Title: The Beautiful Ones
Author: Silvia Moreno-Garcia
First published October 24, 2017
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Rating: 3.89
Overview
In Silvia Moreno-Garcia’s latest novel, The Enchanted Ones, readers are transported to a world full of magic and romance. Nina, a young woman struggling to control her telekinetic powers, dreams of joining the Beautiful Ones, the most notable socialites of her city.
With the help of her well-connected cousin, Nina’s debut into high society quickly turns disastrous. That is until Hector Auvray, a talented and charming entertainer arrives in town.
Hector sees Nina’s potential and offers to teach her how to master her powers. As Nina’s talent blossoms, so does her love for Hector.
But their romance is not as perfect as it may seem. Hector is hiding a truth from Nina that threatens to ruin their relationship before it even begins.
The Enchanted Ones is a captivating tale of love, betrayal, and the power of conformity in a world where magic is the ultimate weapon.
About the Author
Silvia Moreno-Garcia is a talented novelist who has penned some well-known works such as Mexican Gothic, Gods of Jade and Shadow, and The Daughter of Doctor Moreau. She is also an accomplished editor with a portfolio that includes the World Fantasy Award-winning anthology, She Walks in Shadows (also known as Cthulhu’s Daughters).
Silvia was born in Mexico but later moved to Canada, where she has found a new home.
Editoral Review
Silvia Moreno-Garcia’s novel, The Beautiful Ones, is a captivating story that delves into themes of love, society, and individuality. Published on October 24, 2017, Moreno-Garcia has succeeded in creating a historical romance with a twist, that offers a breath of fresh air in the genre.
The plot is set in a fictional world reminiscent of the Belle Époque era, featuring three main characters. The story follows Hector, a charming and talented magician who comes back to his hometown after a long absence, Nina, a young woman who moves to the city and attends parties, and Valérie, Hector’s former lover who is now married to a wealthy man.
Within these complex relationships, The Beautiful Ones weaves an intricate tale of deceit, attraction, and secret desires. Moreno-Garcia takes the reader on a journey through the glamorous and ornate world of high society with ease and guides us through the emotional turmoil of the characters trying to navigate their challenges.
One of the most impressive aspects of The Beautiful Ones is Moreno-Garcia’s writing style. The author has a clear talent for creating vivid descriptions that bring the setting to life, and her attention to detail is impressive.
The use of elegant phrasing and her ability to shift between character’s perspectives effectively, make this book a delight to read. The pacing of the book is well-balanced, offering suspense and twists that ensure the story remains exciting throughout.
However, despite its strengths, The Beautiful Ones has a few flaws. The novel is not particularly groundbreaking in terms of its plot structure, and some of the characters’ reactions and decisions can be predictable instead of surprising.
Yet, these flaws are minor in comparison to the depth of the author’s world-building. Moreno-Garcia beautifully highlights the significance of societal expectations through her characters with the added layer of the world’s background of magic where some are born with powers, and some are not.
It is thought-provoking, particularly in the way it deals with themes of personal identity and societal norms that are also relevant in the modern age. There is also commentary on women’s freedom and autonomy, particularly Nina’s character, who refuses to adhere to the traditional expectations of women in the society she is thrust into.
In conclusion, The Beautiful Ones is a stunning novel that will transport readers to an enticing, fantastical world while exploring themes and issues that resonate with them. Silvia Moreno-Garcia has crafted a gorgeous story with complex and memorable characters, an enchanting setting and written with skillful attention to detail.
It is recommended for those who love historical fiction and romance as it will captivate readers until the very last page. On a rating scale of 1 to 5, The Beautiful Ones deserves a solid 4.3.
