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The Belles #3
The Beauty Trials
In this all-new novel from the world of Dhonielle Clayton’s sweeping, lush Belles series, rebellious, outspoken, fan-favorite Edel Beauregard enters the Beauty Trials―a deadly competition to find the next Queen of Orléans.
Sophia, the dangerous and erratic former queen, has been imprisoned, restoring peace to Orléans. Now her sister, Charlotte, sits on the throne and has decided to invoke the ancient tradition of the Beauty Trials―a series of harrowing tests meant to find the true ruler of Orléans. Edel, who has always aspired to be more than a Belle, decides to enter and, after promising to bind her arcana to keep from having an unnatural advantage, joins a few dozen other hopefuls intent on becoming the next Queen of Orléans.
But the Trials are far worse than any of them bargained for. As the women are put through tasks that test their strength, confidence, composure, and bravery, many perish, and Edel is mysteriously attacked by one of the other competitors―forcing her to use her powers just to survive. Will her subterfuge cost her the crown, or is there a larger conspiracy at play?
New York Times best-selling author Dhonielle Clayton returns to her sweeping, lush fantasy series with an all-new story teeming with high-stakes court intrigue and danger disguised by beauty.
Sophia, the dangerous and erratic former queen, has been imprisoned, restoring peace to Orléans. Now her sister, Charlotte, sits on the throne and has decided to invoke the ancient tradition of the Beauty Trials―a series of harrowing tests meant to find the true ruler of Orléans. Edel, who has always aspired to be more than a Belle, decides to enter and, after promising to bind her arcana to keep from having an unnatural advantage, joins a few dozen other hopefuls intent on becoming the next Queen of Orléans.
But the Trials are far worse than any of them bargained for. As the women are put through tasks that test their strength, confidence, composure, and bravery, many perish, and Edel is mysteriously attacked by one of the other competitors―forcing her to use her powers just to survive. Will her subterfuge cost her the crown, or is there a larger conspiracy at play?
New York Times best-selling author Dhonielle Clayton returns to her sweeping, lush fantasy series with an all-new story teeming with high-stakes court intrigue and danger disguised by beauty.
293 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 14, 2023
69 people are currently reading
4800 people want to read
About the author
Dhonielle Clayton
40 books2,645 followersDhonielle Clayton is a New York Times bestselling author of The Marvellers series, The Belles series, Shattered Midnight, co-author of Blackout, Whiteout, The Rumor Game, and of the Tiny Pretty Things duology, a Netflix original series. She hails from the Washington, D.C. suburbs on the Maryland side. She taught secondary school for several years, and is a former elementary and middle school librarian. She is COO of the non-profit We Need Diverse Books. She is the President and founder of Cake Creative and Electric Postcard Entertainment, IP story companies creating diverse books for all ages. She’s an avid traveller, and always on the hunt for magic and mischief. Find her on Instagram: @brownbookworm.
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February 7, 2024HOLY SHIT!!!
I have been waiting for years for this release. YEARS! I see we are revamping the covers for the entire series. I like the new vibe, but I loved those earlier covers as well.
Earlier:
Is this releasing in 2020? It can't possibly be, can it?
We don't even have a cover!
I NEED ANSWERS!!
Literally me:
Seriously, if you know anything, please drop a comment below! xo
I have been waiting for years for this release. YEARS! I see we are revamping the covers for the entire series. I like the new vibe, but I loved those earlier covers as well.
Earlier:
Is this releasing in 2020? It can't possibly be, can it?
We don't even have a cover!
I NEED ANSWERS!!
Literally me:
Seriously, if you know anything, please drop a comment below! xo
Read
May 24, 2020
March 23, 2023
This book was unnecessary.
4 years after The Everlasting Rose, Dhonielle Clayton releases The Beauty Trials. This isn't so much a sequel, but a spin-off. Our MC from the first two books is off somewhere else, and a minor character (that to be honest, I don't even remember) ends up being the MC in this one. And she kind of sucks.
The story, the writing, all of it, felt rushed, uninspired, and unnecessary. No time or effort was put into reminding all of us what happened in the last two books, where we are in Orleans, or who anyone was. With a 4 year gap, a few pages could have been dedicated to catching us all up again.
I didn't like Edel (or was it Adele or Estelle?) Everyone's names and descriptions were basically the same, I couldn't remember who was who, and at the end of the day, I didn't really care.
This was clearly a contract obligation or a money grab. Disappointing from beginning to end.
4 years after The Everlasting Rose, Dhonielle Clayton releases The Beauty Trials. This isn't so much a sequel, but a spin-off. Our MC from the first two books is off somewhere else, and a minor character (that to be honest, I don't even remember) ends up being the MC in this one. And she kind of sucks.
The story, the writing, all of it, felt rushed, uninspired, and unnecessary. No time or effort was put into reminding all of us what happened in the last two books, where we are in Orleans, or who anyone was. With a 4 year gap, a few pages could have been dedicated to catching us all up again.
I didn't like Edel (or was it Adele or Estelle?) Everyone's names and descriptions were basically the same, I couldn't remember who was who, and at the end of the day, I didn't really care.
This was clearly a contract obligation or a money grab. Disappointing from beginning to end.
Want to read
August 9, 2019It's official? We're getting a third book on The Belles? *Galinda in Wicked voice* THANK GOODNESS! Need, need, need. need and need. (I have no idea why I said need so many times other than the obvious: I need.)
The Belles Series:
The Belles : ★★★★☆
The Everlasting Rose : ★★★☆☆
Untitled: TBD
The Belles Series:
The Belles : ★★★★☆
The Everlasting Rose : ★★★☆☆
Untitled: TBD
Read
May 28, 2019I knew it! I knew there had to be a third one!!!
June 11, 2024
You know what no I’m giving this a 2.5 ⭐️
Not much to say really. I thoroughly enjoyed The Belles series. Very easy, fast paced read and overall just fun.
This book was a bit of a let down. I did like that it was from Edels POV rather than Camilles, her story seemed to be over. I just felt like this book was a bit scrambled, plot twists were predictable and the ending was … underwhelming. I feel like it has ended as though we’re lining up for another book but I don’t think we are?? Confused.
Not much to say really. I thoroughly enjoyed The Belles series. Very easy, fast paced read and overall just fun.
This book was a bit of a let down. I did like that it was from Edels POV rather than Camilles, her story seemed to be over. I just felt like this book was a bit scrambled, plot twists were predictable and the ending was … underwhelming. I feel like it has ended as though we’re lining up for another book but I don’t think we are?? Confused.
