Rouge

Cheveux Roux #1

by Leigh Talbert Moore

QUARTERFINALIST, 2013 Amazon Breakthrough Novel Awards

Romance, velvet, sequins, and murder...

Hale Ferrer is the rising star of the hottest cabaret in New Orleans. And her one goal is escape. Escape from the lies, from the crime, and from her growing fear that one day she'll have to earn her living in the secret back rooms, where the dancers do more than dance.

But she won't leave behind Teeny, the orphan-girl she promised to protect.

Freddie Lovel is rich, handsome, and in love with Hale, and he's ready to sweep her away with him to Paris. But her heart is captured by Beau, the poor stagehand with eyes as blue as Louisiana iris flowers.

Denying her fears, Hale is ready to choose love and a life with Beau, until a predator hidden in the wings launches a chain of events that could cost her everything--Teeny, their one hope of escape, and possibly even her life.

Genres: New Adult, Romance, Historical, Young Adult, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance, Historical Fiction

300 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2012

About the author

SIGN UP for my newsletter and never miss a thing: https://geni.us/MooreNews

THANK YOU so much for reading! <3

Reviews

[Jenny Levine · Rating 5 out of 5]

...the lyrics told the story of a cat who was so enchanted by a beautiful bird, he gave up everything, including his life, all for something that could never be...

"You’re in my arms, and it feels so right; but it’s simply an illusion…"

Set in an underground theater in New Orleans, Rouge is a story of singer/cabaret performer, Hale Ferrer . Secretly living with her is Teeny , dirty, half-starved orphan she adopted. She is beautiful but talentless. She’d never cost the show a penny though, but soon she’d be required to pull her own weight—one way or another the theater is not just a "theater." If you have no talent, but you have the beauty, well, you'll know what I'm talking about if you read this book. :D thus, the need for Hale to protect her. The only way to do so is by breaking free of their world through her rich and persistent admirer, Freddie Lovel . So, she made a plan, a plan to marry him, go to Paris and bring Teeny with them. But, things changed when she met blue-eyed stage hand Beauregard Faire or Beau, as she found it more and more difficult to escape their attraction.

I was actually afraid to read this book as I usually steer clear of historical novels because it's not my thing. But, I'm so glad I've got to read this because it was absolutely astonishing. As a fan of musical theaters/broadways myself, I really enjoyed reading this because it worked with my imagination (though I admit, I have to Google some of the terminologies). I find this book reminiscent of the movie Moulin Rouge. I love how the story sucked me in to the world that Leigh Moore has created. I feel like I'm in the theater too because of how the plot was written, so detailed and polished.

I love ALL the characters of the story especially Beau, how he's willing to do anything, although penniless, just to keep Hale with her and make her choose him is just awe-inspiring. Sometimes, heartbreaking. I found myself constantly saying "Awww" because despite all his efforts of finding other jobs to earn more and promising Hale he'd find ways to keep her, she still is afraid of choosing him. And then, I cried when I found out what Beau gave Hale for her birthday. It is just so hard not to fall in love with him. ~le sigh~

“I never expected to meet someone like you. And then when I did, I never dreamed you’d consider me worth your time.”

He nodded and raised his eyebrows. “It is
sinful.”
I slid off the chair and pushed against his
arms. He only tightened his hold. “That anyone
should be so beautiful.”

“Let me protect you always. Be my wife.”

“I only know I’ll do anything it takes to make you my wife.”



As for Hale's character, I admire how protective she is of Teeny to the point of taking risks. And then, there's her constant battle between moving along with her idea to accept Freddie versus her love for Beau, which she keeps on fighting. I just wanna scream "Screw the plan and stay with Beau!"

At the end, SHE HAS TO CHOOSE ...and what path did she decide to take? I say, READ ON and find out.

But wait, what is that ending?! Ms. Leigh Talbert Moore, you cruel cruel woman. You toyed with my emotions and left me hanging.

Haha. No seriously, I didn't know this was book 1 of a series. Well, anyway, I just have to wait til the second book comes out.

Overall, what a captivating book! LOVED IT!

I'm gonna leave you with the lyrics to "Come What May" from the movie Moulin Rouge, which reminded me of Beau and Hale's love story :)

Never knew I could feel like this
Like I've never seen the sky before
Want to vanish inside your kiss
Everyday I love you more and more
Listen to my heart, can you hear it sing
Telling me to give you everything
Seasons may change winter to spring
But I love you until the end of time...



4.5 STARS!

***Copy provided by author in exchange for an honest review***
--Thank you, Ms. Moore! The pleasure's all mine! x

[Leigh Moore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Growing up in south Louisiana, I always wanted to write a New Orleans story. The city has so much history, and the residents have such character and emotional complexity. At the same time it has a very dark side.

One cool day after a punishingly hot summer in south Alabama, where I was living at the time, I started thinking about a sad little piano player and a showgirl he would do anything to protect...

A tense young woman trying to escape the threats of her theater home using lies, manipulations, and vice...

And an innocent little girl, who loves fairytales and dreams of falling in love (and living in Paris and owning a little dog).

What happens to them? What price are they willing to pay for safety and a better life?

It captured my imagination and turned into something new, born of all the great old stories and movie musicals I've always loved.

I hope you do, too.

[Ash Wednesday · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 STARS

I admit, I'm pretty difficult to please when it comes to romance novels. The crying in the rain, the longing looks and the screaming declarations of love gives me a bit of hives. This is a historical, new adult romance story set in a cabaret in New Orleans involving it's star singer, her rich French suitor, Freddie and the stagehand/artist she's in love with, Beau. The blurb promises "Romance. Velvet. Sequins. Murder."



Okay, I didn't hate it. I did love Moulin Rouge outside the frenetic production numbers, so this book did deliver on some levels. I liked how the narration was very matter-of-fact and the historical aspects didn't alienate me at all. There were no paragraphs' length describing what each of the characters are wearing or the minutiae of Hale's dance steps. The dialogue was okay, a little theatrical for my taste but not offensive. It was quite refreshing to see some subtlety in the unfurling of the story. There were a lot of scenes that could've been exploited for the purpose of drama but was rendered with a tempered hand giving it a whispered impact. The secondary characters were pretty solid. I loved Roland. He was a far more complex hero than Beau and Freddie combined and easily stole my attention from Hale. Gavin was a good conflicted 'boss' and Guy was an effective villain. He seriously creeped the bejesus out of me.

But the aspects where it fell short were magnified because I felt letdown by the heroine.

The story is told from Hale's POV, a 17-year old cabaret singer who has taken it upon herself to care for Teeny, an orphan who has no talent and is at risk to be sent at the back rooms of the club where a different kind of entertainment is provided the patrons. This is the core relationship of the book. All of Hale's choices and motives are founded on this basic need to care for this child she found in the back alley. Why?

I HAVE NO IDEA.

I understand that this is going to be a series and this may be explained better in the succeeding books but I felt this was too integral to the overall plot of this book to be held out. The basis of Hale and Teeny's relationship, and thus all the crap they have to put up with, was paper thin. This book expects me to believe that Hale will take Teeny under her protection just because. There was one scene where Roland calls Hale out on this, saying Teeny is not a puppy that she has to dedicate herself to and Hale just dismissed his concerns with a "You wouldn't understand."

Well I want to understand, Hale.

That's just the tip of the annoying iceberg that was Hale. It's not enough that she's deceiving Freddie without much remorse, she was also mean to Beau. The way she belittled and insulted his abilities begs the question how could they have possibly fallen in love with each other. They're like a divorce waiting to happen. Then she went Katniss over Teeny, volunteering herself to take Teeny's place in some sordid business with Guy with plans to outsmart him. Except when the plan didn't fall through she had to whine about it. To Roland of all people he was raped by Guy when he was younger. Good grief, woman!

I did notice that there's a pattern of Hale making inexplicable choices followed by Roland calling her out on her sh*t. I don't get it, am I supposed to understand Hale better because the author is aware of what she's doing and thus... it's okay?

This is my first historical, New Adult romance and despite my many gripes about this book, I do think I'm going to stick around this genre. Seeing as this is going to be a series I also have hopes for the characters to improve as the story moves on. I'm probably going to follow the story if only to see the spotlight shift away from Hale and to either Freddie, Beau or yes, Roland.

I closed my eyes and dropped my shaking head. "I can't do it anymore. I don't feel anything. I just want to die."

