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Once Upon a Time in Texas #1
To Love a Beast
Beauty & the Beast in 1800's Texas.
Once known among New York's elite as the American Adonis, Everett Griffin now lives as a recluse in the wilds of Texas. The treachery of a former admirer left his face and his spirit riddled with scars, so he hides himself away, his only companions a trio of trusted servants and an oversized dog. Locals whisper of the beastly man who lives in the gloomy manor outside of town and his tendency to attack anyone who dares approach. Everett relishes his fearsome reputation and uses it as a shield to guard his privacy. Until a young woman as stubborn as she is beautiful infiltrates his sanctum and lays siege to his defenses.
When an injury to her father jeopardizes the family's book binding business, Callista Rosenfeld determines to fulfill the contract herself, and no insufferable client or woman-eating dog will deter her. Finding unlikely allies among Mr. Griffin's staff, Callista secures her position and sets to work transforming the manor's remarkable library. Her employer transforms as well, his ill-tempered growls subsiding to reveal a considerate, intellectual nature. Affection blooms as Callista and Everett discover hidden depths in each other, but the evil schemes of a vengeful hunter threaten to leave their love and their lives in tatters.
Once known among New York's elite as the American Adonis, Everett Griffin now lives as a recluse in the wilds of Texas. The treachery of a former admirer left his face and his spirit riddled with scars, so he hides himself away, his only companions a trio of trusted servants and an oversized dog. Locals whisper of the beastly man who lives in the gloomy manor outside of town and his tendency to attack anyone who dares approach. Everett relishes his fearsome reputation and uses it as a shield to guard his privacy. Until a young woman as stubborn as she is beautiful infiltrates his sanctum and lays siege to his defenses.
When an injury to her father jeopardizes the family's book binding business, Callista Rosenfeld determines to fulfill the contract herself, and no insufferable client or woman-eating dog will deter her. Finding unlikely allies among Mr. Griffin's staff, Callista secures her position and sets to work transforming the manor's remarkable library. Her employer transforms as well, his ill-tempered growls subsiding to reveal a considerate, intellectual nature. Affection blooms as Callista and Everett discover hidden depths in each other, but the evil schemes of a vengeful hunter threaten to leave their love and their lives in tatters.
217 pages, Paperback
First published June 10, 2025
About the author
Karen Witemeyer
50 books4,513 followersFor those who love to smile as they read, bestselling author Karen Witemeyer offers warmhearted historical romance with a flair for humor, feisty heroines, and swoon-worthy Texas heroes. Voted #1 Readers' Favorite Christian Historical Author in 2023 by Family Fiction Magazine, Karen is a multiple award-winning author and a firm believer in the power of happy endings. She is an avid cross-stitcher, tea drinker, and family board game player who makes her home in Abilene, TX with her heroic husband who vanquishes laundry dragons and dirty dish villains whenever she's on deadline.
Karen also loves to reward her readers. Every month she gives away two inspirational historical novels to someone from her newsletter list and offers substantial bonus content on her website. To learn more about Karen and her books, or to join her subscriber list, please visit www.karenwitemeyer.com.
Karen also loves to reward her readers. Every month she gives away two inspirational historical novels to someone from her newsletter list and offers substantial bonus content on her website. To learn more about Karen and her books, or to join her subscriber list, please visit www.karenwitemeyer.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 636 reviews
January 18, 2026
To Love A Beast by Karen Witemeyer
4 Stars
Blog Post: https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...
I love a good beauty and the beast retelling or reimagining and this was a great one! Karen always has a fun twist on her retellings, I loved her Texas Ever After series so this was much anticipated for me to read! It's funny my first review in 2025 was Cloaked in Beauty by Karen and now my first review in 2026 is this one by her! :)
In the 1800s...we are in Texas. We follow the daughter of a bookbinder who faces the "beast" of the manor...
Everett lives as a recluse in Texas, hiding from his scars left on him by a mad woman who wanted to be with him but he reject her advances only to be left scathed on his face from her. He is over his manor outside of town and no one hardly goes out there....but when an injury to Callista's father jeopardizes the family's book binding business, she goes out to do the work for Everett on her own. Here, they form a relationship together and the rest is history...or is it?
I read this with my friend Melissa and we both loved the Beauty and the Beast elements here. We had so many characters that matched up with the classic fairytale, it was so sweet. Loved the family feel and how everyone was really connected. Sweet romance, kisses only, light faith thread, overall I recommend!
4 Stars
Blog Post: https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...
I love a good beauty and the beast retelling or reimagining and this was a great one! Karen always has a fun twist on her retellings, I loved her Texas Ever After series so this was much anticipated for me to read! It's funny my first review in 2025 was Cloaked in Beauty by Karen and now my first review in 2026 is this one by her! :)
In the 1800s...we are in Texas. We follow the daughter of a bookbinder who faces the "beast" of the manor...
Everett lives as a recluse in Texas, hiding from his scars left on him by a mad woman who wanted to be with him but he reject her advances only to be left scathed on his face from her. He is over his manor outside of town and no one hardly goes out there....but when an injury to Callista's father jeopardizes the family's book binding business, she goes out to do the work for Everett on her own. Here, they form a relationship together and the rest is history...or is it?
I read this with my friend Melissa and we both loved the Beauty and the Beast elements here. We had so many characters that matched up with the classic fairytale, it was so sweet. Loved the family feel and how everyone was really connected. Sweet romance, kisses only, light faith thread, overall I recommend!
June 6, 2025
I love a good Beauty and the Beast retelling, and this one has turned out to be one of my new favorites. Callie Rosenfeld, a bookbinder, is commissioned to the home of Everett Griffin to rebind all the books in his library. He is known as the Beast in the area for being a recluse and for the scars on his face. However, Callie's distinctive perspective allows her to see beyond his physical appearance and appreciate the man within. The author masterfully integrated the classic fairy tale into a captivating Texas historical western narrative. The conclusion was exceptionally sweet, providing a satisfying happily-ever-after ending that tied up all loose ends. I was given a copy of this book by the publisher, and this is my honest opinion.
November 14, 2025
Audiobook
I love the way the author honored the Disney version of Beauty and the Beast, and yet made the story fresh in its historical Texas setting. Making the heroine a book binder was so perfect and believable.
Robin’s Ratings
5🌟 = Out of this world. Amazing. Unforgettable. A personal favorite.
4🌟 = Loved it. Will recommend to others.
3🌟 = Liked it. Glad I read it.
2🌟 = The book was okay, but I’ve enjoyed others so much more.
1🌟 = I didn’t like it and can’t recommend it.
I love the way the author honored the Disney version of Beauty and the Beast, and yet made the story fresh in its historical Texas setting. Making the heroine a book binder was so perfect and believable.
