A review by savvylit
Beautyland by Marie-Helene Bertino

emotional hopeful reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Simultaneously heartbreaking and heartwarming, Beautyland is an exceptional novel. With a poet's clarity, Bertino writes astute observations about humankind that range from devastating to comic to astonishing. The characterization in Beautyland is rich and empathetic. I absolutely loved Adina, Toni, Térèse, and Dominic. The nuances of their familial and platonic love are remarkable.

If you'd like to read a book that refuses to shy away from dark, gritty detail yet leaves you feeling hopeful -- you should read Beautyland as soon as you get a chance.
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