February 20, 2023
So it’s been quite a while since the second book in the series came out. And at the time I thought some things weren’t quite wrapped up, and I’d hoped for one more book at least. So I was very excited when I heard about this one coming out. And overall, besides a little bit of time spent remembering the first two books at the beginning of this one, and a little rushed feeling at the very end of the book, I really liked this third book. I have to say towards the end I also wondered if this might be leaving an opening for another book. As with the second book, I feel this wrapped things up, but that we could still see another book and there would be more to read and enjoy, even if it seems the major villains might be gone.
There was a lot of action you might say in this book. Lots of intrigue into where all the Belles had gone, and how they were still be used against their will. And then there were the Beauty Trials themselves. Once or twice I will say there were some things that happened that almost seemed not explained, or jumped to without a lot of context for what was happening. But there were also a lot of twists and turns and unpredictable things that kept my attention as I turned pages to finish in less than two days.
And I have to also mention that once again, the same thing I noticed with the first two was the vivid and beautiful, if sometimes horrible scenes of this world that the author painted with her words. Definitely a series I can continue to promote with my students and will be excited to share this new addition to the world.
Review first posted on Lisa Loves Literature.
There was a lot of action you might say in this book. Lots of intrigue into where all the Belles had gone, and how they were still be used against their will. And then there were the Beauty Trials themselves. Once or twice I will say there were some things that happened that almost seemed not explained, or jumped to without a lot of context for what was happening. But there were also a lot of twists and turns and unpredictable things that kept my attention as I turned pages to finish in less than two days.
And I have to also mention that once again, the same thing I noticed with the first two was the vivid and beautiful, if sometimes horrible scenes of this world that the author painted with her words. Definitely a series I can continue to promote with my students and will be excited to share this new addition to the world.
Review first posted on Lisa Loves Literature.
August 9, 2025
Camellia and Rémy were the best part.
Edel was insufferable and I’m so glad she didn’t become Queen.
Edel was insufferable and I’m so glad she didn’t become Queen.
dnf
September 27, 2023DNF @ 63%
There are times when I question whether a series needed to be revived with a belated sequel. This is one of those times.
I just ... *SIGH*
The polite version of this review is to say this wasn't my cup of tea and I'm happy to leave the series at book two.
But this also lowkey (not lowkey at all) annoyed the heck out of me and made me angry. Why was this necessary? How does it further the story? Why is Edel so childishly angry and dramatic 100% of the time?
Why was EVERYONE a b*tch?! Why can't any female characters be written as nice people? It was extremely overwritten when trying to push the (honestly non-existent) magnanimous nature of Edel. She be angry and stroppy, let's not try to make her into an infallible hero.
GAH. This was a confusing story. It was filled with tropes to the point it felt like used ideas from other stories. Harry Potter's scene with devil's snare? It's there. And many others, but I digress and this isn't meant to be spoilery.
After a fun two books of a brewing Belle rebellion, this was a disappointing flop that felt weirdly adjacent to the overall story and really not relevant.
In short, this wasn't worth it and I highly recommending leaving your reading experience at book two for this series.
There are times when I question whether a series needed to be revived with a belated sequel. This is one of those times.
I just ... *SIGH*
The polite version of this review is to say this wasn't my cup of tea and I'm happy to leave the series at book two.
But this also lowkey (not lowkey at all) annoyed the heck out of me and made me angry. Why was this necessary? How does it further the story? Why is Edel so childishly angry and dramatic 100% of the time?
Why was EVERYONE a b*tch?! Why can't any female characters be written as nice people? It was extremely overwritten when trying to push the (honestly non-existent) magnanimous nature of Edel. She be angry and stroppy, let's not try to make her into an infallible hero.
GAH. This was a confusing story. It was filled with tropes to the point it felt like used ideas from other stories. Harry Potter's scene with devil's snare? It's there. And many others, but I digress and this isn't meant to be spoilery.
After a fun two books of a brewing Belle rebellion, this was a disappointing flop that felt weirdly adjacent to the overall story and really not relevant.
In short, this wasn't worth it and I highly recommending leaving your reading experience at book two for this series.
April 5, 2023
I honestly have very conflicted feelings about this. At first, I was very excited I had finished the previous book so close to the release of this one. Camille's story was over from a personal standpoint, but at the end of the previous book it was not clear at all how Belles and society would change, so it kinda made sense to have one more book, but:
1: I really do not like changes in POV (all of a sudden and for a whole book, not chapters). I used to like Edel and for a while, I thought I might like her point of view, but it was worse than I expected, she was so annoying and simpleminded in this book.
2: The whole world was quite original, but all the beauty talk gets tiresome, and all the stories seem to lack the underlying moral, or the moral is very very thin. Sure, there are bits and pieces of morals scattered here and there, racism and homophobia don't exist, sure, but there is not one big powerful moral carrying the whole story.
3: after all this fuss, I really didn't like that to have all this happen poor Charlotte had to be diminished as incompetent and much too forgiving after being a victim for so long. She was way too soft with Sophia until she was blamed of being the opposite suddenly when the sentencing came. It seemed part of the fishy plot, but I really don't think it was.
4: I almost didn't finish at 35%. I had to read like 7 other comfort books before I came back to this, only because I was curious about what the trials were and how it could turn out in the end. Even if it was being a struggle to keep reading.
5: I really liked Quentin. I started liking Gaelle less and less cause she seemed fishier and fishier along the story.
6: About the last trial:
6: About the ending (and how it affects the point of this book existing at all):
LAST POINT:
1: I really do not like changes in POV (all of a sudden and for a whole book, not chapters). I used to like Edel and for a while, I thought I might like her point of view, but it was worse than I expected, she was so annoying and simpleminded in this book.
2: The whole world was quite original, but all the beauty talk gets tiresome, and all the stories seem to lack the underlying moral, or the moral is very very thin. Sure, there are bits and pieces of morals scattered here and there, racism and homophobia don't exist, sure, but there is not one big powerful moral carrying the whole story.
3: after all this fuss, I really didn't like that to have all this happen poor Charlotte had to be diminished as incompetent and much too forgiving after being a victim for so long. She was way too soft with Sophia until she was blamed of being the opposite suddenly when the sentencing came. It seemed part of the fishy plot, but I really don't think it was.
4: I almost didn't finish at 35%. I had to read like 7 other comfort books before I came back to this, only because I was curious about what the trials were and how it could turn out in the end. Even if it was being a struggle to keep reading.
5: I really liked Quentin. I started liking Gaelle less and less cause she seemed fishier and fishier along the story.
