Beautiful Monster

Beautiful Monster #1

by Bella Forrest

Note: Alternate/new cover edition for ASIN# B00CJWRN1Q

Liam Swift is a young man Amy has always admired from afar. She's seen his face a thousand times; on the screen and in magazines. He seems unstoppable as his talent and beauty send him hurtling toward becoming a Hollywood legend...

Until one day - in what appears to be a fit of madness - he stuns the world by throwing it all away. Not even the most persistent reporter can fathom the reason behind Liam's decision.

Never in Amy's wildest dreams could she have imagined this God of acting would go on to accept employment at her local boarding school. Or that he'd personally start teaching her drama lessons.

It seems life can't get much better for Amy... until the sound of tortured weeping starts echoing through the thin walls of her dorm room each night, leading her to stumble upon a horrifying secret Liam had hoped to keep hidden forever.

Genres: Vampires, Paranormal, Romance, Paranormal Romance, Young Adult, Fantasy, New Adult

237 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 13, 2013

About the author

UPDATE MARCH 11, 2024:

BELLA IS BACK!

*** New, updated online store at https://BellaForrest.com

*** New books coming soon

*** Possible Film/TV series coming soon

*** Stay up to date by joining our e-mail list at https://BellaForrest.com/join

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Bella Forrest is a lover of fantasy, romance, action, and mystery infused stories with twists you don’t see coming. She has sold over fifteen million books since her first novel was published in 2012.

Check out her website for a full list of her books: https://BellaForrest.com

Official Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/BellaForrest...

Here's a list of some of Bella's books:

DARKLIGHT

Darklight (Book 1)
Darkthirst (Book 2)
Darkworld (Book 3)
Darkblood (Book 4)
Darktide (Book 5)
Darkbirth (Book 6)
Darkfall (Book 7)
Darkwilds (Book 8)
Darkhunt (Book 9)

A LOVE THAT ENDURES (Trilogy)
A Love that Endures 1
A Love that Endures 2
A Love that Endures 3

HARLEY MERLIN AND THE SECRET COVEN

Harley Merlin and the Secret Coven (Book 1)
Harley Merlin and the Mystery Twins (Book 2)
Harley Merlin and the Stolen Magicals (Book 3)
Harley Merlin and the First Ritual (Book 4)
Harley Merlin and the Broken Spell (Book 5)
Harley Merlin and the Cult of Eris (Book 6)
Harley Merlin and the Detector Fix (Book 7)
Harley Merlin and the Challenge of Chaos (Book 8)
Harley Merlin and the Mortal Pact (Book 9)
Finch Merlin and the Fount of Youth (Book 10)
Finch Merlin and the Lost Map (Book 11)
Finch Merlin and the Djinn's Curse (Book 12)
Finch Merlin and the Locked Gateway (Book 13)
Finch Merlin and the Forgotten Kingdom (Book 14)
Finch Merlin and the Everlasting Vow (Book 15)
Finch Merlin and the Blood Tie (Book 16)
Finch Merlin and the Legend of the Luminary
Persie Merlin and Leviathan's Gift (Book 18)
Persie Merlin and the Door to Nowhere (Book 19)
Persie Merlin and the Witch Hunters (Book 20)
Persie Merlin and the Dying Song (Book 21)

THE CHILD THIEF

The Child Thief (Book 1)
Deep Shadows (Book 2)
Thin Lines (Book 3)
Little Lies (Book 4)
Ghost Towns (Book 5)
Zero Hour (Book 6)

HOTBLOODS

Hotbloods (Book 1)
Hotbloods (Book 2): Coldbloods
Hotbloods (Book 3): Renegades
Hotbloods (Book 4): Venturers
Hotbloods (Book 5): Traitors
Hotbloods (Book 6): Allies
Hotbloods (Book 7): Invaders
Hotbloods (Book 8): Stargazers

THE GENDER GAME

The Gender Game (Book 1)
The Gender Secret (Book 2)
The Gender Lie (Book 3)
The Gender War (Book 4)
The Gender Fall (Book 5)
The Gender Plan (Book 6)
The Gender End (Book 7)

THE GIRL WHO DARED TO THINK

The Girl Who Dared to Think (Book 1)
The Girl Who Dared to Stand (Book 2)
The Girl Who Dared to Descend (Book 3)
The Girl Who Dared to Rise (Book 4)
The Girl Who Dared to Lead (Book 5)
The Girl Who Dared to Endure (Book 6
The Girl Who Dared to Fight (Book 7)

A SHADE OF VAMPIRE

Season 1: Derek & Sofia’s story

Books 1 to 7

Season 2: Rose & Caleb’s story

Books 8 to 16

Season 3: The Shade continues with a new hero...

