shame not to let him in the movie...maybe as leland or someone...and i think that if they make it into a movie that they should include all the scenes in the book because i LOVE long romance movies like that and umm i think that in splendor penelope gets pregnant by some1 else and somehow henry finds out oh and idk if any1 knows this but isabella is a CHEATER shes cheatin on that old guy and i think that shes gonna kill him or somethin...oh and henry and diana should be 2gether cause henry and diana remind me of my i dont wanna call him my on off boyfriend so i will just call him my 'situation' so yeah...i think they r a good match and teddy and elizabeth...idk wat to say bout them... i think elizabeth is dumb for not excepting teddy's proposal right there but noooo she just had to wait...but i do kinda hope they end up 2 getha...penelope is a...u know what but she is like my favorite and she kind of reminds me of myself so anna if u r readin this please make penelope happy...and lina needs to die because she is just a SUPER U KNOW WHAT and i think shes stupid and how come good stuff keep happenin 2 her its like...can she die already??? but actually i think penelope should take leland awayfrom lina and its gonna be funny cause shes gonna be manless and poor!!! ha ha ha just what she gets...

Posted by yanna on June 20, 2009 at 11:01 PM EDT #

I have one thing to sat first, I just love your books! :) I just get so happy when I read them and I can't put them down!! As for your question about Lina, well, I guess I see her as the bad girl. I partially like Penelope better! Not saying that Penelope's actions aren't any kinder, in actuallity they're worse! But, spending time in Lina's mind makes me said honestly. So, sometimes I try to skip a page or two with her. I know, probably the worst thing to do when reading, but then again, Lina isn't SO bad, she just isn't clever with her deeds, and perhaps if she was then I might like her more. It's like a saying I was read in a book, if you do small acts of creulty and dish them out to a certain person with fairness then it's easier to handle, but when it is a huge blow all at once, well, then it takes your breath away, which it a gist is what Lina's betrayal act to the Hollands did. And, I guess I sort of saw it coming with Penelope.

Posted by Alessandra on June 21, 2009 at 08:44 AM EDT #

Hi Anna and readers, Anna, you are an amazing author - I enjoy all of your characters, some more than others, of course. Thank you so much for providing me the opportunity to read something great! Also, unlike everyone else it seems, I do not want The Luxe to become a movie series. I was a fan of the Twilight series and was devastated when I saw the movie - it completely ruined the novels for me, and although it may not be the same for The Luxe, it couldn't possibly grasp and convey all the small and important details of the novels. Also, some viewers may just see the movie and not read the book, therefore they will not truly understand the greatness of the novels. All in all, The Luxe series is great, and I can't wait for Splendour to arrive!! Thanks Anna!

Posted by MereD on June 22, 2009 at 10:15 PM EDT #

I have never been a huge fan of reading, but when I over heard a friend of mine talking about your Luxe books, I just had to check them out for myself! I read "The Luxe" and "Rumors" in one week! And I am well into "Envy". You have made reading fun again for me, and I thank you for that. I enjoy your books so much I can't wait until your 4th one is finished. Have you ever considered making your books into movies?? I will definitely buy many tickets if you do!! The movies would need to stay true to your books of course and not get too "Hollywood".

Posted by Liz on June 22, 2009 at 10:49 PM EDT #

Are there really only going to be 4 books? =( so amazing.

Posted by merek on June 23, 2009 at 02:19 AM EDT #

Ummmmmmmm mermaidwater, there IS no tv show of the luxe. Sry. (I wish there was) and I DONT think it's such a smart idea 2 post ur email address............

Posted by Hannah on June 23, 2009 at 10:23 AM EDT #

I Love the LUXE books. I went to a Branes and Noble and saw a girl looking at the books, (yours: She was in a transe deciding wich books to buy) And i recomended them to her. She seemed really exited to have someone explain to her that just because a book is set in a past time, does not mean it is a historical biography of a dead man. PS Try to check or update your letters from Anna. It is late June, i have been checking your website for an update, but it is always the same date. April 27, 3:45pm

Posted by Isabella on June 23, 2009 at 05:10 PM EDT #

I just love The Luxe series!!! :) =) :D I just can't put them down!!! I'm in seventh grade and reading has always come easily to me. So, I'm always into a new book practically every day. (My BFFL says I'm a read-a-holic!) But, none of my friends are really keen on reading so when I sugest books they often decline politely but when I sugested yours they finally relented and now they too love books! Now, we can talk about them together. Thanks!!!!

Posted by Annamaria on June 23, 2009 at 08:51 PM EDT #

For the people that think the Luxe should be a tv show instead of movie's like gossip girl I say gossip girl had way more than 4 books so it had enough stuff to keep going for seasons. While the Luxe has enough to be 4 amazing movies. At least if it's a movie more people will probably watch it.

Posted by GabeFan on June 25, 2009 at 09:08 AM EDT #

The luxe should only be a movie because more people will watch it. Gossip Girl had a lot more thatn 4 books and had the storyline for a few seasons. While the Luxe should be a movie it just seems like it should be. It has the same books as twilight. But people don't want that as a tv show.

Posted by GabeFan on June 25, 2009 at 09:11 AM EDT #

Ummmmmm IWould rather have luxe as a show cause the Luxe has so much going on it'd b really bad if they had to cut some of the book out to make a movie (I don't think 90 min can describe the WHOLE book) and my friend saw the movie twilight and she said she was mad cause they cut alot if good things out. I REALLY don't want that happening with the Luxe.

Posted by Cathy on June 25, 2009 at 10:04 AM EDT #

So why couldn't Elizabeth have run off with the money her mom gave her to get things "taken care of" and gone back out west with Snowden as her prospecting partner to find a fortune in the oil business and had the baby out of wedlock and raised it as her own but said it was abandoned and still have hooked up with Teddy when he gets back from the war? She could have been happy and helped her family to boot.... I love your books and the twists ad turns but could you throw a bit more happiness our way once in a while... I am a hopeless romantic and want the poor girl to have a bit of happiness since her one true love was taken from her. BTW can't wait to read Splendor! Do you have a expected number of books in this series? or will we be waiting for an ending and on needles and pins until the next book comes out? I am not good at waiting........ I bought and read all three books in less than a month. I read Envy in 4 days and I have 2 kids.

Posted by Marsha on June 25, 2009 at 12:32 PM EDT #

Hey!! omg i love your books!!!! you hnow what i think?? I think it's Denny (Will's friend) that told the people about Will and Elizabeth going back to New York. Cuz Elizabeth said he looked at her in that weiard way all the time! Can't wait to see what happens to Diana and Henry!!! Omg, I cried like a baby!!! C'mon get on with this book!

Posted by Mel19 on June 25, 2009 at 01:24 PM EDT #

Mrs. Godbersen, Recently I have been lured into your thrilling "Luxe" series! I've cried. I've smiled. Now I can't wait for Splendor. Elizabeth is most likely my favorite character, for she is most like me. Quiet, shy, polite. Willing to please her family. Yet my time has not yet come to run off with the man of my dreams. I was devestated when Will died. But it seems to me that Teddy Cutting started to patch up that empty hole with her. I'm sure you had a reason for him to go off to war and for her to marry Mr. Cairns. It just doesn't seem fair that after all Elizabeth went through she had to marry a man she didn't love. I'm sure you'll make her happy in the end. As for Penelope, I really hope she gets what she deserves. I know that there is no way for Diana to be with Henry. Unless you make it possible. thank you for reading my comments!!

