If I Promise You Wings by A.K. Small (YA Review)

If I Promise You Wings by A.K. Small
Publisher:  Algonquin Young Readers
Format:  Hardcover
Number of pages:   336 pages
Published:   January 16th, 2024
Source:  Media Matters Publicity

"Millie et Une Plume sits on rue D'Orchampt, a back street of Montmartre."

Seventeen-year-old Alix Leclaire has been standing at the threshold of Mademoiselle Salome's boutique, home to the most renowned plumassie're (feather artist) in Paris, for some time.  It isn't Alix's first attempt to reach the front door, but only now has she mustered the courage to actually knock.  To her surprise, Mademoiselle Salome' herself answers.  Clumsily Alix blurts out that she wants to be her apprentice and is invited inside when Mademoiselle Salome' becomes intrigued by the feather that is tattooed on Alix's arm.  

Alix has always been captivated by birds and feathers, dreaming of sprouting her own wings.  Working at the boutique, renowned for its high-fashion, feather inspired pieces, has been her ultimate goal.  Ever since Alix's mom left, it's been only her and her father.  As a musician, he often leaves her alone when he is performing, and especially now that he has a new girlfriend.  Alix's friend, Jeanne has always been like a sister to Alix.  They even promised to pursue their dreams together.  Jeanne wanted to become a rockstar and Alix a feather artist.  However, Jeanne's passing has made it difficult for Alix to keep their promise. 

Mademoiselle Salome' takes an interest in Alix and directs her son, Raven to start her training.  Their first project involves crafting a series of unique wings for the Moulin Rouge dancers.  Alix is instantly captivated by Raven's stunning looks and his bold, wild and mysterious/playful demeanor.  He clouds her judgement leading to Alix taking risks and liberties with Mademoiselle Salome's precious feathers, using them to create her own feather bouquets, despite the stern warnings she received about stealing.  Then Alix encounters an old schoolmate, Blaise, who is gentle, kind and possess information about Jeanne's death.  Will Alix be able to face the truth about what happened to her best friend?  And could her reckless, impulsive actions lead to trouble at the shop?

Mademoiselle Salome' s boutique sounds like a lush, extravagant place.  Perhaps even a bit magical as the feathers seem to flutter or hum softly when Alix is present.  The various descriptions of the wings that they constructed for the Moulin Rouge also sound fascinating, especially the bird feathers that were chosen.  I really wish that there were illustrations of each one of them.  The closest that I could come to visualizing the wings is in comparing them to Katniss Everdeen's dress when it caught on fire, I imagine the wings were stunning when displaying the feathers. The romance triangle between Alix, Blaise and Raven was just ok for me.  I didn't expect Raven to last, he felt too much like a playboy up against Blaise, who was sweet, if a little aloof.  

Alix was a fascinating character with a passion for poetry, sewing, embroidery and drawing.  She is talented and diligently works toward her goals, yet also struggles with self-doubt.  Jeanne's death deeply impacted her, and Alix seemed to be haunted by remnants of her friend's presence as she went about her daily routine, which caused her immense sorrow and loneliness.  I wished there were more flashbacks in the story that captured more of the special moments between Alix and Jeanne, as there were times when Alix's sorrow was hard for me to relate to.  Nevertheless, I really appreciated the Parisian setting and the integration of French phrases into the story.  Toward the end of the book, Alix showed significant growth in her self-confidence and thanks to Blaise's Aunt Constance, she was ultimately able to express her feelings aloud and to come to terms with her friend's death.       

**A huge thank you to Media Matters for the hardcover copy in exchange for an honest review**