Books 17 to 24

Season 4: A Clan of Novaks

Books 25 to 32

Season 5: A Dawn of Guardians

Books 33 to 41

Season 6: A Gift of Three

Books 42 to 50

Season 7: A Call of Vampires

Books 51 to 59

Season 8: A Voyage of Founders

Books 60 to 68

Season 9: A Birth of Fire

Books 69 to 77

Season 10: An Origin of Vampires
An Origin of Vampires (Book 78)
A Game of Death (Book 79)
A Veil of Dark (Book 80)
A Bringer of Night (Book 81)
A Circle of Nine (Book 82)
A Bender of Spirit (Book 83)
A Memory of Time (Book 84)
A Shard of Soul (Book 85)
A Break of Seals (Book 86)

Season 11: A Shade of Mystery
A Shade of Mystery (Book 87)
An Isle of Mirrors (Book 88)
A Sanctuary of Foes (Book 89)
A Ruler of Clones (Book 90)
A Gate of Light (Book 91)
A Dawn of Worlds (Book 92) ➜ Coming soon!

Reviews

[Candace · Rating 3 out of 5]

It has been a while since I read a Bella Forrest book and this one had been sitting on my Kindle shelf for quite some time. Knowing only that the hero was a vampire, I was sure that this would be one hot, steamy read. After all, vampires are known for their sexual prowess. Right?

Unfortunately for me, this wasn't exactly the salacious sex-fest that I thought I was signing on for. Don't get me wrong, it was a nice story. It just wasn't what I was expecting or what I was in the mood for.

'Beautiful Monster' had a sweet and innocent feel to it. Although there were some serious issues addressed, it was really a story of young love. This is a "rainbows and unicorns" type of vampire story, akin to 'Twilight'.

The heroine, Amy, is an HIV positive teenager that has always dreamed of being an actress. She lives alone with her father, who is a chef at a prestigious acting school. While her father does his best to shelter her from the world, Amy sneaks out to sit in on classes and watch the students at rehearsal.

In an act of spontaneity, Amy auditions for a prestigious scholarship at the academy. When she is chosen, she finally gets the opportunity to live her dream. Her father begrudgingly agrees and she moves into the dorms.

When Amy first sees Liam Swift, she is in awe of him. The famous actor recently left Hollywood to return to his family's school and run it as Headmaster. He is off-limits, but the man of her young fantasies.

Liam is immediately impressed with Amy's natural acting abilities...among other things. Before long, the two strike up a secret romance. A romance of the "PG-13" variety, that is.

However, Liam has a secret. He is a vampire. Once she discovers his secret, Amy pulls away.

I can't say that I ever really grasped the logic here, but Amy viewed his secret as a betrayal. She breaks up with Liam, determined to keep her distance. The reasons for this felt pretty weak to me and I didn't really buy it. It felt contrived.

Meanwhile, Liam's best-friend, Porsche serves as an intermediary. A famous ballerina, Porsche also happens to be HIV positive. This was a little too coincidental for me, but I liked Porsche as a character and thought she brought a lot to the story.

There was a mild sense of danger throughout the story, especially during the second half. The vampire that created Liam seems to be toying with him. As a result, Amy and anyone else that he cares about is in danger.

Overall, this was a nice, sweet story. I liked it, but I had hoped for more. It was a quick read and on a different day this might have been a 4-star read for me. I'm a moody reader. If you're looking for an innocent, coming of age type of story, then this is a great choice. Just don't expect a lot of steam with this one.

Check out more of my reviews at www.bookaddicthaven.com

[Sylvia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am truly grateful to have been asked to read this book for my honest opinion and feedback. I love being a BETA reader and to be asked again, is such an honour. I wish to thank the amazing Bella Forrest, for trusting me and my opinions.

Beautiful Monster is a story about a young girl who has lived a very sheltered and restricted life. You see, Amy is not normal 18 year old, but a teen who has been living with the virus HIV, which she was infected with from the womb. Her mother, died when she was born, and she was left to be raised on a strict lifestyle and home schooled by her father. They struggled throughout the years, with medical bills and making sure that Amy was always healthy and had a "normal" life as much as she could have. But, if anything, "normal" is not what Amy has. She lives and breathes acting and has wanted nothing more than to train at the prestigious boarding school, in which her father is employed at.