Posted by Gina on June 25, 2009 at 05:28 PM EDT #

At first i didn't know what i was getting myself into when i picked up Luxe at my local book store, but now i am hooked! I have never read such an amazing book in all my life! Maybe it was chance that i picked the book that suited me the best, or maybe the book and I were made for eachother! I am now recommending it to everyone i know! To Anna Godbersen: Keep writing! I absolutely adore your books. Hope you are well.

Posted by Ivyie Bray on June 25, 2009 at 06:58 PM EDT #

Anna, I wonder, near the end of rumors when henry is being wed to Penelope u wrote that no1 heard henry say "I do" and that Penelope didn't even hear it. U wrote that ONLY Penelope said I do. Will henry use that later to NOT b married to Penelope and to marry diana?? Will he?? And will Penelope not care cause she likes life whithout henry since he left to fight in the war??

Posted by Kelly on June 25, 2009 at 08:09 PM EDT #

Ms. Anna, I'm currently reading your book which is RUMORS and we have to pass a book report about it.I'd love to hear some things about you and your book. Just like the other girls, I hope that your books will soon be a MOVIE! hope to hear from you SOON!!

Posted by imelda de vega on June 26, 2009 at 12:09 AM EDT #

I just discovered The Luxe series. I have to say that I was never much of a reader but this is one of the a very few selective series that have had me addicted. I know it sounds odd, but when I read about Diana and Elizabeth, I image what if it were me in their situations. I automatically feel the pain, as if I were in that place. I love the development of the characters. Like Diana who started like this little teen who wanted to be older than she was and went on her mission to become older in all the rebellious ways that she could be the most difiant. Diana at the end truely becomes wiser than her young age would normally allow. Then manner in which she faces her mistakes and knows what has to be done because she cannot simply but the blame anywhere else. I truely hope that she does not have to become the mistress of Henry (who by the way I also think to the actor who played Edward from Twilight), I think that these two have grown up and that if they dont get their perfect ending they should get an ending where at least they get to be with eachother. I Love how you make their love so suspenful and with such a hint of aganoy that its almost the best love someone would hope for. I like that Elizabeth is pregnant with Keller's baby. I loved that she did not end her pergnancy but I would like her and teddy to be together. He seems like the guy that the pharse "Nice guys finish last" fits the best. I hope that they will some how be able to love eachother and live happily as they deserve. Lina. She is very interesting. While she might not be the most treacherous character in the serious, she does deserve to hurt a lot if she is to be rich. Why should she thrive if she obviously doesn't care too much about anything else besides her comfort. After she become wealthy was her first thought about her sister? No, it was about getting her little satisfaction with the envy of others. She seems like a complication you eventually kill off. I love Penelope. She is determined to go for what she has set her mind to. Although, I hate the fact that she is keeping Henry and Diana apart she brings such life to the series that you have to love her for. I hope her character gets a great ending to it. Can't think of the best ending to her, maybe that she falls in love with the sales guy from Lord & Taylor.. that would serve her right. To fall in love with one whom she would deem a ruin of her society live. It would be her perfect payback. Love at the cost that she has made others pay for. I truely love this series and I cannot wait until the Splendor is available to buy. Hope its soon and not in a year. ~Naty~

Posted by Nerdtalia on June 26, 2009 at 02:59 AM EDT #

hey anna u know u could actually write back once in a while! Really!! Plz! Come on!

Posted by JoJo on June 26, 2009 at 03:47 PM EDT #

Ms. Godbersen, I find that all of your characters hold much depth to their personalities and are never as simple as they appear. Each has many layers and never fails to every now and again take the reader by surprise. They all strive for different hopes and desires, and they all have a different theory on their fate and on life itself. It is for this reason alone that I am able to sympathize with them for their, at times, unfathomable actions and admire each character with as much affection as the other. The twisted plot, which almost never hints with whispers of forewarning, keeps me constantly on the edge of my seat and feeds my interest to find out what the universe has in store for these diverse characters. I applaud you for your vivid descriptions that set such a brilliant and explicit scene in the readers mind, and causes me to find your stories so deliriously captivating and interesting. I am only fifteen and I feel that these books are very inspiring and I have officially declared them my favorites! Thank you for your wonderful and creative writing, and I look forward to the release of your newest novel. I wish you the best of luck.

Posted by Kelsey on June 27, 2009 at 01:34 PM EDT #

Lina is nice enough but i didnt like it when she told P. about Henry and Diana. But she seems nice enough she seems to just want to be accepted!! Is Splendor going to be the last book ???

Posted by Helena on June 28, 2009 at 02:05 PM EDT #

Anna since Splendor's the last book in the series, do you have an idea of what you'd start writing next? I love history fiction novels and yours are some of the best I've read.

Posted by GabeFan on June 28, 2009 at 09:12 PM EDT #

I am really interested in fashion and love vintage clothing. Everytime i look at the covers of your awesome books i just about die. the dresses are so beautiful. Where do you get them???? I would love just to see one up close!

Posted by julia on June 28, 2009 at 10:15 PM EDT #

in the prolouge for envy, it says 'There was the favoured son of New York, who not long ago surprised everyone by ending his bachelorhood, gazing at the city's receding reflection in the Hudson River. There was his wife, whose spring wardrobe had not yet arrived from Paris and was still dressed in heavy winter velvet, without a dance partner in a very good room' - is that Henry? because if it was, what's gonna happen to Diana? Or is it Henry's dad William and the wife is Isabelle? Can someone tell me pleas 'cus i'm quite confused!

Posted by mel19 on June 29, 2009 at 01:25 PM EDT #

I'm so excited for Splendor to come out! I can't wait!! I hope Diana will fallow her heart but at the same time be safe on her long, yet thrilling journey to find Henry. Penelope is just so mean but still a character with plenty of character. Take your time Anna and can't wait to read the concluding book to the series!

Posted by Mikayla on June 30, 2009 at 11:14 AM EDT #

Hey grls I was reading in my history txt book about the victory in the philippine islands (battle of Manila bay) (where henry and diana and teddy are) and it said that no1 died in that battle (in real life) so I guess anna can't write that 1 of them died so YAY!! (I don't want henry teddy OR diana 2 die)!!! :D. I luv the luxe and I totally hope it becomes a movie and/or a show!!

Posted by Kelly on June 30, 2009 at 01:31 PM EDT #

I love Lina and Elizabeth, but I wish that Will and Lina were together, and Elizabeth was with Henry, through the entire book, I was wishing for Elizabeth and Henry to fall in love, and Lina got Will. Penelope was just a bizatch and I hated her soooooo much!!! But overall, I love the Luxe series!!