Robin’s Ratings
5🌟 = Out of this world. Amazing. Unforgettable. A personal favorite.
4🌟 = Loved it. Will recommend to others.
3🌟 = Liked it. Glad I read it.
2🌟 = The book was okay, but I’ve enjoyed others so much more.
1🌟 = I didn’t like it and can’t recommend it.
July 8, 2025
6⭐. This book hit just the right note for me! I've always loved Beauty and the Beast and this retelling hit all of the sweet notes. The way the author categorized the Beast and how he came to be was quite a different take and I loved it. And the swoony happily ever after kiss? Yummy! I was also completely in love with the household servants. They embodied Lumiere, Cogsworth and Mrs. Potts to a tee but also gave so much more to the characters!
June 13, 2025
I absolutely LOVED this story. It gave me everything I hoped for in a Beauty and the Beast retelling, and more!
She’s the brave, determined daughter of a bookbinder, willing to face the "beast" of the manor in hopes that restoring his personal library might save her family’s business. He was once the "American Adonis"...handsome, charming, full of promise until a terrible attack left him scarred, shut away from the world, and convinced he was no longer worthy of love.
But when Callista shows up, with her quiet strength and kind eyes, unbothered by Everett's scars and unshaken by his moodiness... something shifts. He lets her stay. She starts to repair his books. And maybe...just maybe, she starts to mend his heart too!
Ughhh this story was BEAUTIFUL..
Both Everett and Callista didn’t truly see their own worth at first. He thought his scars ruined everything. She thought she was “just” a bookbinder. But watching them slowly (truly) see each other...was everything.
And let me tell you… the chemistry! The lingering glances across the rooms, the brush of fingers, the way he reads to her, the dance lessons, her birthday surprise... every little moment was so romantic.
There’s also a thread of biblical truth running through it...reminders about where real beauty lies, about value and grace and love that sees deeper. It gave the story so much heart.
If you love slow-burn, grumpy/sunshine, Beauty and the Beast retellings with depth, and ALL the bookish feels, add this one to your TBR right now!
She’s the brave, determined daughter of a bookbinder, willing to face the "beast" of the manor in hopes that restoring his personal library might save her family’s business. He was once the "American Adonis"...handsome, charming, full of promise until a terrible attack left him scarred, shut away from the world, and convinced he was no longer worthy of love.
But when Callista shows up, with her quiet strength and kind eyes, unbothered by Everett's scars and unshaken by his moodiness... something shifts. He lets her stay. She starts to repair his books. And maybe...just maybe, she starts to mend his heart too!
Ughhh this story was BEAUTIFUL..
Both Everett and Callista didn’t truly see their own worth at first. He thought his scars ruined everything. She thought she was “just” a bookbinder. But watching them slowly (truly) see each other...was everything.
And let me tell you… the chemistry! The lingering glances across the rooms, the brush of fingers, the way he reads to her, the dance lessons, her birthday surprise... every little moment was so romantic.
There’s also a thread of biblical truth running through it...reminders about where real beauty lies, about value and grace and love that sees deeper. It gave the story so much heart.
If you love slow-burn, grumpy/sunshine, Beauty and the Beast retellings with depth, and ALL the bookish feels, add this one to your TBR right now!
June 8, 2025
To Love a Beast was a captivating story! I love Beauty and the Beast retellings and this one was really superbly done.
As the story opens, the reader gets a little peek at the man Everett used to be. He wasn’t a horrible man, but he was a handsome man who was used to being able to charm any woman he needed to and was willing to use that charm and his good looks to help him move up the ranks of society. Years after the attack, we meet a man who has lost his looks, suffers from headaches, battled depression for a while, and found the Lord. He is alone and isolates himself with only his dog and servants around him.
I loved the way Callista and Everett grew to appreciate each other and the way Callista looked at Everett as a man and not simply as defined by his scars. She brought light back into Everett’s life. The friendship that developed slowly into more was so sweet to read about.
This story was so much fun to read!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
As the story opens, the reader gets a little peek at the man Everett used to be. He wasn’t a horrible man, but he was a handsome man who was used to being able to charm any woman he needed to and was willing to use that charm and his good looks to help him move up the ranks of society. Years after the attack, we meet a man who has lost his looks, suffers from headaches, battled depression for a while, and found the Lord. He is alone and isolates himself with only his dog and servants around him.
I loved the way Callista and Everett grew to appreciate each other and the way Callista looked at Everett as a man and not simply as defined by his scars. She brought light back into Everett’s life. The friendship that developed slowly into more was so sweet to read about.
This story was so much fun to read!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
July 2, 2025
4.75 stars
Calling all Beauty and the Beast lovers, this is a great western retelling of Beauty and the Beast you are not going to want to miss. This story was just great! It has so many elements of The Beauty and the Beast story you know and love. We have the beast, Everett and “Belle” who is named Callista. I loved the beginning with Everett’s backstory, and the way he became a beast from his encounter with “The Enchantress”, I thought it was a very creative way to do it. Callista is a book binder who takes the job at “the beast’s” residence in her father’s place. Everett does not want her there but his staff likes her and he lets her stay. I loved his staff they were great! Callista is a very determined woman. I loved how Callista and Everett’s relationship progressed to love. Of course there is a “Gaston” character who tries to ruin everything. There is also great Christian content. Overall, I loved this story and thought it very creative! I definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Calling all Beauty and the Beast lovers, this is a great western retelling of Beauty and the Beast you are not going to want to miss. This story was just great! It has so many elements of The Beauty and the Beast story you know and love. We have the beast, Everett and “Belle” who is named Callista. I loved the beginning with Everett’s backstory, and the way he became a beast from his encounter with “The Enchantress”, I thought it was a very creative way to do it. Callista is a book binder who takes the job at “the beast’s” residence in her father’s place. Everett does not want her there but his staff likes her and he lets her stay. I loved his staff they were great! Callista is a very determined woman. I loved how Callista and Everett’s relationship progressed to love. Of course there is a “Gaston” character who tries to ruin everything. There is also great Christian content. Overall, I loved this story and thought it very creative! I definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
June 22, 2025
3.5⭐️ I was looking for a light read and this was perfect for that. Though there are a LOT of nods to the Disney Beauty and the Beast (the cartoon which happens to be my fav), it also has its own twist, turns, and unique aspects. The bookbinding was a fun touch! I enjoyed all the characters at Manticorn Manor (Everett’s home) and though the romance was a bit rushed, it was sweet.
There’s also a lot of solid faith content (verses shared naturally, praying mentioned).
Overall, a satisfying fairy tale (minus magic) type story.
Content: some violence, kidnapping, innuendo (vague)
There’s also a lot of solid faith content (verses shared naturally, praying mentioned).
Overall, a satisfying fairy tale (minus magic) type story.
