Book Review: The Everlasting Rose by Dhonielle Clayton

Dhonielle Clayton has created an extravagant world that is built on ideals of beauty to the extent that it is a form of power and privilege among its citizens. It is an extremely startling examination of a world obsessed with beauty, perfectionism, and luxury. If you want to know more about book one, then read my review for The Belles!

The Everlasting Rose picks up three days after Camellia, Amber, and Rémy escape the palace and are now in the Spice Isles with Edel. They are desperately searching for Princess Charlotte—now recovered thanks to Camellia and Amber’s healing—so she can rightfully reclaim her throne and end Sophia’s reign of terror. Camellia is determined to make this happen by any means necessary. She soon realizes that she will need help to accomplish this goal. Camellia finds allies in The Iron Ladies, a rebel group that rejects beauty ideals, and in those she left behind when she was forced to flee. Armed with her powers, allies, and courage, Camellia is ready to have one final showdown with Sophia.

• I really enjoyed learning more about the history and origin of the Belles. It gave me a more clearer picture of who they are and why they are so revered in this world. We also see a couple of the Belles expand their abilities in ways that have never been done before.
• Since Camellia and her cohorts are on the run, we get to explore more of the Kingdom of Orléans. Each island is reflective of their trade. They have their own subculture of beauty and fashion trends, but are just as lavish as The Imperial Island.
• This duology is female dominated with a few male characters playing supporting roles. It’s women who are leading and changing Orléans. This feature helps the duology stand out from other YA fantasy novels.
• There is a romantic subplot in this story involving Camellia! It’s given little development, and some may feel like it’s insta-love, but it’s sweet and genuine.
• I wasn’t surprised by much in the first book, but this one definitely had moments I didn’t expect. I wasn’t prepared to say good-bye to some characters.
• The narrative is more evenly paced this time around. The plot moves quickly and kept me engaged throughout.

• The Iron Ladies are a great addition to the story, but I wish we had more time with them and their way of life. Their world is the complete opposite of what Orléans is like. This striking contrast would have been interesting to further explore.
• I have mixed feelings about the ending. The central plot is resolved, and if it was left at that I would have been satisfied. However, the epilogue reveals a very important development that raises questions about the future of Orléans. It definitely leaves an opening to continue telling this story.

Final thoughts: The Everlasting Rose is a darkly alluring, high-stakes sequel full of surprises, new characters, and drama that has a thrilling and climactic end.

Thank you to Disney Book Group/Freeform for sending us an e-ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review!