Is it Christmas yet? Because, sweet baby Jesus, if she goes on like this, THAT needs to happen.

Review Copy provided by the publishers thru NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Elizabeth (Liz) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Review posted at: Swept Away By Romance



3 Stars


Setting:
1890s New Orleans, cabaret

Overview:
Hale Ferrer, born and raised in the seedier side of the theater world, longs to escape her circumstances. She refuses to leave behind Teeny, the young girl she rescued and helped to raise. Hale, having learned to be practical and think only of survival, has a plan. Wealthy Parisian businessman, Freddie Lovel, has fallen for Hale, and attends her performances most nights. She has convinced him that she is a lady with no family, and is merely part of the cabaret due to dire straits. Hale fully expects Freddie to propose and take her, and Teeny, far away from this life. Into the midst of Hale's grand plan, walks Beauregard Faire (Beau), a poor stagehand who is immediately taken with the cabaret star, and, during one of their first encounters, saves Hale's life. Hale soon realizes that her master plan is in jeopardy as she has come to love Beau as well. Despite real concerns and trepidation, Hale strongly considers choosing love over guaranteed financial safety. That is, until a terrible chain of events occurs which could, instead, cost her everything.


What Worked For Me:
Technically, the story is very well-written. There is a lack of grammar and punctuation errors that was very refreshing. Rouge reads like a sweet, clean, adult historical romance with a few mild suspense elements. The author's storytelling is, at times, engaging and lovely. This was especially true in the last half of the story, where the pace picked up and the plot came into focus. For me, the most enjoyable aspect of Rouge was Hale's history and relationship with Roland, the cabaret's young musical director. These two had the truest, most tangible, connection in the story. Even when they were fighting, I absolutely loved the two of them together.

What Didn't Work For Me:
For me, sadly, the first half of Rouge was quite slow. The pacing felt off to me in some way. It's unfortunate because the author, Leigh Talbert Moore, has very real talent. I also have to say that I felt Hale made a bizarrely quick leap from thoroughly disregarding Beau because he was a mere stagehand to falling in love with him after he rescued her. Though, in my opinion, both Hale and Beau fell in love very quickly and conveniently. It felt too quick and convenient. What was especially disappointing, though, was the lack of passion between Beau and Hale. I honestly felt only a very tepid connection between the two. I tried to believe in their love. I *wanted* to believe in their love.


Rouge is book one of a series, and it does not end with a happily-ever-after. I will say that, thankfully, it does not end mid-scene. There is a proper stopping point and ending for this portion of the series. I can tell you I fully expect that there is a happily-ever-after coming in the future:)


**A copy was kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Shurrn]

I had the opportunity to chat with Leigh T. Moore at the 2014 Louisville Author Event. We talked about our love of Indie Authors and she hinted that she might continue the Cheveux Roux series after her Dragonfly Series is completed.

[Heather K (dentist in my spare time) · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Rouge" is a hard book for me to rate. On one hand, it was well written. The scenes were rich with detail and I was really feeling the late 1800s New Orleans vibe. The story is well-plotted and interesting. On the other hand, it was so angsty that it was hard for me to read at times.

The book is about an orphaned, mixed-race cabaret singer named Hale who lives at her performance hall in near poverty. She is beautiful and talented but she lives under constant pressure to excel and make money for her theater. Without success, she risks being thrust into the dark world of prostitution that her theater owner forces the less talented girls into. More frighteningly, Hale protects an innocent 12 year old orphan, Teeny, with no skills to speak of from being sucked into it as well. When Hale is courted by a rich man, Freddie Lovel, she knows he is her ticket out of danger. However, will her attraction to stagehand Beau derail her from her goal of freedom?

Hale bothered me a lot in this book. I admire how she tried everything to protect Teeny from danger but the way she treated Beau made me want to smack her. She never told him the truth about anything and she toyed with that poor man. I get her sense of urgency but I kind of disliked her as a character. My other issue with this book is that it was just too tragic for me. It didn't end on a HEA, more of a pause while we have to wait for the second book. I was overwhelmed with all of the angst and drama.

My favorite part of the book was the character of Roland, her best friend. He goes to great lengths to protect Hale and I want him to find some happiness in the next book.

**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**

[Arlene · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rouge by Leigh Talbert Moore was nothing short of fantastic!! I really enjoyed her second book, and having experienced her debut novel, I find it refreshing to learn that she has a ton of talent to share. Rouge is so completely different from her first story The Truth About Faking that you would never guess these two books were written by the same author. I find that highly inspiring when an author can deliver two completely different voices, but still maintain that element of authenticity to her writing. Loved it!!

The setting for Rouge takes place in the French Quarter of New Orleans where danger is waiting at every turn. Hale is an actress/dancer/singer for the cabaret, and she's committed to keeping thirteen year old Teeny safe from the threats that face this little girl who demonstrates no talent for the stage, and is therefore destined for the brothel. When Hale meets Freddie, a rich partisan that admires her performance and becomes infatuated with her, she clings to the hope that he can save her and Teeny from their hopeless situation. But as life would have it, she falls for a poor stage hand Beauregard Faire (Beau) who can only afford to offer her love and passion. Hale becomes torn between a life that would deliver her and Teeny safety and comfort versus one that her heart cannot ignore.

First off, I would categorize Rouge more as New Adult (17+) rather than Young Adult due to a couple of scenes that unfolded in this book. I have to point out, however, that it was clear Moore refused to sacrifice the integrity of the storyline by softening the events that unfolded. They were clearly included to demonstrate the main character's desperate situation, so a mild warning about content seems appropriate.

Next, I have to admit that I really enjoyed the entire cast of characters that made up this story. I loved the relationship between Hale and Teeny, especially how Hale’s motives and actions solely revolved around protecting this little girl. To see the sacrifices Hale was willing to make for Teeny’s safety really pulled at my heart strings and added an emotional punch to their story. I was truly torn between Freddie and Beau because they both clearly loved Hale. However, where one can offer her and Teeny the life they’ve always craved for, the other can only afford to offer Hale his love.

The secondary characters to this book all played an integral role in bringing this story to life. Roland was probably my favorite next to the main cast. I loved the complexity of his character and most of all his willingness to sacrifice his happiness and safety for Hale. The relationship between Roland and Hale was authentic in that there were no hidden motives between these two; they simply cared for one another like family and were willing to spare their comfort for the other. Gavin and Guy were equally frightening to me, but where one simply wanted to fulfill a promise at any cost, the other was clearly out to satisfy his cruel and wicked appetite at another’s expense. They both had a disturbing creep factor, and I never let my guard down when they entered the scene.

Overall, I felt the writing was engaging and the pace never seemed to slow down, which only kept me furiously turning the pages for more of this awesome story. The ending left me craving for more and I can’t wait to see what life holds in store for Hale, Freddie and Beau. Great story that shouldn’t be missed!

[Jolene Perry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy Roller-coaster.

This is a brilliant book that had me going up and down and biting my nails and swooning and then dying a little because it was just fantastic.
A great setting and a great love story and an incredible journey of a young woman with just incredible strength. LOVE.

[Lydia Kang]

Can't wait to read this!!!

[Nereyda (Nick & Nereyda's Infinite Booklist) · Rating 5 out of 5]

***Copy provided by author for review purposes***
“You’re in my arms, and it feels so right; but it’s simply an illusion…”

I just finished this book around 1:30am last night and my emotions are still a mess. I read Leigh’s first book, The Truth About Faking and really liked it. It was a light but heartfelt contemporary story. After reading Rouge I can’t believe that both books are written by the same person! Dark was a very dark, raw, heartbreaking, highly emotional and sometimes brutal story about a young girl trying to find a better life and doing whatever it takes to escape her horrible life.