Posted by Em on June 30, 2009 at 08:06 PM EDT #

Anna, I absolutely love your books. I've never wanted to put it down. the suspence captures you and puts such a hold on you. I do hope with all my heart, that Diana and Henry will end up together and that Penelope will truly get what she deserves. I must say that I actaully do not like Elizabeth. She's so uptight and snobby sometimes. Especially when she fired Lina. But then Will died, and I think a little part of me died inside. My emotions flipped so now I'm sorry for Elizabeth and angry at Lina. I hope that the both of them end up at peace. I CAN NOT wait for Splendor to be realeased.

Posted by Ana Chapman on June 30, 2009 at 09:24 PM EDT #

Hi, Anna!!! I absolutely LOVE the Luxe books and when I was reading Envy I kept trying to think of why Diana would cut all her hair off... then when Teddy said he was going to war I worried Henry would go too - when he eventually did it snapped that Diana was going to join him!! I love your books because they have both good plots and the writing style is really nice to read. I love all the characters... you need villains in every novel! I was wondering what font you used when the characters write notes to each other... I've tried to search it all over font sites, etc. but I just can't find it! I would REALLY appreciate you telling me in your next comment you write to all your fans.. thank you SOO much and I hope I'm not being too irritating!! (ignore all my ranting and rudeness!) Ally XOXOX

Posted by Ally on July 01, 2009 at 06:55 AM EDT #

Hi Ms. Anna Godbersen! I LOVED your books! They were sooo hard to put down. I read all the Twilight books before reading yours and I must say that your books are much better. My mom actually found the first Luxe book, at our local library. And after reading it, we had to go back and get the rest of the series! I just finished reading Envy today, and let me say that I am waiting for the fourth book! Envy ended with a cliffhanger! I hate that! But I LOVE ALL the characters! My favorite would have to be Diana Holland. She's beautiful, fun, and loving. But .... I like Elizabeth Holland because she cares about her family sooo much that she would rather marry someone that she doesn't love. Penelope Hayes(or Mrs. Schoonmaker) is also one my favorites because of her attitude. I like it how she never gives up in the end. Lina Broud (Carolina) is awesome! She was the Hollands' maid, but then ends up being in elite society with a lot of friends like Mr. Longhorn. Thanks soooo much for writing these books. My friends and I have all been reading them, and they love them too! But I wish that I could be with Henry Schoonmaker! He sounds sooo dreamy! But I have a question: Is this all true? Was there a real Elizabeth and Diana Holland? Henry, Lina, Penny, and Teddy? Did you just write the story based on the newspaper stories? Thanks alot!!!!! Love Rebekah (one of the most biggest fans!!!)

Posted by Rebekah Hooker on July 02, 2009 at 08:49 PM EDT #

Hey Ms. Anna! These were great books! I can't wait for the newest book Splendor! I just finished reading Envy today and I LOVED IT but sadly hated the ending. My character is Diana Holland. She is very daring! But I really loved all of them! But are all the characters actually people from the Newspaper entries in the books?? Thanks a lot for writing these books! Love your biggest fan! Rebekah :)

Posted by Rebekah on July 02, 2009 at 08:57 PM EDT #

Those of you who haven't been able to see the cover of Splendor can go to Amazon.com and see it.

Posted by GabeFan on July 03, 2009 at 10:54 AM EDT #

ohmigosh! I totally love the bad guys!!! they definatly make the book. but please please please don't kill teddy or henry or diana in war!!! that would be so extreamly depressing!!! Elisabeth should totally get to marry teddy at the end though. lol. i can so see this turning into a tragedy where nobodys happy :( but on the other hand i can also really see it being all happy in the end... so, whatever it is, i'll still buy the book and stay up all night till i finish it!

Posted by Amy on July 03, 2009 at 01:13 PM EDT #

i highly doubt anna would have a unhappy ending for anyone...

Posted by yanni poo on July 03, 2009 at 09:35 PM EDT #

I hate Penelope and Lina thay are so evil!!!!!!!!!!!! I hope the get a taste of their own medicine. Love your books, though.

Posted by Alice on July 04, 2009 at 12:24 PM EDT #

Please don't let anyone die it the war!! Also please let Teddy and Liz be together!!

Posted by Erin on July 04, 2009 at 12:26 PM EDT #

i love the luxe series it is so good. I really get into the story. Also I love the covers of the books everyone looks so fancy and sophisticated. My prom dress looks a lot like a dress that would be on the cover of one of the books and whenever i read the books it makes me want to go put it on and pretend i had some ball to go to. The lifestyle of the characters is very interesting and exciting. You have done a great job with the luxe series

Posted by micaela on July 05, 2009 at 03:40 PM EDT #

Hi, i have a suggestion for if you do make a movie of the Luxe. You could hold auditions for any member of the public to enter. I'm not doing this for myself because i can't be in it because i live in Australia. Great books. Make the series longer. Thanks for all the fun of the books. I normally hate reading. I had so much fun reading these books.

Posted by Zara on July 06, 2009 at 05:56 AM EDT #

i love your books Anna there great and if u made it in to a movie it whold be beter than twilight. my fav person is diana shes soo like m. Where did u get the insperation? And think about the movie thing and if it happens ill b there to audition.

Posted by whitneycate on July 08, 2009 at 02:58 AM EDT #

I just cant wait for Splendor to come out i wish i could read it now i just finished Envy in 3 days ik ur new book will be awsome

Posted by whitneycate on July 08, 2009 at 03:06 AM EDT #

Oh it's terrible for me!! I just read Rumors and in France I have to wait so much time to have the third book! Anna I want to say you that in France we are very numerous to love luxe saga!! I hope you'll come here for a booksigning!! Have you ever thought to suggest your saga to cinema ?

Posted by Marie on July 10, 2009 at 04:46 AM EDT #

I am reading the first Luxe book and i am really enjoying it. My best friend had recommended that i should read it and i am now loving it!!! Thanks for writing such a good book and i cant wait to read all the rest. x

Posted by Brinny on July 10, 2009 at 02:38 PM EDT #

Ah Lina, she is an amazing character in that you can't help but not like her at least a little. I love her for how far she's been able to come from the first book, and while yes, I do resent her for telling Penelope of Diana and Henry, this is part of how she rose to where she is. In my opinion Lina represents the very human spirit that wants to be in power and accepted without a hard and true moral compass. Penelope needs to go die in a freak carriage accident by the river, but that is why she is so neccesary to the story, for the hate and passion she inspires in me as a reader is what makes me love these books. And yes there are many a villian who i relate to, for that is imperative in any good villian, to be able to hate them while secretly or openly being able to understand and relate to them. Both Lina and Penelope are amazing villians, although i hate to call Lina a villan at all.

Posted by Sara on July 10, 2009 at 05:44 PM EDT #

i love diana! she's my fav cuz she's sucha r3b3l lyk mys3lf

Posted by gabrielle on July 10, 2009 at 08:19 PM EDT #

I'm not a very big fan of Lina but i think she adds a bit more scandal into the story. I can't wait to find out about the dangerous secret that Elizabeth finds out and whatever else happens in Splendor. I think that the series should be made into movies. It would even be better than twilight.