Liam Swift is the young man who had it all. Fame, fortune, women, any role he desired and a Hollywood career young actors kill for. Then one day, he throws it all away and abruptly retires to become the Head Master of the very boarding school Amy craves to be at. By chance, Amy stumbles upon an audition for those seeking the scholarship to attend the school and before she knows it, she is soon living the life she has always dreamed of. Acting and being taught by Liam. But, there is more to Liam then meets the eye. A secret so dark that it will have Amy running. Her life, and his, will change forever and it's a secret he cannot bare any longer.

I really enjoyed reading Beautiful Monster. Like Bella Forrest's Shade series, this story is a unique spin on the many paranormal stories out there and I find it to be an easy YA read that was not over the top. The story was simple and told beautifully. It kept me captivated and wanting more, especially after that ending...another cliffhanger EEEEPPPPP!!!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and recommend it to those who are not afraid to read a little something different and get sucked into the world of the strange.

[Carol [Goodreads Addict] · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very sweet story of an 18 year old girl named Amy. Amy is HIV positive, she has been since birth. Her father is a chef for a very prestigious acting school. He raised her as a single parent and home schooled her, keeping Amy at home, safe and protected. Amy and her father live right next door to the school, so while her father was in the kitchens hard at work, Amy would secretly roam the hallways of the school, quietly slipping into the backs of the classrooms and listening in on the classes. You see, Amy has dreamed her entire life of nothing but being an actress. One day, while on her way to a classroom, she takes a wrong turn and finds herself thrust into line to audition for a full scholarship. And who is she to read the audition with but the very handsome, ex-movie star and headmaster of the school, Liam Swift.

Liam has secrets of his own. He was in the prime of his career in Hollywood, a career most actors can only dream of. And he just disappeared from the public eye. Giving up acting to become teacher and headmaster at his Grandfather's acting school. What is Liam hiding? Why does he disappear every night at sunset?

This is a very different paranormal romance from any that I have ever read. Amy has HIV but she is a very strong and brave young woman who wants to achieve her dreams and to fall in love, just like anyone else. And Liam hates what he is. He wants to help his students to be the actors they have dreamed of but he has his own demons to conquer. Together can Liam and Amy be strong enough? The book has a bit of a cliff hanger so I can't wait to see what happens next.

[Tee Loves Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's not often that I come across a vampire story that I can honestly say is something entirely unique and original, but Bella Forrest has done it yet again! I am a HUGE fan of her Shade of Vampire series, and now she's gotten me hooked on her latest tale with the mysterious and sexy Liam Swift!!

With Beautiful Monster, we have a vampire love story that is entrenched in the unforgiving world of theater, with Hollywood heartthrob Liam right at the center. He may have left the fame behind to virtually hide away as headmaster of the prestigious theater school his family founded, but that doesn't mean he's been forgotten. Even Amy, the sweet and determined daughter of the school's chef, couldn't forget his presence, even though she was aware his personality wasn't much to rave about. Home schooled and HIV-positive due to her mother passing the disease during her pregnancy, Amy lived such a sheltered life. I loved her rebellion as she desperately tried to be a part of what she loved most, acting, by sneaking in to watch the classes taught at the school. Your heart goes out to her, because she clearly has a deep love for the art but never believed she could actually get the chance to be more than a spectator.

When fate stepped in and Amy found herself getting the chance of a lifetime, everyone got to see just how much raw talent she had. And of course, she was lucky enough to catch the attention of sexpot Liam, and as he introduced her to the world of acting and theater firsthand, the romance between them just grew naturally from everything they shared together. Liam wasn't quite sharing everything, though, and when Amy discovered exactly what he is, it tore a rift right down the center of their relationship. Now, the part of me that just loves a gorgeous vamp for a leading man was screaming for Amy to just get over it and love his poor lonely soul, but this is also not your typical breed of vampires. Bella Forrest has put her own spin on these immortal beings, giving them an almost shapeshifter-like feel, and that's a lot for a young woman to take in when she's already dealing with a full plate! With the pressures of her newfound acting career, life in the theater, and the shocking revelation of her boyfriend’s late-night transformation, Amy’s world was completely shifting from everything she knew, and she struggled at times to cope with it all. But she was a tough cookie, even when someone from Liam’s past threatened to blow everything sky-high!

With some great unexpected twists leading up to the end of the book, there are some major shake-ups in Liam and Amy’s story that leave you itching to see what’s in store for them next. I for one am very anxious to find out how they will get past the barriers and find their happy ending, but with an enemy still on the loose and Liam’s immortal existence so bleak…it’s going to be one hell of a ride!!

[Savannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was the cover that first captivated me. I felt a pull, a need to discover the story withheld in the loving, embracing expressions. The title just makes it even more intriguing. Though later as you read on, you realize the characters aren't portrayed as described. It doesn't affect the story line, though.
The synopsis grabbed me as well, my love for theater is a great one, vampires and theater! Different, yet curious!

This is one of those fantastical stories where two complete opposites collide and love blossoms right before them. Beautiful Monster makes a completely unique dive into the paranormal world, as this whole story takes place at a popular performing academy. It's one of the biggest performing schools in the nation, and a complete dream school for Amy. Only thing holding her back, her father and her impending doom of HIV.
Amy has been sneaking into the academy pretty much half of her life, when her father leaves for work, who works there as a chef. This very school is what developed her passions for performing and spent all her free time home schooled hours studying different techniques and making friends around the world who share the same ambition.
Amy suffers from a terrible disease and lives a sheltered and poor life but life takes a wild turn when she finds herself backstage during a scholarship program.

Then there's Liam, who is the hot, young, Hollywood grandson of retired school headmaster, and holds a dark, deep, and dangerous secret. Taking place of his grandfather, Liam is responsible for leading the previous stated scholarship program. He is taken aback by a certain participant, absolutely captivated by a graceful performer and decides to cast her as the leading part, Belle.

Who would ever suspect a shy, outsider girl would captivate the heart of Hollywood's most talented heart throb--even one who has the darkest secret of all.


I rated this book 4 1/2 stars.
Beautiful story, with lovable, real characters, and a unique setting. Forrest tells an enchanting story in such a creative, almost poetic manner.

[Ashleyjo · Rating 1 out of 5]

I was a fan of Bella's "Shade" series, but "Beautiful Monster" was a disappointment to say the least.

Authors should take a lesson from this book: NOT everything unique is necessarily good.

A vampire that acts like a wolfie and had a BFF and lover with AIDS may be unique, but it just sucked 1000x worse than any twinkling vampire could possibly ever suck.

The plot... well, I guess there would have to be a plot for me to call it bad, right? There were a few lose themes - a headmaster vampire who's life was more akin to a wolfie paranormal than vampire, a taboo romance with a younger girl who has HIV, acting auditions and roles, a shield paranormal BFF that also happens to be dying of AIDS, and a vampire sire that appears to be pissed about something. But none of these themes ever developed into any plot or real story. It was just a string of people and titles that did little beyond kiss or debate acting/dancing merits. Think "Fame" with a few people labeled as paranormals.

The characters were boring, lacking personality, depth, etc. A death occurred and I skimmed over it not giving two shits, & I'm always crying over book deaths!

The romance was equally as subpar. Really, repulsed by her diseased blood is supposed to be a turn on for readers? Wtf was the author thinking w this whole AIDS & vampire love? When the romance wasn't on a weird repulsed blood turn, it was grade school - eating cookies and chase kisses in secret. Nothing even close to swoon worthy about a crying, cookie-eating, childish vamp!

The author made this book too cheesy, chaste, simpleton, and weird for adults to enjoy; yet, the mature theme of AIDS & taboo element of a headmaster/student sexual relationship ensured it as inappropriate for younger readers. So, I can't say I would recommended this to anyone even if I could find a redeeming quality, which I can't:(

[Nicole · Rating 1 out of 5]

I'm slightly worried that I may have read a COMPLETELY different book to everyone else.

I really wish I could give this book 2 stars but frankly I have read fanfiction that is written better than Beautiful Monster with better language, better characters and a cohesive story with few plot holes. Now don't get me wrong, I really admire the whole self publishing thing, that is seriously cool... But... Still! I had a lot of hopes for this story.

*Spoilers*

Firstly, the idea of the headmaster, Liam Swift, being a human during the day and then dying every night and becoming a vampire is different and cool. That idea alone piqued my interest . Although there was so much room to grow with this idea, it almost felt like the vampirism wasn't much of a big deal in the story itself. But isn't it supposed to be the big secret, the big dramatic highlight that will bring our main characters together, make them realise how much they need/want/lust/love each other?
Didn't really feel like it.

It also seemed really interesting when Bella Forrest made the protagonist HIV positive. The consequential death sentence placed on her head made it seem like Liam's and Amy's relationship was doomed for failure from the very beginning, him being immortal and all and Amy potentially going to die very soon. But really that turned out to come in handy as Amy's blood held no appeal to our blood thirsty hottie.