Hale’s mother worked in a theatre house/brothel and when she died the theatre manager, Gavin made a promise that he will look after her and that she will be safe from the horrible things that happen at the brothel. To earn a place to live and perform at the theatre, the girls must contribute to the place whether it be with their singing, dancing or other talents. Once they are old enough, they are expected/forced to be prostitutes for wealthy men. Hale is safe from this because of Gavin’s promise. Unfortunately, the same can’t be said about her friends of Teeny, the young girl she rescued at a young age. Hale is worried that Teeny won’t be safe since she can’t sing or dance and she doesn’t know how long Gavin will keep his word. Teeny is growing up and is already getting attention from wealthy men, including Gavin’s brother Guy. Hale is desperate for a way out and for a better life for her and Teeny. Freddie Lovel is interested in Hale and wants to marry her and even though Hale doesn’t love him, she sees this as her only way out. He’s nice and charming and rich and can take care of Hale and Teeny, what more could she ask for? But then she meets Beau and the attraction between them is strong. She tries to stay away from him because he is poor and will only get in the way of her plan. But no matter how much she tries to stay away from Beau, they fall in love. Just when she thinks that she might be able to have a life with Beau Teeny’s future is in jeopardy and Hale must sacrifice everything to try and save her, even if it means putting her life at stake.

OMG, this book was so brutally emotional and heartbreaking. I felt Hale’s pain and desperation and understood why she did everything she did. It might make her seem cold and manipulative for her to want to be with Freddie because he is rich but I understood that she felt his her only way out and I thought it was very selfless of her to be willing to sacrifice her happiness in order to take care of Teeny. Not only did I feel for her but I also felt so bad for the rest of the girls at the brothel and even Hale’s best friend Roland. Speaking of Roland, I just want to mention that he was my favorite character from Rouge. He was Hale’s first love and he has been looking after Hale and the rest of the girls for a long time. Add him to the list of characters that broke my heart. I really hope we get to read more about him in the next book. The relationship and romance between Hale and Beau was very realistic (for that time period) and full of desperation. Desperation from Hale to find a way to make their relationship work and save Teeny at the same time and desperation from Beau to make Hale realize that love can conquer all.

Full of heart-stopping “OMG-I-can’t-believe-that-just-happened” moments, Rouge is not your typical book. I’m not sure what I would classify this book as, maybe historical New Adult? I don’t usually read historical but when I heard about this one, I didn’t care what it was. I knew it was a book I didn’t want to pass on. My favorite thing was how vivid Leigh’s writing was that you couldn’t help but to get sucked in and make you feel like you’re in New Orleans with Hale. Rouge is an intense, seductive and highly addictive story full of heartbreak and the joys and pain of love. But with a great cast of characters as these you can’t help but be left with hope for them. Looking forward to the next book in the series!

4.5 out of 5 stars!

Some of my favorite non-spoiler quotes from Rouge:
-Our eyes met, and his understanding smile sent a pain through me. All my fantasy images of us being together flooded my brain, begging to be fulfilled, but I only nodded and tried to smile back. It would not do to indulge those feelings. They would ruin everything.

-Our eyes locked and this time he easily parted my lips with a stronger kiss. My hands fumbled to his shoulders, as he grasped my waist and lifted me onto a nearby box. My eyes closed as his mouth moved down my neck, teasing the collar of my dress. My heart beat painfully as his warm hands gathered my skirts.

-I pushed out of Beau’s arms and walked slowly toward the door. The time had come for dreaming to end and for me to get back to reality.

-Again my lips parted too easily, my body gave in to his without a fight. But I was having trouble remembering why I even wanted to fight.

-I felt my grip loosen on the ropes and thought for a moment about letting go, about falling and letting my body be smashed on the stage floor below.
The end.
But I held on and opened my mouth as the smile and the song poured out with no soul attached to them.
***
Read more of my reviews at:
www.MostlyYABookObsessed.com

[S.A. Larsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

An unlikely setting of theater and hidden brothel brought to life by romance, self-sacrifice, and the basic human instinct of survival.

Nineteenth century flare is captured beautifully in both the world created and the prose, tugging the reader along Hale's unsure path. Driven to seek a better life for herself and the young tween she cares for, Hale is willing to do almost anything to escape this world of old, where woman are seen more as objects and sought after for pleasure or expected to have a husband to survive. This is an interesting subject and definitely more mature; Upper YA/New Adult is a good definition.

I thoroughly enjoyed Hale's character. She's smart, talented, and caring amid a backdrop of self-seekers and dangers she knows are just around the corner as she nears next birthday. Mature for her ripe age of newly eighteen, she can easily be an inspiration to today's teenage girl. Hale is proactive, unwilling to sit back and let life happen to her.

Dialog is always a clincher for me, and there was no disappointment in that as characters exchanged words. Vocal emotions, opinions, warnings, and directions all sparked with delight and spunk. Living words, I like to call them.

Sweet romance softens Hale's hard world with forbidden longing and passion through a love triangle that tugs at every heartstring. The dynamics of a guy of lesser means who is totally unexpected and the affluent gentleman who's nice and polite is moving. And when crossed with Hale's living conditions and guardianship to the younger tween, there's plenty of conflict and strife for all.

Hale needs a way out and she's found a sure thing in Freddie, the gentleman who's totally fallen for her and her amazing singing voice. But her heart pulls her in another direction - toward Beau. She's faced with the gut-wrenching decision of whether to follow her head or her heart.

As the story moves toward the climax, so much threatens her well-being that her choices seem to be erased. I found myself unable to stop reading, my heart ready to leap from my chest, which swam in an ocean of emotions. At one point, I cried, mainly because of the unique friendship Hale has with one of the male characters in the theater. This relationship added much depth to both character and story. Lastly....

...OMGosh, the ending!!

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I was contacted about reviewing Rouge I was hesitant to accept as it was a light historical/theatre romance and I tend to avoid any historical books. But after reading the synopsis and finding out out more about the book I quickly accepted. Once I began reading I soon found myself getting lost in the world Leigh has created. Rouge tells us a story about Hale, a performer in a theatre that has a seedy background behind the scenes, taking Teeny under her wings Hale must find a way for this pair to escape before Teeny herself is tangled up in the theatres secret.

I loved Hale, she is fiercely protective of Teeny and does what she thinks is right for her, rather than what she truly wants in her heart, even if it means capturing the attention of Freddie, a well off gentleman who has set his eyes on Hale and wants to win her over. Hale soon has a plan in motion for Teeny and herself, but soon a complication arises in the form of Beau.

Rouge was a great read from start to finish, and once I was used to the words they use and how they talk I soon found myself eager to get through the book to find out what happens to Hale and Teeny. When her decision is finally made I was torn between what she chose and what she wanted. I loved Beau from the moment I met him and I really liked how he looked out for Hale and wanted to be the best for her, and while their feelings for each other causes a rift between Teeny and Hale, I was happy to see them get over it and become firm friends again. However Freddie is able to help Hale's escape from the theatre, and with Teeny they can finally be free of what is keeping them prisoner.

Leigh certainly has a way with words and I love the detail that has gone into describing the costumes, the clothes, the theatre and area surrounding it, but most importantly the way she write her characters. Each character stands out perfectly from the other and by the time I came to the last few sentences I was so emotionally invested in them it was hard to see them go, not knowing who I would see again and when. Rouge was definitely a surprise read, one that I enjoyed far more than I expected to and I cant wait till the next instalment is released, I need to know what happens next.

[Gwennie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Free on Amazon

This is an indie 'New Adult/Mature YA' book that I'm reading right now. It has sexual situations, and is more romance with romantic intrigue, but I'm really enjoying it so far, I'm at 45%. (I'll review fully later today when I'm finished.)

Just thought I'd mention it in case anyone else wanted to give it a shot.

****Review****

I don't often read books that haven't been recommended to me by one of you GR friends, or that have reviews from people I rely on. Too often randomly selecting a book turns out to be a miss.

Not this book, this book was a hit!

Hale is on a mission to protect her charge, Teeny, from the sordid undergoing of the cabaret theater where she resides and sings. She has a 'plan', one that most women in this time period rely on, finding a rich husband. Her plans are waylaid when she meets Beau, the stagehand, who steals her heart. But before she has the chance to choose love, her choice is taken away from her when dastardly doings happen.

Hale, despite having a few moments that made me want to kosh her about the head, was a determined heroine. Nobody was going to talk her out of doing what she needed to keep Teeny safe. She would put herself between any villain and the 12 year old child, and that was beautiful. I could forgive her poor choices because it felt right for the time period and because she was a 17 year old girl. She was a believable heroine.

My one complaint would be that Beau and Hale fell in love just a little too fast. In one chapter he was a 'lowly no good stagehand', and in the next she was swooning from his kisses. Still, I loved the throwback feel of old black and white movies. Every time they kissed I pictured this:



So romantic....

BUT, my most favorite character in the entire book was Roland... I see that this is #1, per Goodreads, I hope that means there will be sequels. And if there are, I hope that he'll make it through the events at the end of this book. I'm looking forward to more!