Posted by Alissa on July 10, 2009 at 10:10 PM EDT #

I love all of your characters. Elizabeth is a little idealistic out of all of them. She's made some "reckless" choices, but she's still pretty normal. Diana is devilish, and I love that. Personality wise (not just because of the name) I associate myself with her most, but my own older sister with Elizabeth. Penelope is loveable because her wickedness is personal. She's the way she is because society made her that way. And putting oneself in her shoes makes me pity her and her loss of Henry. I hope she ends up with someone good for her that can handle her. And as for Lina, I am an actress, and she is the most layered character. I love finding meaning in all the characters and Lina's myriad layers and ability to transform herself is amazing. (ps, i posted on feb 17th's post dealing with her relation to Lily.) When is Splendor being released? And Movie wise, if it was in the process, could you PLEASE post info about auditioning? Thanks! Hope Splendor's nearly ready for stores!!!!<3

Posted by Diana Elizabeth on July 11, 2009 at 12:11 AM EDT #

I can't wait for Splendor! I am almost done with Envy. I guess I can see why Penelope holds onto Henry for dear life. I guess I can see it because I've been in this situation before. Sometimes when you lose someone you love you realize just why you loved them and then you can't stop loving them. You're madly in love but they've moved on and yet you cling to that childish love, as it is the only thing fueling you along. And sometimes you take it too far. Because loving somebody means to accept them and want them to be happy, even if that means excluding you. But blackmailing someone into loving you will always backfire. Love has to be fueled by passion and desire, not by hatred and gossip.

Posted by Maddie on July 12, 2009 at 05:44 PM EDT #

So first of all, I LOVE everything about the Luxe series. I love the old New York scene, the glamour, the high society, and all the scandals that go on. I have read The Luxe, Rumors, and Envy, and now I am anxiously waiting for Splendor to come out. I am torn between whether I like Elizabeth or Diana the best. Even though I thought it was kind of sweet how Liz was madly in love with Will, I'm glad they weren't able to work out. I have wanted Elizabeth to marry Teddy ever since book one. Now since Henry and Teddy have both gone off to war I have this really bad feeling that someone is going to die, and I think it's going to be Teddy (remember in Envy when Teddy tells Henry that he is going to war and the first thing Henry says to him, please just don't DiE). And for Diana, it killed me to read about her cutting off all her gorgeous hair, but I'm so glad she realized that Henry really does love only her. And I hope her journey to find Henry is worth it in the end. I just love Elizabeth and Diana and so many things has gone wrong for the Holland family. I hope in Splendor the Holland's will end up with some kind of happy ending.

Posted by KFlan on July 12, 2009 at 06:11 PM EDT #

I just wanted to say that you the MOST GENIUS AUTHOR EVER !!! You're book are just so amazingly great, the thing I love most about your books its the way they are just SO unexpected, like in the first book I never thought that Lina would actually starts to ascends in society and in Envy, welll wow she just gots it all. Then Penelope got to marry Henry, I mean she got what she wanted, Will Keller died while in fiction he should be alove and shall live happily ever after with Elizabeth, but no he died just after they got married. There so just so much about your books that are amazing and seriously the way your plot is SO unexpected just makes them wanting to want more and more I can't wait to read Splendor, I mean right after finishing Luxe I bought Rumors, and then just before finishing Rumor I bought Envy now I have to wait MOUNTHS to read Splendor. I have to say that I identify myself to your characters, the way Elizabeth was turn between the principles of high society and Will, but mostly to the love story of Henry and Diana reminds everything about me and my love, the way Penelope just can't give up on Henry (even though she's mean) and Lina so willing to do everything to ascend and have her place in society ( well i characterise that on my studies, lolz), you're books are the best thanks for writting them, they have been an escape and sort of a revelation of true love to me thank you for writting the luxe collection. I'll probably read EVERYTHING you write in the future.

Posted by Jessica on July 14, 2009 at 09:14 PM EDT #

I totally sympathize with Carolina. I didn't like how you made Will Keller die and Lizzy marry that old guy. Diana should be with Henry Schoonmaker not Penelope. In a way I do pity Penelope because she has to try so hard to become Mrs. Schoonmaker. Diana shouldn't have joined the army. I am personally ok with the book Envy but it definately could be better.

Posted by Justine on July 14, 2009 at 09:23 PM EDT #

Anna I just wanted to write because I really feel 4 lina cause I have a best friend who is in this group and I really wanna b part of that group but it just feels like they never accept me so I know how it feels and I just think Lina shouldn't do it in such a mean way, I mean, she was kinda snotty to elizabeth but hey Elizabeth is a pretty snotty person too for treating Lina the way she did, I mean, they were best friends when they were young! And Penelope is such a spoiled brat it's not even funny. But I luv the luxe series and I can't wait foe splendor which is supposed to come out 10/27/09 (awwwwwww!!)

Posted by kelly on July 15, 2009 at 01:10 PM EDT #

I get where everyone is coming from, about seeing themselves in Lina and all, but to tell you the truth..I see more of myself in diana. yeah, I know, a lot of ppl probably see themselves in her and maybe for the same reasons I do. She is awesome! She is only sixteen, yet she has the power to break penelope..even though she might not think so, yet. She fights for what she wants and she doesn't give up..even if it means giving up something that she values in some way. But, I side with her more where her age is concerned. I am around her age, and my parents and a lot of other people underestimate me because of my age and I always get the typical "oh, don't do that" comments if I act older than what I am. It drives me insane. So there, I gave a reason (okay, more than one reason) about who I am most like and why. It felt weird, yet fun! hmmm...

Posted by Mikayla on July 16, 2009 at 12:59 AM EDT #

Hey mikayla, I really agree wit u 2 (I'm totally diana also) but I'm just saying I know where Lina comes from (but I still HATE her) and I also luv diana cause I too, have problems when ppl r like, UR TOO YOunG TO DO THIS!! (u know they should have a "which 1 r u" quiz on this website that would b so funny...) anyways um I'm 15 so I kinda hate it when ppl say I have to act my age and not act like I'm 20 (wat r they asking me 2 do, act IMATURE AND STUPID??). And I loved reading in envy how much Penelope ENVIED diana cause diana had 2 guys in luv wit her and 1 of them was Penelope's husband!! Penelope was like, wat does diana have that I don't?? (uhhhh LOVE???) lol I think Penelope is just to full of herself

Posted by kelly on July 16, 2009 at 11:18 AM EDT #

i love love love these books sooo much! i read them all within a week and cant seem to enjoy any other book after reading them! i cant wait for splendor to come out!!!!! is there a rough date or estimate on wen its coming out??? i need to know! im addicted to these books. it broke my heart wen will died but i real think elzabeth and teddy would have been soooo good together! NOT SNOWDEN!:( and henry+diana!!! why do all the good guys go to war:( i dont like lina but i still wouldnt want her living on the streets so thats good. will there be more books after splendor?? XOXOXO tor

Posted by Victoria on July 17, 2009 at 12:52 AM EDT #

I've read that splendor is supposed to come out October 10 but I read somewhere else that it comes out October 27 so somewhere between there I guess

Posted by kelly on July 17, 2009 at 12:16 PM EDT #

When I read the Luxe series, I was amazed at how deep your characters were, and how you manage to find the good and the bad in all of them. the different points of veiw certainly give the books a different dimension. I am waiting impatiently for the next novel in the series, and hope that you finish it soon!

