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Heart of the Beholder
“... but for the one who beholds with their heart, they are the key.”
In the blink of an eye, Thane Blackmoore, the crown prince of the Oakwater Kingdom, loses everything he was born to inherit because of a terrible curse. He flees the castle and hides at an abandoned estate until he can figure out how to break the curse, or live the rest of his miserable life alone.
Bridgette Meadowbrooke is desperate to find work in order to survive and afford to hire a doctor for her ill mother. With the help of an unexpected friend, she manages to secure a position as a maid for a mysterious new Lord. She tries to give her employer the benefit of the doubt, but there seems to be something more to the man who spends his days hiding in the dark.
When the paths of a cursed prince and a stubborn maid cross, no one could have guessed what would happen next.
Heart of the Beholder is a Beauty and the Beast retelling with unexpected, yet entertaining twists and turns.
In the blink of an eye, Thane Blackmoore, the crown prince of the Oakwater Kingdom, loses everything he was born to inherit because of a terrible curse. He flees the castle and hides at an abandoned estate until he can figure out how to break the curse, or live the rest of his miserable life alone.
Bridgette Meadowbrooke is desperate to find work in order to survive and afford to hire a doctor for her ill mother. With the help of an unexpected friend, she manages to secure a position as a maid for a mysterious new Lord. She tries to give her employer the benefit of the doubt, but there seems to be something more to the man who spends his days hiding in the dark.
When the paths of a cursed prince and a stubborn maid cross, no one could have guessed what would happen next.
Heart of the Beholder is a Beauty and the Beast retelling with unexpected, yet entertaining twists and turns.
442 pages, Paperback
Published November 12, 2024
9 people are currently reading
175 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Ruth
1 book16 followersElizabeth Ruth is a Utah native, self-published author. From a young age, she always had an active mind, which was constantly making up stories. Years passed without being able to express that creative side until she read a book that sparked the fire inside her. She read book after book after book and fell in love with the adventures she went on. The work of other authors encouraged her to share her own. Most of her time is spent raising her four young children with her husband of twelve years in Salt Lake City, Utah. But you can often find her avoiding responsibilities, with her nose stuck in a book, or daydreaming about the plot of her next creation.
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November 13, 2024
ᥫ᭡🖤🌹🖤ᥫ᭡
╔.✩. .═══════╗
✨✨𝘽𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙍𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬✨✨
╚═══════. .✩.╝
🌹𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝘽𝙚𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙙𝙚𝙧 𝘣𝘺 𝘌𝘭𝘪𝘻𝘢𝘣𝘦𝘵𝘩 𝘙𝘶𝘵𝘩
───────✨☆✨───────
📚📝✨𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗞•𝗗𝗘𝗧𝗔𝗜𝗟𝗦✨📝📚
🌹𝗚𝗘𝗡𝗥𝗘: 𝚈𝙰 𝚁𝙾𝙼𝙰𝙽𝚃𝙰𝚂𝚈 𝙱𝙴𝙰𝚄𝚃𝚈 𝙰𝙽𝙳 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝙱𝙴𝙰𝚂𝚃 𝚁𝙴𝚃𝙴𝙻𝙻𝙸𝙽𝙶
🌹𝗥𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘 𝗗𝗔𝗧𝗘: 𝙽𝙾𝚅𝙴𝙼𝙱𝙴𝚁 𝟷𝟸𝚃𝙷 𝟸𝟶𝟸𝟺
╰┈➤𝙰𝚅𝙰𝙸𝙻𝙰𝙱𝙻𝙴 𝙾𝙽 𝙺𝚄✨
🌹𝗠𝗢𝗢𝗗𝗬 𝗩𝗜𝗕𝗘𝗦: 𝙴𝙽𝙲𝙷𝙰𝙽𝚃𝙸𝙽𝙶; 𝙼𝙰𝙶𝙸𝙲𝙰𝙻; 𝙵𝙰𝙸𝚁𝚈𝚃𝙰𝙻𝙴 𝚁𝙴𝚃𝙴𝙻𝙻𝙸𝙽𝙶; 𝙴𝙼𝙾𝚃𝙸𝙾𝙽𝙰𝙻; 𝙸𝙽𝚂𝙿𝙸𝚁𝙸𝙽𝙶; 𝙼𝚈𝚂𝚃𝙴𝚁𝙸𝙾𝚄𝚂; 𝙴𝙽𝚃𝙷𝚁𝙰𝙻𝙻𝙸𝙽𝙶; 𝙲𝙰𝙿𝚃𝙸𝚅𝙰𝚃𝙸𝙽𝙶; 𝙷𝙾𝙿𝙴𝙵𝚄𝙻; 𝙰𝙳𝚅𝙴𝙽𝚃𝚄𝚁𝙾𝚄𝚂
🌹𝗣𝗔𝗚𝗘 𝗡𝗨𝗠𝗕𝗘𝗥: 𝟺𝟸𝟺 𝙿𝙰𝙶𝙴𝚂
🌹𝗣𝗘𝗥𝗙𝗘𝗖𝗧 𝗜𝗙 𝗬𝗢𝗨 𝗟𝗢𝗩𝗘: 𝙶𝚁𝚄𝙼𝙿𝚈 𝚇 𝚂𝚄𝙽𝚂𝙷𝙸𝙽𝙴; 𝙵𝙾𝚄𝙽𝙳 𝙵𝙰𝙼𝙸𝙻𝚈; 𝙾𝙽𝙴 𝙲𝙻𝙾𝙰𝙺; 𝙴𝙽𝙴𝙼𝙸𝙴𝚂 𝚃𝙾 𝙵𝚁𝙸𝙴𝙽𝙳𝚂 𝚃𝙾 𝙻𝙾𝚅𝙴𝚁𝚂; 𝚂𝚃𝚄𝙱𝙱𝙾𝚁𝙽 𝙰𝙽𝙳 𝙳𝙴𝚃𝙴𝚁𝙼𝙸𝙽𝙴𝙳 𝙷𝙴𝚁𝙾𝙸𝙽𝙴; 𝙱𝙴𝙰𝚄𝚃𝚈 𝙰𝙽𝙳 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝙱𝙴𝙰𝚂𝚃; 𝙼𝙸𝚂𝚃𝙰𝙺𝙴𝙽 𝙸𝙳𝙴𝙽𝚃𝙸𝚃𝚈; 𝙲𝙻𝙾𝚂𝙴𝙳 𝙳𝙾𝙾𝚁 𝚁𝙾𝙼𝙰𝙽𝙲𝙴
🌹𝗬𝗘𝗦/𝗡𝗢/𝗠𝗔𝗬𝗕𝗘: 𝚈𝙴𝚂!
