Review Detail

The premise of this novel sounded intriguing--young girl goes to Paris, goes undercover as a model as she searches the mystery behind a top designer's disappearance. Oh, did I mention the backdrop is Paris?

What worked: There's lots of insight into what goes on behind the cameras in the modeling world. Readers get to see this through Axelle's eyes. There's makeup, clothing, and photography hints listed throughout the novel. Plus, the 'Guide to Surviving in the World of Fashion' at the end of the novel is an added bonus.

The Parisian backdrop--mostly the catacombs--are also shown with vivid images of the foods( white asparagus with mousseline sauce and of course the croissants), the language, and of course the designer clothing. At the back is a list of the author's favorite places to visit in Paris.

What I had issues with had to be how the backstory of a family curse at times slowed the pacing of the storyline. Even the modeling, which is the main part of this novel, felt weighed down with all the hints, facts, and even telling. I wanted to see Axelle solving more of the mystery and less on her not being too happy with being a model. **I find most of the targeted audience of this novel will in fact love seeing the modeling world through Axelle's eyes.

The letters were confusing too. I wanted more action like the catacombs scenes that were fast paced and filled with tension.

Otherwise, this novel is sure to be a hit for tweens who love fashion, mystery, and modeling. The survival guides are a fab addition too. A cute mystery with a reluctant heroine who turns a dreaded summer internship with her aunt into an opportunity to combine modeling with being a fashion detective. The next book,set in London, will continue Axelle's adventures.