Posted by Rose on July 20, 2009 at 07:01 PM EDT #

I really love these books, but i will be devistated if diana and henry break up! she said some of the characters had to break up and if its diana and henry i might cry and will not read any books again because i will be dissapointed that nobody got a happy ending!

Posted by Kamaryn on July 20, 2009 at 07:27 PM EDT #

OH MY GOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!! WHERE DID U READ THAT?????? IF HENRY AND DIANA DONT END UP TOGETHER I WILL LIKE DIE THE ANSOLOUTLEY HAVE TO END UP 2GETHER

Posted by yanna on July 21, 2009 at 11:45 AM EDT #

OMG IF HENRY AND DIANA DONT GO 2GETHER THIS WILL B MORE SAD THAN ROMEO AND JULIET OMG I WILL B SO SAD iD BECOME DEPRESSED OMG

Posted by Kelly on July 21, 2009 at 11:23 PM EDT #

WHAT!!! THEY ARE MADE FOR EACH OTHER!!!

Posted by ? on July 22, 2009 at 12:46 PM EDT #

I just wanted to let you know that I read all your books. Excellent!!

Posted by Claudia on July 22, 2009 at 02:28 PM EDT #

ok guys lets be real i dont really think they r going to end up together i think that penelope is pregnant i think that either henry is gonna die, or kill himself. i think diana is probably going to mary teddy i think elizabeth gonna beat lina's a** once they find out what lina did to diana. but yeah does anyone else have any other suggestions???

Posted by yanna on July 22, 2009 at 05:30 PM EDT #

Honsetly i dont think henry and dianna wil end up together i think they probably will both kill themselves or henry will kill himself or die...i think penelope is really pregnant. elizabeth will prbably not marry teddy...she might if that old man shes married to dies...i think lina is gonna spend all that money and end up either marrying percivial coddington or she might marry leland but i doubt it. dianna and teddy will probably end up 2gether...does any1 else have ideas?????

Posted by yanna on July 22, 2009 at 05:34 PM EDT #

LOL yanna u got some good ideas! But I think that it'll end up something like Romeo and Juliet, lol I hope not....and I'm not sure IF diana and henry will go 2 NY I think they're gonna live somewhere else cause evry 1 in NY still thinks henry loves Penelope cause henry IS still married 2 Penelope.....they're really screwed though....

Posted by Kelly on July 22, 2009 at 06:00 PM EDT #

I doubt that Anna will make the whole series a tradgedy. I mean it just doesen't seem that way.

Posted by GabeFan on July 23, 2009 at 03:27 PM EDT #

thank u but like evry1 i REALLY hope they get together but i just dont think it will happen...i also think isabella will be getting a divorce and i also think that penelope will probably have a miscarraige and they will get a divorce but anyway im sooooo anxious for splendor because it comes out just 3 days b4 my bday which is on the 30 of october and im gonna get my parents to get it for me the day it comes out

Posted by yanna on July 23, 2009 at 08:00 PM EDT #

yes! their is going to be a fourth book! right? i cant wait!!! i realy want to know whats going to happen! :) i cant wait to know if they accepted diana for the war thingy. ahh!! i just rememberd that Penelope was thinking in the end that she was going to do WHATEVER it takes to get henry back. so maybe she will make that happen and like diana never sees him again because she's in the army!!!!! ahhh im going to die of antisipation if i dont know whats going to happen next!!! :( oh and lina has all the right to enjoy herself u know? its not every day u get to see a maid get that opportunity. ~with love lucy! ^.^

Posted by lucy on July 25, 2009 at 07:47 PM EDT #

ooooooommmg... i already cried reading rumors when Will died and now i cried twice that when i read that teddy was going to war </3 (fav char hehe) and then again when Elizabeth married Snowden and then once more when Diana (my other fav char) got Henrys letter and read it, it was soo effin sad!!! also i kinda cried when Lina had no where to go..it was heart breaking.. even though i hate her, i felt bad for her as for Penelope shes just... i dunno mean ? harsh ? cruel ? that girl really needs a hard slap on the face (thats what i think) i really wanted Teddy to get married to Liz... </3 it could have been like Teddy proposed to Elizabeth when they were dancing and then.. maybe he could have gone to war .. Dx i mean... whats gonna happen to him in the 4th book ? (Still hoping they get together) hes gonna be heartbroken ? or.. will.. he.. die.. ? (HOPE NOT I LOVE TEDDY) Diana is really living her own story... shes going to war to find Henry .. her true love! im soooo eager to know whats going happen!!!!

Posted by Angela on July 25, 2009 at 10:51 PM EDT #

OMG! This series is soooooooooooooooooooo addicting! I need the fourth book to come out like...now haha. I can't wait to find out what happens with diana and the whole army thing and also how her poor mother and sister elizabeth are going to take it...especiallly all the papers. OMG Splendor needs to hurry up and come out. im dieing of anticipation!!!!!! ~With love, Emilly

Posted by Emilly on July 25, 2009 at 11:20 PM EDT #

Diana and Henry have to end up together! There is no way Anna would end this series with a tragedy...but still, I have that annoying little voice at the back of my head saying things aren't looking so bright for Diana, either Henry is gonna die trying to save her or the other way round! Ah, I can smell death in the air!

Posted by Selen on July 26, 2009 at 03:43 AM EDT #

You know i dont hate Lina i just feel a little irritated by her. I know she wants the finer things in life but she doesnt have to go as far as she does. Just because She was rich for a couple months she thinks she can look down on everything even when she was poor. She never sees the upside of anything but marrying Leland. Who i adore for adoring her because, when she is around him she is a natural girl who thinks she is in love with the very rich handsome man. But i cant wait until the fourth book comes out! Excited! Thank You for YOUR time! ^.^

Posted by Amber v^_^ on July 27, 2009 at 12:00 AM EDT #

its the end of july and i just started and finished the three books that have already been published and i cant stop thinking about whats going to happen next. its in my brain now!!! so i was wondering if you could post a more recent letter letting your fans know where you are with splendor. thank you so much for this series it has definately made an impact on my life. though you have toyed with my emotions in the most cruel ways. it has most certainly not been a waste of my time to read your books and i cant wait for the next one. i also cant help but hope its finally the end so my mind can rest and i dont have to wait to read another book and can move on with my life. at the same time i hope it goes on as these books have made life more fun. signed S.C.

Posted by shelby on July 30, 2009 at 10:53 AM EDT #

Hey Anna!!! me & my friend really need to ask you some things about ur amazing book! im not sure if you will read this, but if you do, please respond to my e-mail: goldenmarifer@hotmail.com THANKS SOO MUCH!!!!

Posted by Total Luxe fan! on July 31, 2009 at 11:59 AM EDT #

Elizabeth and Teddy together would make me very happy. It seems that she just can't win Will's death... I hope she is luckier in Splendor. Also, could it be Lina on the cover of Envy...?

Posted by Katie on July 31, 2009 at 01:15 PM EDT #

P.S. Megan Fox would be amazing as Penelope Hayes.

