I loved Our Infinite Fates, so when I saw Laura Stevens was coming out with another book, I went wild with excitement. Laura’s way of telling a story is so compelling, and it keeps you focused. I absolutely loved this retelling of Dorian Gray, and it made me want to re-read the classic. Laura did an amazing job setting the story in today’s times, in a fictional academy called Dorian Drama School. She mixed themes that are extremely important in this day and age for girls struggling with their image, self-love, and acceptance. In the right hands, it can be a very powerful book. Laura condemns the beauty industry that forces women to chase an impossible standard, and she does this in a fast-paced, thrilling mystery retelling. I really enjoyed the ending too. It leaves the door open to the mystery of the painter, and I can’t wait to see what Laura will write next!Personal note (not part of the review): I wish there were no explicit scene in the book. I feel this can make it more difficult for the book to reach its audience. Without the open-door scene, this book could easily be recommended to younger young adults and reach a much wider audience.
Every Exquisite Thing by Laura Steven, (List Price: $15, Wednesday Books, 9781250346797, May 2026)
Reviewed by Erika, Righton Books in St Simons Island, GA