6: About the last trial:
6: About the ending (and how it affects the point of this book existing at all):
LAST POINT:
maybe
February 4, 2023Я даже не знаю, что можно ждать от триквела, если вторая часть, во-первых, завершила историю и, во-вторых, вышла пять лет назад. Я тогда еще в школе училась.
January 1, 2023
A fun ride, reminiscent of the first in the series, The Belles.
Thank you Disney Hyperion for the Advanced copy!
Thank you Disney Hyperion for the Advanced copy!
February 6, 2023
Thank you to Orion Publishing Group and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
When I saw that there was a new book in The Belles series, I knew that I had to read it right away! The Beauty Trials by Dhonielle Clayton is the third book in the Belles series. The story revolves around Edel, a Belle, who enters the Beauty Trials, a new competition to choose the Queen of Orleans. However, not everyone is on board. It's unheard of for a Belle to become Queen, and Edel faces many obstacles. In addition, the Trials themselves are difficult and deadly. Will Edel succeed in her hopes of becoming Queen or will she die trying?
Here is a lovely, atmospheric excerpt from Chapter 1:
"People are drawn to death. They flirt with it like the bayou moths that draw too close to our red sill-lanterns, coveting the heat, only to burn themselves alive in the candlelight.
Orleans is that moth now; the rooftops of Trianon flicker like ignited wicks, and three guards lift a dead courtier on a stretcher out of the Chrysanthemum Teahouse. Windyseason rain soaks her lace veil. I watch as one of her arms flops out, grayish in color and haggard, a broken branch at her side."
Overall, The Beauty Trials is a fantastic return to the magical world of the Belles. One highlight of this book is the nostalgia factor. When I finished the second book in the Belles series, i remember feeling disappointed. I loved the first book in the series, and I was sad that the series had come to an end. Fortunately, this third book definitely delivers! I was so excited to see familiar characters and return to the magical system. Another highlight of this book is how fast-paced it is. I couldn't put this book down until I had finished reading it. I will definitely read any continuations of the series! If you're intrigued by the excerpt above, or if you're a fan of this series, I highly recommend that you check out this book when it comes out in February!
When I saw that there was a new book in The Belles series, I knew that I had to read it right away! The Beauty Trials by Dhonielle Clayton is the third book in the Belles series. The story revolves around Edel, a Belle, who enters the Beauty Trials, a new competition to choose the Queen of Orleans. However, not everyone is on board. It's unheard of for a Belle to become Queen, and Edel faces many obstacles. In addition, the Trials themselves are difficult and deadly. Will Edel succeed in her hopes of becoming Queen or will she die trying?
Here is a lovely, atmospheric excerpt from Chapter 1:
"People are drawn to death. They flirt with it like the bayou moths that draw too close to our red sill-lanterns, coveting the heat, only to burn themselves alive in the candlelight.
Orleans is that moth now; the rooftops of Trianon flicker like ignited wicks, and three guards lift a dead courtier on a stretcher out of the Chrysanthemum Teahouse. Windyseason rain soaks her lace veil. I watch as one of her arms flops out, grayish in color and haggard, a broken branch at her side."
Overall, The Beauty Trials is a fantastic return to the magical world of the Belles. One highlight of this book is the nostalgia factor. When I finished the second book in the Belles series, i remember feeling disappointed. I loved the first book in the series, and I was sad that the series had come to an end. Fortunately, this third book definitely delivers! I was so excited to see familiar characters and return to the magical system. Another highlight of this book is how fast-paced it is. I couldn't put this book down until I had finished reading it. I will definitely read any continuations of the series! If you're intrigued by the excerpt above, or if you're a fan of this series, I highly recommend that you check out this book when it comes out in February!
March 29, 2023
What I liked:
The Beauty Trials is the third book of The Belles series set in Orleans, where Belles can use magic to make you more beautiful. In Orleans, the citizens suffer from this gray blah appearance, so enter the belles who can alter this appearance often at a high and dangerous cost to themselves. Sophie is the princess and is insane and obsessed with being the most beautiful in Orleans. Dark and scary things have been uncovered about the creation of the belles, belles have gone missing, and the actual Queen has been imprisoned. Once Queen Charlotte is released, she enacts the ancient tradition of The Beauty Trials, which will determine the true Queen, and in a significant twist, a fan-favorite belle is in the trials. Belles have never been Queen. How will this play out?
Final Verdict:
I was on the edge of my seat as I dove into this third book after re-reading the first two, as it had been a while since I had been in the world of The Belles. Sophie is insane, and the extremes she goes to for beauty are horrific. The third book is fast-moving and will give you all the feels from the first two books. The Beauty trials are rigorous, almost lethal tasks and competitions that paved the way for the new Queen of Orleans. The ending will blow your mind.
The Beauty Trials is the third book of The Belles series set in Orleans, where Belles can use magic to make you more beautiful. In Orleans, the citizens suffer from this gray blah appearance, so enter the belles who can alter this appearance often at a high and dangerous cost to themselves. Sophie is the princess and is insane and obsessed with being the most beautiful in Orleans. Dark and scary things have been uncovered about the creation of the belles, belles have gone missing, and the actual Queen has been imprisoned. Once Queen Charlotte is released, she enacts the ancient tradition of The Beauty Trials, which will determine the true Queen, and in a significant twist, a fan-favorite belle is in the trials. Belles have never been Queen. How will this play out?
Final Verdict:
I was on the edge of my seat as I dove into this third book after re-reading the first two, as it had been a while since I had been in the world of The Belles. Sophie is insane, and the extremes she goes to for beauty are horrific. The third book is fast-moving and will give you all the feels from the first two books. The Beauty trials are rigorous, almost lethal tasks and competitions that paved the way for the new Queen of Orleans. The ending will blow your mind.
March 4, 2023
REVIEW
I think the cover does its job well as it sets the scene and feel well for the book that is dark & intriguing. The other book covers have also been re-done to make this a cohesive set. I bet they look amazing in physical form on a bookshelf *sigh*
On The Beauty Trials cover the golden challice is the first thing you see overflowing with the potentially deadly pomegranate tea. Theres also the other ancient treasures of the golden comb and the hand mirror, all ornate items, that play an important role in the trials.
The final book show's life for the Belles becoming even more dire with Belles being attacked and even worse going missing. Belles being found hooked up to machines, having their bodies drained of every last drop of their precious blood.
The big drama begins with Queen Charlotte declaring that she is not going to continue to rule she is going to invoke the ancient tradition of The Beauty Trials.
The ancient caisse is found and as it needs the use of a Belle's blood to be opened and Edel is the only Belle present when the Queen has the caisse ready in front of her Edel freely gives a few drops of her blood to open it.