Posted by Julia on July 31, 2009 at 04:20 PM EDT #

For those of you who read other people's comments Splendor is coming out in October. You can find more info at Amazon.ca. I can't wait to read it! Waiting for a book that is apart of a series is extremely hard. Especially if that series is as good as The Luxe series. And Anna, if you ever read this, please write another post! It's driving me crazy not hearing more news about the series!

Posted by Rachael on August 01, 2009 at 12:57 PM EDT #

Anna, Your writing is sublime. I adore your books and all characters. Lina has turned into an even more interesting character. If that was intended well done. Now, please tell me and us, how can we get you to start touring and signing books. I am desperate for my collection to be signed. Please let us know soon!

Posted by Mel on August 02, 2009 at 04:36 AM EDT #

OMG yes, I always fall in love with the villains! In harry potter, i love Draco Malfoy with a passion! He's my favorite charactor second only to Hermione. There's something about the whole bad boy thing (even if he's sort of a wimp) that it's just intoxicating to me! but, i can't stand Lina or penelope. my favorite charactors were and are Henry and Diana-from the moment she walked into the church with a smile on her face, and the moment everyone gasped when he walked into the funeral. anyway, keep working on it Anna, for i am so in love with your series!

Posted by Aimee on August 02, 2009 at 02:23 PM EDT #

Okay I read these comments and I have somthing to say. On the cover Of The Luxe it's Lizzy, on Rumors it Penny, Envy is Diana, and Splendor it will be Lina. Also I hate Lina so much I could kill her. Just think without her none of this stuff wouldn't have happened. Sure Liz would be married to Henry, but still. Oh well I guess that dosen't make a good book, does it?

Posted by Diana on August 02, 2009 at 05:43 PM EDT #

Also Anna could you please post something new it been ove four months. Do you even go on the site? Maybe you could post the first chapter of Splendor or somthing?

Posted by Diana on August 02, 2009 at 05:50 PM EDT #

Anna, I really enjoy reading your books and I'm very excited for the fourth book to come out! What will you be working on after the Luxe series? Will you still be writing about the same things as in the Luxe?

Posted by Sheila on August 04, 2009 at 04:29 PM EDT #

Mrs. Anna, I love yur books sooooo much even though im only still reading the first one. but im almost done with it! Anyways, you're one of my favorite authors of, hmm lets see.....all time! (: btw, I don't have much of an opinion on Lina, except that i think she shouldn't've kept that note from will that meant for elizabeth. I like her sister Claire very much though. My favorite character of all is Diana. She reminds me SO much of myself. I hope that for my 14th birthday, someone buys me the whole series of The Luxe (:

Posted by Tyler on August 04, 2009 at 06:56 PM EDT #

I have never looked at lina as a villan in the story. She is one of my favourite characters in the book and I most relate to her. I am sort of a little like elizabeth, actually I think of you merged Elizabeth and Lina togeather you would get someone like me. The only character I consider in the book to be a villan is Penelope. She is the only character that is evil, cold, uncaring. She dosen't even love anyone, she only wants Henry because she thinks he is the one she should be with because of the image it would create. Because of their looks, wealth, family Not because she loves him. Lina was like that because she needed the money how else was she supposed to survive I also like how all the characters in the book do something wrong. It makes them more real. You could look at almost any character in this book and see them as a villan. Lina, unlike Penelope she acted the way she did out of need, not greed and that is why I don't see her as a villan.

Posted by danielle on August 06, 2009 at 11:45 AM EDT #

Oh my gosh! I love The Luxe Series! So excited for Splendor to come out! I think Diana is the best! She reminds me so much of myself! I can't believe Splendor is coming out in October!! I can't wait!

Posted by Elisa on August 06, 2009 at 03:17 PM EDT #

Spoilers Be Beware !!!! I don't see Penelope as an evil person, on contrary I see her as weak and feeble though she never confessed that to anyone because she has lots of pride in which I think her pride and her vulnerability are what people see that’s makes her look like the villain. Penelope is the kind of person that has never her word “no” until a certain young male came along. She was used and thrown out like a napkin only thing is Penelope does not get used she uses. So her pride was hurt by the fact that he stopped loving her so easily and so devised a scheme but only because she scared . Henry Schoonmaker a brute a user of woman untill he found the one but before that one he found Penelope who would let him go for hurting her pride. So no I don’t see Penelope as the bad guy or Lina either instead I see a young girl frighten of herself and her impact on others in other words her pride.

Posted by Rina on August 06, 2009 at 04:09 PM EDT #

Ms Anna, i agree with alot of the other girls about the movie, and i think it would be so cool if the auditions were open to anyone, cuz i no soo many girls would LOVE to audition, and it would be so awesomely cool to know that some of the girls (or guys) in the movie were just regular kids like us. PLEASE PLEASE post info on the movie!

Posted by Amy on August 06, 2009 at 07:34 PM EDT #

Anna, is there really going to be a movie? I really think there should be! My opinion on Lina is that she is a backstabber. She gave away secrets about Elizabeth and Diana to Penelope for money. I see why she needs to do that but that really messed things up for the Holland family and Henry. I like Penelope a little because she is so determined to get what she wants, no matter how futile it is.But overall Diana is my favorite character because she can see through all of Penelope's schemes and can dodge everything that is thrown at her. I can't wait to see what she will do in Splendor!!

Posted by Sarah on August 06, 2009 at 09:10 PM EDT #

After reading a bunch of the other comments (and thinking more about it) I think that it would be better not to make a movie out of it because the movie is never better than the book, ever. I just think that the movie would ruin the images of your characters that we all have in our heads.It makes the characters less dimentional (if that makes sense...). I think it will make the story less exciting. It happened to me when I saw Twilight and Twilight is a great book.

Posted by Sarah on August 06, 2009 at 09:34 PM EDT #

Where are you, Anna?? I can't wait for Splendor! I REALLY hope Teddy and Liz get together.. but I'll try not to be too hopeful (lol).

Posted by Hiba on August 08, 2009 at 08:54 PM EDT #

My friend reccomended the Luxe series to me for a good summer read... I just went visited Newport last weekend and had the sudden urge to watch the Titanic, which i bought while I was there. Right when I got home I picked up the Luxe book and couldn't put it down! As you can probably see, I'm on an early nineteenth century obsession. I think everything about the scandals and romances are beautiful and your book was just what i was looking for. I plan on buying the rest of the series tomorrow and I hope everyone in the series ends happily in love. I am at heart a true romantic. I wish i lived back then... it seems so much grander and so much prettier than now. Keep writing! I love the books (well, book as of now, but from what everyone says I know I won't be dissapointed)

Posted by Emily on August 08, 2009 at 11:26 PM EDT #

Hey, Anna! I can't WAIT for Splendor to come out. I'm only halfway through Rumors, but I'm oh-so-excited all the same. By the way, I'M actually surprised that people like Lina and dislike Penelope?? Penelope is my favourite character. I dunno, maybe that's because SHE'S the character I find is most like ME. Is that bad? Probably, but oh well. I like the way she thinks, even though she's really mean and everything. I'm so excited for Splendor I both feel like jumping up and down and puking! (Just saying that to be funny. Don't take it personally, i've been told many times i have a boy's sense of humor). LOVE YOU!

