This is Audiobook Fanatic’s second listen to Eliot Schrefer, author of the wildly popular novel The Darkness Outside Us. His latest novel, Young Charming Man, is a YA historical coming-of-age story.
In the late 19th century, Léon Delafosse, who was raised in poverty in small town France, became a rising star as a French pianist. His mother and sister make the move with him to Paris to attend a prestigious conservatory and seek patronage from one of the many wealthy Parisian families. As Leon navigates his way into high society, he makes some new friends and also begins to explore his sexuality. After playing for some notable families, he is touted as France’s next great pianist and is soon offered patronage by the eccentric Count Robert de Montesquiou-Fézensac. Leon is both excited and terrified, as he is concerned that the count has ulterior motives for his offer. What follows is a whirlwind of recitals, high-society parties, and betrayals that Leon could never have imagined.
The storyline is completely different from Schrefer’s previous work, but still very interesting. It’s very easy for listeners to get emotionally invested in Leon and his family, as they obviously share an immense love for each other despite their impoverished and difficult lives. Some of Leon’s impulsive decision-making may infuriate listeners, but given his age and the time period, the story still remains plausible.
Narrator Mark Sanderlin delivers an upbeat performance, bringing a distinct exuberance to each of the varied characters, making for an easy and entertaining listen. The author’s note at the end provides listeners with the fascinating backstory of how Schrefer stumbled across these historical characters and how the novel ultimately evolved. Please keep in mind that the author’s note contains spoilers, so be sure to listen to it after the story’s completion! If you’re in search of a charming and captivating coming-of-age historical fiction story that can be enjoyed equally by adolescents and adults alike, give this one a try!