🌹𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ || 𝟻
───────✨☆✨───────
𝑀𝑦 𝑇ℎ𝑜𝑢𝑔ℎ𝑡𝑠💭🧐
Thank you so much to @HiddenHollowBookTours & @author.elizabeth.ruth for my gifted review copy of 𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝘽𝙚𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙙𝙚𝙧! This review is comprised entirely of my own thoughts & opinions, & is based on the copy I received.
I love a good Beauty and the Beast retelling, and this one was amazing! I loved how cozy this one felt at times AND how it still had so many unexpected twists and turns that kept me so captivated with the plot! The regency vibes were also absolutely perfect. I was hooked from page 1 and couldn’t put it down!
Bridgette is EVERYTHING I look for in a FMC I love! She’s funny, sassy, tenacious and fierce, and I just loved how she was able to absolutely dismantle the walls around our MMC, Thane’s, heart and soul. Initially he’s very cold and broody and we don’t know a lot about him, but the more time they spend together, the more we can see those walls come down and see his vulnerable side. I LOVED it! They were the epitome of grumpy x sunshine and I couldn’t get enough!
This book masterfully weaved together romance and found family with a captivating plot, and the side characters were equally as lovable as our main characters! Edgar and Bridgette’s friendship made my heart so happy and I just loved how they made the manor more cozy! That was such a lovely part of this story!
Overall I thought this was a truly excellent debut Romantasy but Elizabeth Ruth and it’s a perfect cozy read! I liked the way everything wrapped up and I loved that I was romantic and exciting and magical. I definitely recommend this one!
───────✨☆✨───────
╔.✩. .═══════╗
✨✨𝘽𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙍𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬✨✨
╚═══════. .✩.╝
🌹𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝘽𝙚𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙙𝙚𝙧 𝘣𝘺 𝘌𝘭𝘪𝘻𝘢𝘣𝘦𝘵𝘩 𝘙𝘶𝘵𝘩
───────✨☆✨───────
📚📝✨𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗞•𝗗𝗘𝗧𝗔𝗜𝗟𝗦✨📝📚
🌹𝗚𝗘𝗡𝗥𝗘: 𝚈𝙰 𝚁𝙾𝙼𝙰𝙽𝚃𝙰𝚂𝚈 𝙱𝙴𝙰𝚄𝚃𝚈 𝙰𝙽𝙳 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝙱𝙴𝙰𝚂𝚃 𝚁𝙴𝚃𝙴𝙻𝙻𝙸𝙽𝙶
🌹𝗥𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘 𝗗𝗔𝗧𝗘: 𝙽𝙾𝚅𝙴𝙼𝙱𝙴𝚁 𝟷𝟸𝚃𝙷 𝟸𝟶𝟸𝟺
╰┈➤𝙰𝚅𝙰𝙸𝙻𝙰𝙱𝙻𝙴 𝙾𝙽 𝙺𝚄✨
🌹𝗠𝗢𝗢𝗗𝗬 𝗩𝗜𝗕𝗘𝗦: 𝙴𝙽𝙲𝙷𝙰𝙽𝚃𝙸𝙽𝙶; 𝙼𝙰𝙶𝙸𝙲𝙰𝙻; 𝙵𝙰𝙸𝚁𝚈𝚃𝙰𝙻𝙴 𝚁𝙴𝚃𝙴𝙻𝙻𝙸𝙽𝙶; 𝙴𝙼𝙾𝚃𝙸𝙾𝙽𝙰𝙻; 𝙸𝙽𝚂𝙿𝙸𝚁𝙸𝙽𝙶; 𝙼𝚈𝚂𝚃𝙴𝚁𝙸𝙾𝚄𝚂; 𝙴𝙽𝚃𝙷𝚁𝙰𝙻𝙻𝙸𝙽𝙶; 𝙲𝙰𝙿𝚃𝙸𝚅𝙰𝚃𝙸𝙽𝙶; 𝙷𝙾𝙿𝙴𝙵𝚄𝙻; 𝙰𝙳𝚅𝙴𝙽𝚃𝚄𝚁𝙾𝚄𝚂
🌹𝗣𝗔𝗚𝗘 𝗡𝗨𝗠𝗕𝗘𝗥: 𝟺𝟸𝟺 𝙿𝙰𝙶𝙴𝚂
🌹𝗣𝗘𝗥𝗙𝗘𝗖𝗧 𝗜𝗙 𝗬𝗢𝗨 𝗟𝗢𝗩𝗘: 𝙶𝚁𝚄𝙼𝙿𝚈 𝚇 𝚂𝚄𝙽𝚂𝙷𝙸𝙽𝙴; 𝙵𝙾𝚄𝙽𝙳 𝙵𝙰𝙼𝙸𝙻𝚈; 𝙾𝙽𝙴 𝙲𝙻𝙾𝙰𝙺; 𝙴𝙽𝙴𝙼𝙸𝙴𝚂 𝚃𝙾 𝙵𝚁𝙸𝙴𝙽𝙳𝚂 𝚃𝙾 𝙻𝙾𝚅𝙴𝚁𝚂; 𝚂𝚃𝚄𝙱𝙱𝙾𝚁𝙽 𝙰𝙽𝙳 𝙳𝙴𝚃𝙴𝚁𝙼𝙸𝙽𝙴𝙳 𝙷𝙴𝚁𝙾𝙸𝙽𝙴; 𝙱𝙴𝙰𝚄𝚃𝚈 𝙰𝙽𝙳 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝙱𝙴𝙰𝚂𝚃; 𝙼𝙸𝚂𝚃𝙰𝙺𝙴𝙽 𝙸𝙳𝙴𝙽𝚃𝙸𝚃𝚈; 𝙲𝙻𝙾𝚂𝙴𝙳 𝙳𝙾𝙾𝚁 𝚁𝙾𝙼𝙰𝙽𝙲𝙴
🌹𝗬𝗘𝗦/𝗡𝗢/𝗠𝗔𝗬𝗕𝗘: 𝚈𝙴𝚂!
