Dark and mysterious romantic fantasy

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Although the first few chapters are a bit slow, the mysteries of the Court of Lions and supernatural elements haunting New Orleans are revealed bit by bit, hooking the reader into the story. By midway through the novel, I was itching to know what would happen next!
The setting of 1800s New Orleans makes this YA novel even more alluring. I don't know if this novel would have worked if it were for the time period. It adds an extra level of intrigue and it’s a lot of fun to read about these characters trying to rebel against the confines of society and finger out what kind of serial killer is plaguing their city.
Speaking of characters, all of them are so much fun to learn about. Celine, the protagonist, is determined and witty and longs for a sense of agency in her life. Her friends, Pippa and Odette, are loyal in their own ways and help Celine throughout the story. And Bastien’s dark and enigmatic personality is just so enticing that you can’t help but want to dig deeper into what makes him tick. Even Michael, an antagonistic character who seems to be a meek gentleman, shifts from annoying to a likable. The characters help make this story what it is and keep the reader entranced with the plot from start to finish.
And HOLY GOODNESS THAT PLOT TWIST?!?!! I would’ve NEVER guess who the killer was and the things that are revealed at the end of the book make the longing for the sequel even greater. While everything starts to make sense towards the end of the novel, you’re still left wanting more.
Overall, if you’re looking for a new fantasy series to sink your teeth into, then Ahdieh’s The Beautiful is the perfect book to satiate your craving. I cannot wait for the sequel to come out in June to see what these amazing characters get up to next!