Posted by Amy on August 10, 2009 at 10:22 PM EDT #

I just stared reading luxe and it is great. I can't put it down. Anna you are the bestest writer ever.

Posted by Diana on August 11, 2009 at 12:02 PM EDT #

Hey! I love the Luxe serious...why do have to stop writing? I'm wayy excited for Splendor to come out! I def. think you should continue writing..your one of my favortie authors!

Posted by Jordan on August 11, 2009 at 05:41 PM EDT #

Villians are usually my favorite characters in books or movies. Without a villian, or a struggle in some sense what would be entertaining? Where would the story go? The truth is that there are struggles in everyones lives. Nothing is perfect. And I love how Villians make things interesting. Penelope is by far one of my favorite charachters, not only because she has my favorite name, but because she is over the top. She thinks she deserves the best and is the best and has to have whatever she wants. And although sometimes she goes about it in the wrong way, she is a lot like me. She always gets what she wants in the end, and will do whatever it takes to get it. And I am a lot like that. But she has flaws, just like everyone else does. Lina, oh Lina. I will admit how much she drives me crazy, because she shows up and pushes her way into this society she wasn't born into like everyone else was. But when I think about it, she is a lot like me. I am not rich, I was not placed into a society of privilege, but I would do exactly what she does to be apart of that world. I think that by having insight to all the character's mind, their true character, it makes it SO much easier to understand them, the way their minds work, their motivation, and makes it easier to place one's self in the place of the character. That is very important in a novel.

Posted by Crista on August 11, 2009 at 07:44 PM EDT #

Hi Anna. I've read all of the Luxe books so far and I can't wait until Splendor comes out in stores! Just a quick question. On the cover of your books with the girls in the beautiful gowns, are they meant to be the characters in the books? The first book Luxe has the blonde girl who looks like Elizabeth, and the second book Rumors has a dark haired girl who looks like Diana. And in Envy with the brunette, she looks like Penelope. It's a silly observation, but I've always wondered if it was true. I'm a huge fan and I wish you the best! Thanks, Amanda N.

Posted by Amanda N. on August 12, 2009 at 01:12 PM EDT #

Hi Anna! I'm on the second book in the luxe series and I absolutley adore them. Even my mom is reading them! I was just wondering, if the girl on the 1st book is Elizabeth, then is the girl on the second book Penelope? Because I remember Penelope always wears red. Also,I know it's probably bad but I'm like Penelope and I understand where she's coming from.(I also look like her) Anyway can't wait for splendor it looks like it's going to be amazing. You are an amazing author and you make us really connect with the characters. OMG I feel like jumping in the air from excitment!

Posted by Lama on August 13, 2009 at 03:51 PM EDT #

Anna! I cant wait till splendor comes out! I'm sure it will be the best out of all three books!

Posted by Whitney Michelle on August 14, 2009 at 12:11 AM EDT #

i love the series and i totally think the books should be made into movies. i am ecstatic about the fourth book, splendor, i want to read it so bad. i think that it's beautiful that di is following her heart and going after henry. penelope is a very dynamic character, so is lina. i like to read the back of the book, the part where it talks about what will happen in splendor. when it says elizabeth uncovers something from her past, i think will did not die and that he is alive. i KNOW that di and henry will live happily-ever-after. penelope will fall in love with someone else (maybe, not sure about that one). sigh, i want this book.

Posted by Kristen De Jong on August 14, 2009 at 10:41 PM EDT #

Hi there! I am Laura and I'm 14. Here, in Portugal, only one of your books is being sold: it's The Luxe (Rebeldes, in Portuguese). When I grow up, I would love to be a writer like you. Your books are fantastic and you're an amazing writer! Could you post some advices to I become a good writer like you? I hope so, because I am your biggest portuguese fan! And could you say if your others books will be sold here in Portugal? I would love it! XOXO Laura

Posted by Laura on August 15, 2009 at 06:01 PM EDT #

I really love these books and i just cant wait until the fourth one comes out! Do you have any idea of when that will be? Some people say that they hope Will isnt dead but i dont! (sorry) but i want elizabeth to end up with teddy! I know she loved Will but teddy has loved her for so long and i think that he would understand about will and they could live happily ever after! and then i also think that henry and di will of course find each other and theyll have their happily ever after, but im not sure who penelope will be happy with. i cant wait to read it!!!

Posted by Karly on August 15, 2009 at 09:28 PM EDT #

Oh, and did you base Teddy off of anyone because i would most deffinitly love to meet him!!!

Posted by Karly on August 15, 2009 at 09:48 PM EDT #

Hello Anna? Are you still alive?

Posted by Granma on August 16, 2009 at 02:27 AM EDT #

hey anna i love your books cant wait for splendor.. cant you put some sneakpeaks on th website?? please....by the way i love barnard college my sister is actually going to barnard this year and shes so exited!....

Posted by lucianna on August 16, 2009 at 04:19 AM EDT #

Hey anna, I'm a huge fan of your book. i'd like to know if you're gonna write more of the luxe series after splendor (: I'm hoping you'll continue the story. I love the book. (: Thank you! hope you'll keep writing the luxe novel after splendor

Posted by Erica on August 17, 2009 at 06:21 AM EDT #

New blog, new something on this website. Please anything! It's almost been five months surely you have time to update your blog.

Posted by Emily on August 17, 2009 at 08:04 PM EDT #

this would deffinetely be an amazing movie... if it was done well. please update ur blog!i wanna hear sumthing about splendor:) teddy HAS to end up with liz. snowden is nice and all but liz and teddy are the perfect couple:)

Posted by Victoria on August 18, 2009 at 12:23 AM EDT #

OMG ANNA R U GONNA POST SOMETHING SOMETIME AGAIN??? JEEEEEZ R U DEAD OR SOMIN ITS BEEN LIKE HALF A YEAR! JEEZ!

Posted by Kelly on August 18, 2009 at 07:04 PM EDT #

Are you thinking of turning the Luxe series into a series of movies?

Posted by Adrienne on August 19, 2009 at 02:15 PM EDT #

Hi, :) I was just wondering if you know how many books there will end up being in the Luxe series? I'm a big fan! Olivia, XX

Posted by Olivia on August 20, 2009 at 02:54 AM EDT #

lol, calm down Kelly, it's gonna be okay. But if you want more posts from Anna go to her myspace

Posted by Arie on August 20, 2009 at 04:29 PM EDT #

when is freaking splendor coming out??????????? and this needs to be updated!!!!!! if anna really even reads this doubt it now since it hasnt been updated in months!!! but i hope diana finds henry and teddy so they come back and henry divorces penelope and elizabeth and teddy somehow end up together i know shes married to whatshisface but i think since she obvisiously cant be with will anymore i think her and teddy just go together! and im glad elizabeth didnt get an abortion cuz im against that anyway but its the only thing she has left of her and will together and its not like the baby was conceived out of wed lock they were married

Posted by haley on August 20, 2009 at 09:21 PM EDT #

Hello! I'm actually 25 and an English teacher. I'm always on the lookout for books I think my students will enjoy as independant reading - that's how I cam across the first Luxe book. Now I'm completely taken with the series! These books are amazing. They allow a person to completely immerse themselves in the past and get caught up in the lives of some very real characters. Keep the Luxe books coming!