🌹𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ || 𝟻
───────✨☆✨───────
𝑀𝑦 𝑇ℎ𝑜𝑢𝑔ℎ𝑡𝑠💭🧐
Thank you so much to @HiddenHollowBookTours & @author.elizabeth.ruth for my gifted review copy of 𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝘽𝙚𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙙𝙚𝙧! This review is comprised entirely of my own thoughts & opinions, & is based on the copy I received.
I love a good Beauty and the Beast retelling, and this one was amazing! I loved how cozy this one felt at times AND how it still had so many unexpected twists and turns that kept me so captivated with the plot! The regency vibes were also absolutely perfect. I was hooked from page 1 and couldn’t put it down!
Bridgette is EVERYTHING I look for in a FMC I love! She’s funny, sassy, tenacious and fierce, and I just loved how she was able to absolutely dismantle the walls around our MMC, Thane’s, heart and soul. Initially he’s very cold and broody and we don’t know a lot about him, but the more time they spend together, the more we can see those walls come down and see his vulnerable side. I LOVED it! They were the epitome of grumpy x sunshine and I couldn’t get enough!
This book masterfully weaved together romance and found family with a captivating plot, and the side characters were equally as lovable as our main characters! Edgar and Bridgette’s friendship made my heart so happy and I just loved how they made the manor more cozy! That was such a lovely part of this story!
Overall I thought this was a truly excellent debut Romantasy but Elizabeth Ruth and it’s a perfect cozy read! I liked the way everything wrapped up and I loved that I was romantic and exciting and magical. I definitely recommend this one!
───────✨☆✨───────
November 14, 2024
This was a great cozy read. If you enjoy fairy tales, do yourself a favor and grab a copy of this book.
As a Beauty and the Beast retelling, Heart of the Beholder keeps many elements of the famous Disney adaption while adding its own unique touch to the tale. It’s written in the third person, mostly following Bridgette’s POV. The chapters are quite long, but the writing is so good, and Bridgette’s cheerfulness was so infectious that I couldn’t stop turning the pages.
I loved both main characters, and that doesn’t happen often. Bridgette is so sweet, funny, and fearless. I don’t know if it’s canon, but in my mind, she’s clearly neurodivergent. The author did a wonderful job portraying how her cheerfulness softens the brooding Lord Thornwood. Their love blossomed slowly and full of hope. I found myself giggling at their interactions, and reading this novel made me happy.
This definitely won’t be the last of Elizabeth Ruth’s books I'll read.
I received this advanced reader copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntary.
As a Beauty and the Beast retelling, Heart of the Beholder keeps many elements of the famous Disney adaption while adding its own unique touch to the tale. It’s written in the third person, mostly following Bridgette’s POV. The chapters are quite long, but the writing is so good, and Bridgette’s cheerfulness was so infectious that I couldn’t stop turning the pages.
I loved both main characters, and that doesn’t happen often. Bridgette is so sweet, funny, and fearless. I don’t know if it’s canon, but in my mind, she’s clearly neurodivergent. The author did a wonderful job portraying how her cheerfulness softens the brooding Lord Thornwood. Their love blossomed slowly and full of hope. I found myself giggling at their interactions, and reading this novel made me happy.
This definitely won’t be the last of Elizabeth Ruth’s books I'll read.
I received this advanced reader copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntary.
November 20, 2024
Este libro fue un buen retelling de la bella y la bestia, mantiene la escencia de la historia que conocemos, pero comienza a tomar un curso muy interesante que te mantiene super intrigado de principio a fin
la ambientacion del libro me encanto, te envuelve en todo este mundo lleno de magia, los personajes tambien son muy entrañables, las frases que habia en este libro son una joya y verdaderamente lo disfrute
Recibi este libro como copia avanzada, pero de verdad vale mucho la pena si son muy fans de los retellings o de la historia de La Bella y la Bestia, se los recomiendo muchisimo!
la ambientacion del libro me encanto, te envuelve en todo este mundo lleno de magia, los personajes tambien son muy entrañables, las frases que habia en este libro son una joya y verdaderamente lo disfrute
Recibi este libro como copia avanzada, pero de verdad vale mucho la pena si son muy fans de los retellings o de la historia de La Bella y la Bestia, se los recomiendo muchisimo!