[Hart Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Leigh's talent is clear in everything she writes. Polished, expert. Likeable characters, well-drawn plot. But I have to admit, though I love all her stuff, this is THE BEST ONE so far. It is historic romance set in steamy New Orleans in the late 19th century.

Hale has grown up in the cabaret hall--a place that carefully balances outward glamor and private sleaze. The girls all need to earn their keep... one way or another... and only through a promise by the manager to her dying mother (and a talent that keeps bringing in the crowds), does Hale feel she's avoided 'the back'. Hale, good-hearted and not understanding the implications, begged to take in a young street girl several years back, and unfortunately, Teeney has the tragic combination of no talent and great beauty--she will never earn her keep legitimately... Hale feels fully responsible for the girl's well being.

I loved how rich this setting was--the combination of beauty, danger, and a sense of family for all these displaced people who are at the mercy of the people with money. The motive was built in beautifully and believably for Hale to feel so torn between duty and following her heart. The characters were well drawn, the tension and romance sprinkled just right. I really think this is a fabulous book. You should all go order it.

Note: I received a free advanced copy of this, just for full disclosure.

[Ashley Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rouge is a charming, angsty read. I enjoyed Moore's writing and really liked the setting! I am usually not one to read historical, but the time period was not overpowering. It was a light easy read with just enough spicy scenes to make delectable. The story did end on a cliffhanger, and I thought it could've been a bit longer.

Cover and Writing
I really like the cover to this book. I think it suits the time period and the subject matter of the book, and it's just all over pretty! The writing was in the first person from Hale's POV. The thing I liked the most about Moore's writing, was that the story was the focus was on Hale and didn't swarm you with useless historical information. I was a bit worried when I picked this book up.

Main Character
I liked Hale, she was a normal 18 year old growing up in a cabaret theater. She puts Teeny's happiness and welfare above her own and to me that's admirable.

Swoonworthy Points: 7.5
There were some very swoonworthy moments between Beau and Hale.. some steamy and some angsty. I think the angst outweighed the swoon, thus making the swoon factor go down a bit for me. There was a bit of a triangle, though Hale was not confused on whom she wanted to be with, but choose who she had to be with to protect her friend.

All in all, Rouge was a good read and I would recommend it.

[Jessica Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Leigh's skill at putting the reader into her characters' shoes is amazing. From the very first page, I was swept back in time, and completely unaware that I was reading a YA novel (If you know me, you know I'm not a huge fan if YA). But the story was so consuming and realistic that I didn't care what genre of book I was reading. What makes this book extra special is that it utilizes both plot and character to move the story forward. I'm a big fan of character-driven fiction, and this story satisfied that need immensely, but also hooked me in with its powerful story line. I highly recommend this book to women of all ages.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of Rouge by Leigh Talbert Moore

*This review may contain spoilers.*

http://www.amazon.com/Rouge-ebook/dp/...

This book is considered Mature YA/New Adult and Contemporary/Historical Fiction.

Warning: This book contains scenes of rape and/or near rape.

First thoughts after finishing this book: Rouge is equal parts hope and despair; one of the most powerful books I've ever read; a mixture of sad and sweet.


Rouge is one of the first Mature YA/New Adult books that I've read, and I wasn't sure what to expect. I think I like the genre. This book was adult without being over the top in terms of sex and/or violence. The sex scenes were hot without being graphically detailed or smutty.

I was surprised by the scenes I mentioned in the warning. Although these scenes were very sad, they were not graphic or all that detailed. They may be disturbing to some readers, especially those with triggers of this nature.

Rouge is the first book in the Cheveux Roux series and is set in New Orleans in the 1980s at a theatre/dance hall. Hale has lived there since she was small, originally with her mother, who is now deceased. She is now living there as a singer/dancer and takes care of a young orphan, Christina, or "Teeny".The girls who live at the theatre are ones who have no other alternative. When they become of age or are no longer useful in the show they are usually, if not definitively, forced to become prostitutes in the back rooms. Hale is desperate to turn Teeny into a capable dancer, at least until she can find them a way out of there, so this does not become Teeny's fate. Hale was at no at risk of having to become a prostitute because of a promise Gavin made to her mother. Her ultimate goal is to find a husband to take her and Teeny away from the theatre before any of this can come to pass. At times I wanted to dislike her for this. It seemed that she was throwing her chance of true love away and hurting someone who really loved her for a superficial reason - money and security. But, in this circumstance it wasn't superficial at all. It was survival. It also was very selfless. She desperately wanted to protect Teeny, and she made sacrifices for her. I felt bad for Freddie and for Beau both, but I understood why Hale felt she had no choice. Maybe she didn't. I'm not sure yet if I'm hoping Hale with end up with Freddie or Beau.....or maybe someone else or new. Freddie seems to be such a great guy, and I'm still mad at Beau for sleeping with Minette, even though it was before he and Hale got together. It makes me lose respect for the character because it makes him seem fickle or something. The love triangle was done nicely and realistically. It didn't feel like the overdone kind. The reasonings behind Hale's actions were clear and valid, but I admit I just wanted to shake her at times and tell her to follow her heart, as cliche as that is, and screw the rest. I think Hale's attachment and care of Teeny is admirable, and I got irritated at the people who kept expecting Hale to just abandon Teeny.

Each character was set up very well. I felt like I was reading about real people. Their flaws, positive traits, personal characteristics, etc. were all so realistic, like describing facets of an actual person but in a way that was pleasant to read. Even the unlikable characters felt like "real" people and not just the "bad guy". The bedtime stories of Teeny's make-believe origins and of their potential future were beyond sweet. I admit I cried a bit both times I read Rouge. I cried a little also for Evie. My heart broke for her and I fell a little bit in love with Roland for what he did for her. Though it didn't fix it, it helped. That's all I can say without giving things away.
There were a few things I didn't understand. I couldn't understand why Gavin put up with his brother. I don't condone vigilantism or murder, but the way things were in that time and place, I was a little surprised his brother,Guy, hadn't been killed already. He was evil and caused so much stress and uneasiness, not to mention pain. I didn't understand why everyone seemed to think that since Gavin set up Freddie with Hale that he was a good guy because I don't think Gavin is trustworthy. He was forcing his "older" dancers into prostitution. I really didn't like him at all. I would've been okay if he had been killed off. Maybe in the next book. =) One can only hope. There were a couple flashbacks that were a bit confusing just because I didn't always realize at first it was a flashback and not the present. In all honesty, it's probably because I was speeding through the book. I was so captivated I couldn't put it down. The flashbacks were well-written, like the rest of the book, and were relevant to the story, not just just filler pages.

Rouge was written in a first person point of view through the perspective of Hale. I don't always like books written in first person POV because of the limited perspective, but this book was done very well. The writing was nearly amazing. It truly was. It is rare that I read a book that has both a wonderful story and fantastic writing. Often after I finish reading a book, I think "That was such a good story but could have been written better". Not this time. Story and writing were both solid and.....awesome, actually.

Rating: 4.5 Stars

Recommend? Yes, absolutely. As long as the reader is over 18. It may be appropriate for some as young as 16, but to be on the safe side, I'm going to go with 18.

This review is not doing the book justice, though I'm not sure any could. It really was that good, and I read A LOT, so trust me on this. You'll miss out on a great story if you don't.

Final thoughts: Once I got past the rough scenes, Rouge was so easy to get caught up in, to get lost in, and to enjoy to the point of near obsession. I can't wait for the next in this series. I sincerely loved this book.

[Heidi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Three and a half stars: Visit the cabaret and learn the dark secrets behind the velvet curtains.

