46 pages • 1 hour read
Beautiful Creatures
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Book Brief
563
Novel • Fiction
Gatlin, South Carolina • Contemporary
2009
YA
12-18 years
HL670L
Super Short Summary
Beautiful Creatures follows Ethan Wate and Lena Duchannes in the Southern town of Gatlin as Lena struggles to control her supernatural powers and faces the destiny of being Claimed for Dark or Light on her 16th birthday. Together, they contend with family secrets, town prejudice, and dark forces, while exploring themes such as fate versus free will and social exclusion. The book contains racist and Southern stereotypes, suicide, mild violence, and biased language about mental health.
Mysterious
Romantic
Fantastical
Emotional
Adventurous
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl captures readers with its atmospheric setting and richly-developed world. The romance between the protagonists is compelling, and the Southern Gothic ambiance adds depth. However, the book's pacing can be uneven, and some secondary characters lack development. Overall, it's an engrossing read for fans of paranormal romance.
Who Should Read Beautiful Creatures?
Fans of Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl are typically readers who enjoy young adult paranormal romance with rich Southern Gothic settings. Comparable to Stephanie Meyer's Twilight and Cassandra Clare's The Mortal Instruments, these readers revel in tales blending magic, mystery, and forbidden love.
Lena Duchannes
Lena Duchannes
Lena is a Caster struggling with her magical powers and the looming fear of being Claimed for Dark on her 16th birthday. She experiences bullying at school but finds strength through her relationship with Ethan.
Macon Ravenwood
Macon Ravenwood
Macon is a mysterious and reclusive figure in Gatlin, serving as a mentor and protector to Lena. Although he is an Incubus, his actions reveal a deeper commitment to Lena's safety.
Amma Treadeau
Amma Treadeau
Amma acts as a mentor to Ethan, helping to raise him after his mother's death. She practices voodoo and possesses the ability to see the future, offering guidance while remaining wary of Ethan's relationship with Lena.
563
Novel • Fiction
Gatlin, South Carolina • Contemporary
2009
YA
12-18 years
HL670L
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