In 1872, Celine Rousseau flees from Paris to New Orleans in order to escape her tragic past. She tries to start a new life in service to the Ursuline Convent. However, Celine soon finds herself drawn into the underworld of the La Cour des Lions. A series of gruesome murders seems to follow Celine and soon she worries about everyone close to her. Will life in New Orleans prove more dangerous than Paris?
The Beautiful is an alternate history of New Orleans--one where the paranormal is alive and real and danger lurks around every corner. The story is exciting and a good read for lovers of adventure and fantasy. Celine and her friends are interesting characters and the world building is solid and makes for a good escape. Even with the adventure, the violence and sex is kept to a minimum, making this an appropriate novel for all teen readers.
Recommended ages--13 and up