Inside the caisse there is a jewelled chalice & pomegrate leaves. The pomegranate leaves are made into a tea inside the golden chalice. A golden comb which ensures each hair has its place. It is said that it reminds you to carry yourself with a sense of equilibrium.
The mirror of glass will show the truth of each competitor and reveal the inner self. Each item plays its own important role in the trials. The trials are full of rituals that need to be carried out and has rules that must be followed. First the pomegranate leaves are made into a tea that all those who wish to enter for a chance to take part in the trials must drink. The remaining items each represent one of the trials.
Theres a grand ball for potential entrants to attend to drink the tea, to take their chance to 'dance with death' you could say.
At first its unclear whether a Belle, Edel will be allowed to enter but as it is Goddess Beauty that decides it is left for her to choose the 8 anointed ones that will take part in the dark, mysterious dangerous sounding trials. Those who wish to enter take a drink of the specially brewed pomegranate tea and that determines who will enter the trials. Within a few hours of drinking the pomegranate tea if an entrant has been chosen a Belle rose will appear on their cheek. Despite the current Queen not wanting Edel to drink the pomegranate tea, another Belle and close confidante of Edel's manages to acquire some of the pomegranate tea and takes it to Edel. When Queen Charlotte discovers Edel is one of the anointed 8 she seems to accept the news easily despite previously being so against Edel even drinking the pomegranate tea.
Madame Bissett, Minister of Games will 'run' the trials along with a Gamekeeper chosen by the Goddess of Death. The Gamekeeper is Quentin Arnoux. The Trials will take place at Gravier Palace, though its resident Lady Angele is clearly unhappy about this she is not in a position to refuse her current Queen nor the dictates of the Godesses who invented the trials.
The Anointed 8 are a mixture of people from the different Royal & Merchant Houses, along with Iron ladies and of course a Belle. The general populace are not happy about a Belle being allowed to enter as they say she has powers that could give her an unfair advantage. Even Edel promising not to use her arcana powers does nothing to quieten their discontent but the Godess has spoken and given Edel the Belle Rose mark on her cheek just like the other chosen, anointed ones.
I adored the intricate history and background to everything that was happening in the book. Sadly the Belles are still not being seen as people, with feelings, thoughts & emotions. They are still just being seen as blood, a commodity to be taken any way possible. I enjoyed learning about each object in the caisse as well as the reason behind each trial with its details being slowly revealed. You soon realised which of the anointed were potentially worthy Queens and which would spell even more dire consequences and living conditions for the Belles. I totally fell in love with the quirky character of Quentin Arnoux. Quentin doesn't really have a choice about his part in the Trials. He has strict rules he must follow during each trial, guiding the competitors but not helping them in any way. Though his ever deepening friendship with Edel means he comes extremely close to breaking those rules. There are some really poignant scenes between the pair.
I thought that certain phrases were perfect such as
"May you always find beauty" and "May your threads be strong." Along with this, the way the surroundings are described makes it really easy to visualise them. In fact these books would be great as a TV Series or films. I really enjoyed this dark, dangerous, mysterious world, Dhonielle Clayton created. This book/series has it all, historical elements, including rituals and ancient laws. Relationships that are complex, friendships, betrayals, loves and losses.
Summing up, I really enjoyed each book in this series, though I think the last in the series is the darkest one, or perhaps it's that the fuller extent of the darkness is revealed. I will definitely keep my eyes open for other books by this author.
I think the cover does its job well as it sets the scene and feel well for the book that is dark & intriguing. The other book covers have also been re-done to make this a cohesive set. I bet they look amazing in physical form on a bookshelf *sigh*
On The Beauty Trials cover the golden challice is the first thing you see overflowing with the potentially deadly pomegranate tea. Theres also the other ancient treasures of the golden comb and the hand mirror, all ornate items, that play an important role in the trials.
The final book show's life for the Belles becoming even more dire with Belles being attacked and even worse going missing. Belles being found hooked up to machines, having their bodies drained of every last drop of their precious blood.
The big drama begins with Queen Charlotte declaring that she is not going to continue to rule she is going to invoke the ancient tradition of The Beauty Trials.
The ancient caisse is found and as it needs the use of a Belle's blood to be opened and Edel is the only Belle present when the Queen has the caisse ready in front of her Edel freely gives a few drops of her blood to open it.
Inside the caisse there is a jewelled chalice & pomegrate leaves. The pomegranate leaves are made into a tea inside the golden chalice. A golden comb which ensures each hair has its place. It is said that it reminds you to carry yourself with a sense of equilibrium.
The mirror of glass will show the truth of each competitor and reveal the inner self. Each item plays its own important role in the trials. The trials are full of rituals that need to be carried out and has rules that must be followed. First the pomegranate leaves are made into a tea that all those who wish to enter for a chance to take part in the trials must drink. The remaining items each represent one of the trials.
Theres a grand ball for potential entrants to attend to drink the tea, to take their chance to 'dance with death' you could say.
At first its unclear whether a Belle, Edel will be allowed to enter but as it is Goddess Beauty that decides it is left for her to choose the 8 anointed ones that will take part in the dark, mysterious dangerous sounding trials. Those who wish to enter take a drink of the specially brewed pomegranate tea and that determines who will enter the trials. Within a few hours of drinking the pomegranate tea if an entrant has been chosen a Belle rose will appear on their cheek. Despite the current Queen not wanting Edel to drink the pomegranate tea, another Belle and close confidante of Edel's manages to acquire some of the pomegranate tea and takes it to Edel. When Queen Charlotte discovers Edel is one of the anointed 8 she seems to accept the news easily despite previously being so against Edel even drinking the pomegranate tea.
Madame Bissett, Minister of Games will 'run' the trials along with a Gamekeeper chosen by the Goddess of Death. The Gamekeeper is Quentin Arnoux. The Trials will take place at Gravier Palace, though its resident Lady Angele is clearly unhappy about this she is not in a position to refuse her current Queen nor the dictates of the Godesses who invented the trials.
The Anointed 8 are a mixture of people from the different Royal & Merchant Houses, along with Iron ladies and of course a Belle. The general populace are not happy about a Belle being allowed to enter as they say she has powers that could give her an unfair advantage. Even Edel promising not to use her arcana powers does nothing to quieten their discontent but the Godess has spoken and given Edel the Belle Rose mark on her cheek just like the other chosen, anointed ones.
