Becoming Belle

Synopsis

'Luminous' SEBASTIAN BARRY

'Incandescent characters and mellifluous prose' LISA CAREY

'Reminiscent of Edith Wharton at her very best' LIZ NUGENT
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The true story of a woman ahead of her time . . .

In 1887, Isabel Bilton is the eldest of three daughters of a middle-class military family, growing up 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 Belle's rapid ascent and the people that tried to tear her down.

Reimagined by a novelist at the height of her powers, Belle is an unforgettable woman. Set against an absorbing portrait of Victorian London, hers is a timeless rags-to-riches story a la Becky Sharpe.
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Praise for BECOMING BELLE

'Nuala O'Connor has the thrilling ability to step back nimbly and enter the deep dance of time. This is a hidden history laid luminously before us of an exultant Anglo-Irish woman navigating the dark shoals and the bright fields of a life' SEBASTIAN BARRY, award-winning author of The Secret Scripture and Days Without End

'Becoming Belle is so mesmerizing you will be distraught when it ends.O'Connor has resurrected a fiery, inexorable woman who rewrites the script on a stage supposedly ruled by men. Sensual, witty, daring, and unapologetically forward.' Lisa Carey, author of The Stolen Child

'Belle's determination to live her life on her own terms and in defiance of her times makes her a fascinating subject' Irish Central

'Masterful storytelling! I was putty in Nuala O'Connor's hands. She made the unsinkable Belle Bilton and her down-to-earth sister Flo real to me, and brought 1880's London to my living room. Encore! Encore!' Lynn Cullen, bestselling author of Mrs. Poe

'A glorious novel in which Belle Bilton and 19th century London are brought roaring to life with exquisite period detail' Hazel Gaynor, New York Times bestselling author of A Memory of Violets

'Thoroughly engrossing and entertaining read' Liz Nugent

'Thrillingly dramatic and achingly moving and profoundly resonant into this present era' Robert Olen Butler, author of A Good Scent from a Strange Mountain

'O'Connor gently unfolds Belle's tale in a manner that is compelling and disarming. The ambience may be Victorian elegance but the sheer honesty of O'Connor's writing is sensual, authentic and earthy. A delight!' Rose Servitova, author of The Longbourn Letters

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Summary

Chapter 1: The Belle Within

Summary: Introduces the concept of "Belle," an archetype of beauty and grace that transcends physical appearance. Examines how societal pressures and expectations can distort our self-perception and prevent us from embracing our inner Belle.

Example: A young woman named Sarah struggles with body image issues due to society's narrow definition of beauty. She believes she falls short of these standards and feels insecure.

Chapter 2: The Path to Beauty

Summary: Outlines the journey of transformation towards becoming Belle. Emphasizes the importance of self-love, self-acceptance, and developing a positive mindset that appreciates our unique qualities.

Example: Sarah starts practicing affirmations and focusing on her strengths. She gradually learns to appreciate her body and sees herself as beautiful and worthy.

Chapter 3: The Power of Self-Expression

Summary: Explores the connection between beauty and self-expression. Encourages individuals to engage in activities that ignite their passions and spark joy, as this fosters a sense of fulfillment and radiance.

Example: Sarah discovers her love for dancing and joins a dance class. Through dance, she finds a way to express herself authentically and feels confident and beautiful.

Chapter 4: The Wisdom of Your Heart

Summary: Highlights the importance of intuition and trusting our gut feelings. Believing in our own judgment and making decisions that align with our values enhances our inner beauty and guides us towards our true potential.

Example: Sarah faces a difficult decision regarding her career. After careful reflection, she listens to her inner voice and chooses the path that feels right, even though it may not be the popular choice.

Chapter 5: The Grace of Acceptance

Summary: Emphasizes the beauty that comes from accepting ourselves and others as we are. By embracing our imperfections and celebrating our differences, we cultivate compassion and kindness.

Example: Sarah learns to accept her own flaws and those of others. She realizes that beauty is not about being perfect but about embracing the fullness of our human experience.

Chapter 6: The Beauty of Empowerment

Summary: Explores the transformative power of empowerment. Encourages individuals to step into their power and use their voices to make a positive impact on the world. Inner beauty shines through when we stand up for what we believe in and contribute to the greater good.

Example: Sarah joins an advocacy group that supports women's rights. By using her voice and taking action, she gains a sense of purpose and empowers herself and others.

Chapter 7: The Radiance of Joy

Summary: Highlights the contagious nature of joy and its ability to elevate our beauty. Encourages individuals to find joy in the simple moments of life and to surround themselves with people who bring them happiness.

Example: Sarah realizes that spending time with her loved ones and indulging in activities that bring her joy fills her with a radiant glow that others can't help but notice.