A review by emmreadsbooks
Belle of the Ball by Mari Costa

funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

This is the cutest love triangle graphic novel I've ever read - especially since it's a TRUE TRIANGLE. The art is spectacular and I loved how she stuck to the red and pink color scheme throughout. It really helped her art style show through. And the plot, the plot!! High school is stressful enough without being in a love triangle. This felt like a really mature take on a YA romance - there's no homophobia or trauma shown, just pure cute young sapphic love. Chloe deals with her failing english grade, Belle comes into her own, and Gina copes with the stress of college. And amidst all of this, Belle and Chloe rekindle their relationship from kindergarten. It's like a next level version of high school sweethearts. Also I couldn't get over the mascot? It's just so adorable. This is the quintessential feel-good contemporary graphic novel, perfect for fans of Heartstopper or Unfamiliar.

*Thank you to First Second Books and Hear Our Voices Book Tours for an ARC in exchange for my honest review*