Content: some violence, kidnapping, innuendo (vague)
June 21, 2025
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review. Also my tags may have spoilers in them so be forewarned before checking out full review.
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖📖
Narration:🎧🎧🎧🎧
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨✨
First Impressions
To Love A Beast is the first book in a newest series but still has the fairy tale theme to her other series. This was one of my most anticipated reads of the year, and it definitely was so satisfying and worth the wait on it. I really adore how this author writes fairy tale retelling, she really stays true to the original while at the same time putting her own twist on it and its utterly delightful. I am curious what the next fairy tale will be (kinda hoping for little mermaid next but we will see). To Love A Beast had all the heart, inspiration and heartwarming character that melt deep inside of you.
First Line
Everett Griffin strutted through the halls of the Union Club like a thoroughbred stallion on the auction block-for that's what he was.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Everett Griffin (The Beast)
The Heroine: Callista Rosenfeld (Our Belle)
Summary
To Love a Beast started our with Everett Griffin, who was one of the most eligible bachelors in New York City, he had everything at his fingertips until one of the woman he was courting showed her true color and attacked him when he turned her down. He became disfigured and a beast to all who saw him. He settled in Texas, in a small community and built a massive manor that was full of gloom and doom. Then enters our heroine, Callista, who is the daughter of a book binder and when he becomes injured, she takes over. When Everett request his services, Callista goes in his stead. Callista never expected a man to be so rude but she was determined to let it not get to her, to remain steady through it all. Soon her steady patient nature, will bring out the real man that is hidden beneath the beastly exterior, but will he be able to win her heart and affection?
What I Loved
This story really showcases what real love is ALL about. I loved the fierce way in which we see their love blossom. The patience of it, the way they give so much to each other and are willing to sacrifice for one another's happiness. Its shows the true nature of love and what we should all strive towards. What I love about Inspirational romance is how it truly inspires you to be a better person and Karen Witemeyer truly takes it to another level.
To Love A Beast had so many fun connections to the original. The father being an quirky character. The heroine knowing his trade just as much as he does. The hero living in a glooming manor like castle (even has gargoyles on it lol ), then we have Mrs Potts (The cook and housekeeper) who is like a mother hen. The valet and the butler who have this fun banter going at it. One likes to play around with clocks and the other is all about fashion. We have a beautiful library room. And the epic dance. And seeing the change and growth in our characters and seeing them fight for one another. I think the heroine could have been willing to do a bit more sacrificing for the hero, but it makes sense as to why she doesn't. So I didn't hold it against her. I did love seeing the change in Everett especially. He literally was traumatized by a she devil (literally she was insane and had to be put in a mental institution type of insane) We do have a jealous villain. And how it all plays out was just perfection. I didn't want to put their story down. But what made this book even better was the love that blossoms between them so deeply. Seeing how selfless they are for each other in the effort to make one another better and to not think about the self in the process was beyond beautiful. I just wanted to stay in this book and their moments forever!!!
What I Struggled With
Nothing much, I think in the end I kinda wish the heroine had fought for the hero a bit more but she is also a devoted daughter so you can feel how torn she is on it.
Narration
I really have adored the narration that this author has for her books, and this one was wonderful. Not the best narration, some of the tones of some of the characters were kinda strange, but loved the ones for the main characters.
Overall View
To Love A Beast was a fascinating retelling that swept me up in the magic and selfless love of the tale while reinforcing a bold connection to God at the same time. It was timeless and truly magical!
Favorite Quote(s)
She longed to know this man, deeply and personally, not simply to feed the attraction she felt towards him. But because she sense if he opened the door to her he could open the door to others. It would give him the freedom to face the world as himself, and not as a man cloaked in mystery and scandal. She took her courage in hand and opened the gate and praying he wouldn't throw it in her face.
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Historical Romance, Inspirational Romance
Character Types: Softer FMC, Tortured Hero, Protector
Themes: Small Town, Danger/Suspense, Beauty and the Beast
Tropes: Forced Proximity, Fairy Tale Retelling
Book Perspective
3rd POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Both
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Mary Connealy
Anita Stansfield
Jody Hedlund
Song This Book Inspires
If I Can't Love Her-Kane Alexander
Recommendation For Reading Order
Standalone
Steam/Spice Explanations
Simmering cup of tea---soft warm touches and light intimacy
Warmin' by the fire- a medium level of sexual tension, a balance of sexual and emotional intimacy, lighter on the details in the sexual moments.
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Blazing fire to the building-The prime focus is the sex scenes, scorching hot, and could burn one. Less focus on the emotional intimacy to the relationship.
Narrators:
Cara Firestone
September 21, 2025
A historical Texas take on Beauty and the Beast, you say? Colour me intrigued!
B&B and I have a complex relationship. Bookish Belle does it for me every time, but the romance gets some eyebrow raises from me (at least the Disney version). But I LOVED Witemeyer’s take!
Instead of Everett (aka Beast) being the captor, he’s Calista’s (Belle) employer. She’s the bookbinder’s daughter who comes to the mansion to rebind Everett’s library. Plus, she’s allowed to head to town and attend church. It was decidedly un-prisoner-like and it just worked for me. 🤷🏻♀️
Also, Everett and Calista are the cutest. The romance is super slowburn (kiss is literally at the very end) and sweet. But it was the side characters who entranced me most. Namely Lightfoot and Timens aka Lumiere and Cogsworth—their banter rivaled the original & I loved it… totally laugh out loud worthy!
And if case your wondering, the Gaston character is horrible. Maybe worse then the original Gaston. 🤢
I loved it!
B&B and I have a complex relationship. Bookish Belle does it for me every time, but the romance gets some eyebrow raises from me (at least the Disney version). But I LOVED Witemeyer’s take!
Instead of Everett (aka Beast) being the captor, he’s Calista’s (Belle) employer. She’s the bookbinder’s daughter who comes to the mansion to rebind Everett’s library. Plus, she’s allowed to head to town and attend church. It was decidedly un-prisoner-like and it just worked for me. 🤷🏻♀️
Also, Everett and Calista are the cutest. The romance is super slowburn (kiss is literally at the very end) and sweet. But it was the side characters who entranced me most. Namely Lightfoot and Timens aka Lumiere and Cogsworth—their banter rivaled the original & I loved it… totally laugh out loud worthy!
And if case your wondering, the Gaston character is horrible. Maybe worse then the original Gaston. 🤢
I loved it!
July 6, 2026
°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･ To Love a Beast - Karen Witemeyer °❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･
🌹🖌️📙👗💖
13+
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
⤿Romance: Clean Christian romance.
⤿Cursing: None!
⤿Violence: A woman hits the MMC and cuts his face, someone gets shot, FMC gets a cut on her neck by a knife.
