The Belles by Dhonielle Clayton

In Orléans, people are born gray and are considered "damned." Only Belles, like 16-year-old Camellia Beauregard, have the ability to transform them into beautiful beings. Belles are revered and compete to become the queen's favorite, a position of immense power and privilege. Camellia aspires to this role, but upon arriving at court, she uncovers dark secrets about the true nature of her powers and the society she serves. Faced with moral dilemmas and dangerous choices, Camellia must decide whether to uphold the status quo or challenge the system that defines her existence.