I adored the intricate history and background to everything that was happening in the book. Sadly the Belles are still not being seen as people, with feelings, thoughts & emotions. They are still just being seen as blood, a commodity to be taken any way possible. I enjoyed learning about each object in the caisse as well as the reason behind each trial with its details being slowly revealed. You soon realised which of the anointed were potentially worthy Queens and which would spell even more dire consequences and living conditions for the Belles. I totally fell in love with the quirky character of Quentin Arnoux. Quentin doesn't really have a choice about his part in the Trials. He has strict rules he must follow during each trial, guiding the competitors but not helping them in any way. Though his ever deepening friendship with Edel means he comes extremely close to breaking those rules. There are some really poignant scenes between the pair.
I thought that certain phrases were perfect such as
"May you always find beauty" and "May your threads be strong." Along with this, the way the surroundings are described makes it really easy to visualise them. In fact these books would be great as a TV Series or films. I really enjoyed this dark, dangerous, mysterious world, Dhonielle Clayton created. This book/series has it all, historical elements, including rituals and ancient laws. Relationships that are complex, friendships, betrayals, loves and losses.
Summing up, I really enjoyed each book in this series, though I think the last in the series is the darkest one, or perhaps it's that the fuller extent of the darkness is revealed. I will definitely keep my eyes open for other books by this author.
Read
September 30, 2023Review copy: ARC via publisher
Since it had been a while since “The Everlasting Rose (Book 2 of The Belles)” I decided to re-read both in preparation for “The Beauty Trials”. The one memory I had from both of the novels was the disturbing descriptions of beauty and what the people would do for them. Both novels were intense and I was happy to wander in the world again.
I expected “The Beauty Trials” to be just as full of extreme descriptive details but Clayton took a different track with this third book. A major change is that the story is told from Edel’s point of view rather than Camille’s and it was honestly a refreshing take. In the first two books Edel never desired to be a Belle and *spoilers* ran away from her “duty”. She was the more sarcastic of the Belles and always said what was on her mind. Having Edel be the focus of this third book, which focuses on the changes happening to Orleans after Charlotte takes the throne, was perfect. Edel may have not wanted to be a Belle, but she is willing to fight for her sisters, for them to not be slaves to the crown. I use the words slaves with purpose because the analogy is very strong in this book. Freedom was in danger for the Belles in “The Everlasting Rose”, but in “The Beauty Trials” we learn that freedom for the Belles wasn’t actually free and Edel is doing the work to keep fighting for them. So much so that she decides to participate in the Beauty Trials as she feels that by winning and becoming queen, she could create a world where the Belles have agency over their lives.
With this third book and the notion of the Beauty Trials, the magic that exists in Orleans really shines through. In the first two books it was subtle, like an every day thing, where in this book it becomes a matter of how their world functions. “Magic” is how Orleans came to be and what was once thought of mythos is actually true and I really enjoyed that aspect of the book. Edel believed the stories about the Beauty Trials were more myth than reality, but through the trials learns the truth. And learning this truth has her questioning everything she holds dear. In order to win, Edel has to let go of preconceived notions and open herself up to “fantasy and make believe” (though a much darker form). She has to be open to the fantastical world she experiences during the trials and I enjoyed going on this journey with her. Edel constantly questioned herself and her understanding of the world but through the trials, truly grew into a young woman who considered many options and listened to the advice of people around her. I really liked Camille, but I found myself really connecting with Edel and watching her grow into a strong leader and a person that others around her looked up to.
I enjoyed journeying into the world of the Belles and while I would love for another book, “The Beauty Trials” brings a satisfying conclusion. We are able to see how the world shifted after Sophia was deposed and how it continued to change to become a world that doesn’t try to hide because superficial beauty.
Since it had been a while since “The Everlasting Rose (Book 2 of The Belles)” I decided to re-read both in preparation for “The Beauty Trials”. The one memory I had from both of the novels was the disturbing descriptions of beauty and what the people would do for them. Both novels were intense and I was happy to wander in the world again.
I expected “The Beauty Trials” to be just as full of extreme descriptive details but Clayton took a different track with this third book. A major change is that the story is told from Edel’s point of view rather than Camille’s and it was honestly a refreshing take. In the first two books Edel never desired to be a Belle and *spoilers* ran away from her “duty”. She was the more sarcastic of the Belles and always said what was on her mind. Having Edel be the focus of this third book, which focuses on the changes happening to Orleans after Charlotte takes the throne, was perfect. Edel may have not wanted to be a Belle, but she is willing to fight for her sisters, for them to not be slaves to the crown. I use the words slaves with purpose because the analogy is very strong in this book. Freedom was in danger for the Belles in “The Everlasting Rose”, but in “The Beauty Trials” we learn that freedom for the Belles wasn’t actually free and Edel is doing the work to keep fighting for them. So much so that she decides to participate in the Beauty Trials as she feels that by winning and becoming queen, she could create a world where the Belles have agency over their lives.
With this third book and the notion of the Beauty Trials, the magic that exists in Orleans really shines through. In the first two books it was subtle, like an every day thing, where in this book it becomes a matter of how their world functions. “Magic” is how Orleans came to be and what was once thought of mythos is actually true and I really enjoyed that aspect of the book. Edel believed the stories about the Beauty Trials were more myth than reality, but through the trials learns the truth. And learning this truth has her questioning everything she holds dear. In order to win, Edel has to let go of preconceived notions and open herself up to “fantasy and make believe” (though a much darker form). She has to be open to the fantastical world she experiences during the trials and I enjoyed going on this journey with her. Edel constantly questioned herself and her understanding of the world but through the trials, truly grew into a young woman who considered many options and listened to the advice of people around her. I really liked Camille, but I found myself really connecting with Edel and watching her grow into a strong leader and a person that others around her looked up to.
I enjoyed journeying into the world of the Belles and while I would love for another book, “The Beauty Trials” brings a satisfying conclusion. We are able to see how the world shifted after Sophia was deposed and how it continued to change to become a world that doesn’t try to hide because superficial beauty.
nope
July 23, 2024DNF @ 30%. I tried twice to read this. The first time I tried to read the book and couldn’t stay focused so I set it aside for a few months. I tried picking it back up with the audiobook and it still didn’t capture my interest the way the first book did.
January 25, 2023
Incredible! Another story that keeps you glued to every page in the deep and rich world of the Belles. Just when you think you have it figured out another twist happens right up to the very end. I could live in this world for many more books if only they would be written!
Read
February 5, 2023It's comiiiiiiiiiinnnnnnnnnngggggg!! Ahhhhhhh it's almost here!! Ive been waiting so long for this!
July 6, 2023
Though this book had short chapters and moved at a fast pace, I had a hard time connecting with the characters.