Plot 10/10
Characters 10/10
Setting 10/10
“𝐻𝑜𝓅𝑒 𝓈𝑒𝑒𝓈 𝓅𝑜𝓈𝓈𝒾𝒷𝒾𝓁𝒾𝓉𝒾𝑒𝓈 𝓌𝒽𝑒𝓇𝑒 𝒻𝑒𝒶𝓇 𝓈𝑒𝑒𝓈 𝑜𝓃𝓁𝓎 𝒷𝒶𝓇𝓇𝒾𝑒𝓇𝓈. 𝐻𝑜𝓅𝑒 𝓉𝓇𝓊𝓈𝓉𝓈 𝓉𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝒢𝑜𝒹 𝓌𝒾𝓁𝓁 𝓇𝑒𝓈𝒸𝓊𝑒 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝓇𝑒𝓈𝓉𝑜𝓇𝑒, 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝒾𝓉 𝑒𝓃𝒶𝒷𝓁𝑒𝓈 𝓊𝓈 𝓉𝑜 𝑒𝓃𝒹𝓊𝓇𝑒 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝒾𝓃𝓉𝑒𝓇𝒾𝓂. 𝒟𝑒𝓈𝓅𝒾𝓉𝑒 𝓌𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝓅𝑒𝑜𝓅𝓁𝑒 𝓈𝒶𝓎, 𝒽𝑜𝓅𝑒 𝒸𝒶𝓃𝓃𝑜𝓉 𝒷𝑒 𝓈𝓉𝑜𝓁𝑒𝓃 𝑜𝓇 𝒹𝑒𝓈𝓉𝓇𝑜𝓎𝑒𝒹. 𝐼𝓉 𝓌𝒾𝓁𝓁 𝑜𝓃𝓁𝓎 𝒷𝑒 𝓁𝑜𝓈𝓉 𝒾𝒻 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝓈𝓊𝓇𝓇𝑒𝓃𝒹𝑒𝓇 𝒾𝓉 𝑜𝒻 𝓎𝑜𝓊𝓇 𝑜𝓌𝓃 𝒻𝓇𝑒𝑒 𝓌𝒾𝓁𝓁. 𝒮𝑜 𝒽𝑜𝓁𝒹 𝓉𝒾𝑔𝒽𝓉, 𝒞𝒶𝓁𝓁𝒾𝑒. 𝒩𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓇 𝓁𝑒𝓉 𝒾𝓉 𝑔𝑜."
🪶Thoughts! 🪶
Beauty and the Beast is one of my FAVORITE princess stories so when I saw this retelling I had to pick it up! I was not disappointed! I ate this up so quickly! The writing was 👌🏼👌🏼👌🏼
I fell in love with the characters and the plot was written wonderfully! I’m not going to spoil anything so this review will be a little short.
“𝐵𝑜𝑜𝓀𝓈 𝒶𝓇𝑒 𝓂𝒶𝑔𝒾𝒸𝒶𝓁 𝒾𝓃 𝓉𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝓌𝒶𝓎, 𝒹𝑜𝓃'𝓉 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓃𝓀? 𝒞𝒶𝓅𝒶𝒷𝓁𝑒 𝑜𝒻 𝑒𝓁𝒾𝒸𝒾𝓉𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝒿𝑜𝓎 𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓃 𝒷𝑒𝒻𝑜𝓇𝑒 𝑜𝓃𝑒 𝑜𝓅𝑒𝓃𝓈 𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓂. 𝐼𝓉'𝓈 𝓌𝒽𝓎 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓈𝒾𝑔𝒽𝓉 𝑜𝒻 𝒶𝓃 𝒶𝒷𝓊𝓃𝒹𝒶𝓃𝓉 𝓁𝒾𝒷𝓇𝒶𝓇𝓎 𝓃𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓇 𝒻𝒶𝒾𝓁𝓈 𝓉𝑜 𝓁𝒾𝒻𝓉 𝓂𝓎 𝓈𝓅𝒾𝓇𝒾𝓉𝓈."
The beast was literally written so perfectly and so was the beauty! I wish I could give this 6 stars! The pov switches between the FMC and the MMC.
Overall, I totally recommend this to any BatB fan!
"𝐼'𝓋𝑒 𝓃𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓇 𝓈𝑒𝑒𝓃 𝒶 𝒷𝑒𝒶𝓈𝓉 𝓌𝒽𝑒𝓃 𝐼 𝓁𝑜𝑜𝓀 𝒶𝓉 𝓎𝑜𝓊, 𝐸𝓋𝑒𝓇𝑒𝓉𝓉. 𝐼'𝓋𝑒 𝑜𝓃𝓁𝓎 𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓇 𝓈𝑒𝑒𝓃 𝒶 𝓂𝒶𝓃. 𝒜𝓃𝒹 𝒶𝓈 𝐼'𝓋𝑒 𝑔𝓇𝑜𝓌𝓃 𝓉𝑜 𝓁𝑜𝓋𝑒 𝓎𝑜𝓊, 𝐼'𝓋𝑒 𝒸𝑜𝓂𝑒 𝓉𝑜 𝓈𝑒𝑒 𝒶 𝓂𝒶𝓃 𝑒𝓆𝓊𝒶𝓁 𝓉𝑜 𝒶𝓃𝓎 𝒻𝒶𝒾𝓇𝓎 𝓉𝒶𝓁𝑒 𝓅𝓇𝒾𝓃𝒸𝑒. 𝒩𝑜𝒷𝓁𝑒 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝒷𝓇𝒶𝓋𝑒. 𝒢𝑒𝓃𝑒𝓇𝑜𝓊𝓈 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝓀𝒾𝓃𝒹. 𝒫𝓇𝑜𝓉𝑒𝒸𝓉𝒾𝓋𝑒 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝓁𝑜𝓋𝒾𝓃𝑔."
What to except:
𑣲Retelling of Beauty and the Beast
𑣲Grumpy/Sunshine
𑣲Clean Christian historical romance
🌹🖌️📙👗💖
13+
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
⤿Romance: Clean Christian romance.
⤿Cursing: None!
⤿Violence: A woman hits the MMC and cuts his face, someone gets shot, FMC gets a cut on her neck by a knife.