November 11, 2024
“‘I don’t know a lot about curses, but if you are a curse, then curse me a thousand times over. My life was dreary and terrible without you in it, and I never want to go back to that. I never want to lose you.‘“
I absolutely love Beauty and the Beast retellings, and this was a fun take on the story!
The characters were done so well, I loved both MCs and all the side characters as well.
It was so interesting to see how they both had opposite reactions to past trauma that they needed to overcome. Thane had become selfish and closed off while Bridgette neglected herself to serve other people. It was so sweet watching them confide in each other and start to heal.
Their romance was so swoonworthy, once Thane decides to treat a woman he really knows how to treat her!
For all my fellow beauty and the beast lovers out there, this is one to check out!
Thanks to the author for the review copy!
I absolutely love Beauty and the Beast retellings, and this was a fun take on the story!
The characters were done so well, I loved both MCs and all the side characters as well.
It was so interesting to see how they both had opposite reactions to past trauma that they needed to overcome. Thane had become selfish and closed off while Bridgette neglected herself to serve other people. It was so sweet watching them confide in each other and start to heal.
Their romance was so swoonworthy, once Thane decides to treat a woman he really knows how to treat her!
For all my fellow beauty and the beast lovers out there, this is one to check out!
Thanks to the author for the review copy!
October 31, 2024
This was a great retelling of Beauty and the Beast. It stayed true to the original but had so many unique elements woven in as well. I was drawn in from the start and kept coming back to find out where the characters would go next.
November 12, 2024
First of all, HAPPY PUBLICATION DAY and also the artwork on the cover is absolutely beautiful! So pretty!
This story is an intriguing beauty and the beast style retelling, and it definitely felt different to others than have come before it.
I really liked meeting Bridgette and really felt for her when we learned more about her backstory. She is very strong and resilient... just what you need for your female main chatacter.
Thane, in the other hand... well, we definitely got our grumpy sunshine, although I liked seeing the development of Thane over the course of the story and seeing how these two warmed up to each other 😆.
The back stories of the characters were intriguing and really sad for some, but this was expertly woven into the story!
It's a lovely retelling, and I look forward to seeing more of Elizabeth's work!
This story is an intriguing beauty and the beast style retelling, and it definitely felt different to others than have come before it.
I really liked meeting Bridgette and really felt for her when we learned more about her backstory. She is very strong and resilient... just what you need for your female main chatacter.
Thane, in the other hand... well, we definitely got our grumpy sunshine, although I liked seeing the development of Thane over the course of the story and seeing how these two warmed up to each other 😆.
The back stories of the characters were intriguing and really sad for some, but this was expertly woven into the story!
It's a lovely retelling, and I look forward to seeing more of Elizabeth's work!
April 15, 2025
Fantastic Beauty and Beast Retelling!
I love fairy tale retellings. Heart of the Beholder had wonderful twists and turns to the well loved fable. The characters are well formed and have depth to them.
Truly enjoyed this novel, kept me up a couple of nights choosing to find out what happens over sleep.
Highly recommend
I love fairy tale retellings. Heart of the Beholder had wonderful twists and turns to the well loved fable. The characters are well formed and have depth to them.
Truly enjoyed this novel, kept me up a couple of nights choosing to find out what happens over sleep.
Highly recommend
December 28, 2024
Great cozy read. It was perfect for me to get back into reading after having a baby. Great characters, beautiful setting, memorable quotes. If you are a fan of Beauty and The Beast, this is a book for you.
I did receive a free preview copy of the book, but I will be purchasing my own copy.
I did receive a free preview copy of the book, but I will be purchasing my own copy.
April 7, 2025
Rounded up for goodreads rating system
November 12, 2024
This story of Thane Blackmoore and Bridgette Meadowbrooke is an enchanting journey filled with mystery, suspense, and the irresistible pull of fate. In the blink of an eye, Thane loses everything he was born to inherit, and the stark reality of his isolation sets a dark, almost haunting tone. Thane’s transformation from a proud prince to a cursed outcast, forced to conceal himself in an abandoned estate, really brings out the depth of his character. He grapples with bitterness, anger, and helplessness, making him both flawed and relatable.
Bridgette, on the other hand, is a beacon of resilience and warmth. Her need to secure a job, driven by her desire to help her ailing mother, makes her not just a determined character but one with a compassionate heart. When she arrives at Thane’s estate as a maid, her tenacity is immediately evident. She’s both strong-willed and caring, which is precisely what the cursed prince needs. I loved how she balances kindness with strength, always pushing through her own fears and suspicions to uncover who this “mysterious new Lord” truly is.
The interaction between Thane and Bridgette is one of the story's highlights. Thane’s attempts to shield himself from the world clash with Bridgette’s desire to uncover truths, creating a dynamic that’s both tense and compelling. As their paths entwine, a blend of suspense and warmth emerges. The author captures their budding relationship beautifully—it’s a slow, uncertain dance between vulnerability and guardedness, as they begin to see each other beyond their circumstances.
The curse itself serves as a powerful symbol throughout the story. It’s not just a barrier but a reminder of what Thane’s lost, amplifying his struggle between despair and hope. The mystery behind the curse is intriguing and keeps you wondering: will they find a way to break it, or will Thane remain cursed forever?
