The Belles

Based on your book

The Belles

by Dhonielle Clayton

The Belles takes you to a world where beauty isn't born, it's made – and traded. In the opulent, often unsettling, society of Orleans, a select group of young women called Belles are the only ones who can magically alter people's appearances. Camellia, our protagonist, is one such Belle, striving to be the most coveted of them all. But as she steps into this role, she starts to peel back the glittering veneer of her world, uncovering a dark, visceral truth about the price of beauty and the power structures built upon it. It's a story that feels both lush and claustrophobic, perfect if you enjoy thought-provoking dystopias with a strong female lead digging into deep, uncomfortable secrets.

10 Books similar to 'The Belles'

If you appreciated the lush yet sinister world and the sharp social commentary of The Belles, you're in for a treat. We've gathered books that echo its exploration of societal beauty standards, the dark side of power dynamics, and strong female leads fighting against oppressive systems. Whether you're drawn to the intricate political intrigue, the magical and atmospheric settings, or the compelling journey of self-discovery amidst a flawed society, these recommendations offer similar depths and thrills.

We earn from qualifying purchases through our affiliate partners, including Amazon and Bookshop.org.

Uglies
Uglies

by Scott Westerfeld

This classic dystopian novel directly tackles societal beauty standards and the dark side of conformity, much like "The Belles." Readers will appreciate the strong female lead's journey of discovery and rebellion against a system that dictates physical perfection and suppresses individuality.

The Cruel Prince
The Cruel Prince

by Holly Black

Fans of "The Belles" will enjoy this lush, dangerous magical world filled with intricate political intrigue and power dynamics, reminiscent of the opulent yet sinister court of Orleans. The protagonist's struggle for agency and survival in a world not her own will strongly resonate.

Scythe
Scythe

by Neal Shusterman

This thought-provoking dystopian series explores the moral complexities and corruption inherent in a society that has overcome natural limitations, much like "The Belles" examines the cost of artificial beauty. It delves into power, morality, and the difficult choices individuals make within a flawed system.

Caraval
Caraval

by Stephanie Garber

This book offers a fantastical, atmospheric world filled with illusions, secrets, and a sense of danger lurking beneath the surface of beauty and spectacle. Fans of "The Belles" will enjoy the magical mystery, the opulent setting, and the strong sisterly bond at its heart.

Amazon Gift Card

Not sure what they've already read?

Let them pick their next favorite with an Amazon Gift Card.

Shop Gift Cards

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Serpent & Dove
Serpent & Dove

by Shelby Mahurin

Readers will find a rich, dark fantasy world with a powerful magic system and a strong female lead navigating dangerous political and religious divides. The intense atmosphere, compelling character dynamics, and themes of forbidden love and hidden truths will appeal to fans.

Graceling

by Kristin Cashore

This novel centers on a young woman with a formidable, often feared, power who must navigate political landscapes and discover her own identity and purpose. It shares the themes of a strong female lead grappling with a unique ability and societal expectations, much like Camellia.

The Hunger Games
The Hunger Games

by Suzanne Collins

A seminal dystopian novel that critiques societal control, the objectification of individuals, and the power of rebellion against an oppressive system. The intense stakes and a resourceful female protagonist fighting for survival will strongly appeal to fans of "The Belles."

The Gilded Wolves
The Gilded Wolves

by Roshani Chokshi

Set in a lavish, magical historical Paris, this book features an intricate magic system, a diverse cast, and a quest filled with ancient puzzles and hidden dangers. The opulent world-building and the exploration of power and identity will resonate with readers.

Mexican Gothic
Mexican Gothic

by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

While an adult horror novel, its intensely atmospheric and disturbing exploration of a decaying, opulent estate filled with dark secrets and body horror elements will appeal to readers who appreciated the darker, more visceral aspects of "The Belles." It's a tale of a strong female lead uncovering disturbing truths.

Circe
Circe

by Madeline Miller

This beautifully written mythological retelling focuses on a powerful female figure who defies expectations and carves her own path, much like Camellia. Its themes of identity, power, and transformation, told with a lyrical voice, will resonate with fans of strong female protagonists.