Plot 10/10
Characters 10/10
Setting 10/10
“𝐻𝑜𝓅𝑒 𝓈𝑒𝑒𝓈 𝓅𝑜𝓈𝓈𝒾𝒷𝒾𝓁𝒾𝓉𝒾𝑒𝓈 𝓌𝒽𝑒𝓇𝑒 𝒻𝑒𝒶𝓇 𝓈𝑒𝑒𝓈 𝑜𝓃𝓁𝓎 𝒷𝒶𝓇𝓇𝒾𝑒𝓇𝓈. 𝐻𝑜𝓅𝑒 𝓉𝓇𝓊𝓈𝓉𝓈 𝓉𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝒢𝑜𝒹 𝓌𝒾𝓁𝓁 𝓇𝑒𝓈𝒸𝓊𝑒 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝓇𝑒𝓈𝓉𝑜𝓇𝑒, 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝒾𝓉 𝑒𝓃𝒶𝒷𝓁𝑒𝓈 𝓊𝓈 𝓉𝑜 𝑒𝓃𝒹𝓊𝓇𝑒 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝒾𝓃𝓉𝑒𝓇𝒾𝓂. 𝒟𝑒𝓈𝓅𝒾𝓉𝑒 𝓌𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝓅𝑒𝑜𝓅𝓁𝑒 𝓈𝒶𝓎, 𝒽𝑜𝓅𝑒 𝒸𝒶𝓃𝓃𝑜𝓉 𝒷𝑒 𝓈𝓉𝑜𝓁𝑒𝓃 𝑜𝓇 𝒹𝑒𝓈𝓉𝓇𝑜𝓎𝑒𝒹. 𝐼𝓉 𝓌𝒾𝓁𝓁 𝑜𝓃𝓁𝓎 𝒷𝑒 𝓁𝑜𝓈𝓉 𝒾𝒻 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝓈𝓊𝓇𝓇𝑒𝓃𝒹𝑒𝓇 𝒾𝓉 𝑜𝒻 𝓎𝑜𝓊𝓇 𝑜𝓌𝓃 𝒻𝓇𝑒𝑒 𝓌𝒾𝓁𝓁. 𝒮𝑜 𝒽𝑜𝓁𝒹 𝓉𝒾𝑔𝒽𝓉, 𝒞𝒶𝓁𝓁𝒾𝑒. 𝒩𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓇 𝓁𝑒𝓉 𝒾𝓉 𝑔𝑜."
🪶Thoughts! 🪶
Beauty and the Beast is one of my FAVORITE princess stories so when I saw this retelling I had to pick it up! I was not disappointed! I ate this up so quickly! The writing was 👌🏼👌🏼👌🏼
I fell in love with the characters and the plot was written wonderfully! I’m not going to spoil anything so this review will be a little short.
“𝐵𝑜𝑜𝓀𝓈 𝒶𝓇𝑒 𝓂𝒶𝑔𝒾𝒸𝒶𝓁 𝒾𝓃 𝓉𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝓌𝒶𝓎, 𝒹𝑜𝓃'𝓉 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓃𝓀? 𝒞𝒶𝓅𝒶𝒷𝓁𝑒 𝑜𝒻 𝑒𝓁𝒾𝒸𝒾𝓉𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝒿𝑜𝓎 𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓃 𝒷𝑒𝒻𝑜𝓇𝑒 𝑜𝓃𝑒 𝑜𝓅𝑒𝓃𝓈 𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓂. 𝐼𝓉'𝓈 𝓌𝒽𝓎 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓈𝒾𝑔𝒽𝓉 𝑜𝒻 𝒶𝓃 𝒶𝒷𝓊𝓃𝒹𝒶𝓃𝓉 𝓁𝒾𝒷𝓇𝒶𝓇𝓎 𝓃𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓇 𝒻𝒶𝒾𝓁𝓈 𝓉𝑜 𝓁𝒾𝒻𝓉 𝓂𝓎 𝓈𝓅𝒾𝓇𝒾𝓉𝓈."
The beast was literally written so perfectly and so was the beauty! I wish I could give this 6 stars! The pov switches between the FMC and the MMC.
Overall, I totally recommend this to any BatB fan!
"𝐼'𝓋𝑒 𝓃𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓇 𝓈𝑒𝑒𝓃 𝒶 𝒷𝑒𝒶𝓈𝓉 𝓌𝒽𝑒𝓃 𝐼 𝓁𝑜𝑜𝓀 𝒶𝓉 𝓎𝑜𝓊, 𝐸𝓋𝑒𝓇𝑒𝓉𝓉. 𝐼'𝓋𝑒 𝑜𝓃𝓁𝓎 𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓇 𝓈𝑒𝑒𝓃 𝒶 𝓂𝒶𝓃. 𝒜𝓃𝒹 𝒶𝓈 𝐼'𝓋𝑒 𝑔𝓇𝑜𝓌𝓃 𝓉𝑜 𝓁𝑜𝓋𝑒 𝓎𝑜𝓊, 𝐼'𝓋𝑒 𝒸𝑜𝓂𝑒 𝓉𝑜 𝓈𝑒𝑒 𝒶 𝓂𝒶𝓃 𝑒𝓆𝓊𝒶𝓁 𝓉𝑜 𝒶𝓃𝓎 𝒻𝒶𝒾𝓇𝓎 𝓉𝒶𝓁𝑒 𝓅𝓇𝒾𝓃𝒸𝑒. 𝒩𝑜𝒷𝓁𝑒 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝒷𝓇𝒶𝓋𝑒. 𝒢𝑒𝓃𝑒𝓇𝑜𝓊𝓈 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝓀𝒾𝓃𝒹. 𝒫𝓇𝑜𝓉𝑒𝒸𝓉𝒾𝓋𝑒 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝓁𝑜𝓋𝒾𝓃𝑔."
What to except:
𑣲Retelling of Beauty and the Beast
𑣲Grumpy/Sunshine
𑣲Clean Christian historical romance
April 26, 2025
Beauty and the Beast is my absolute favorite fairytale, so I’m always excited to read a retelling of it. Karen Witemeyer’s story draws enough from the Disney version to satisfy my love of this tale, but adds plenty of new depth and intrigue. I really enjoyed both Callista and Everett, and I LOVE the fact that Callista is a bookbinder. Each side character added something personal and magical to the story too.
I really struggled to put this one down, and would absolutely recommend it to all! 4.5/5 stars
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I really struggled to put this one down, and would absolutely recommend it to all! 4.5/5 stars
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
February 11, 2026
3.5 ⭐
This was a sweet Beauty and the Beast retelling. I loved our hero's back story and how he overcame his struggles; that was my favorite part.
Callista, our heroine, was a little TOO perfect for my taste, but that's very much in keeping with the Disney version of Belle, which the author is obviously playing off of.
I loved the contemporary bookish references and added a new one (to me!) to my TBR - King Solomon's Mines. I'm not much for adventure stories, but I find myself quite intrigued! Oh, and I suppose it goes without saying, I loved the library connection between this Beauty and Beast.
This sweet romance was squeaky clean!
This was a sweet Beauty and the Beast retelling. I loved our hero's back story and how he overcame his struggles; that was my favorite part.
Callista, our heroine, was a little TOO perfect for my taste, but that's very much in keeping with the Disney version of Belle, which the author is obviously playing off of.