Hale hurries to her dressing room after another electrifying performance. She is anxious to remove her heavy headdress. As soon as the showy costume is stripped away, a hesitant knock sounds at her door. She opens the door to find a lavish bouquet of roses. Her wealthy suitor, Freddie, beams behind the flowers. For Hale, the showering of expensive gifts is something foreign to her as she is a poor orphan, forced to live in the theatre. Freddie is unaware of her history, and he is head over heels in love with the show girl. Hale's heart doesn't quicken at the thought of Freddie, but she has a plan to let him woo her and marry her so she can escape the theatre with Teeny, the twelve year old orphan in her care. Life is tough for a penniless orphan and Hale refuses to accept the harsh realities that await a girl of her position. She will find away to prevent Teeny or herself from becoming the hidden ladies of the theatre. The theatre has another show hidden behind the curtains, a dark show of desire and lust. Hale doesn't know that there is something even worse than the illicit activities at night, there is a hideous man, lurking, waiting to get whatever he wants....Can Hale save herself and Teeny from the darkness of the theatre?
What I Liked:
*Rouge is somewhat reminiscent of Moulin Rouge. There is a poor talented girl who performs nightly in the theatre, hoping that a wealthy man will come along and save her from a dire fate, but what she doesn't expect is to lose her heart to a man who lacks wealth. It is a dangerous dance of desire and desperation as Hale attempts to find a way out of her plight, even if that means going against her heart's desires. There are even some throwbacks to the movie sprinkled into the story.
*I enjoyed the setting of the theatre. This book takes place in the 1890's, a time when the Southern States are still reeling from the War and Reconstruction. It is a desperate time, especially for women left orphaned and penniless. Without a man, family or wealth, opportunities are bleak. Many are forced into the dark dance of prostitution to make ends meet. The theatre hides the lust and desperation of these women.
*I liked the romance, even though it didn't play out to my heart's desire. It is a forbidden romance, a girl forced to choose between what is right for her future and her heart's deepest desire. Will Hale pick the suitor who can offer a safe and comfortable life, despite the fact that he doesn't set her heart afire, or will she choose the handsome stage hand, who risked his left to save her and eventually earned her heart? It does sound like a love triangle... but in reality it isn't one because Hale only really has feelings for one man. It is certainly a difficult choice. What would you do? Marry for love or security?
*I admired Hale. She is a young lady who has many heavy burdens, but she doesn't shirk them, instead she fights to secure a better future for Teeny. She is particularly selfless when it comes to protecting the young orphan, even going so far as to put herself into some danger situations to ensure Teeny's safety. Time and time again, she puts Teeny's needs ahead of her own. I liked how tenacious she was and determined to save Teeny from an ill fate.
*Roland was probably my favorite character. He is Hale's long time friend, and he has his own secrets. I loved the way he protected and looked out for the girls in the theatre, trying to keep them safe from the darkness. I was especially sad when I learned of his past and my heart went out to him.
And The Not So Much:
*For me, the sticking point of this story was that I did not like Teeny. Hale is willing to sacrifice everything for this twelve year old orphan and I just didn't feel like Teeny was worth it, as terrible as that sounds. Teeny is a precocious twelve year old going on thirteen who has some fanciful notions of love. Due to her impetuous nature and day dreaming ideas, she ends up putting herself in harms way. Part of the blame falls on Hale for letting her remain so naive. At thirteen, she should have been clued into the ways of the world and privy to the dark secrets of the theatre, instead of being allowed to run amuck. Hale sacrifices so much for Teeny, even pawning off her prized possessions to purchase shoes for Teeny, but at no time does Teeny even acknowledge Hale's efforts, I don't even think she says thank you. I guess I was expecting her to be more endearing, and she just wasn't for me, and I had a hard time accepting Hale's decision to save Teeny.
*Hale's mother died while Hale was young and she knows nothing of her African American father. Throughout the book, there are hints and details that indicate some sort of sordid past that involved Hale's parents. I was expecting more revelation on this angle, but is just doesn't happen. What happened with Hale's parents? What kind of man was Hale's father? Why did he leave?
*Guy, the villain, is indeed a despicable character but he lacked development. I wanted to know more about him and his past. I needed details as to the type of life he lived and how he managed to keep his brother under his thumb and continue with his despicable behavior.
Whisk away to the cabaret...enjoy the glitter and glamour but steer clear of the darkened rooms after the shows. Can the star of the show find a way to secure her future and follow her heart's desire, or will she be forced to give up on love? Pick up Rouge and find out!

Favorite Quotations:
"You're a survivor. You did what you had to do to protect yourself and the ones you love from a monster. A predator."

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@ Rainy Day Ramblings.

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

BookNook — Young Adult book reviews

3.5 Stars

What initially turned me onto Rouge is how much it sounded like the movie Moulin Rouge. If you're not a fan of strong similarities, then I probably wouldn't recommend this book, just because they are so similar. But I personally really like sticking to things I enjoy. I love Moulin Rouge so I was really eager to try out this book!

Ultimately, I enjoyed Rouge . I think the one real bummer is that I wasn't crazy about the romance, and that's the main reason I'm not giving this book a higher rating. Just from reading the blurb, I expected the romance to be the center of the book, and I expected to fall head over heels with the emotional torture of having to choose between a passionate love, and a more convenient/"safe" lifestyle. While Hale does struggle with that, I didn't struggle with it as a reader because I didn't fall in love with her "supposed-to-be-passionate" relationship. So for me, there was no question as to who she should choose (and the other option—rich Freddie—was so sweet!).

The romance between Hale and Beau is extremely insta-love-y. I wonder if the time period had something to do with it. I'm not a historian, but I feel like in the 1890s people often did meet, feel attraction, and claimed they love each other. Was insta-love more common back then in real life? I don't know. But either way, I wasn't crazy about it in the book. Hale and Beau basically meet, feel lust, go on one date, and then proclaim their undying love for each other. There was clearly a physical attraction there, but that's all I ever saw—physical attraction. For the most part, they only really spoke pleasantries to each other ("Hello", "Thank you for assisting me", "How are you?"). They maybe had one intense conversation, but at the end of the day, they barely knew each other. But they were sharing dreams, professing love, and talking about marriage and running away together. I really wished I could have loved the romance because if I had, I would have been so much more connected to this book.

My other annoyance was with Teeny. I feel like I should give her some slack because she was twelve years old, but I just could not figure her out! She was so moody, and so hot and cold. One minute she was talking about how amazing love is and pointing out all these hot guys to Hale.. and the next, she was pissed at Hale for flirting with "her" man... as if Teeny actually had a chance when she flirted with men twice her age! When I was 12, I wasn't looking at like 20-40 year old guys and batting my eyelashes at them. Again, maybe this was a time period thing? Either way, she was just so immature and all over the place—that made it tough for me to like her and tough for me to encourage Hale to protect her.

Okay, now onto the good stuff!

I really enjoyed the scene in Rouge . Leigh really gave us a scary, creepy atmosphere. The women who are "employed" at the cabaret have to pray to god that they can sing or dance, or else they will end up working at the brothel that it turns into at night. That's what Hale is afraid of for Teeny. It was pretty intense to always be around that fear, and always wondering who was forced to become the next whore (that sounds mean but I don't know what other word to use). And then when Hale has a scare of her own, things get even more intense!

I think Roland was by far my favourite character. He was just so... likable! He's Hale's best friend, first love, and also happens to be gay. He makes it his first priority to watch out for Hale and ensure that she lives a safe life in this scary underground brothel. Roland's character was so sweet, funny, charming, and loyal. He proved time and time again that he is an amazing best friend and will always have Hale's back. I almost wish Roland was the love interest instead of Beau, since I never really liked Beau but I loved Rolan! And speaking of love interests...

I'm totally Team Freddie. Normally I'm all about the forbidden, secret love.. but Freddie was just so goddamn sweet. I never connected with Beau's character and never really fell for him. But Freddie was so charming, kind of dorky, cute, and insanely thoughtful and generous. I was kind of sad because the whole time I was reading the book, I figured Hale would probably end up with Beau, since the forbidden love always wins in the end—right? So I always felt so sorry for Freddie because he really genuinely cared about Hale and wanted to be with her. He wasn't just a stupid, stuck up rich guy. He was actually really sweet and doting. That's why I actually LOVED the ending, since she decided to go with Freddie after all! I know it's sad she doesn't really love him, and this is a series so she probably won't end up staying with him, but for now I'll live in my zone of happy, blissful ignorance and pretend that she and Freddie live happily ever after!

If only I fell for the romance, this book would get a higher rating from me! At least 4 stars, but maybe 4.5. But since the romance played such a central role in the book and I wasn't crazy about it, I have to stick with 3.5. But nonetheless, Rouge was an interesting read and I loved the struggles and hurdles that Hale faced.

[Chapter by Chapter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rouge by Leigh Talbert Moore was a story that took me by surprise. It was one that I ended up really enjoying. A majority of the characters were engaging and full of personality. Author, Leigh Talbert Moore, does a fantastic job in spinning a tale detailing how far one would go to keep someone they love safe from any harm, and to find a new life.