Posted by Sheri on August 24, 2009 at 11:28 AM EDT #

Anna, I am a young author and I love your books! I have talked to a few authors and they haven't responded, and I bet you get hundreds of fan mail and such, but if you could, maybe I could send you a few of my manuscripts and you could read them? maybe? If not I totally understand! I've put my email in this comment; it is triplethreat1113@live.com, thanks so much! I hope you have a lovely day (I'm in the middle of reading rumors and I LOVE it! The suspense is killing me! I have to finish my homework, but its really distracting to see the book just across the table saying "Alli! Come on! Read me!" Have a lovely day! ~Alli

Posted by Alli on August 24, 2009 at 07:06 PM EDT #

Hi Anna, I just want to tell you how much i really love the luxe books, I absolutely adore them, sometimes i don't even listen in class i just read your wonderful book. when i read the third book envy i cried at the end when i found out Henry joined the army and Diana is planning to go after him that sounds so super sweet, so now I’m dying to know what will happen in splendor. You’re a great writer and by the way I’m 15 years old and i love your books. i hope to hear from you soon, GOD BLESS. :) LOVE: Jasmine M.

Posted by jasmine on August 25, 2009 at 01:50 AM EDT #

WHERE ARE YOU, ANNA?????

Posted by Hiba on August 25, 2009 at 07:34 PM EDT #

I am worried! Where is Anna????????

Posted by Selen on August 26, 2009 at 11:22 AM EDT #

ok, i am 26 years old and i have jus finished reading the 2nd book!!! oh my!!!! i keep wondering how did i ever just put it down haf way through but i had to focus on school! i cannot believe they killed will and i know i have to catch up but i think i will finish envy rather quickly!!! i cant wait for the 4th book, but i will admit i want more and more than just 4 books!!! this series is the best i've ever read!!!

Posted by betty on August 26, 2009 at 04:17 PM EDT #

If you would look at her myspace it is updated all the time just check there

Posted by Arie on August 26, 2009 at 04:19 PM EDT #

Dear Ms. Godbersen, I just wanted to tell you how much I love the Luxe books. I have tried to write other comments but they were too long to post. Anyway, I cannot wait for Splendor to come out. When does it? It would be relly nice if Diana (whom is my favorite character) and Henry found each other and got married. I also hope that Elizabeth not only has a healthy baby, but that she and Teddy will end up together. I hope that Lina finds happiness and ends up with Leland, and I hope that Penelope falls face first on a platter of smoked salmon and cream sauce!!!!!!!!! Just Kidding ! Can't wait for Splendor!

Posted by Emily on August 26, 2009 at 07:56 PM EDT #

I have some ideas for the cast if there is a movie Elizabeth-Amanda Seyfried Diana -Hayden Pantierre Henry-Chace Crawford Penelope -Michelle Tratchenburg Will-Lucas Till Lina-Kristen Stewart Leland-Ed Westwick Teddy-Tom Felton Just Saying! :) <3

Posted by Emily on August 26, 2009 at 08:16 PM EDT #

i feel im most like diana in the way she doesnt really care what she has to put at risk to get what she truely loves. and then am also like ms.hayes in the way that i always get what i want, i work for it weither i have to tear down people in my way or not. im used to being alone and yet adored by others. and i find it lonely somtimes but im suprised how lina acted to gain social status that will never in a lifes chance stick and so therefore i can say with honesty that she is my least favorite character. but then again i love them all...so im in a paradox. i guess ill figure it all out after i get to read the next book! yay so close to comming out too!

Posted by heather on September 02, 2009 at 04:53 PM EDT #

is there any talk of a movie of any of the luxe series? i just read above of someone posting their wish cast and now im all excited. there should most surely be a movie. i could watch it over and over and never tire of it... to see all these characters come to life in a way other than my imagination would just be awesome....

Posted by heather on September 02, 2009 at 04:55 PM EDT #

MAKE A MOVIE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! PLZ!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by Lori on October 24, 2009 at 09:50 PM EDT #

I got Envy for my birthday 4 days ago and I'm already 3/4ths done! You are such a talented writer!

Posted by Erika Russell on November 30, 2009 at 09:38 PM EST #

I am like Diana mostly because she is a flirty girl who doesn't care if she's rich and gets into trouble, yet she stays classy and true to her sister. She has been my favorite character from the beginning and reading about her feels like looking in the mirror! But all I can honestly say is that you are a gifted writer and I love your work! Do you think you could make a movie? omg_its_obviously_me@hotmail.com

Posted by Erika Russell on November 30, 2009 at 09:41 PM EST #

I have to admit than more than hate you I admire you to a certain point. Only thing you want is attention, and truth be told is one of the few ways to have fun there in such a high and respectable society, but there are various metods to get it and yours, though it is the easiest, it's not the most correct or the one I would have chosen myself. One of the things that until now I get to understand, is that you are irrevocably in love with Henry Schonmaker and I can't blme you. I know once he felt the same way about you, and between walts and drinks he made you feel such a beautiful thing that it is hard to forget. You'd do everything to feel the same way again, and you certainly did, but sadly all of your efforts hav been in vain, because the man that once loved you and that you are still loving doesn't exist anymore. Maybe he looks the same and has got the very same name, but he is not and will never be the one you loved.

Posted by Mitsue on January 04, 2010 at 06:43 PM EST #

Let go your past, and look for that one who you truly belong to, someone so unique and special, just as you, that even Penelope Hayes would fall down at his feet, because of the almost magic love she's got toward him. -what I wished somehow I could make Penelope understand.

Posted by Mitsue on January 04, 2010 at 06:44 PM EST #

oh my god i just finished rumors like two seconds ago! And im literally crying like a baby :( Please tell me about elizabeth and that shell beokay? i have o go to wal,art to get envy..

Posted by emma on January 31, 2010 at 11:52 PM EST #

I know this is a lot to ask but can you please write another book after splendor!!! your books were awesome and I really want to know whats going to happen to Diana and well stuff like Elizabeth's wedding. I also have a question would you make Leland forgive Carolina if you wrote another book?

Posted by sarah on June 09, 2010 at 10:04 AM EDT #

The luxe books are the best books I have ever read, i wish there were more books as I am sad that I've finished, but I think if there was another book it would sort of ruin the series a bit ( a little bit of a spoiler, if you havent finished all the books don't finish reading the comment). The ending was AMAZING and althought it didn't work out with some characters, it worked so well, and I like that it ended miserably for some of the characters, it was more real.

Posted by Lizzy on July 13, 2010 at 12:41 AM EDT #

I think there should be a movie or tv series about these books. I think it would be amazing to be in one. My favorite character is Diana Holland and i would love to play her!! I want there to be more than 4 books. Its kind of dissapointing.

Posted by Jordan on October 28, 2010 at 01:57 PM EDT #

I think that I too can relate to Carolina because if I were in her place, I would do anything to be a part of fashionable society. Granted, she isn't as scandalous or interesting as the other characters, but her mind works right. For that, I say, "Good for her."

Posted by cloclocupcake7 on July 20, 2011 at 06:54 PM EDT #

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