I loved the contemporary bookish references and added a new one (to me!) to my TBR - King Solomon's Mines. I'm not much for adventure stories, but I find myself quite intrigued! Oh, and I suppose it goes without saying, I loved the library connection between this Beauty and Beast.
This sweet romance was squeaky clean!
January 1, 2026
Harmless and wholesome retelling of the fairy story with an emphasis on the lesson that beauty is only skin deep. The hero (no age given) was a vapid Adonis 5 years before, but now he has learned the importance of character (after his good looks were targeted by an unhinged beauty). The heroine (26) is beautiful inside and out. However, I found the romance rather superficial and lacked enough interaction for us to see rather than be told of their shared love. On the plus side, the side characters - those he employed - were written very well and fairly sprung from the page.
January 20, 2026
"Your face does not define you, Griff. Your actions do. A woman of a discerning nature will see the man behind the scars. It's up to you to determine what type of man she will find when she does so."
This Beaty and the Beast retelling was so delightful. I loved every single minute! It was fun and unique. I loved the cast of characters and the subtle (and not so subtle) nods to the original tale.
Everett is witty, artistic, and scarred (physically and mentally). I loved his faith and how deeply it was a part of his life. I loved seeing his grumpy side soften and how his tenderness and love shined through. I enjoyed his friendships with his employees and how they supported him. I loved that Callista was a part of his healing and restoration.
Callista is brave, kind, and determined. I loved her strength and the way she stood her ground with Everett. I loved that she was not bothered by his scars or beastly attitude and saw the true Everett. I enjoyed how quickly Everett’s staff accepted her into their “family”. Everett and Callista’s chemistry was amazing! The lingering looks, his reading to her while she works, sharing his art, every interaction was gentle and romantic.
I loved the reminder that God can heal our hearts and that our value is found in our hearts.
A few more quotes:
"Then marry me, Callista, because you own my heart, and I am lost without you."
"I've never seen a beast when I look at you, Everett. I've only ever seen a man. And as I've grown to love you, I've come to see a man equal to any fairy tale prince. Noble and brave. Generous and kind. Protective and loving."
This Beaty and the Beast retelling was so delightful. I loved every single minute! It was fun and unique. I loved the cast of characters and the subtle (and not so subtle) nods to the original tale.
Everett is witty, artistic, and scarred (physically and mentally). I loved his faith and how deeply it was a part of his life. I loved seeing his grumpy side soften and how his tenderness and love shined through. I enjoyed his friendships with his employees and how they supported him. I loved that Callista was a part of his healing and restoration.
Callista is brave, kind, and determined. I loved her strength and the way she stood her ground with Everett. I loved that she was not bothered by his scars or beastly attitude and saw the true Everett. I enjoyed how quickly Everett’s staff accepted her into their “family”. Everett and Callista’s chemistry was amazing! The lingering looks, his reading to her while she works, sharing his art, every interaction was gentle and romantic.
I loved the reminder that God can heal our hearts and that our value is found in our hearts.
A few more quotes:
"Then marry me, Callista, because you own my heart, and I am lost without you."
"I've never seen a beast when I look at you, Everett. I've only ever seen a man. And as I've grown to love you, I've come to see a man equal to any fairy tale prince. Noble and brave. Generous and kind. Protective and loving."
January 27, 2026
Story Enjoyment Rating: 9.5/10 Christian Faith Rating: 2.5/3
To Love a Beast by Karen Witemeyer is a Beauty and the Beast retelling set in historical Texas and is Christian fiction. While it includes many nods to the classic Beauty and the Beast story (and even the film), it still stands firmly as its own story.
The book follows Callista, a bookbinder who works alongside her father. When her father is injured, they’re faced with a major bookbinding project for a reclusive man who lives out in the country and wants his library restored. Originally, Callista’s father was meant to take the job, but instead Callista goes in his place because they desperately need the work.
The man she’s sent to work for has a frightening reputation. He’s known to keep people away, has a large dog that scares off visitors, and doesn’t want anyone near him. Still, Callista persists.
Everett is a man who has been physically and emotionally scarred by his past, wears an eye patch, and has been deeply hurt by a woman before. Because of that, he’s withdrawn himself from society and lives in isolation, avoiding contact with others.
It’s very much the classic Beauty and the Beast story, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. There is clear Christian content woven throughout the book as well.
This novel is part of Witemeyer’s Texas Ever After series, which consists of fairy-tale retellings set in historical Texas.
To Love a Beast by Karen Witemeyer is a Beauty and the Beast retelling set in historical Texas and is Christian fiction. While it includes many nods to the classic Beauty and the Beast story (and even the film), it still stands firmly as its own story.
The book follows Callista, a bookbinder who works alongside her father. When her father is injured, they’re faced with a major bookbinding project for a reclusive man who lives out in the country and wants his library restored. Originally, Callista’s father was meant to take the job, but instead Callista goes in his place because they desperately need the work.
The man she’s sent to work for has a frightening reputation. He’s known to keep people away, has a large dog that scares off visitors, and doesn’t want anyone near him. Still, Callista persists.
Everett is a man who has been physically and emotionally scarred by his past, wears an eye patch, and has been deeply hurt by a woman before. Because of that, he’s withdrawn himself from society and lives in isolation, avoiding contact with others.
It’s very much the classic Beauty and the Beast story, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. There is clear Christian content woven throughout the book as well.
This novel is part of Witemeyer’s Texas Ever After series, which consists of fairy-tale retellings set in historical Texas.
May 7, 2026
I enjoyed this retelling of Beauty and the Beast. I particularly giggled at the author's multiple nods to the Disney version of the faerietale.
I love how Everett's beastliness was explained in the prologue, and how quick Callista was to understand the person behind the gruff exterior. How she saw not only his physical pain, but the emotional scarring as well. It was clear her parents had taught her well how to live out her faith.
I loved that Everett was also trying to live true to his own faith, even if that looked different than might have been expected. I appreciated that his employees were all quick to encourage him, but also to call him out when he miss-stepped.
The closing scene was delightful, though there should be a 'smolder' warning for that last kiss! *wink*
I love how Everett's beastliness was explained in the prologue, and how quick Callista was to understand the person behind the gruff exterior. How she saw not only his physical pain, but the emotional scarring as well. It was clear her parents had taught her well how to live out her faith.
I loved that Everett was also trying to live true to his own faith, even if that looked different than might have been expected. I appreciated that his employees were all quick to encourage him, but also to call him out when he miss-stepped.
The closing scene was delightful, though there should be a 'smolder' warning for that last kiss! *wink*
July 20, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
Loved the creative ways this author thinks to retell classic fairytales. I loved the potential in this one but it unfortunately fell flat for me. There were so many conversations that were important to the storyline that I felt like she skipped by simply stating they had taken place. I want to be with the characters more in their development so that their love feels more real. I did enjoy parts of the book but felt like “meh” when I finished it. 😕 That being said, I am definitely open to reading her next book in this series.