Rouge by Leigh Talbert Moore follows the life of main character, Hale Ferrer, who is the star of the very theatre she lives in. On the stage, her voice mesmerizes the audience, but the scenes behind the stage are far from the glitz and glamour of the theatre. The dancers provide other services to any gentlemen callers in order to earn their keep, and it seems although Hale may be safe for now due to a promise made on her mother’s deathbed, little 12 year old Teenie seems to be attracting the wrong kind of attention.

Hale now knows that she must take Teenie away from the theatre in order to keep her safe and innocent. Her one true ticket out is by hoping to gain the affections of a wealthy fan of hers, Freddie Loval, and somehow get a proposal out of him so that she can Teenie with her, and away from all the dangers associated with the theatre.

Hale thought she had her whole plan worked out until a new stage hand enters the scene and throws a whole new loop into everything she has worked for. Beau is shy, sweet, and sexy and seems to be absolutely smitten with Hale. And try as they might, there seems to this strong connection between them that makes it impossible to keep them apart, try as Hale might. But will Hale choose the safety that can only be found with Freddie? Or will choosing love with Beau be enough to give them the safety that she’s been working so hard to achieve.

I was absolutely mesmerized by this dark and raw world created by Leigh Talbert Moore. Rouge is a story of survival, and it was difficult to tear myself away from the pages. All the details combined with this fantastic storyline made Rouge an “on the edge of your seat” type read with a beautiful love story woven into the mix.

I did find myself so annoyed with the youngest of the characters, Teenie. Her fascination with falling in love and first kisses had me so frustrated. The way she would get angry at Hale for talking to Beau or showing any sort of emotion towards him. I understand crushing. I mean, we’ve all had them…young or old… but when she started going on and on about Guy and swooning over him and refusing to listen to Hale or Roland’s warnings, she still sees him alone. And helloooo…wouldn’t the warning bells start to go off when he asks for a lock of your hair? I understand being young and “in love”. Really, I get it! But I don’t remember my daughter being like that at 12. Heck, I don’t remember MYSELF being like that at 12. But then again, perhaps it had something to do with the environment Teenie’s had to grow up in, or maybe even the era in which the story takes place.

But on the flip side, my absolute favorite character had to be the ever faithful Roland. How could you not love this character. Doing whatever he had to do to keep Hale safe. How he would somehow manage to play the knight in white armor and rescue her when she needs it most. I loved his personality and his humor, and I wanted a Roland of my very own! I loved how he knew how to work the secrets of the theatre to help out those who needed help (i.e. Evie), and I loved how regardless how awful and mean Hale is to him at times, he still remains ever faithful to her and loves her. He’s the best best friend ever!

And Beau? Well, it’s really difficult not to fall for this big teddy bear. His devotion to Hale is so awe worthy, and how he wears his emotions on his sleeve is endearing. And the little surprises that he does for and gives to Hale is so sweet! There were a few moments where I found myself saying “awww, he remembered!”. And Freddie? Awwww Freddie…I’m rooting for ya buddy! Seriously, I loved this character too! His adoration for Hale, and his “I am your number one fan” attitude! I found him also sweet, and innocent and I feel so sorry for him! Argh! I was willing him to hear my voice, telling him to move on and to find true love… Sorry Hale…

All in all, with so many characters that I could not get enough of and such an addicting story, Rouge by Leigh Talbert Moore is one book that I’m so glad to have read! Fans of New Adult / mature Young Adult reads, stories of survival, and villains that are truly heinous will devour Rouge. I can’t wait for the next installment! I need to see how this story turns out.

[Tiffany Holme]

Yet another fine example of why I love Indie writers SO much! They are seriously underestimated so often that wonderful books like this often get overlooked. Well let me tell you I stand up and say no more! When I read The Truth About Faking by Leigh I couldn't believe that this wasn't a book that more people had raved about. When I was asked if I was interested in reading Rouge a NA novel I was super excited. I mean YAY!! NA (New Adult for those of you that haven't heard of this wonderful genre) is something I have really come to love and the description for this had me almost instantly in love! 1890's... Yes please!

I kind of picture Rouge like Moulin Rouge. Well the theater part and Hale. I mean she is the undeniable star and the truly desired one. The biggest difference lies in the background of Hale and why she so badly wants to escape. It's not for herself but a younger girl that she saved when she was young. Where she lives shows a professional front but has a not so professional back. Well I guess it's professional in its own way. When you hit a certain age and have the looks you are expected to pull your own. That means "working" in the back and not on the stage. Hale has a free pass but Teeny doesn't, so Hale does what is best for not herself but the welfare of the girl she helped save and continues to care for.

Hale is such a passionate and easy character to read. She loves fiercely but mostly when it comes to Teeny. She would sacrifice everything to keep her safe, even if that means giving up her own happiness. It was almost like at times she wanted to deny herself the happiness but then she would open up and let it all in. This did annoy me at times but for the most part I just found her dedication to the young girl endearing. Hale had many traits like that, things that you could love about her. Though some may not enjoy it I liked her virgin innocence. She knew what she had and knew that just one wrong move could take that away at a time not of her choosing. Hale was practical but almost unpractical at the same time. She reasoned everything out in her life as to what she had to do but almost never what she wanted.

The secondary characters were so unique and individual. It was like even the smallest character in this novel had a face and a voice. I really enjoyed this. It's not like every writer can do this. There are always secondary's and often we remember who they are but beyond that nothing. Not going to lie sometimes I find that I have to go back a little and figure out who the heck a person is. But Leigh did such a wonderful job that I didn't have to do that even once. They ranged from friends to enemies, those that loved the life to those that dreamed of more and the ones that knew more.

The romance was oh so wonderful. It was true and passionate. Though things happened a little fast it's understandable. When you have a plan and that plan involves marrying a rich man to help the young girl you have sworn to protect, falling in love with a stage hand isn't exactly smart. But the heart wants what the heart wants right? It's really hard to say who I liked more between Beau and Freddie. Everything with Beau seemed like passion, a fire burning deep within but I think at times I found him shallow. He was all "love above everyone" but with that being said Hale loved Teeny and wouldn't put herself before her. With Freddy it was gentle, caring and slow. However the problem here remains to be the lies and the fact that Hale doesn't seem to love him back. See my problem?

I can not wait for the next book in this series. Yes it is a series and I am ever so grateful for that. The ending of this one pulled at my heart and had me begging that this not be the end. I was then informed that it is a series, thank goodness. Leigh Talbert Moore is a wonderful and talented new writer that completely captivated me with this one. If you like New Adult give this one a shot and find out for yourself why this book is so amazing. I mean I told you why I loved it but there is so much more that I can't put in words.

[Kristina Snyder · Rating 3 out of 5]

Hale is a singer in a cabaret show where her mother worked. When her mother died, Gavin, the owner, promised to protect her. There are many secrets to the theater though. The people that live there who aren't apart of the show are basically prostitutes. That is the way they earn their keep to stay there. Hale refuses to let that happen to her and Teeny. She is pushing a marriage proposal from Freddie while secretly loving Beau. Time runs out though so she has to make a choice. Will she choose Freddie and move to Paris with Teeny, or will she follow her heart and choose Beau?

I don't know how I feel about Hale as character. There were times that I loved her and times that I didn't like her. I loved how loyal she was. She was always putting other people before herself, especially Teeny. Her life choices was based on how she could take care of Teeny. That was the only reason she was wanting to marry Freddie. She doesn't love him, but he was rich and could provide for both of them. Then Beau stepped into the picture. The chemistry between them was immediate. She considered waiting for Beau to find a way to provide them until Guy showed up. Time ran out. I didn't like some of the things she said to Beau. She was constantly throwing in his face that he wasn't rich and couldn't provide for them. It really made me not like her. I mean she could have just left. Anything would have been better than where she was at. Something horrible at the end happened to her. I was in complete shock. No one deserved that. The fact that she protected Teeny was admirable. I didn't think she would have the guts to do what she did in the end, but she did. I was shocked.

I loved Beau!!! He was so kind, loving and considerate. All he wanted to do was be with Hale and protect her. He even wanted Teeny to come along with them. Beau was always asking Hale just to wait, but of course she was very mean about it. She wouldn't give him time. To me, that isn't love. He would have done anything for her.