I think that it's wonderfully that Bella Forrest tried to incorporate this very serious, difficult, sad and painful disease into the story, but, it just didn't feel very convincing with Amy being homeschooled for so long in her life and repeatedly telling us how she could be so ill and not even able to get of bed, but suddenly, once she has her scholarship to the drama academy, there hardly is any mention about her health and MONTHS go by and nothing is mentioned when before she was always ill. I won't pretend I know anything about what it truly means to be HIV positive etc - for all I know this is completely how sufferers feel... But, I don't know, in the book it just didn't feel authentic.

On a plus, I loved that for once, the main female character, Amy, didn't swoon and fall at the handsome vampire's feet when she discovered his secret, for once the protagonist actually bolted and freaked, until later in the story when of course the 180 occurs and suddenly Amy is all 'who cares if you is vampire! You is HOT!'
*end of spoiler *
I bought this book for £7.99 I think. I really wish I hadn't gotten the hard copy because now I fell slightly embarrassed to have it on my shelf and know that I actually spent time to read and finish it. If you still want to read this book just get the kindle version, don't buy a hard copy, I really don't want you to be disappointed and have spent money on it like I did.

I will finish on a happy note in that I did pretty much love the character Porsche, the ballerina who is an epic best friend and the best kind of supernatural. If you read this book, read it for her, seriously she was the only saving grace of the entire thing.

[Carrie (Book Fairy) Fort · Rating 5 out of 5]

Favourite Line “You aren’t going to leave and I don’t have to mourn what would have been”

What a great book! Amy is such a amazing strong, beautiful, loving character that I fell in love with. She will not let her life's circumstances get her down! It's really amazing!! She wants to act and by chance she meets Liam a oh so sexy headmaster of a great acting school who is also a Vampire!!
This story was a page turner that had me wrapped in it from page one! I am dying for the next one!! BRAVO MS. FORREST

I was given this book for an honest review

FIVE THESPIAN FAIRIES

[Fre06 Begum · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was just strange I felt like it was a different Bella Forrest who wrote this book I just felt no connection or anything to any of the characters a far cry from her Shades series.

[Mefab ⋆˚✿˖° · Rating 2 out of 5]

...

