3.79
Part of "Gemma Doyle" series
"A Great and Terrible Beauty" by Libba Bray is a young adult historical fantasy novel that combines elements of mystery, romance, and the supernatural. Set in 1895, the story follows sixteen-year-old Gemma Doyle, who, after the mysterious death of her mother, is sent to the Spence Academy for Young Ladies in England. Gemma's world is turned upside down as she grapples with her mother's death, her own burgeoning powers, and the secrets that have been kept from her. At Spence, she forms a close-knit group of friends, and together they discover an otherworldly realm, where they can indulge their desires and explore their own identities. However, this newfound freedom comes at a cost, as they soon realize that the realm holds dark and dangerous forces that threaten to destroy them. Bray's lush and evocative prose transports readers to the Victorian era, while her complex and well-developed characters make for a compelling and engaging read. The novel explores themes of power, identity, and the consequences of one's actions, as well as the societal expectations placed upon young women during this time period. "A Great and Terrible Beauty" is the first book in the "Gemma Doyle Trilogy," and it sets the stage for a thrilling and captivating series. Fans of historical fiction, fantasy, and coming-of-age stories will find much to love in this novel, which offers a fresh and unique take on the genre. With its intricate plot, richly drawn characters, and atmospheric setting, "A Great and Terrible Beauty" is a must-read for anyone looking for a thrilling and thought-provoking young adult novel...
Holly Black
The Darkest Part of the Forest
In this modern fairy tale, Hazel and her brother Ben live in a town where humans and fae coexist. When a horned boy is discovered in the forest, Hazel must unravel the secrets of her town and her own family to save him. This book shares the gothic atmosphere and dark magic of 'A Great and Terrible Beauty'.
Learn MoreMarie Rutkoski
The Winner's Curse
Kestrel, the daughter of a general in a conquering army, buys a slave named Arin at auction, setting off a chain of events that could change the course of their world. This book features complex characters, political intrigue, and a slow-burning romance, much like 'A Great and Terrible Beauty'.
Learn MoreV.E. Schwab
The Near Witch
When children start disappearing in the small town of Near, rumors spread that the witch who lives in the moor is responsible. Lexi, the protagonist, sets out to uncover the truth and protect her family. This book shares the eerie atmosphere and themes of female power and identity found in 'A Great and Terrible Beauty'.
Learn MoreSamantha Shannon
The Bone Season
In a world where clairvoyants are hunted and imprisoned, Paige Mahoney, a dreamwalker, is captured and taken to Oxford's Sheol I, a prison for clairvoyants. There, she must navigate a dangerous world of politics and power struggles. This book features a richly drawn fantasy world, a strong female protagonist, and a complex plot, much like 'A Great and Terrible Beauty'.
Learn MoreLaura Ruby
The Shadow Cipher
In an alternate New York City, Tess, Theo, and Jaime are trying to solve the Morningstarr cipher, a series of clues left behind by the Morningstarr twins, the city's most famous architects. If they can solve the cipher, they'll win a fortune, but if they can't, the building they call home will be demolished. This book features a richly drawn fantasy world, a diverse cast of characters, and a fast-paced plot, much like 'A Great and Terrible Beauty'.
Learn More