A review by heykellyjensen
Rouge by Mona Awad

Awad's books are dense and surreal while also biting and funny, and this one's no exception. It's a critique of the beauty industry and how it preys on women–particularly those who are looking to fill some kind of hole in their lives. For Belle, it's grief and loss. The story is a bit of a take on Persephone and Demeter, with Belle's mother playing a big role throughout the story, despite her death being its exposition. 

I wish it had been a little tighter, as it felt a little excessive at times. I get why, but as a reader, it got a little too on the nose, if you will.

There have been SO many books exploring the beauty industry in the last few years, both fiction and non. This one is in an interesting conversation with NATURAL BEAUTY by Ling Ling Huang, particularly when it comes to the elements of race and identity.