The setting of the abandoned estate enhances the gothic atmosphere, which complements the story’s themes of isolation and the unknown. The darkened halls and hidden corners echo Thane’s loneliness and Bridgette’s courage, making each encounter between them feel almost magical.
One of my favorite aspects was the lesson about acceptance and seeing past appearances. Through Thane’s curse, we witness his internal conflict with self-acceptance, as well as Bridgette’s ability to look beyond what others might fear. It’s a powerful reminder of the strength we can find in love and kindness, even when faced with difficult, seemingly impossible odds.
This tale’s mix of fantasy and romance, laced with hints of suspense and gothic charm, drew me in from the start. The narrative unfolds with a steady tension, pulling you deeper into the lives of Thane and Bridgette. For anyone who loves stories that explore resilience, the beauty of connection, and the possibility of transformation, this one will resonate deeply.
Bridgette, on the other hand, is a beacon of resilience and warmth. Her need to secure a job, driven by her desire to help her ailing mother, makes her not just a determined character but one with a compassionate heart. When she arrives at Thane’s estate as a maid, her tenacity is immediately evident. She’s both strong-willed and caring, which is precisely what the cursed prince needs. I loved how she balances kindness with strength, always pushing through her own fears and suspicions to uncover who this “mysterious new Lord” truly is.
The interaction between Thane and Bridgette is one of the story's highlights. Thane’s attempts to shield himself from the world clash with Bridgette’s desire to uncover truths, creating a dynamic that’s both tense and compelling. As their paths entwine, a blend of suspense and warmth emerges. The author captures their budding relationship beautifully—it’s a slow, uncertain dance between vulnerability and guardedness, as they begin to see each other beyond their circumstances.
The curse itself serves as a powerful symbol throughout the story. It’s not just a barrier but a reminder of what Thane’s lost, amplifying his struggle between despair and hope. The mystery behind the curse is intriguing and keeps you wondering: will they find a way to break it, or will Thane remain cursed forever?
The setting of the abandoned estate enhances the gothic atmosphere, which complements the story’s themes of isolation and the unknown. The darkened halls and hidden corners echo Thane’s loneliness and Bridgette’s courage, making each encounter between them feel almost magical.
One of my favorite aspects was the lesson about acceptance and seeing past appearances. Through Thane’s curse, we witness his internal conflict with self-acceptance, as well as Bridgette’s ability to look beyond what others might fear. It’s a powerful reminder of the strength we can find in love and kindness, even when faced with difficult, seemingly impossible odds.
This tale’s mix of fantasy and romance, laced with hints of suspense and gothic charm, drew me in from the start. The narrative unfolds with a steady tension, pulling you deeper into the lives of Thane and Bridgette. For anyone who loves stories that explore resilience, the beauty of connection, and the possibility of transformation, this one will resonate deeply.
November 5, 2024
Actual Rating: 4.5⭐
Another great beauty and the beast retelling story worth reading!!
I was hooked right from the beginning!
Despite the long chapters, the easy-to-read writing style and loveable characters kept my eyes glued to my Kindle!
Bridgette is a funny, passionate, resilient and fearless FMC—my favorite kind of FMC in a book. I love how she was able to turn the broody, cold and mysterious MMC (Thane)’s initial disdain for her loud behavior into tolerance and eventually, love.
Not just a beautiful swoony romance, I also love the friendship Bridgette had with Birdie and Edgar, the ever-loyal servant. Seeing how Edgar and Bridgette teamed up to make the creepy manor feel more homely and alive was delightful.
The ending was wrapped up nicely, though I wish we get to know more about the sorcerers and their magical power.
Overall, this is a pretty well-written debut novel and a real page-turner!
If you’re looking for a thrilling, heart-warming, romantasy then this one is perfect for you!
I’m looking forward to read more books by this author in the future!
Thank you to Hidden Hollow Book Tour and the author for giving me an e-ARC of the book. I’m leaving this review voluntarily!
Another great beauty and the beast retelling story worth reading!!
I was hooked right from the beginning!
Despite the long chapters, the easy-to-read writing style and loveable characters kept my eyes glued to my Kindle!
Bridgette is a funny, passionate, resilient and fearless FMC—my favorite kind of FMC in a book. I love how she was able to turn the broody, cold and mysterious MMC (Thane)’s initial disdain for her loud behavior into tolerance and eventually, love.
Not just a beautiful swoony romance, I also love the friendship Bridgette had with Birdie and Edgar, the ever-loyal servant. Seeing how Edgar and Bridgette teamed up to make the creepy manor feel more homely and alive was delightful.
The ending was wrapped up nicely, though I wish we get to know more about the sorcerers and their magical power.
Overall, this is a pretty well-written debut novel and a real page-turner!
If you’re looking for a thrilling, heart-warming, romantasy then this one is perfect for you!
I’m looking forward to read more books by this author in the future!
Thank you to Hidden Hollow Book Tour and the author for giving me an e-ARC of the book. I’m leaving this review voluntarily!
November 12, 2024
I read HEART OF THE BEHOLDER by Elizabeth Ruth for a review tour hosted by the author and Hidden Hollow Book Tours. Thank you to both for inviting me along and for the gifted e-arc. I thoroughly enjoyed this book!
Bridgette is such a kind-hearted, loveable character. She's strong and determined at the same time as being clumsy and skittish. She has been through some very ugly things. Things that could have snuffed out her spark altogether. But, she didn't allow it. When she came to work for Lord Thornwood, her life would change forever.
Lord Thornwood is the grump in this grumpy/sunshine story. He has been through bad times also. But, he went into hiding and gave into the darkness he was feeling. He had given up on ever being anything but the monster he thought himself to be. And then Bridgette, the new maid, showed up.