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic! When it comes to vampires, Bella Forrest definitely knows what she's doing! Goodness.

~~~

Going into this, I was not aware that it was a vampire story. That's probably silly, considering this is BELLA FORREST and the title is Beautiful Monster. It just makes sense. So, I didn't know. But since it was written by Bella, I was okay with it. Actually, I was quite happy about it. Why? Because Bella Forrest writes the most kickass vampire stories ever.

I honestly don't know how she does it. Her world building was great, the vampire aspects not dry and boring, but interesting and new. And I'm not even using "interesting" as a placeholder for something else. I SERIOUSLY mean that whenever we learned more about Liam's vampire ways, I got more and more drawn in, taking the information to memory and salivating for more.

Character Rundown:
Amy: She's not the worst character I've ever come across. Actually, she was a pretty good one. Wise, but not unbelievably so. She still had her moments of teenage break downs. I also loved her relationship with her father. And with Porsche. Amy wasn't one of those protagonists that dropped everything once she met the guy. Amy held her own, and I really liked seeing her like that.

Liam: Smexy vampire, anyone? WELL THIS ONE'S MINE, so hands off. ;) What I loved most about Liam was how passionate he was about acting. It was like eating or breathing to him--and he cherished it. Liam isn't one of those male protags whose life revolves around his new girl, either. Sure, she was important, but he still had other things and people he cared about. And I LOVED it. And him. Oh, Liam. Yes. I have love here.

Plot. Fabulous. When it comes to vampires, Bella Forrest KNOWS. She keeps the story flowing and doesn't leave much room to get bored at all. I admit, though, that the big thing in here wasn't TOO big. The action wasn't VERY great. But since I'm me, and that part was so wonderful in other aspects, it didn't really take much--if anything--away from the story. Also, Bella Forrest's writing? Fantastic.

Romance. The thing about Liam and Amy's relationship is that they both love each other and all, but they both have their own things, too. Their own friends and things to do. They both share the love of acting, but Liam has Porsche (well, Amy does, too, but that's different), and Amy has Sarah, and...they just have their own things. Their relationship is just so endearing. It has substance to it. I plan on rooting for these two until the end.

The ending. Oh, goodness, Bella. WHY did you have to do this? WHHHHHY?!?! I am sitting here, and I want book 2 and just...ahhh. Cliffhanger, people. It's not TERRIBLE, but it leaves me counting the days until the next book is in my hands and being devoured, page by page.

Overall, Bella Forrest has yet again written a vampire story that has drawn me in and held me captive from the very first page to the very last. I don't know how she does it, but I hope she never stops. Do I recommend this? Heck the flipping yes. Goodness. Heck to the yes.

This review was originally posted on Bookish, and you can find more from me there!

You can also find more from me on my blog: Just a Booklover

[Hbeebti · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 This was pretty good. I really liked the how the vampires are described. Human during the day and they die at night and become a vampire. I really liked Liam but Amy was just alright. She got on my nerves sometimes. Her attitude towards Liam was just stupid and she acted jealous of his immortality and would never admit to it. But would have a snotty remark or thought and then try and pass it off as nothing was bothering her. Overall it wasn't bad.

[Aly · Rating 1 out of 5]

There was nothing exciting that ever happened in this book.
The enemy vampire wasn't even scary
Maybe I was just too old for this book? But gee I'm only 19 and what 11 year old wants to read about a teen girl making love with her head teacher?

[Christina Combs · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked the story and the characters. Not steamy like the cover suggests!

[Nikki · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful monster was about an actor who held a notorious lifestyle in Hollywood and was so talented in acting but then all of a sudden 3 years ago he upped and left that life and became the headmaster of an outstanding private arts school. No one knows why he dumped his high life to run an arts school but that's a secret that the unsuspecting new scholarship student Amy discovers.

Amy is a home schooled student who lives with her overprotective father she doesn't socialise or barely leave the house as her dad is so protective, i guess with good reason because as it turns out, Amy has HIV that she contracted from her mother, who died through childbirth.

This is very obviously a paranormal romance kind of book and whereas most paranormal romance books are shoved straight into the centre of the insta-love stories this one didn't, it touched on so many more levels than just the basic paranormal romance. Firstly it went into great detail about Amy's typical day to day life living with HIV and living with the knowledge her life will eventually deteriorate and she will die a long time before many others her age. It was interesting to read how she coped and the bad days and thoughts and things she experienced going through life and how much it really did affect almost every aspect of her life and when she discovers Porsche who is also suffering HIV she finds a totally kindred spirit, someone she immediately clicks with and doesn't have to explain how or what she's feeling but someone who knows.

Porsche herself is suffering HIV but is a trooper, she's very spirited and opinionated and not afraid to share herself, her and Liam bounce off one another quite teasingly a bit like siblings rather than friends it's quite nice to see a little of Liam that's vulnerable with her and his protective side too.

Liam and Amy have amazing chemistry when they first meet and they soon build on it until it becomes much more than just friendship or support and although there's obstacles between them the manage to find some common ground and finally find someone they relate and bounce off one another.

I'm a little dissapointed in what happened in the epilogue but I guess it was to lead onto further novels.

Overall it was a paranormal romance that explained in a lot more detail about suffering day to day life and living your dreams even though you have an illness you learn to adapt your life but that doesn't mean you have to give up who you are. It had many obstacles that had to be overcome by the main characters, lots of teasing relationships that sometimes made you laugh and it held a reality that really touched you as a reader.