Roland was my favorite character in the book. I loved the friendship he had with Hale. They do have a bond, but a different one. He has protected her since they were children. I hope one day he gets out of that place as well. Some bad things happened to him as well and it broke my heart. He is such a sweetie pie.

I also loved Evie. I felt really bad what happened to her. Roland saved the day her though at least. He was able to find a way to protect her and a couple of other people he knows. Teeny kinda got on my nerves at times. I am hoping she grows more in the next book though.

I didn't like the romance in the story. It didn't feel real to me. The chemistry was immediate and then they were all over each other. I love watching relationships grow and nothing like that happened here. It was the same from the beginning to the end of the story.

The story was beautifully written. Leigh did a great job with that!!! I felt like I was there the entire time. I was able to visually see what what going on in the story, and I was able to feel what they felt. It truly was a sad story full of danger and mystery. A few parts left me in complete shock. I do recommend this book for everyone to read. I am glad I got the chance to read it, but it isn't one that I would reread. Like I said, I am a romance junkie. Those are the parts I usually reread. I can't wait to read the sequel though. Rouge left off on a huge cliffhanger leaving me wanting more. I can't wait to see what happens next.


(Review copy provided by the author/blog tour host in exchange for an honest review)

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Leigh first told me about her book, I was… not disappointed, but I certainly didn’t expect it – a Cabaret Theater novel set in the 1890s. I thought, Okay. I’ll read it. Someday soon. Then I kept seeing updates for it. The cover. The synopsis. Her excitement for the release. At the time, I was only about 15,000 words behind my NaNo goal – having a two year old will do that – and I had already blasted to bits my personal promise of no TV and books. This book was really starting to intrigue me, and I was feeling particularly antsy that night, so I purchased it and started it right away. And spent the next two days swept away (still ticking away at that NaNo goal, so I couldn’t completely immerse myself).

If I didn’t expect the summary, the novel pushed my expectations over the edge. It pierced my heart with a fishhook and tugged and tugged and tugged until my ribs cracked under the pressure. So here I am, with my displaced heart, and a knot in my stomach, swelling by the page, and then – She did what? He did what? They did WHAT?

I loved Hale. She was loving and generous and only slightly hardened by her upbringing. Other souls would’ve been more so, but she was a soft-tough cookie. And her motherly love for Teeny, while she was only seventeen herself, was so real. I felt it. Her emotions were so strong and THERE that I experienced them with her.

Beau… What can I say about Beau? He was beautiful, soft, manly, wonderful. Heroic, protective, and strangely impulsive yet patient. Some of his actions shocked me, but they humanized him, and he redeems himself.

Leigh really had a way with her secondary characters, as well. I wanted to be courted by Freddie, mother Teeny, and accept the shadow of Roland’s protective wing. Teeny – I wanted more of her. She was the typical semi-selfish twelve year old, but bright and good to the core. She broke my heart. Roland was a great friend to Hale, and – as a fellow pianist who’s never smoked a cigarette – I loved his ultra-confidence, and could perfectly picture him going at the piano with those big man hands, a burned down cigarette glowing from the corner of his mouth. Even Evie cracked my heart a little.

And the evil that lurked beneath the surface threw me. Leigh makes some bold choices in her story, but I can kind of see Hale pulling the strings and telling her, It has to be this way. I can relate to that – the character making a choice you wouldn’t even consider.

Overall, this was a wonderful novel. Set in the 1890s with the pace of a contemporary story, meaning there weren’t gobs of paragraphs of historical background/setting descriptions. I felt this fast paced life in my bones as I read it, could smell the cigarette smoke and Freddie's beautiful red roses, and feel the rosin crackling beneath my feet. Leigh painted a world with just enough words to bring the scenes to life, perfectly showing how this time in New Orleans was vivid, wild, changing, and unpredictable, while hurrying us along with the characters. Be warned, this is the first of a series, and will leave you wanting oh so much more.

I am looking forward to the "oh so much more"…

[Christianna Marks · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Rouge" is one of those books that almost got a 5 star rating from me. And in this case almost is good enough. It was a unique story, that had elements of things like "Moulin Rouge", but only small hints. It was a story that was dashed with little bits of intrigue, even up until the very last moments of the novel. In the very last moments Moore threw some details at us that when carefully looked at, could lead you to the truth of the matter. But it also just could have been a trick of your imagination as well.

The setting of "Rouge" was fun and terrifying at times and that is what keeps you on your toes as a reader. The fact that the theater is not only that and that it moonlights as, well I won't tell you, but I will tell you that it keeps you on the edge of your seat. Or your bed, or whatever your sitting or laying on while reading it! I also loved that the novel was set in New Orleans. It makes me want to visit.

Moore gives us characters that we actually care about. Hale has moments where you just want her to get her shit together and then when she does, it leaves you speechless and ready to give her a standing ovation. And Beau is rather dashing. He's the bad boy turned good guy that every girl dreams about. And even though Freddie is boring in comparison, you couldn't help but like him a lot as well. The love triangle wasn't overly obnoxious and provided a brilliant plot tool for Moore. It was a love triangle created out of obligation more than true love, and I enjoyed that twist on it. And Teeny, she was great! A little ball of energy and awesomeness. I enjoyed all of her antics!

Needless to say that other characters that were not front runners in the story were also extremely well crafted, even ones as small as Molly. Roland, Evie, Carla and Frank all seemed like they were your friends, not just Hale's. Rosa was the mother fill in, that held her role extremely well and Gavin was wonderfully complicated. And well Guy, Guy was just creepy as anything!

This book drops down to 4 and a half stars for the fact that Moore described French kissing all the time, I wanted to yell "I get how it works already", but on the other hand it never made me stop reading the story. This book is written for an older YA audience, or I guess, the newly created New Adult genre. There are a few love scenes and some steamy stuff, as well as the book dealing with prostitution. It's not a tale for someone who wants to read a fluffy book, but if you like a story that isn't entirely happy go lucky, then give this little Indie gem a try!

P.S. does anyone know if this is going to be a series? The book could stand alone, but I see more in the future!

(Review originally appeared on my blog (http://thewhiteunicornfiction.blogspo...)

[Naj · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you've read Leigh's first book The Truth About Faking, you should probably be warned. This book is a lot more edgy, mature and serious than the YA contemporary romance. This is for the older YA readers.

Leigh took a risk, a risk that takes you on a swooning and raging ride up and down. A risk that every author should take to enhance their writing skills before they hit it big. And this risk is Rouge.

You know you've experienced something so different when you come out of it feeling confused and all together absent-minded. That's exactly how I felt when I finished this book. I was like : Woah. Did I really just read that? And I mean this all in a good way.

I loved how different Leigh's writing was in this one. It was a lot more deep and advanced and I absolutely loved it. I enjoyed all the characters, especially Roland, who is constantly there for our protagonist, Hale, when she gets in trouble. Hale is a troubled 18-year-old who only thinks about how to make her and her "Ward's" (Teeny) life better. She always thinks about ways to escape a life on stage and a life living in a secret Brothel where no one knows when she'll be the next body they'll sell. I loved Hale's determination and strength even though she made me react negatively a couple of times. But hey! All protagonists do that to a reader when they make bad choices. Likewise, I harbored dislike towards Teeny and Beau (Hale's Poor Lover), they were both so frustrating. They were the main reasons of Hale's drama in her life and I can't help but dislike them both.

Despite all the terrible things that happened to Hale. She manages to put on a straight face and continue on living to her best ability even if she doesn't want to anymore. Of course, she had a pillar to hold onto and that pillar was Roland. Her long time best friend and first real crush. Roland was my favorite character, who was the only one with real smarts throughout the story. That guy can get you out of anything with one of his trustworthy plans. I couldn't get enough of him.

The plot as mentioned in the synopsis, had so much depth and darkness that I couldn't believe Leigh wrote it. Makes a reader really stop and think that your favorite authors will always manage to surprise you when you least expect it. My hats (all of them) are off at Leigh's brilliance! (Yes, I'm that impressed).

Overall, Rouge is an unexpected experience of the drama and troubles of a teenage female singer in the 1890's, New Orleans and how she provides for herself and the little girl she took under her wing. The story is deep, dark with enough realism to make you so glad you weren't of that time. Leigh is one step closer to being a master story-teller!

[Mlpmom (Book Reviewer) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I planned on making this my Indie Book of the Week but I just couldn't wait that long to post my review. I had to get it out there for the world to see. The world must know how awesome this book is.