I love Beauty and the Beast retellings! This one gives all the original vibes while being it's own unique way. It has a great cast of characters. You'll love Edgar and Birdie. The villains are true villains. There are some very intense scenes, including the final battles. The author keeps the story moving from beginning to end.
I recommend HEART OF THE BEHOLDER to fans of Beauty and the Beast retellings, grumpy/sunshine, enemies-to-friends- to-lovers, and a determined FMC.
Bridgette is such a kind-hearted, loveable character. She's strong and determined at the same time as being clumsy and skittish. She has been through some very ugly things. Things that could have snuffed out her spark altogether. But, she didn't allow it. When she came to work for Lord Thornwood, her life would change forever.
Lord Thornwood is the grump in this grumpy/sunshine story. He has been through bad times also. But, he went into hiding and gave into the darkness he was feeling. He had given up on ever being anything but the monster he thought himself to be. And then Bridgette, the new maid, showed up.
I love Beauty and the Beast retellings! This one gives all the original vibes while being it's own unique way. It has a great cast of characters. You'll love Edgar and Birdie. The villains are true villains. There are some very intense scenes, including the final battles. The author keeps the story moving from beginning to end.
I recommend HEART OF THE BEHOLDER to fans of Beauty and the Beast retellings, grumpy/sunshine, enemies-to-friends- to-lovers, and a determined FMC.
November 13, 2024
Another Slow burn I really need to get a physical copy of!!
I was wondering how much was going to be taken as inspiration from Beauty and the Beast and surprisingly not too much, but I really enjoyed all the changes and especially how the curse worked on Thane. The book is kinda long so it did seem a little slow here and there but when the romance was kicking or conflict was happening it was good and went by too quick lol. I was really wondering if the rose was going to stay the same but it gave an added depth to how things would end and what might happen to the characters that I loved.
Thane was of course broody but he's on my book boyfriend list now! His heart melted pretty quick and I loved every second of their romance and the help they got from Edgar. Who of course was my favorite because of his meddling and his loyalty to both of them 😭! Birdie was also a favorite for her kookiness and how helpful she was with everything despite seeming like she only talked in nonsense. Bridgette was really good as a strong fmc, and I really thought she'd hate him when stuff was revealed but surprisingly wasn't and I did like that because despite everything she knew Thane's true character.
Loved loved loved this and can't wait for more books from this author!
I was wondering how much was going to be taken as inspiration from Beauty and the Beast and surprisingly not too much, but I really enjoyed all the changes and especially how the curse worked on Thane. The book is kinda long so it did seem a little slow here and there but when the romance was kicking or conflict was happening it was good and went by too quick lol. I was really wondering if the rose was going to stay the same but it gave an added depth to how things would end and what might happen to the characters that I loved.
Thane was of course broody but he's on my book boyfriend list now! His heart melted pretty quick and I loved every second of their romance and the help they got from Edgar. Who of course was my favorite because of his meddling and his loyalty to both of them 😭! Birdie was also a favorite for her kookiness and how helpful she was with everything despite seeming like she only talked in nonsense. Bridgette was really good as a strong fmc, and I really thought she'd hate him when stuff was revealed but surprisingly wasn't and I did like that because despite everything she knew Thane's true character.
Loved loved loved this and can't wait for more books from this author!
November 12, 2024
This was an easy story to get lost in. I love Beauty and the Beast retellings and I loved the regency vibes in the setting. This book had a bit of a cozy feel to it - there are also some good twists and turns and I really enjoyed the story!
Bridgette was really struggling and when she ends up working for Lord Thane…and well things are not as they seem!
I love it when a MMC has walls that crumble! He had really struggled with the curse and I loved how Bridgette’s presence changed things for him.
I loved how Bridgette’s friendship with Edgar played out and - no spoilers - but there might be a twist you never see coming!!
✨What to Expect:
🗡️YA Romantasy
🥀Beauty & the Beast Retelling
⛅️Grumpy/Sunshine
🌹One Cloak (Similar to One Bed)
💙Found Family
💖Stubborn and Determined Heroine
❤️🔥Enemies to Friends to Lovers
🖤Mistaken identity
🚫No Spice
Bridgette was really struggling and when she ends up working for Lord Thane…and well things are not as they seem!
I love it when a MMC has walls that crumble! He had really struggled with the curse and I loved how Bridgette’s presence changed things for him.
I loved how Bridgette’s friendship with Edgar played out and - no spoilers - but there might be a twist you never see coming!!
✨What to Expect:
🗡️YA Romantasy
🥀Beauty & the Beast Retelling
⛅️Grumpy/Sunshine
🌹One Cloak (Similar to One Bed)
💙Found Family
💖Stubborn and Determined Heroine
❤️🔥Enemies to Friends to Lovers
🖤Mistaken identity
🚫No Spice
November 11, 2024
Heart of the Beholder is a Beauty and The Beast retelling and I felt this one was very close to the original story. I love a Beauty and The Beast retelling, I'm always eager to see what unique way the next retelling will bring, even though this one I felt stuck to the script quite closely I did feel it was written well and it gave the vibes that we all know and love.
Bridgette our main character was created very well, she was fearless and I felt strong, she contrasted really well with Thane.
I felt all the characters in this novel were created well and really brought the novel together. The chapters I felt were on the long side but the writing was great and the twists and turns really made for an engaging read.
Heart of the beholder is a must read for all the Beauty and The Beast fans.
Bridgette our main character was created very well, she was fearless and I felt strong, she contrasted really well with Thane.