Loved the creative ways this author thinks to retell classic fairytales. I loved the potential in this one but it unfortunately fell flat for me. There were so many conversations that were important to the storyline that I felt like she skipped by simply stating they had taken place. I want to be with the characters more in their development so that their love feels more real. I did enjoy parts of the book but felt like “meh” when I finished it. 😕 That being said, I am definitely open to reading her next book in this series.
July 10, 2025
This was such a fun story! Loved all the characters (absolutely including the side characters!) and it was such a fun take on Beauty and the Beast, with Karen Witemeyer’s charm and wit!
“Books are magical in that way, don't you think? Capable of eliciting joy even before one opens them.”
Being a lover of books and all that, I was so excited about a book binder, a man with an extensive library, and a high appreciation for books! It was a such a cute story!
“Books are magical in that way, don't you think? Capable of eliciting joy even before one opens them.”
Being a lover of books and all that, I was so excited about a book binder, a man with an extensive library, and a high appreciation for books! It was a such a cute story!
August 15, 2025
I love Beauty and the Beast stories and this one was perfectly sweet with many little nods to the well-loved movies. plus, faith! yay!
August 18, 2025
3.5 stars ✨
May 27, 2026
I really enjoyed this retelling of the classic Beauty and the Beast fairytale. It was enough like the original to be authentic, while different enough to keep me wondering what was going to happen next. Very well done!
June 5, 2025
I love these fairytale retellings with a Texas flair and this one is my favorite. It had me picturing the Disney version in my head with all the favorite characters. I liked the twist on the names like Mrs. Potter and Mr. Lightfoot. Mr. Griffen as the beast was just perfect! The descriptions put me right in the story. The information about bookbinding was very interesting and the paintings by Everett Griffen were so mesmerizing. They showed Calista what was in his soul. Ms. Witemeyer wove the story into a tale of beauty and gave a clear spiritual lesson. We should be looking at the heart and not outward appearances. She also touched on being a friend and seeking forgiveness.
This is a sure winner and I hope more Texas themed fairytales are in the works.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher on behalf of the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
This is a sure winner and I hope more Texas themed fairytales are in the works.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher on behalf of the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
December 4, 2025
I don't feel the pain when I look at you
~~~~~~This is a retelling of Beauty and the Beast.~~~~~~
It is a beautiful clean story about a very good looking man who was a bit vain, slightly arrogant and needed to be brought down a notch.
"But as time passed, and the freshness of the betrayal faded, I began to see that God had protected me, Just not in the way I expected. He'd spared my life, yes, but he'd also spared me from a lifetime of misery being married to a woman incapable of love. And if I'm completely honest, he protected me from my own arrogance and pride."
A freaky accident with a debutante left him disfigured. He exiled himself to a reclusive manor to rut in his grumpy mood.
At the begining of the book I did not sympathise one iota with him. For reasons mentioned above 👆.
I did like him though as a grumpy a**hole. It made him become a man -protective, assertive and humbled.
Callista was a beautiful representative of Beauty. She was sweet, a good daughter, hardworking and kind to everyone.
Everett was blown away by her beauty at first but as he had first hand experience with how fickle and short lasting beauty could be he soon discarded her and left her to fix his books in the library. Slowly, he started admiring her work, her gentle nature and the way she accepted and trusted him.
They were both very religious and the book relayed so many important values that are lacking in today's generations. Their love stemed from mutual trust, respect and virtuous disposition and not from crass-ness, vulgarity and the over use of one's body to prove their worth.
He'd never cared for any of them the way he cared for Callista. And he wasn't that shallow charmer any longer, nor did he wish to be. Not when he finally understood the power of genuine respect and ardent affection.
I enjoyed reading this book. It was done so well and the author was very smart in depicting the true story of Beauty and The Beast while using her own ingenuity in bringing it to life without the magic and the fantasy aspect of the original story.
Ticking another Fall/Winter 🍁❄️ Bingo square:
19) "Fairytale retelling "
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~~~~~~This is a retelling of Beauty and the Beast.~~~~~~
It is a beautiful clean story about a very good looking man who was a bit vain, slightly arrogant and needed to be brought down a notch.
"But as time passed, and the freshness of the betrayal faded, I began to see that God had protected me, Just not in the way I expected. He'd spared my life, yes, but he'd also spared me from a lifetime of misery being married to a woman incapable of love. And if I'm completely honest, he protected me from my own arrogance and pride."
A freaky accident with a debutante left him disfigured. He exiled himself to a reclusive manor to rut in his grumpy mood.
At the begining of the book I did not sympathise one iota with him. For reasons mentioned above 👆.
I did like him though as a grumpy a**hole. It made him become a man -protective, assertive and humbled.
Callista was a beautiful representative of Beauty. She was sweet, a good daughter, hardworking and kind to everyone.
Everett was blown away by her beauty at first but as he had first hand experience with how fickle and short lasting beauty could be he soon discarded her and left her to fix his books in the library. Slowly, he started admiring her work, her gentle nature and the way she accepted and trusted him.
They were both very religious and the book relayed so many important values that are lacking in today's generations. Their love stemed from mutual trust, respect and virtuous disposition and not from crass-ness, vulgarity and the over use of one's body to prove their worth.
He'd never cared for any of them the way he cared for Callista. And he wasn't that shallow charmer any longer, nor did he wish to be. Not when he finally understood the power of genuine respect and ardent affection.
I enjoyed reading this book. It was done so well and the author was very smart in depicting the true story of Beauty and The Beast while using her own ingenuity in bringing it to life without the magic and the fantasy aspect of the original story.
Ticking another Fall/Winter 🍁❄️ Bingo square:
19) "Fairytale retelling "
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🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 14 | 🔴 | 🔴
🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴
🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴
🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴
🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴
June 21, 2025
I enjoy fairy tale retellings. Karen Witemeyer remade a classic Beauty and the Beast into a tale for the ages. We all handle scars and outward signs of disfigurement in different ways. Yet, shouldn’t we move quickly to the inner person and attach to the qualities that make a person a living soul?
Now, those inner parts can be scarred and damaged, waiting for someone to help the healing process.
With a heart full of acceptance, hope, and love, one willing woman is willing to bide her time with a man who is battling outer and inner wounds.
Bravo, Karen!
Now, those inner parts can be scarred and damaged, waiting for someone to help the healing process.
With a heart full of acceptance, hope, and love, one willing woman is willing to bide her time with a man who is battling outer and inner wounds.
Bravo, Karen!
June 27, 2025
DNF
I couldn’t handle listening to this narrator. It may have been a good book but the narrator ruined it for me.
