Book Review: The Beautiful by Renée Ahdieh

If you’ve been searching for a young adult romance that blends slow-burn tension, a touch of danger, and a deliciously gothic atmosphere, then Renée Ahdieh’s The Beautiful might be exactly what your TBR stack needs. This is the first book in a four-book series, and it lays the groundwork for a world full of mystery, magic, and forbidden love.

A Synopsis of The Beautiful

Set in 1872 New Orleans, The Beautiful follows Celine Rousseau, a young dressmaker who flees Paris after a traumatic event in her past. Upon her arrival in New Orleans, she quickly becomes captivated by the city’s decadence and danger.

But New Orleans is no ordinary city—it’s brimming with secrets, shadows, and creatures who lurk in the night. At the heart of it all is Le Cour des Lions, an underground society of power and influence, led by the enigmatic Sebastien Saint Germain. Sebastien is equal parts magnetic and mysterious, the kind of Byronic love interest who makes you lean in closer even though you know you probably shouldn’t.

As Celine gets tangled up in Sebastien’s world, she finds herself caught between passion, danger, and the chilling presence of a killer who stalks the city.

Tropes and Themes You’ll Love

This novel leans heavily into some beloved romance and gothic tropes, including:

• Slow-Burn Romance – The relationship between Celine and Sebastien simmers with tension, attraction, and just enough resistance to make you turn the page in anticipation.

• Enemies-to-Lovers Undertones – Their banter and friction add spice, even though the romance is written as a clean romance.

• Dark Romance Energy – While the book keeps things YA-appropriate, the Gothic vibe and the lurking danger give it that brooding edge.

• Gothic Atmosphere – Shadowy streets, candlelit rooms, and whispered secrets set the perfect tone.

• Paranormal Romance – There’s more than just romance here—supernatural elements are threaded throughout, hinting at the darker forces at play in New Orleans.

Dual POVs: A Story Told from Two Sides

One of the unique aspects of The Beautiful is its dual POV. While most of the story is told from Celine’s perspective, readers also get chilling interludes from the unnamed villain. These sections add a sinister edge, keeping you guessing and leaning into the mystery until the very end—when the identity is finally revealed.

Artist: artjake

Setting the Mood: Gothic New Orleans

What really makes The Beautiful stand out is its setting. 1870s New Orleans drips with mysticism, cultural richness, and supernatural allure. Ahdieh’s writing captures the city’s blend of elegance and eeriness perfectly, giving the story an atmospheric, gothic romance feel. It’s the kind of book that makes you want to light a candle, curl up under a blanket, and sink into its shadowy world.

Writing Style: Accessible Yet Lush

Renée Ahdieh’s prose is lush without being overwhelming. It’s easy to read, yet layered with rich description that brings the city and its characters to life. For readers who love historical settings but don’t want overly dense writing, The Beautiful strikes the perfect balance.

Who Should Read The Beautiful?

You’ll love this book if you enjoy:

✔ Young adult romance that’s swoony but clean

✔ Gothic romance full of atmosphere and intrigue

✔ Paranormal romance with supernatural twists

✔ Historical settings that feel immersive and enchanting

✔ Slow-burn romances with dark, brooding heroes

You might not enjoy this book if:

✘ You prefer fast-paced, action-heavy stories (this one simmers slowly before it builds)

✘ You want explicit romance (the romance here is clean and YA-appropriate)

✘ You dislike cliffhangers (since this is book one in a series, the ending leaves room for more)

Final Thoughts

The Beautiful is a captivating start to a gothic romance series that feels both timeless and fresh. With its rich setting, slow-burn romance, and supernatural intrigue, it’s perfect for readers who love their young adult romance with a hint of darkness and plenty of atmosphere.

If you’re ready to be swept away into 1870s New Orleans—where every shadow might hide a secret—this book is calling your name.