Title: Beast: A Tale of Love and Revenge
Author: Lisa Jensen
First published July 10, 2018
337 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780763688806 (ISBN10: 0763688800)
Rating: 3.14
Overview
Lisa Jensen’s captivating novel, Beast: A Tale of Love and Revenge, takes you on a journey that will challenge your beliefs about love and appearances. Lucie, a servant-girl at Château Beaumont, was certain that the estate’s master, Jean-Loup Christian Henri LeNoir, Chevalier de Beaumont, was not cursed.
But when she discovers his true nature, she seeks revenge. Lucie’s wish is granted by a wisewoman, who transforms Jean-Loup into a beastly creature that reflects his inner monster.
However, Lucie soon realizes that the Beast is not the same as the cruel Chevalier. Beast is kind, gentle, and has a heart that Jean-Loup never possessed.
But their newfound happiness is threatened when an innocent beauty arrives at the château with the power to break the spell. Jensen weaves magic and fierce emotion into this multilayered novel that will make you question everything you thought you knew about beauty, beastliness, and happily ever after.
About the Author
I’ve had quite a diverse career, trying my hand at painting pottery, selling movie tickets and books, drawing cartoons, and even crafting fabric dolls. But now, I am fortunate enough to pursue my passion for writing full-time, with the added bonus of flexible hours and no dress code! You can find my movie reviews on Rotten Tomatoes, and I am proud to have published several novels.
“Beast: A Tale of Love and Revenge” was released in 2018 by Candlewick, while “Alias Hook,” a historical/fantasy novel, was published by Thomas Dunne Books in July 2014. I also wrote a historical pirate novel called “The Witch From the Sea,” which was published in 2001.
Connect with me on Facebook to stay updated on my latest projects!
Editoral Review
Beast: A Tale of Love and Revenge by Lisa Jensen is a riveting novel that masterfully blends elements of fantasy, romance, and historical fiction to create an unforgettable story. Jensen, who has previously written for both television and film, demonstrates a keen understanding of storytelling and character development that elevates this work above typical genre fare.
At its core, Beast is a retelling of the classic fairytale of Beauty and the Beast, but with a dark and twisty edge. The story follows Lucie, a young maidservant who is forced to flee her village after a tragic incident.
She finds refuge in an enchanted castle inhabited by a terrifying Beast and his band of misfit servants. However, as she gets to know the Beast and learns about the curse that has befallen him, Lucie realizes that he may not be the monster everyone believes him to be.
Together, they must navigate the treacherous waters of love, revenge, and redemption in a world that has little room for second chances. Jensen’s prose is lush and atmospheric, transporting the reader to a bygone era where magic and superstition held sway.
She has created a vivid and fully realized world, filled with memorable characters and breathtaking set pieces. From the shadowy forests to the opulent Castle du Coeur, the setting of the novel is a character in its own right, serving as both backdrop and catalyst for the drama that unfolds.
One of the strengths of Beast is the way in which Jensen subverts traditional gender roles and explores themes of power and agency. Lucie is no damsel in distress, but a fierce and resourceful young woman who is determined to carve out a better life for herself.
The Beast, too, is more than just a brute, but a complicated and nuanced character whose anger and bitterness are a result of his own past traumas. Together, they challenge each other’s assumptions and preconceptions, and find hope in the most unlikely of places.
That being said, there are some flaws to the novel. The pacing is occasionally uneven, with certain sections dragging while others feel rushed.
Additionally, some of the plot twists and reveals may be predictable to readers familiar with the fairytale genre. However, these quibbles are minor in the grand scheme of things, and do little to detract from the overall impact of the book.
In conclusion, Beast: A Tale of Love and Revenge is a powerful and enchanting novel that will appeal to readers of all ages. With its compelling characters, richly imagined world, and resonant themes, it is a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring appeal of fairytales.
Lisa Jensen has created a modern classic that deserves to be read and savored for years to come. Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.
While not perfect, Beast is a masterful retelling of a beloved fairytale that will delight and enchant readers.
