SPANISH FORT, Ala. — In her novel, “A Great and Terrible Beauty”, Libba Bray writes of a spunky 16-year-old girl, Gemma Doyle, during the mid-1890s.

Living in India, Gemma's life is forever changed by the suicide of her mother, which Gemma witnesses in a frightening vision. These visions continue as Miss Doyle is sent to Spence, an academy for girls in England. Here at Spence, Gemma meets and befriends timid Ann, bold

Felicity, and beautiful Pippa. She is also introduced to Kartik, a mysterious and intriguing Indian boy who warns her against the visions. Using Gemma's new found powers, the four girls discover a way to visit a magical world.

Throughout their adventures, the girls learn of Gemma's destiny to forever change the world as they know it.

Bray is one of the few authors who I believe accurately captures the complex world of friendship.

Her characters possess distinct personalities complete with flaws and problems, and the relationships between them are not idealized or artificial.

Libba Bray's honest portrayal of people and friendship absorbs the reader and is the highlight of her work.

“A Great and Terrible Beauty” is the first in a trilogy that promises to provide a wonderful reading experience.

Editor’s note: Each week the Spanish Fort Sun will feature book reviews by students at Spanish Fort High School.