[CeCe · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was a lot different than I thought it was going to be. I was not expecting the revolution from Liam. I was in complete shock, but I liked that about the book. Anyway, Liam is 23 years old and has decided to give Hollywood a break. He is going to be the new headmaster at a private drama school. Liam is a Hollywood star that the heroine, Amy, has always crushed on. Amy tried out for a part in a play (by accident) and got it. Sparks fly between this teacher and student. And then we find out that there is something more to Liam then him just being a “retired” Hollywood star.

There are other situations in the story that effect Liam and Amy’s relationship. Amy has a serious and deadly disease that has kept her inside and home schooled. I loved that Amy had Liam’s friend, Porsche, to share her disease with.

What I wanted in this book for Liam to be more alpha. He was kind of “Amy is mad at me, but I am just going to sit around and wait for her to cool off.” I wanted him to go after her, fight for her, to love her with all his being. He was not doing that. They were more apart then together. In the beginning I felt their connection, but then it lacked. I wanted more from Liam and Amy what she was upset about, it got old. She should just have gotten over it sooner. I expected her to be more mature and understanding.

Bottom line: It was a different read.

A copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you.

[Deborah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Let me start by saying how much I love the Shade books by Bella Forest to the extent where as soon as I received the email letting me know that Beautiful Monster was available I started reading it even though I was already half way through another book.
This is a different take on the general vampire story, in this they live normal lives through the day turning only at night. The story is about a sheltered girl called Amy who lives with her dad, she is HIV positive and homeschooled. Her dad is a chef at the one of the most prestigious acting schools and Amy's one dream is to become an actress. She auditions for and gets the one scholarship place available which puts her in direct contact with Liam the georgous actor now director of the school. I won't give anymore away but I loved Amy, Liam and Porsche, Bella does write some great characters. Personally I struggled with the vampire part a little, when Amy discovers the source of the crying she's been hearing at night I was so upset. I like my books to have happy endings and I'm not sure if this series will end well, who knows its probably too early to tell. Half way through this book I wasn't sure if I would continue with the series but I know I will, it's well written, interesting, has great characters and so much potential, I just hope personally there's a happy ending thrown in there as well.

[Devon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bella Forrest has captivated me once again!

Bella has done an exceptional job building Amy and Liam's characters. We get to see the story mostly from Amy's point of view and she is such a wonderful, brave woman. She didn't let her illness get in the way of her dreams after stumbling into an audition and receiving a scholarship to attend the school.

Liam is such an interesting creature. Bella has created a very unique twist on a vampire. I have never read anything like it and it is totally different than her Shade series. As we get to see the story from Liam, we get to see all of his emotions. At first we see him as cold and distant since he always has "bodyguards". It was nice to get to know the real Liam when we were allowed into his head.

I loved how Bella used "Beauty and the Beast" in this book. It just adds so much more to the book. Only Amy and Liam know just how true the story is to their own love story.

I can not wait to read the second book to this series. Beautiful Monster just laid the ground work for an exciting, revengeful book 2.

I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Heather andrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

I like the different point of views in the book, I like getting inside each one of the characters. I loved being in Liam's mind, "if he thought losing his wife was bad, he should try becoming undead and knowing everyone you love will be dead soon enough." Amy's dad I really liked him he reminds me of my Grandma always supporting me for what I do, "if you really want this, then I'll support you. You're right, all your reasons have been right." I really loved Liam he had such a way about him, "well you'll be my Beauty, of course." Then at the same time the things he says scares me, "there are things the darkness does to me that you don't know, Amy. Things that you don't want to know." He has respect for Amy and I appreciated that a lot, "last night was a mistake because you didn't deserve to be treated that way. You're a young woman, a respectable young woman, and I should have approached you with respect...asked to court you, rather than act like a drunken lout."

[Charity · Rating 3 out of 5]

This story is not what I expected. I was expecting Paranormal Erotic Romance...why? because the cover suggests it. There is no reason for there to be a half naked couple on the cover of this story. There is no sexual details in this book...not that I'm saying there has to be...I just thought there would be.

I was a little put off that this was a K-12 school for the arts. I would have been a little more comfortable with it being a special arts school for say the 16-24 age group. The fact that the headmaster had no qualms about entering a relationship with a Junior/Senior (even if she was 18) was a little discouraging.

There were a few editing errors that got my attention, but for the most part the story flowed very well. It was a well told story that had my attention from beginning to end. I like the paranormal set-up. The cliff hanger and promise of some pretty good drama will definitely draw you in. I am putting it on my list of a series to continue, but its not at the top.

[Genea · Rating 4 out of 5]