March 29, 2024
A satisfying conclusion to the Belle's. It was interesting to see one of the side characters from the first two books get her own spotlight. The Beauty Trials was pretty intense itself, almost gives me Hunger Games vibes from that scenario. I was also satisfied that the main villain of the series got what she deserved.
December 17, 2024
Hate to say it but this book sucked. Only reason it didn’t get 1 star was because I finished it. I thought it had a lot of potential but was written so fast that everything was significantly lacking, especially the characters. The whole competition for queen was a complete waste. No character development, it was all very bland.
April 27, 2023
Erin and I buddy read the first 2 books in this trilogy back in 2021 and of course once this books release date was announced we had to reread them in preparation for reading this one because we forgot pretty much everything we read. We had expectations going into this one and unfortunately we were let down.
When we finished the second book I was left with so many questions and I was hoping that they would be answered in this final (is this the actual final book) book. I think maybe one of my questions was answered in this book. Plus I feel like this book was totally unnecessary. The way book 2 ended was great. This book picks up 3 years after and literally nothing has changed and the new queen seems to have had a personality change in this one. Also there was something that happened in the end that came out of nowhere and didn't make sense to me.
Was this a let down yes definitely but even so I did enjoy my time reading it because of certain characters and because while unnecessary Clayton has a way of getting you interested enough in certain things to make you want to keep reading. I'm pretty sure this is the last book but if for some reason there is another one I will not be reading it. I think this was better off as a duology.
When we finished the second book I was left with so many questions and I was hoping that they would be answered in this final (is this the actual final book) book. I think maybe one of my questions was answered in this book. Plus I feel like this book was totally unnecessary. The way book 2 ended was great. This book picks up 3 years after and literally nothing has changed and the new queen seems to have had a personality change in this one. Also there was something that happened in the end that came out of nowhere and didn't make sense to me.
Was this a let down yes definitely but even so I did enjoy my time reading it because of certain characters and because while unnecessary Clayton has a way of getting you interested enough in certain things to make you want to keep reading. I'm pretty sure this is the last book but if for some reason there is another one I will not be reading it. I think this was better off as a duology.
March 21, 2023
Thank you to the author, NetGalley & Orion Publishing Group for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I really loved the first book in this series and whilst the second wasn’t as great as the first, I still enjoyed reading that too. This one felt a little bit disjointed and separate from the others in the series in that it was from a completely different perspective. I often felt a little bit lost and like I had missed things from the previous plot despite this not being the case (although in fairness it was a while ago that I read those).
However, I will say that I enjoyed the authors descriptive language and ability to create a more dramatic and dark atmosphere in comparison to the other books. And it was definitely a comfy kind of nostalgia returning to the world of the Belle’s again! I’d recommend for fans of vibes like the hunger games meets the selection!
I really loved the first book in this series and whilst the second wasn’t as great as the first, I still enjoyed reading that too. This one felt a little bit disjointed and separate from the others in the series in that it was from a completely different perspective. I often felt a little bit lost and like I had missed things from the previous plot despite this not being the case (although in fairness it was a while ago that I read those).
However, I will say that I enjoyed the authors descriptive language and ability to create a more dramatic and dark atmosphere in comparison to the other books. And it was definitely a comfy kind of nostalgia returning to the world of the Belle’s again! I’d recommend for fans of vibes like the hunger games meets the selection!
Want to read
April 21, 2019If this book is not better than The Everlasting Rose, I'm not going to read it
Read
April 15, 2020I just finished the second one within one day of getting it.
I NEED THE THIRD BOOK!!!!
I NEED THE THIRD BOOK!!!!
February 3, 2024
I listened to this on audiobook and it was a smooth listen, but names may be spelled wrong in this review because of it.
I unfortunately was pretty disappointed in the 3rd Belles book. Which really stinks, because The Belles (#1) is one of my most favorite books -- the color and descriptions were so beautiful. Now this 3rd book, I'll be honest, I'm not sure what the point was. I don't think it added anything to the world or overarching story and it leaves so many unanswered questions.
Thoughts/Unhinged Ramblings
So basically, the people of Orleans are still selfish and mad that they now can only get one beauty treatment a month. They so upset that they want
1. Why tf is such a raging BITCH in this book? She's wishy washy and honestly kind of acting like her
2. In the middle of the book there's a random trial for who has still been able to get treatments up in prison. She then gets
3. Since Instead of that happening, we have another girl coming back from the dead and basically raizing all of Sooo why tf is this happening if
4. What was the point of Quintin and Gaelle? Did she just need to make this
5. So many unanswered questions. Why did Quintin Why was Queen Charlotte What was the point in
6. And one of my bigger gripes because I hate it. WHY does it mention Camille
7. Basically there was no point to this book. The Belles didn't need to be treated that way and it's wild to think the city just returns to normal like nothing happened... The Goddess of Beauty also apparently exists, but does nothing to help the Belles or people -- unlike the Goddess of Death who is active.
Favorite Quotes:
"Fear is a mighty opponent and it can only be beaten in the mind" - Edel's "mom"
- Edel
I unfortunately was pretty disappointed in the 3rd Belles book. Which really stinks, because The Belles (#1) is one of my most favorite books -- the color and descriptions were so beautiful. Now this 3rd book, I'll be honest, I'm not sure what the point was. I don't think it added anything to the world or overarching story and it leaves so many unanswered questions.
Thoughts/Unhinged Ramblings
So basically, the people of Orleans are still selfish and mad that they now can only get one beauty treatment a month. They so upset that they want
1. Why tf is such a raging BITCH in this book? She's wishy washy and honestly kind of acting like her
2. In the middle of the book there's a random trial for who has still been able to get treatments up in prison. She then gets
3. Since Instead of that happening, we have another girl coming back from the dead and basically raizing all of Sooo why tf is this happening if
4. What was the point of Quintin and Gaelle? Did she just need to make this
5. So many unanswered questions. Why did Quintin Why was Queen Charlotte What was the point in
6. And one of my bigger gripes because I hate it. WHY does it mention Camille
7. Basically there was no point to this book. The Belles didn't need to be treated that way and it's wild to think the city just returns to normal like nothing happened... The Goddess of Beauty also apparently exists, but does nothing to help the Belles or people -- unlike the Goddess of Death who is active.
Favorite Quotes:
"Fear is a mighty opponent and it can only be beaten in the mind" - Edel's "mom"
- Edel
February 26, 2023
I think this book suffers a lot of the same problems that THE EVERLASTING ROSE had – shaky prose, touch-and-go plot, descriptions that are simultaneously lavish as they are confusing – but at the same time, I enjoyed this one a lot more.
