Reading this it was impossible to not compare it to Anna and the French Kiss, which makes sense as they are companion novels. I absolutely adored Anna, but sadly, Lola didn't measure up as well. 
 Firstly, Lola herself wasn't a very likeable character, I understand the importance of character flaws and all but Lola felt overly dramatic. I felt uncomfortable with her character in some places because she just felt so much younger than she was; it was difficult to take her seriously. In Anna, I was incredibly pleased with Perkin's characterization, which didn't seem to carry over as well. Aside from Lola herself, you have Max - who was fairly well made until (view spoiler)[He took a pretty uncharacteristic turn and became a villian for no reason other than that it was necesary? I mean, sure, it's totally probable that he'd go that way eventually, but keyword being eventually. (hide spoiler)]. I was also super excited to see Anna and Etienne - until they didn't feel like themselves (more like they were being used as a device, rather than as themselves). 
 On the plus side, not all the characters felt difficult. I was pleased with the twins, Calliope especially - I thought she was lovely and would love to see more with her. And I know I'm not "supposed" to like him, but early book Max was really great. The fathers and mother were good too (chracter wise) and not given enough credit throughout. 
 All in all, it was okay. Perkin's writing style is what saved this from being less than three stars. The well developed characters and her good descriptions were my favourite parts.