Belladonna

Belladonna is a captivating coming-of-age story set in rural Northern Italy, exploring friendship, obsession, desire, and betrayal. It delves into the lies we tell to belong and the complexities of human relationships. The novel has received critical acclaim for its raw and tender portrayal of girlhood and its exploration of race and secrets.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 352 pages
\n Publication date: 29 July 2021
\n Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd
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Elle and Isabella's story unfolds against the backdrop of summer, 1956, in their conservative Connecticut town. Isabella, a breath of fresh air with her worldly allure and brazen confidence, captivates Elle from the moment they meet. Their chance encounter leads to an offer to study at the Academy in Italy, a dream come true for both girls. However, their journey takes an unexpected turn when they are lodged in a convent of nuns who have taken a vow of silence. Despite the physical and emotional distance, the two girls form a passionate bond that borders on fragile intimacy. As the year progresses, Bridget's fear of losing Isabella's affections intensifies, driving her to desperate measures to keep her close.

Belladonna is a mesmerizing coming-of-age story set in the picturesque rural landscapes of Northern Italy. Anbara Salam weaves a tale of friendship, obsession, desire, and betrayal, exploring the complexities of human relationships and the lies we tell to belong. The novel delves into themes of race, secrets, and the yearning for acceptance, offering a captivating and thought-provoking exploration of girlhood and the complexities of growing up.

With its lush and languid prose, this sultry coming-of-age tale captures the fractured friendship between Elle and Isabella and the yearnings of girlhood. It explores the complexities of first love, the power of secrets, and the consequences of our actions. The novel's raw and tender portrayal of the girls' journey will steal readers' hearts, leaving them deeply moved and contemplative.

Critics have praised Belladonna for its captivating storytelling and its honest portrayal of the complexities of human relationships. Sharlene Teo, author of Ponti, described the novel as "an enthralling tale of race, secrets, and the desire to belong," noting its "searingly honest coming-of-age story that will steal your heart." The Sunday Mirror praised it as "raw and tender," stating that it "will steal your heart." The Virgin Suicides meets Patricia Highsmith's The Talented Mr. Ripley, with its unputdownable and lush narrative, leaving readers entranced and captivated.

In conclusion, Belladonna is a mesmerizing coming-of-age story that delves into the depths of friendship, obsession, desire, and betrayal. Set against the backdrop of rural Northern Italy, the novel offers a captivating and thought-provoking exploration of girlhood and the complexities of growing up. With its lush prose, raw portrayal, and honest portrayal of human relationships, Belladonna has earned critical acclaim and has stolen the hearts of readers worldwide.

\n Weight: 248g\n
Dimension: 129 x 198 x 27 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780241986745\n \n