I couldn’t handle listening to this narrator. It may have been a good book but the narrator ruined it for me.
March 11, 2026
To Love a Beast – Book Review
Author: Karen Witemeyer
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5 stars)
Synopsis:
Set in 1800s Texas, To Love a Beast is a heartfelt historical romance inspired by the classic tale of Beauty and the Beast. Everett Griffin lives a secluded life after a tragic accident leaves him scarred and convinced he must hide himself away from the world. When Calista Rosenfeld enters his life, her kindness, courage, and steadfast faith begin to break through the walls he has built around his heart. As their lives intertwine, both must confront their fears, learn to trust, and discover that true beauty lies far deeper than outward appearance.
My Review:
This might be one of the most beautiful retellings of Beauty and the Beast that I have ever read.
Callista and Everett are such deeply moving characters, even during Everett’s grumpiest moments. His pain felt incredibly real to me. I carry many scars on my own body from a terrible experience with a fraudulent doctor whose treatment nearly cost me my life. While I am grateful it was pieces of my flesh that were taken rather than my life, the scars remain—and with them, the temptation to hide or feel ashamed of how I look.
Because of that, Everett’s struggle resonated with me in a deeply personal way. Like him, it’s easy to respond to pain with anger or withdrawal, using those emotions to shield the deeper hurt beneath. Those feelings make us human. What made this story so powerful is how Callista was able to see beyond Everett’s anger and recognize the wounded heart beneath it. Through patience, compassion, grace, and acceptance, she slowly helps him rediscover hope—and ultimately, love that is genuine and healing.
The supporting characters were just as wonderful, and I truly fell in love with the entire cast. Each one added warmth and heart to the story.
I also adored the 1800s Texas setting. I’m such a sucker for that time period and often feel like I was born in the wrong era. There’s something about the simplicity, respect, and quiet beauty of that time that always draws me in.
But by far my favorite part of this story was the way Karen Witemeyer wove faith so naturally and beautifully into the narrative. Watching the characters lean on God and grow in their faith throughout their journeys added so much depth and richness to the story. It was truly a joy to witness.
I paired the Kindle edition with the audiobook for a read-along experience, and it made the story even more immersive and delightful.
This was a deeply touching and faith-filled romance that I won’t soon forget. I highly recommend it and easily give it five stars.
⁉️ QOTD: Have you read any Beauty and the Beast retellings you’ve loved?
❗️Fun fact: my daughter, Clara Elisabeth “Clara Beth”, was almost a Callista Jade “Callie Jade” 🫶 I still deeply love the name 💗
Author: Karen Witemeyer
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5 stars)
Synopsis:
Set in 1800s Texas, To Love a Beast is a heartfelt historical romance inspired by the classic tale of Beauty and the Beast. Everett Griffin lives a secluded life after a tragic accident leaves him scarred and convinced he must hide himself away from the world. When Calista Rosenfeld enters his life, her kindness, courage, and steadfast faith begin to break through the walls he has built around his heart. As their lives intertwine, both must confront their fears, learn to trust, and discover that true beauty lies far deeper than outward appearance.
My Review:
This might be one of the most beautiful retellings of Beauty and the Beast that I have ever read.
Callista and Everett are such deeply moving characters, even during Everett’s grumpiest moments. His pain felt incredibly real to me. I carry many scars on my own body from a terrible experience with a fraudulent doctor whose treatment nearly cost me my life. While I am grateful it was pieces of my flesh that were taken rather than my life, the scars remain—and with them, the temptation to hide or feel ashamed of how I look.
Because of that, Everett’s struggle resonated with me in a deeply personal way. Like him, it’s easy to respond to pain with anger or withdrawal, using those emotions to shield the deeper hurt beneath. Those feelings make us human. What made this story so powerful is how Callista was able to see beyond Everett’s anger and recognize the wounded heart beneath it. Through patience, compassion, grace, and acceptance, she slowly helps him rediscover hope—and ultimately, love that is genuine and healing.
The supporting characters were just as wonderful, and I truly fell in love with the entire cast. Each one added warmth and heart to the story.
I also adored the 1800s Texas setting. I’m such a sucker for that time period and often feel like I was born in the wrong era. There’s something about the simplicity, respect, and quiet beauty of that time that always draws me in.
But by far my favorite part of this story was the way Karen Witemeyer wove faith so naturally and beautifully into the narrative. Watching the characters lean on God and grow in their faith throughout their journeys added so much depth and richness to the story. It was truly a joy to witness.
I paired the Kindle edition with the audiobook for a read-along experience, and it made the story even more immersive and delightful.
This was a deeply touching and faith-filled romance that I won’t soon forget. I highly recommend it and easily give it five stars.
⁉️ QOTD: Have you read any Beauty and the Beast retellings you’ve loved?
❗️Fun fact: my daughter, Clara Elisabeth “Clara Beth”, was almost a Callista Jade “Callie Jade” 🫶 I still deeply love the name 💗
March 26, 2026
I love this book!!! Beauty and the Beast is my favorite fairytale. This rendition takes place in Texas during the 1800's. The beginning starts with a bang and finishes strong.
The characters are written brilliantly! I liked them all, except 1, the villain. Everett had it all. He was gorgeous, rich and all the women wanted him. Then one unfortunate day, all of that changed. He hides himself away in the woods of Texas, a recluse who thinks himself unworthy of love. Callista is a firecracker!! She's determined to help her father no matter what. Ending up at Everett's house provides her with a family. Something that she's been missing since her mother passed away. Soon Callista and Everett's newfound friendship turns into something more!
The characters are written brilliantly! I liked them all, except 1, the villain. Everett had it all. He was gorgeous, rich and all the women wanted him. Then one unfortunate day, all of that changed. He hides himself away in the woods of Texas, a recluse who thinks himself unworthy of love. Callista is a firecracker!! She's determined to help her father no matter what. Ending up at Everett's house provides her with a family. Something that she's been missing since her mother passed away. Soon Callista and Everett's newfound friendship turns into something more!
January 27, 2026
I really enjoyed this Texas retelling of Beauty and the Beast! Karen Witemeyer has done such a great job with her fairy tale retellings, and this one was no exception. I loved the nods to the Disney version, and the characters were just wonderful. Can't wait for the next one!
June 11, 2025
As a big fan of the fairytale story of Beauty and the Beast, I was very excited to read this retelling, and it exceed my high expectations! I found Callista to be the perfect blend of sweet and sassy for a heroine and I love how she slowly broke down the emotional scars Everett had built in response to his physical ones. As a lover of books, I greatly enjoyed the details of the book binding process and could only imagine the beautiful extensive library in the novel. I had hard time putting the book down and loved the supporting characters who rounded out such a delightful novel. Truly a must read, and highly recommended!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
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