Beauty of the Beast

"Wow. I am blown away by this remarkably haunting novel. It’s not a simple fairytale retelling. It explores the depths of pain and happiness, darkness and light. A story that will stay with me.

This was like an epic, gothic novel from decades past. We are catapulted to a different time where descriptions seized you and true love in all its dramatic glory was revered. I couldn’t believe how invested I was in their story, and I don’t think I can justify it in words.

The images throughout were haunting and beautiful. They’re so well done, and unique, and awe-inspiring. I highlighted half the novel with beautiful imagery.

I’m going to reread this one because I feel there’s still so much to discover in it. There’s much more here than one read through can capture. At the end of this retelling, it becomes a story of imperfections and the beauty to be found in them. It’s love conquering all, that childlike dream that morphs into an adult yearning to be accepted and loved for who we are. I can’t wait to see what else this author will cook up." - Alpha Book Club

"Another Fairy Tale grows up, gains some dark realism and proves that without love, even a saint can become a beast from within their heart and that love can make anyone beautiful in the eyes of those who love them. Rachel L. Demeter has shown her writing chops once again as she turns an already dark tale into an edgy read that will rock you back on your heels.

Rachel L. Demeter wants us to feel more than the enchantment of a fairy tale romance. She wants us to react with more than sighs as she adds some dark reality to her tale. All the better to see how love can transform two lonely souls into one powerfully bonded love. I cannot recommend this one enough! Definitely a gem to be uncovered!" - Tome Tender

"Beauty of the Beast by Rachel L. Demeter, is a retelling of the fairy tale, however it is an adult retelling and has many different twists to the plot until the end. I think that this is the best retelling I have read. I loved this book and gave it 5*****stars, but if I could rate it higher would have given it a ten!" - Loriane Oliver, Goodreads

"Beauty of the Beast is not just a simple re-telling of a famous story. Rachel uses it for her framework but builds upon in her own special way so that you don’t really know what to expect next. It definitely is a bit darker, full of pain but of happiness too. We learn that deep down inside we all need and want love, to be accepted for who we are despite what others may see on the outside. We are much more than our physical forms. It was a truly beautiful tale of love, hope, empathy, seeing the good that lies within each of us and trust. The ending of the story left my heart full of joy (and almost praying for a second part to see how they continue to grow as a couple!). Beauty of the Beast is a definite must read, that you will cherish over and over again." - Working Mommy Journal

"Wowser! Adult fairy tale retelling at it's finest! This darker version of Beauty And The Beast was a wonderful read. From start to finish, Ms. Demeter kept me hooked on the characters and the twists and turns of the story.

I instantly fell in love with Adam and Isabelle's characters. Adam was emotionally, and physically, scarred and the turmoil that was in his heart became mine. His emotions and pain were felt deep within me. I felt Isabelle's inner struggles and her wants and needs as my own. The passion and sparks that flew between them was absolutely breath taking and I loved every minute of it." - Cafinated Reads

"I’ve read countless fairytale retellings and Beauty of the Beast would have to be in my top 10 favorites. This story is beautifully written with such picturesque details. It teaches you to see past people’s outward appearances and not to judge a book by its cover. This story drew me in right from the prologue. It starts out with the devastating fate of Adam’s family. It was horrible what happened to him as a young boy and it made my heart ache. He grew up scarred, not only physically but emotionally as well. You could feel his pain and heartache as if it were your own. Slowly, Isabelle pulls him from the depths of his despair. Together, they find exactly what they both were missing in their lives.

Beauty of the Beast is a story that not only fans of fairytales and Beauty and the Beast will love, but fans of historical romance will love as well. It’s a story that reminds us that true love will always prevail. It shows us that looks and appearances are superficial and what really matters is the inner qualities of others." - Ctrl, Alt, Books!