I never have any preconceived notion before reading a book about a common or familiar theme. And even if I did before reading Beautiful Monster, I would have been so off the mark. Everything about this courageously written story was different. I liked that the characters had depth and had real life issues, it made the story even that more compelling. Even the vampire lore strayed from the norm, it had kind of an old vampire lore feel, kinda like Bram Stoker's Dracula. I loved the double prefaces, they gave sneak a peek POV of both Amy and Liam's feelings for each other. Even the first chapter grabbed me by starting out as an essay of Amy's dreams and desires for her future. I thought that was a clever way of introducing her character. This story was so captivating I read it in one sitting, wish there was more of it to read. Now I have to wait for the next installment. Sigh.

[Angie · Rating 1 out of 5]

I am a big fan of Bella Forrest's Shade of Vampire series. When I realized she started a new series, I was absolutely excited. I stopped a little under halfway through the book due to lack of interest. I feel like the story has potential, but the feelings are automatic (no buildup, no chemistry, etc) and the relationship just moves too fast and isn't that believable.

Amy has always been sheltered by her father. She is home-schooled, doing her schoolwork online due to being born with HIV. Her father is a chef at a prestigoius acting school, and it's Amy's dream to become an actress. She often sneaks in to watch letctures and practices. One day when filling in her father at work, she ends up auditioning for a scholarship--and get it. The headmaster, Liam, was a famous actor and she's stunned he threw away his Hollywood career to run the school. She falls for him not knowing what he is.

[Gina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book for a fair and honest review. This is book 1 in the series. This is also the second series by Bella Forrest I've read.

This book was very hard to put down. I wanted to see what was going to happen with Liam and Amy.

I loved the medafore of Beauty & The Beast. Not only is it the school play of the year, it could also be used to describe Liam and Amy.

Amy is a girl that has not let her HIV + status keep her down. She dares to dream and dream big. Amy has always wanted to be an actress and finally got her break.

Liam is not as he seems. He hides a deep dark secret. Amy is forced to decide if she can accept that secret or not.

It is very hard to write up a great review of this book without giving away any of the plot.

[April · Rating 4 out of 5]

Because of this author's writing style, I will read anything she puts out. Beautiful Monster had a cute but different twist on Vampires. The were only monsters at night. It was not as dark and scary as the Shade of Vampire series. I wanted a little bit more blood and guts but regardless I was pleased with this book. It was a light and quick read. I loved the Disney spin of the Beauty and Beast tale in this book. Liam being the Beast and Amy being Beauty. It makes me want to watch the cartoon. I am anxious to see what else happens with Liam and Amy especially with how the book ended. Now I am patiently waiting for book 2 in this series and well as book 3 in Bella Forrest's Shade of Vampire series.

[Cana Elene (http://placeofreeds.blogspot.com) · Rating 5 out of 5]

So many things to say... So here is a blurb from my review. To see full review, please check out my blog at Place of Reads .

I find it interesting that this is really one of the first books that I have ever read with at least one HIV positive character, let alone a lead character. But for me, I find that important that I read that. So many people seem to forget that it exists and a lot still think the only way to get it is by sex.

Thank the God above that this didn’t do a “Twilight”! When Amy figured out what Liam was, she ran way after hearing his story (as any NORMAL girl would!). But it was also different, because she ran for what I’d consider unusual reasons.

[Sophie "Beware Of The Reader" · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love "A shade of vampire" serie by Bella Forrest but I'm less enthralled by " Beautiful Monster".
Though I liked it because there are interesting an unexpected elements. Amy is chronically sick (HIV) and has been sheltered by her dad her entire life. She never went to school but has a big dream: acting.
She'll soon have the opportunity to join a prestigious acting school and live her dream.
Liam is human but turns vampire once the sun goes down. He is incredibly beautiful and the headmaster of Amy's school.
They will fall in love but will be confronted to unexpected danger.
It was a pleasant read but I found the characters were more superficial than the heroes of "a shade of ..".
I don't regret reading it though.

[Terry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bella Forrest has once again proven her amazing talent as a writer with this 1st book in her awesome new Beautiful Monster series. I absolutely fell in love with the main characters, Amy and Liam. They are very special and unique characters with such interesting and heart wrenching backgrounds. This is a story that once you start reading, you will find it very difficult to stop until you are finished-with the ending leaving you desperate for more! So looking forward to once again entering Amy & Liam's world in the next book in this series. What a fantastic story!

[Lisa Sandberg · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

Amy is HIV positive, has been since birth. She lead a sheltered life with her father. Her dream is to become an actress.

Liam is headmaster of the school where Amy's father works and where she would love to study. He is also a vampire.

She accidentally auditions for the scholarship and gets it. So her acting career starts.

She is helped along by Liam and ultimately they become an item. Even after she finds out what he is.

I liked the book, but I didn't love it. It just seemed like it was missing passion. I will read the sequel, only because of the cliffhanger at the end.

[KindleCousins · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book had a ton of potential. But it lacked the ability to pull the readers in. The HIV aspect was antiquated. Treatment has come so far for patients with HIV. People with HIV are no longer skinny and sick looking. Amy is constantly saying she's skinny because of HIV. really? I didn't like the vampire life in this book. Turns into a vampire at night... didn't buy it. It was okay but so much of the book was cheesy and unbelievable.

[Tammy Hamilton Green · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book hooks you quickly with its action, building of characters and is just overall very well written. I love it when I can't wait till lunch, a few minutes in the morning before work or late at night when I have alone time and can relax with my Kindle. A book that compels you to sneak in a few minutes here and there says it all. This is one of those books. Now . . . time to load sequel and read till the wee hours of this 3 day weekend.