We're thrust straight back into the world of Orléans, this time from the perspective of wayward, headstrong Belle, Edelweiss Beauregard, who as unrest continues in the kingdom, enters the Beauty Trials, a set of harrowing challenges that will determine the next queen.
I would recommend you reread the first book before diving into this one, because THE BEAUTY TRIALS will not remind you who anyone or what anything is, which was a major struggle for me at first until I read a synopsis of the first two books. This includes many of the side characters who don't have huge roles. It took me a while to remember what the Gris were (grey people, A.K.A. the regular folks who are not naturally beautiful and must rely on beauty work from the Belles). I find it a bizarre choice not to offer short explanations to who people are, especially given that the second book came out in 2019, four years ago, but once I reacquainted myself with everything then it was easier to digest the opening.
As the upper classes revolt now that the Belles no longer do unlimited beauty work, Queen Charlotte instates the Beauty Trials so she can step down as queen. Edel enters the trial herself, even though many people veto the idea of a Belle queen. Edel is unfailingly my favourite character in this series for her blunt, cynical attitude. She doesn't let anyone's disdain rattle her and she frequently talks back to others when she disagrees. She is no walkover, no peacekeeper, a refreshing Belle amongst the other Belles, and a refreshing character overall. Not to say we don't see Camellia again, but her role is only briefly, to let Edel tell her own story.
We're also (re-?)introduced to Gaelle, a socialite and Edel's on-off love interest (bisexual Edel was a nice surprise), and Quentin, a mysterious man from the House of Arnoux, the House of the Goddess of Death, who acts as Gamekeeper for the Trials and another love interest for Edel. I was genuinely torn about who I preferred – both characters offered Edel completely different experiences. I'm kind of sad how one character's story ended, but actually it suited them very well.
Both go with Edel to investigate missing Belles during the Trials, which become more horrible and terrifying as the games continue. I really loved some of the unexpected horror elements of this story – there is a lot more blood and death than I was expecting, but it's a nice contrast to THE BELLES' usually pretty, vibrant world-building. The other competitors unfortunately don't get much spotlight before they're unceremoniously killed off by magic hedges or quicksand, so it's hard to feel the same pain Edel does with their deaths. Even those who survive longer, like Blais and Violetta, didn't feel like real characters to me. I also found it hard to care about the missing Belles when, again, we don't know any of them.
The previous antagonist, the disgraced Queen Sophia, returns again to act as the general Big Bad again in THE BEAUTY TRIALS – it doesn't exactly scream original and I don't think she does anything new here, but she is memorable in her mad-hatter, blood-drinking villainy. The big twist is very predictable and you will see it coming a million miles away, but the ending is electrically fun and fast-paced, and a nice close to the entire series.
WILL I READ MORE BY THIS AUTHOR? I think the problem is, I really like the world and the characters, but the execution of their stories and the prose itself lets the books down. A lot of these are problems I also had with Clayton's THE MARVELLERS, so I think it will have to depend entirely on what her next books are.
eARC received from Gollancz via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This title released on the 14th February 2023.
LAST REVIEW
1: THE BELLES ★★★★☆
2: THE EVERLASTING ROSE ★★★☆☆
1: THE MARVELLERS ★★★☆☆
We're thrust straight back into the world of Orléans, this time from the perspective of wayward, headstrong Belle, Edelweiss Beauregard, who as unrest continues in the kingdom, enters the Beauty Trials, a set of harrowing challenges that will determine the next queen.
I would recommend you reread the first book before diving into this one, because THE BEAUTY TRIALS will not remind you who anyone or what anything is, which was a major struggle for me at first until I read a synopsis of the first two books. This includes many of the side characters who don't have huge roles. It took me a while to remember what the Gris were (grey people, A.K.A. the regular folks who are not naturally beautiful and must rely on beauty work from the Belles). I find it a bizarre choice not to offer short explanations to who people are, especially given that the second book came out in 2019, four years ago, but once I reacquainted myself with everything then it was easier to digest the opening.
As the upper classes revolt now that the Belles no longer do unlimited beauty work, Queen Charlotte instates the Beauty Trials so she can step down as queen. Edel enters the trial herself, even though many people veto the idea of a Belle queen. Edel is unfailingly my favourite character in this series for her blunt, cynical attitude. She doesn't let anyone's disdain rattle her and she frequently talks back to others when she disagrees. She is no walkover, no peacekeeper, a refreshing Belle amongst the other Belles, and a refreshing character overall. Not to say we don't see Camellia again, but her role is only briefly, to let Edel tell her own story.
We're also (re-?)introduced to Gaelle, a socialite and Edel's on-off love interest (bisexual Edel was a nice surprise), and Quentin, a mysterious man from the House of Arnoux, the House of the Goddess of Death, who acts as Gamekeeper for the Trials and another love interest for Edel. I was genuinely torn about who I preferred – both characters offered Edel completely different experiences. I'm kind of sad how one character's story ended, but actually it suited them very well.
Both go with Edel to investigate missing Belles during the Trials, which become more horrible and terrifying as the games continue. I really loved some of the unexpected horror elements of this story – there is a lot more blood and death than I was expecting, but it's a nice contrast to THE BELLES' usually pretty, vibrant world-building. The other competitors unfortunately don't get much spotlight before they're unceremoniously killed off by magic hedges or quicksand, so it's hard to feel the same pain Edel does with their deaths. Even those who survive longer, like Blais and Violetta, didn't feel like real characters to me. I also found it hard to care about the missing Belles when, again, we don't know any of them.
The previous antagonist, the disgraced Queen Sophia, returns again to act as the general Big Bad again in THE BEAUTY TRIALS – it doesn't exactly scream original and I don't think she does anything new here, but she is memorable in her mad-hatter, blood-drinking villainy. The big twist is very predictable and you will see it coming a million miles away, but the ending is electrically fun and fast-paced, and a nice close to the entire series.
WILL I READ MORE BY THIS AUTHOR? I think the problem is, I really like the world and the characters, but the execution of their stories and the prose itself lets the books down. A lot of these are problems I also had with Clayton's THE MARVELLERS, so I think it will have to depend entirely on what her next books are.
eARC received from Gollancz via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This title released on the 14th February 2023.