I felt all the characters in this novel were created well and really brought the novel together. The chapters I felt were on the long side but the writing was great and the twists and turns really made for an engaging read.
Heart of the beholder is a must read for all the Beauty and The Beast fans.
November 21, 2024
Heart of the Beholder is the perfect cozy read to pair with chilly weather. Or any time of the year, really!
I was instantly pulled in by the prologue. My mind was racing with different theories and what ifs.
I was picking up on the Beauty & the Beast vibes this book was throwing out, but Heart of the Beholder was also so utterly unique.
I loved the characters! Almost everyone was three-dimensional, and no two were alike.
Edgar was probably my favorite, followed closely by Birdie.
I loved the concept behind the story, as well as Bridgette and Thanes' love story. Part of me wishes she (Bridgette) saw him as a monster, but I totally understand why she didn't/couldn't.
The story pace was decent. I often found myself anxious for what happened next. However, there were a few times throughout where I just felt the story was dragging.
The romance is utterly sweet, with not much more that a few kisses here & there, but some alluding to more.
Triggers:
Domestic Violence
Animal Death
Loss of a Loved One (parent, significant other)
Song: Torn by Hands Like Houses
I was instantly pulled in by the prologue. My mind was racing with different theories and what ifs.
I was picking up on the Beauty & the Beast vibes this book was throwing out, but Heart of the Beholder was also so utterly unique.
I loved the characters! Almost everyone was three-dimensional, and no two were alike.
Edgar was probably my favorite, followed closely by Birdie.
I loved the concept behind the story, as well as Bridgette and Thanes' love story. Part of me wishes she (Bridgette) saw him as a monster, but I totally understand why she didn't/couldn't.
The story pace was decent. I often found myself anxious for what happened next. However, there were a few times throughout where I just felt the story was dragging.
The romance is utterly sweet, with not much more that a few kisses here & there, but some alluding to more.
Triggers:
Domestic Violence
Animal Death
Loss of a Loved One (parent, significant other)
Song: Torn by Hands Like Houses
November 12, 2024
I am always a huge fan of fairytale retellings. To see someone else’s creativity to reimagine the stories we all love is something I will always try out. I was not disappointed with this wonderful Beauty and the Beast retelling. The side characters were so perfect and I loved the story buildup!
🥀 Grumpy/sunshine
🥀One cloak (similar to one bed)
🥀Found family
🥀Stubborn and determined heroine
🥀Enemies to friends to lovers
🥀Mistaken identity
“She was only a failure if she gave up, and as long as she had breath in her lungs she would keep moving forward”
“...but for the one who beholds with their heart, they are the key.”
🥀 Grumpy/sunshine
🥀One cloak (similar to one bed)
🥀Found family
🥀Stubborn and determined heroine
🥀Enemies to friends to lovers
🥀Mistaken identity
“She was only a failure if she gave up, and as long as she had breath in her lungs she would keep moving forward”
“...but for the one who beholds with their heart, they are the key.”
November 13, 2024
Do you love beauty and the beast retellings? If so then this is the one for you! Do you want to get hooked from the very start? Be so sucked into a beautiful swoon worthy story? Then grab this right now. The chapters are long but it’s so easy to read that your eyes just glide from page to page not realizing you’re already halfway done with the book.
Bridgette is loud, passionate, a truly great FMC. Thane is the perfect beast, moody, broody, mysterious and hard. These two together, absolute fireworks. It’s true when they say opposites attract cause these two are so opposite in every which way. Both having past trauma and the way they overcame it was a nice change of pace. It’s a cozy read, that’s truly beautiful in all aspects. The main characters and side characters were truly a delight to follow along with.
This book definitely stayed true to the beauty and beast story and added a splash of uniqueness as well. I’m honestly obsessed with this from start to finish and hope you end up obsessed as well.
Bridgette is loud, passionate, a truly great FMC. Thane is the perfect beast, moody, broody, mysterious and hard. These two together, absolute fireworks. It’s true when they say opposites attract cause these two are so opposite in every which way. Both having past trauma and the way they overcame it was a nice change of pace. It’s a cozy read, that’s truly beautiful in all aspects. The main characters and side characters were truly a delight to follow along with.
This book definitely stayed true to the beauty and beast story and added a splash of uniqueness as well. I’m honestly obsessed with this from start to finish and hope you end up obsessed as well.
November 11, 2024
OH MY GOODNESS! If you enjoy Beauty and the Beast retelling, but with plenty of fresh, unique twists, then do I have the book for you. Heart of the Beholder is a cozy, fantasy retelling of Beauty and the Beast filled to the brim with curses, heartwarming characters, and emotional moments that, personally, had me enthralled from the very beginning.
Elizabeth Ruth has woven this story together in such a beautiful way. We have a broken Thane who is having to work through the trauma of his past as well as do some deep self-reflection and we also have a quirky, clumsy, loveable Bridgette who is the perfect opposite to our broody beast. Throw in some unbelievably enjoyable side characters and you have a cast that will continue to have you turning pages well into the night.
I was completely invested in this story and blown away by Ruth’s writing. I am SO glad this one got put on my radar!
Pick this one up if you like:
-Beauty and the Beast retelling
-Cozy fantasies with easy world building but with just the right amount of edge of your seat moments
-A completely loveable cast of side characters
-Chess
-The vicious side of geese and rug beaters
-Swoon worthy moments
-Emotionally gripping stories
Elizabeth Ruth has woven this story together in such a beautiful way. We have a broken Thane who is having to work through the trauma of his past as well as do some deep self-reflection and we also have a quirky, clumsy, loveable Bridgette who is the perfect opposite to our broody beast. Throw in some unbelievably enjoyable side characters and you have a cast that will continue to have you turning pages well into the night.