I knew I wanted to read this book the moment I read the description. I love books set in a different era. I love the feel of them and I love it when a good writer can take me back to that different time and place and make me feel like I am a part of it. Like I am right there with the main character seeing, smelling and hearing all that they are.

I felt like I was transported back in time. To a place where singing and dancing ran rampant through the town of New Orleans. When night time takes on a whole new world where anything goes and ladies are mysterious and even a little sexy and the streets are dangerous and exciting. A time when things happen that aren't spoken of during the day.

When ladies and men become so much more than they are during the daylight hours and secrets are plentiful. When a side of New Orleans comes out and that side isn't always pretty.

This book sucked me in right from the start. I became a prisoner to the words on the pages as they grasped a hold of me and refused to release me until I had read the very last line.

I immediately loved Hale. There was just something about her that screamed strength and passion to me. A girl that was bold and fierce and not afraid to get the life that she thought she deserved for not only herself but those that she loved and cared about as well.

This book had a lot more twists and turns in it than what I was expecting (all in a good way of course!). It certainly kept me turning the pages and held my interest.

The cast of characters were all amazing. I love a book with fabulous secondary characters. In my opinion they can make or break a book for me and these characters definitely helped make this book.
Roland, Beau. Teeny, Rosa, Evie, Gavin, Freddie, all of them, too many to name really, had a role to play and all of them played it well.

I sometimes even had a hard time knowing which ones were really the good guys and which ones weren't and just when I thought I knew, something would happen and I had to start over guessing again.

This was a fantastic read that I truly enjoyed every minute of. It broke my heart at times and made me happy at other times. I really hope the sequel will be out soon because I honestly can not wait for it! I have to know what happens to Hale and Teeny next.

[LiLi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book; read it straight through in one sitting. I think the title, Rouge, is quite perfect, given how closely it parallels the movie Moulin Rouge. I suppose, since that is one of my favorite movies, it would come as no surprise how much I enjoyed the book.

The love story between the beautiful cabaret performer Hale and the stagehand Beau was beautiful and tragic all at the same time. Their love was made all the more tragic by Hale's desperate need to flee her cabaret life in New Orleans and the hope of that possibility with a rich young Parisian who is smitten with her and has the ability to take her far away from many of the horrors of her world. This love triangle reminded me of the movie Sweet Home Alabama in that both love interests are gentlemen and with good hearts and great intentions, only, one of them has the wealth and means to offer an escape. And I loved that movie as well, so it goes without saying, I likewise felt similarly with this book.

This book did differ in part from its paralleled movie companion in that two important and key roles were added: a young orphaned child in the care of the Hale (who is the cause for many life-altering and climatical decisions made) as well as a rather despicable sexual predator (whose villainous role adds to the suspense).

I think one of the only things that could have improved the book for me would have been for Beau to have been more privy to some of the occurrences with Hale so that we could have seen more possessive, protective (essentially alpha) tendencies from him. I would like to have seen what he would have done if had known the truth at times. Also, I would have liked a little more development in their romance. It seemed as if they had little more than stared at each other before essentially being in love.

I am curious for the sequel and feel certain plans will be thwarted by the consequences of some actions (be them intentional or tragically unintentional). I do not think Hale has considered the possibility of being pregnant, either with Beau's or Guy's baby. And certainly tradition does not fare well when it comes to the fiancé of a wealthy, young businessman showing up pregnant.

[Mandy Reads Indie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hale Ferrer has a plan. She plans to marry one of her most devoted fans and move to Paris and get Teeny far away from the cabaret house. Teeny doesn't know of the horrible, disgusting things that goes on behind closed doors late at night. And that is just the way Hale wants to keep it. What wasn't part of Hale's plan was Beau and the feelings she starts to have for him. Those feelings could jeopardize her and Teeny's future.

I really enjoyed reading Rouge. It is definitely different than the sort of books I am used to reading. I honestly am not sure I have read a book from this time period in New Orleans, but I was truly fascinated with it. It did take a moment to get acclimated to the time period and the ways of the characters. I forget that ladies usually had to be chaperoned and women, if not raised well, could be a little rough around the edges. But all in all I was very happy with the setting and thought Moore did a great job giving the reader a believable New Orleans from that time. (But don't take my word for it, I have only been to New Orleans once and didn't care much for it.)

As for the characters...well I will say I thought they were all great. I especially loved Roland. I thought he was a great asset to the story and loved his devotion to Hale. What I wasn't fond of was that I didn't feel I knew Beau all that much. It was like one minute he was there and bam, we were supposed to know and love him. I honestly felt like I didn’t know him at all. And I didn't feel the chemistry between Hale and Beau until the end of the book and it was just a bit by that point.

I am looking forward to seeing this whole thing play out. Without giving much away for the next book, I am excited to see where the book is going. Paris!! Eeep! Oh the things that Moore can and will do with this story. I know it will be wonderful. Bring on the romance, bring on the scandal.

So there you have it, my review of Rouge. Thank you Moore for asking me to review your book and I look forward to more of your work. In fact, I think after reading Rouge I am really looking more and more forward to reading your other book, The Truth About Faking.

[Cindy Hudson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hale loves to sing and perform in the theater in New Orleans where she grew up, but the time is coming for her to leave. She understands how the other women earn their keep by taking gentlemen into the back rooms after the shows. Even though she’s a star, and Gavin, the owner, promised her mother he’d look after her, Hale knows she can’t go on this way forever. And she’s got Teeny to think of. Teeny who’s still a child but will soon be a woman. And since Teeny can’t act or sing, there’s no way for her to earn her keep.

Yet the options for women are limited in the New Orleans of the late 1800s. Hale believes the only way she can find stability is to marry a rich man, Freddie, who claims to adore her. Hale knows she should encourage his affection, but she’s not sure she wants to when her heart longs for another.

Rouge by Leigh Talbert Moore paints a picture of the on-the-edge life many girls and women faced in the 19th Century when they didn’t have family or friends to raise them and help them to marry. Hale can’t go out to find work on her own, and she can’t seek a place to live without an income. Her position is even more precarious because in most cases true gentlemen would reject a performer.

Hale has conditioned herself to believe she won’t find happiness when she moves on to a better situation, but once she falls in love she begins to hope she can find a way to leave and be happy too. There are scenes of sexual violence, but it should be fine for older teens aged 16 and up.

I enjoyed reading about life in New Orleans and in the theater during this time period. While the story line is similar to the one in the movie Moulin Rouge, the characters and their motivations are somewhat different. I particularly liked Roland as Hale’s friend and the mystery of Hale’s parents. While I would have been happier if the book had moved along at a faster clip, I look forward to picking up Hale’s story again in the sequel.

The author provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

I must say that I am wholly impressed by Leigh T. Moore's newest book! Rouge is one heck of a read. I came for the story, and fell deeply in love with everything about it. By the end my mouth was gaping open, my eyes were a little teary, and all I wanted was more book. Indie fans rejoice! This is a gem, and I know you're going to want to snag a copy for yourself.

Our narrator, Hale, is portrayed vividly and is easy to fall in step with. Growing up in the back wings of a cabaret, Hale has quickly learned that the only way to survive is to play the game. Her plan is to shine as the star of the show, snag a rich man, and have him take her away forever from her old life. Everything is going perfectly, until Beau comes into the picture. A sweet stagehand with nothing to offer but his love, he throws a gorgeous wrench into Hale's story and it brings everything to life. Truth be told, all of the characters in Rouge are wonderfully rendered. There isn't a single one that I didn't enjoy and think sped the story along.

Reader be warned, this is marked Upper YA and Adult for a reason. There are some steamy scenes and some colorful language. Then again, keep in mind that this is a story about a 1890's cabaret. In my honest opinion there wasn't anything that didn't belong there. Each aspect that Moore writes into Hale's world brings the cabaret to life. The costumes, the crowd, even the seedy goings on backstage, all conspire to draw you in, and keep you hooked until the inevitable end. And what an end it is!

If I'm being honest, there is really nothing that I didn't love about Moore's story! The characters are well written, the setting portrayed with sumptuous perfection, and the plot is compulsively readable. It's the type of read that flies by, and then leaves you wanting so much more. I can promise that is you enjoy historical fiction that is on the lighter side, this is for you! Rouge comes at you highly recommended from this bookworm.