LAST REVIEW
1: THE BELLES ★★★★☆
2: THE EVERLASTING ROSE ★★★☆☆
1: THE MARVELLERS ★★★☆☆
May 6, 2023
The beauty trials takes place four years after the events of the everlasting rose. Sophia is a prisoner in the everlasting rose, living semi lavishly with baths, makeup and food. This books POV is from Edel, not Camille. Edel is a very angry character, throughout all the books she has a fiery temper and hates the way the belles are being treated. Edel has always aspired to be something else, she’s never like being a belle. I wouldn’t want to have to live that way, constantly bound by rules, constantly feeding people’s obsession with being beautiful, using up your own energy and arcana to make other people thrive. Queen Charlotte decides to enact the beauty trials, a severe and challenging beauty competition to find the next queen of Orleans. Things are uneasy in a Orleans, people are protesting and rioting, wanting Sophia freed, wanting more beauty work, the belles are in tea houses earning wages and taking appointments two times a week, which as you can guess, doesn’t sit well with people. The people in this book are extremely vain and greedy, used to changing their appearance once a week or more. It’s ridiculous people could be so vain. Why this book takes places four years later, or why it’s Edel who is the main character is beyond me. Either way, it was a good choice. Camille was an excellent character, determined and unruly. Edel is more of a fiery firecracker, like a time bomb waiting to tomorrow at the right moment on the right person. She has more determination, more fight to achieve what she wants, to free all belles from beauty work. In this book it’s discovered that you don’t actually need all the tools that the belles use or make someone beautiful, it’s all just a facade, you only need their blood. Thanks to Camille revealing secrets to Auguste Fabry, this secret falls into the wrong hands. Sophia’s hands. They bleed the belles like cattle, killing some and damaging some permanently. Edge is determined to find all the belles and save them. So, the beauty trails, there’s three trials, eight competitors. Is starts with the pomegranate leaves, all are welcome to enter and drink the elixir, eight are chosen, marked with a belle rose on their cheeks, the rest die. Nobody wants Edel to win, people have turned on the belles. How the belles are treated in this book is absolutely disgusting. The people of Orleans should be blessed they have the belles in the first place. Without them they have nothing, no beauty, not beautiful hair or eyes, nothing. Instead they use them like cattle for their blood. The anointed eight are the ones who compete for the crown. The trials test each person, ones a maze in the sky, the other is in the grottos where death is never far behind, the final one is in the dark forest where the belles are born. This book was good but felt a bit rushed at times. Honestly with how the end was going, I felt there could be a fourth book. I will say there was a good twist near the end of the book, it’s not surprising really, with how people change their looks in this book it should’ve been seen coming. I was pleasantly surprised. Let me out it this way, Sophia gets what she deserves. A good book and good series with lush descriptive writing that makes you feel as if you’re in their world.
January 22, 2023
I absolutely loved the first Belles book, it was one of the first books I was granted an ARC on NetGalley for and I adored it. The sumptuous language, the world-building, the interesting premise and the plot were all top-notch and I was so excited to read the next in the series. Then I read The Everlasting Rose and was… disappointed. It felt very rushed, although the Dhonielle Clayton does explain that this had to change from a trilogy to a duology due to personal circumstances which was fair enough, but I just felt it was a real shame. Imagine my excitement to then be granted access to The Beauty Trials: ‘an all-new story’ set in the Universe of the Belles.
Part of my problem with this book was that everything I had read made it sound like it was a new story set in the same Universe as the duology. I read the 2nd Belles book 2 years ago (and it published 4 years ago), but I didn’t think I needed to re-read or check a synopsis as I remembered the broad-brush strokes of the Universe. I was incorrect - this is very much the third book in the Belles series just with a different narrator, and 30% of the way in I had to look up a synopsis to remember specific events and side-characters that were being referenced. Usually in a series, an author tries to help the reader out by reminding them of certain events or characters and give a little backstory as we go along. This unfortunately is not the case here and I really recommend readers go back and look at the other books before starting with this one.
My usual complaint with books is that they are too long, my most used reviewer phrase is ‘needs some editing to cut it down’, so I go very much against the grain by saying that I wanted more from this story. The plot of The Beauty Trials is really exciting: as the City of Orleans is imploding, an age-old tradition of The Beauty Trials is resurrected to declare the new Queen. Unfortunately, the whole book felt so rushed (just the same as Book 2 did), which was really disappointing. We hardly know anything about the other 7 competitors in the trials and this makes for low stakes when some of them are eventually killed off. Each of the trials only get a few chapters at the most and I would have loved more detail and more to happen in each one - particularly the first and last tasks which felt barely fleshed out. I did like that it was a self-contained story without much of a cliff-hanger ending, but I honestly wouldn’t have minded another 100 or so pages, or even another book to have made this story feel fleshed out. There were also some plot reveals and twists that felt *very* similar to events that happened in the other books, and I saw one twist coming a mile off for this very reason.
Overall, do not read this book without reminding yourself of what happened in the previous Belle books! There’s a great story here but I think it needed expositional reminders and more details about the tasks and characters to make it a 5 star read. Thank you to NetGalley and Orion Publishing Group – Gollancz for the chance to read the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
For more of my reviews check out www.kindig.co.uk
Part of my problem with this book was that everything I had read made it sound like it was a new story set in the same Universe as the duology. I read the 2nd Belles book 2 years ago (and it published 4 years ago), but I didn’t think I needed to re-read or check a synopsis as I remembered the broad-brush strokes of the Universe. I was incorrect - this is very much the third book in the Belles series just with a different narrator, and 30% of the way in I had to look up a synopsis to remember specific events and side-characters that were being referenced. Usually in a series, an author tries to help the reader out by reminding them of certain events or characters and give a little backstory as we go along. This unfortunately is not the case here and I really recommend readers go back and look at the other books before starting with this one.
My usual complaint with books is that they are too long, my most used reviewer phrase is ‘needs some editing to cut it down’, so I go very much against the grain by saying that I wanted more from this story. The plot of The Beauty Trials is really exciting: as the City of Orleans is imploding, an age-old tradition of The Beauty Trials is resurrected to declare the new Queen. Unfortunately, the whole book felt so rushed (just the same as Book 2 did), which was really disappointing. We hardly know anything about the other 7 competitors in the trials and this makes for low stakes when some of them are eventually killed off. Each of the trials only get a few chapters at the most and I would have loved more detail and more to happen in each one - particularly the first and last tasks which felt barely fleshed out. I did like that it was a self-contained story without much of a cliff-hanger ending, but I honestly wouldn’t have minded another 100 or so pages, or even another book to have made this story feel fleshed out. There were also some plot reveals and twists that felt *very* similar to events that happened in the other books, and I saw one twist coming a mile off for this very reason.
Overall, do not read this book without reminding yourself of what happened in the previous Belle books! There’s a great story here but I think it needed expositional reminders and more details about the tasks and characters to make it a 5 star read. Thank you to NetGalley and Orion Publishing Group – Gollancz for the chance to read the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
For more of my reviews check out www.kindig.co.uk
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