When I started reading The Belles, I was initially put off by all of the opulent, rich descriptions of practically everything in the world of Orleans. I mean, we are taught to appreciate such a sense of beauty, but there was this underlying current of all the decadence becoming cloying. And I think that's what really made me appreciate Dhonielle Clayton's world-building. What we are taught to desire and want more than anything may be the worst thing to happen to us.
I loved watching main character, Camellia, grow (no pun intended) beyond what she was taught to do as a Belle in helping beautify the (usually rich) people of Orleans. Even when she didn't always follow the rules, she still wanted the same as her sisters. The cliffhanger ending has me very curious on where Clayton will take Camellia (and readers), so I eagerly anticipate the second book's release.
I loved watching main character, Camellia, grow (no pun intended) beyond what she was taught to do as a Belle in helping beautify the (usually rich) people of Orleans. Even when she didn't always follow the rules, she still wanted the same as her sisters. The cliffhanger ending has me very curious on where Clayton will take Camellia (and readers), so I eagerly anticipate the second book's release.