Beautiful

This enchanting tale follows two brothers, Miguel and Santiago, exploring themes of beauty, rivalry, and the complexities of familial love in Beautiful.

In Beautiful, Massimo Cuomo weaves a captivating narrative that explores the intricate dynamics of love and rivalry between two brothers, Miguel and Santiago. Miguel's extraordinary beauty captivates everyone around him, leading to a near-obsessive admiration from their parents and countless admirers. Santiago, the older brother, grapples with his feelings of both admiration and envy as he watches Miguel become the center of attention. This constant spotlight on Miguel forces Santiago to confront his own insecurities and the darker aspects of their family dynamics.

Set against the vibrant backdrop of Mexico, Beautiful unfolds with the enchanting elements of magical realism. The story delves deep into the brothers' relationships, revealing the psychological complexities that shape their lives. As Santiago navigates his feelings of neglect and invisibility, he learns that beauty comes with its own burdens, and that everyone carries their own struggles, regardless of outward appearances. The narrative is rich with themes of love, disappointment, and the bittersweet nature of familial bonds.

Cuomo's storytelling brilliantly captures the essence of each character's journey, highlighting the profound impact of beauty on their lives. The novel is not only a tale of rivalry but also a poignant exploration of identity, perception, and the lasting effects of familial love and strife. Through Santiago and Miguel, readers are invited to reflect on their own encounters with beauty and the ways it can shape and define relationships.