I was completely invested in this story and blown away by Ruth’s writing. I am SO glad this one got put on my radar!
Pick this one up if you like:
-Beauty and the Beast retelling
-Cozy fantasies with easy world building but with just the right amount of edge of your seat moments
-A completely loveable cast of side characters
-Chess
-The vicious side of geese and rug beaters
-Swoon worthy moments
-Emotionally gripping stories
November 27, 2024
Simply put, this book was incredible! Especially for a debut novel! I have always loved Beauty and the Beast and this was such a fun spin on the classic tail with little nods to the original. The writing was well done and very engaging. The slow smolder of the romance between the main characters gave me all the good feels and I could not put it down! Do yourself a favor and give this one a buy! 🌹
November 13, 2024
Heart of the Beholder was an amazing read. It is a twist on the Beauty and the Beast tale. I loved that the FMC was not held there against her will instead she worked there willingly. The romance that blossoms between Thane and Bridgette melted my heart. It was grumpyxsunshine to a tee. This is a YA so there is no spice but it really didn’t need any! Such a gorgeous book that teaches many lessons about acceptance, change, and friendship. Overall this was one of my best reads of the year! 5-stars
November 15, 2024
Thank you to hiddenhollowbooktours for giving me the opportunity to review this wonderful book!
As always, I am a sucker for BATB, I was trying to slow my roll via arcs but BATB. I cannot resist. So this book , its cozy and its sweet and its a refreshing take on this story! I do wish the syntax was more consistent in regards to the language but other than that, I had a really lovely time reading this, seeing the hints and clues and loved the cast of characters!
As always, I am a sucker for BATB, I was trying to slow my roll via arcs but BATB. I cannot resist. So this book , its cozy and its sweet and its a refreshing take on this story! I do wish the syntax was more consistent in regards to the language but other than that, I had a really lovely time reading this, seeing the hints and clues and loved the cast of characters!
November 14, 2024
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I absolutely LOVED this book! It's a lovely, magical retelling of Beauty and the Beast. The main characters' relationship is so sweet, and the themes of hope and redemption are on point. It's refreshing to pick up a YA romantasy and have it be nice and clean, but still entertaining.
I can't wait to see what Elizabeth Ruth writes next!
I absolutely LOVED this book! It's a lovely, magical retelling of Beauty and the Beast. The main characters' relationship is so sweet, and the themes of hope and redemption are on point. It's refreshing to pick up a YA romantasy and have it be nice and clean, but still entertaining.
I can't wait to see what Elizabeth Ruth writes next!
November 14, 2024
Anything beauty and the beast I'm all over, and this book definitely held that feeling while also bringing some new aspects to the story.
I liked the romance once it had gotten rolling, the two were so different but came together nicely to create a beautiful love connection.
The dark essence along with the mystery and romance read really well. I had a fun time exploring this book!
I liked the romance once it had gotten rolling, the two were so different but came together nicely to create a beautiful love connection.
The dark essence along with the mystery and romance read really well. I had a fun time exploring this book!
November 23, 2024
I absolutely loved this book. I found myself giggling on multiple occasions, and grinning ear to ear on others. The story is beautiful and well written and I hope to read more in the future!
October 20, 2024
I loved Heart of the Beholder. The prologue gripped my attention and left me with a half dozen predictions of what would come next that I had to keep reading to find out more. I felt like I knew each character in the book myself. Some became my best friend, others my enemy. I laughed out loud. I cried like a baby. I enjoy books where some of the predictions I make come true, and then something happens that I wasn’t expecting at all, and I am totally bamboozled…this book TOTALLY delivered on this aspect for me.
Heart of the Behold is a Beauty and the Beast retelling, but one of the things I really appreciate about this book is that it tells its own unique story, and I didn’t feel anything was given away in the book because I know the original story. If you are looking for a book that you can’t put down this is the book for you.
Side Note: I now have a fondness for rug beaters. Trust me, you will to by the end of the book.
I was a beta reader for the book, which is why I was able to review it before its release date. I have already pre-ordered my final copy and I can’t wait to read it again.
Heart of the Behold is a Beauty and the Beast retelling, but one of the things I really appreciate about this book is that it tells its own unique story, and I didn’t feel anything was given away in the book because I know the original story. If you are looking for a book that you can’t put down this is the book for you.
Side Note: I now have a fondness for rug beaters. Trust me, you will to by the end of the book.
I was a beta reader for the book, which is why I was able to review it before its release date. I have already pre-ordered my final copy and I can’t wait to read it again.
November 14, 2024
Love a Beauty and the A Beast retelling! It’s close to the original but still has its own twists in it that keep it interesting! Enjoy this cozy read!
November 13, 2024
No no no no no lo que lo AMÉ. MI NUEVO FAVORITO DEL AÑO !!! Léanlo si quieren leer un retelling de la bella y la bestia🩷🥀📖
November 17, 2024
En realidad es un 3.8
It was okay and even with a simple plot, never bored me. It has its flaws, but nothing terrible.
It was okay and even with a simple plot, never bored me. It has its flaws, but nothing terrible.
October 27, 2024
A fantastic retelling of beauty and the beast, and I'm a sucker for a good retelling.
It was cozy and heartwarming, yet also gripping and captivating.
It had me going through the emotions.
It's definitely not one to be missed.
It was cozy and heartwarming, yet also gripping and captivating.
It had me going through the emotions.
It's definitely not one to be missed.
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