REVIEW: Becoming Belle by Nuala O'Connor

Genre: Historical Fiction

Publisher: Penguin Books Canada

ISBN: 0735233500

Format: Hardback, Paperback, E-Book

Release Date: 7th August 2018


Links: Goodreads, Amazon.com, Indigo,
B&N, Book Depository

Website


Rating: 6/10


Synopsis:

In 1887, Isabel Bilton is the eldest daughter of a middle-class military family in a small garrison town. By 1891, she is the Countess of Clancarty, dubbed "the peasant countess" by the press, and a member of the Irish aristocracy. Becoming Belle is the story of the four years in between, of her rapid ascent and the people that tried to tear her down.
With only her talent, charm, and determination, Isabel moves to London alone at age nineteen, changes her name to Belle and takes the city by storm. A true bohemian and the star of a double act she performs with her sister, she soon falls passionately in love with William, Viscount Dunlo, a young aristocrat. For Belle, her marriage to William is a dream come true, though his ruthless father makes it clear that he'll stop at nothing to keep her in her place. As their marriage takes center stage in London's courtrooms and in the newspapers, Belle finds herself on trial not only for her wedding vows, but for the very life she's fought so hard to create.


An inherently feminist novel about passion and marriage, Becoming Belle is a celebration of an unstoppable woman ahead of her time.

Review:

**Thank you to PRH Canada for sending me a copy in return for my review**

Becoming Belle is a wonderful story of love, strength, and ambition. The main character, Isabel, moves to London and changes her name to Belle to take the city by storm. She performs with her sister and quickly falls in love with William, a young aristocrat. She ends up on trial and fights for the life she has fought so hard to get.

Isabel was a wonderfully written character. She was strong, determined, and never let anything get in the way of her dreams. She escapes her Mother's oppression and runs off to London to perform; before eventually being joined by her sister. They rely on one another and become one of the most popular acts, where members of the high society visit. 

Isabel eventually changes her name to Belle, who appears much more innocent and naive. She gets herself into some difficult situations, preferring the company of men over women.  She is determined to find true love but still stays true to herself. She looks after herself and makes her own path in life. Despite this, I did find Belle selfish at times but I really enjoyed her strength.

The story was mostly told from Belle's perspective with a few others thrown in. These different perspectives only helped tell the story more and build a better picture. I didn't connect with the main character as much as I was hoping to, but I really enjoyed the storyline which kept me reading until the end. I do wish it was a little more fast-paced, some parts felt a little slow. I really enjoyed reading the chapters about the trial and Belle being in court. It was fascinating reading everyone's statements and their thoughts. 

I've always loved historical fiction and although Becoming Belle isn't one of my favourites, I still enjoyed reading Belle's story. Nuala O'Connor is a wonderful writer with a talent for writing historical fiction. I look forward to reading more of her books.