Thank you NetGalley for a free e-galley of this book in exchange for an honest review.

"Flawless Girls" by Anna-Marie McLemore is a mesmerizing and unsettling YA novel that masterfully intertwines elements of horror and romance. The narrative follows the Soler sisters, Renata and Isla, who are thrust into the world of the Alarie House, a prestigious finishing school known for producing refined young ladies. However, the school's eerie atmosphere and the transformation of Renata into someone unrecognizably polite and possibly dangerous set the stage for a chilling exploration of identity, societal expectations, and the dark underbelly of elitism.

McLemore's storytelling is taut and evocative, creating an atmosphere that is both opulent and ominous. The contrast between the rebellious, spirited Isla and the changed Renata offers a compelling look into how environments like the Alarie House can suppress and alter individuality. The author's portrayal of the school, with its prim white dresses and strict codes of conduct, serves as a perfect setting for the unraveling mystery and Isla's desperate search for answers about her sister's transformation and sudden disappearance.

The novel's strength lies in its rich characterization and the intricate dynamics between the characters. Isla's determination to uncover the truth about the Alarie House and save her sister is portrayed with depth and conviction, making her journey both relatable and inspiring. The introduction of a mysterious and conniving character who may be controlling or executing the house's sinister motives adds a layer of intrigue and suspense to the narrative.

However, the blend of horror and romance might not appeal to all readers, particularly those who prefer more conventional takes on either genre. The novel's dark themes and the unsettling transformation of Renata might be intense for some younger readers.

"Flawless Girls" is a stunning YA novel that showcases Anna-Marie McLemore's talent for weaving a story that is as beautiful as it is haunting. The book is a testament to the author's ability to create a narrative that is both gripping and thought-provoking, exploring themes of autonomy, societal pressure, and the price of perfection. This novel is an excellent choice for readers who enjoy stories that challenge conventions and delve into the darker aspects of adolescence and self-discovery.

I loved the story, the world building and meeting the different characters. I felt completely immersed in the story and couldn't stop reading it. Absolutely loved and can't wait for it to come out for tethers to read and enjoy as well

This will probably be a great fit for some readers, just not me. I was expecting more of a traditional thriller mystery, and this felt more like a fantasy narrative. About 10% into the book, it felt like nothing had really happened. The ambiguity around setting and time didn't help in grounding the story. Again, there are definitely readers who will love it, but it wasn't right for me.

I really liked this book and I think McLemore is a fantastic writer. I do think, however, that it would do better marketed to adults than to teens. It is a great book if you like sinister vibes, magical realism, and unexplained happenings, but I think it is hard to market a book like this to teens because it is hard to explain what it is really about.