Beast: A Tale of Love and Revenge by Lisa Jensen
Published July 10th 2018 by Candlewick Press
Genres: Fairy Tales, Retellings, Fantasy, Young Adult
Page: 352
Rating: 5 of 5 stars
Review by: Tina
Synopsis
They say Château Beaumont is cursed. But servant-girl Lucie can’t believe such foolishness about handsome Jean-Loup Henri Christian LeNoir, Chevalier de Beaumont, master of the estate. The chevalier's cruelty is soon revealed, however, and Lucie vows to see him suffer. A wisewoman grants her wish, with a spell that transforms Jean-Loup into monstrous-looking Beast, reflecting the monster he is inside.
But Beast is nothing like the chevalier. Jean-Loup would never patiently tend his roses; Jean-Loup would never attempt poetry; Jean-Loup would never express remorse for the wrong done to Lucie. Gradually, Lucie realizes that Beast is an entirely different creature from the handsome chevalier, with a heart more human than Jean-Loup’s ever was.
Review
I am always looking for a good retelling and this tale surpassed my expectation. I was expecting splendor and grace, all the glam known from the Disney classic. I wasn't prepared for the cruelty that comes with the abuse of power and wealth. It felt like reading a dark twisted tale straight from the works of Brothers Grimm.
It is a wonder how stories are told of "the prince as the hero and the Beast as the spell" when in truth the Beast is more deserving of love and beauty. We are often disillusioned by a handsome face instead of recognizing a kind heart, a gentle soul.
I'm in awe and humbled by this clever tale told through the eyes of a lowly chambermaid. Beast is completely captivating, beautifully written, and powerful in truth.
This is interesting! I've never heard of a retelling from a perspective that wasn't Belle or Beast. An outside opinion would be fascinating to read. I'm really glad you shared this!
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I thought so as well~!! I hope you add it to your tbr for next year's read!
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