Shaylah Coogan's Reviews > The Beauty of the End

"The Beauty of the End" by Lauren Stienstra is a speculative fiction novel I found to be absolutely fascinating and thought-provoking! The story centers around adopted twin sisters, Charlie and Maggie, who, as young children, learn of the collapse of the global population and how this changes their childhood. Everyone is tested, and for many, they will never be able to have children. For others, their bloodline may only last one, two, or three generations before ending. The same thing is also happening with animals and plant life. A government science-based program comes into place to try to extend generations while using egg and sperm donation, embryo creation, and selective genetics to create babies with a higher generation number.

All of this begins to throw families into disarray as the government program provides financial incentives for those with higher numbers or certain characteristics to have babies, but that doesn't always mean the spouse has a high number as well or has characteristics that will create multiple generations. Higher numbers can also create dangers as women can be trafficked and babies sold. People begin to question their beliefs about love, family, and reproductive ethics. What are people willing to do or overlook to either have a baby or to help save the world?

The story itself is hauntingly beautiful as it explores love, loss, and the intricate tapestry of human connection and the destruction created by human disconnection. Charlie's journey, especially through grief and self-discovery, is poignant and moving and, at times, had me questioning what I would do in this situation.

Stienstra’s character development is masterful. Each character is nuanced and compelling, making their struggles and triumphs feel genuine and impactful. The book has many twists and turns, which kept me reading for more. The surprises were definitely a surprise!

Overall, "The Beauty of the End" is a fantastic book and one I will not soon forget!

Thank you, #NetGalley, #LaurenStienstra, and #LittleA, for the ARC in exchange for my honest review of #TheBeautyoftheEnd . I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.