"Beautiful Creatures" is the first novel in the Caster Chronicles series by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl. It was published in 2009. The story follows the protagonist, Ethan Wate, a teenage boy living in the small town of Gatlin, South Carolina. He becomes infatuated with a mysterious new girl named Lena Duchannes, who is actually a Caster (a type of supernatural being). The novel explores themes of love, fate, and the struggle between good and evil. As Ethan and Lena's relationship develops, they uncover dark secrets about Lena's family and her destiny. The story is set against the backdrop of the Southern Gothic atmosphere, with elements of magic and mystery woven throughout. "Beautiful Creatures" received praise for its atmospheric setting, compelling characters, and unique take on the supernatural genre. It was adapted into a film in 2013, starring Alden Ehrenreich as Ethan Wate and Alice Englert as Lena Duchannes.