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Beast and Remedy: The Last of the Heirs
Six Deities. Six Kingdoms. Each monarch gifted one of the Maker’s abilities…
But one heir is desperate to rectify a devastating mistake.
Vivienne suffers through perilous transitions from woman to bear, a burden forced on her as the future Queen of Belmur. She juggles her time between the two forms, grieving the loss of her mother, and relying on her twin sister, Marian, to help create a tonic to reduce the excruciating shifts. But when a failed experiment gets out of hand, her entire kingdom is forced to evacuate while she seeks to find a remedy.
King Beauvais of Torgem, Vivienne’s lifelong friend, is quick to step in and offer her support. But the king and Vivienne have a long history—a history of love, secret and forbidden, that weaves through their very souls. And when betrayal comes from a place Vivienne least expects, she fears that saving her kingdom and her family will come at a great cost
Can Vivienne push her boundaries and her heart? Or will she be forced to rely on the beast within?
Beast and Remedy is a reimagining of the popular fairytale, Beauty and the Beast. This story brings together a captivating and classic story retold and filled with fantasy, folklore, magic, and romance. This is a standalone book is the second book in an interconnected series. If you love fairytale/folklore retellings, check out Beast and Remedy today!
But one heir is desperate to rectify a devastating mistake.
Vivienne suffers through perilous transitions from woman to bear, a burden forced on her as the future Queen of Belmur. She juggles her time between the two forms, grieving the loss of her mother, and relying on her twin sister, Marian, to help create a tonic to reduce the excruciating shifts. But when a failed experiment gets out of hand, her entire kingdom is forced to evacuate while she seeks to find a remedy.
King Beauvais of Torgem, Vivienne’s lifelong friend, is quick to step in and offer her support. But the king and Vivienne have a long history—a history of love, secret and forbidden, that weaves through their very souls. And when betrayal comes from a place Vivienne least expects, she fears that saving her kingdom and her family will come at a great cost
Can Vivienne push her boundaries and her heart? Or will she be forced to rely on the beast within?
Beast and Remedy is a reimagining of the popular fairytale, Beauty and the Beast. This story brings together a captivating and classic story retold and filled with fantasy, folklore, magic, and romance. This is a standalone book is the second book in an interconnected series. If you love fairytale/folklore retellings, check out Beast and Remedy today!
496 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 29, 2025
8 people are currently reading
380 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
August 28, 2025
4.5 🌟
"This unrest and foreboding will devour my mind, taint my soul, and ravish my heart.
It’ll keep going and going and going. Consuming me. Tormenting me. Until there is nothing left of me.
Nothing left to save.
Nothing left to fix.
And if I can’t stop this, who will?" (Ch 24)
Beauty and the Beast reshaped and reimagined into a spicy fairytale, one unlike any you have read before! This is a standalone in an interconnected series... BUT you should really read Frost and Death, too, if you haven't already, because it's good!!!
Love these kinds of interconnected stories where you get to revisit with main characters from a previous book, such as Tove and Jerrick from Book 1. It was good reading about them again.
"My blood, my bones, and my body ignite, the shift no longer deniable and the pain indiscernible as I charge .... my fury, my scream erupting into a roar as I drag my feet forward, unable to swallow down the wrath within as I transform." (Ch 48)
Vivienne'a gift is more of a curse, causing excruciating pain, though on the flipside she's a protector of the forest and has an affinity towards help animals. She longs to find a cure to her shifting pain and longs for her childhood love, Beau, who has been forbidden to her.
This is a story of a strong FMC, a selfless heroine. In a high-stakes journey and race against a vicious threat that's spreading across the kingdoms, Vi puts love on the back-burner (or tries to) and puts her sister and people before her own needs despite her agony and yearings.
Love the self-imposed torture, the blushes, friendships, and banter!
And AHHHHH!!!! The unexpected twist and betrayal! Sharp and straight to the heart. 💔 Tension, suspense gone savage!
eARC courtesy of Behind the Pages LLC
"This unrest and foreboding will devour my mind, taint my soul, and ravish my heart.
It’ll keep going and going and going. Consuming me. Tormenting me. Until there is nothing left of me.
Nothing left to save.
Nothing left to fix.
And if I can’t stop this, who will?" (Ch 24)
Beauty and the Beast reshaped and reimagined into a spicy fairytale, one unlike any you have read before! This is a standalone in an interconnected series... BUT you should really read Frost and Death, too, if you haven't already, because it's good!!!
Love these kinds of interconnected stories where you get to revisit with main characters from a previous book, such as Tove and Jerrick from Book 1. It was good reading about them again.
"My blood, my bones, and my body ignite, the shift no longer deniable and the pain indiscernible as I charge .... my fury, my scream erupting into a roar as I drag my feet forward, unable to swallow down the wrath within as I transform." (Ch 48)
Vivienne'a gift is more of a curse, causing excruciating pain, though on the flipside she's a protector of the forest and has an affinity towards help animals. She longs to find a cure to her shifting pain and longs for her childhood love, Beau, who has been forbidden to her.
This is a story of a strong FMC, a selfless heroine. In a high-stakes journey and race against a vicious threat that's spreading across the kingdoms, Vi puts love on the back-burner (or tries to) and puts her sister and people before her own needs despite her agony and yearings.
Love the self-imposed torture, the blushes, friendships, and banter!
And AHHHHH!!!! The unexpected twist and betrayal! Sharp and straight to the heart. 💔 Tension, suspense gone savage!
eARC courtesy of Behind the Pages LLC
August 2, 2025
This is an arc review.
I love Viv and Beau so much - Beau is actually the first blonde MMC that I've liked. I love their kindness and grace towards each other. Their struggles, and the yearning! Throughout I've been kicking my feet in joy, ugly crying from heartbreak and ultimately left with a feeling of happiness on their behalf at the end.
This book is everything a fantasy Romance should be - excellent world building, characters to fall in love with and hate, ‘save the world’ plot and of course romance. I love Lacey's take on the Beauty and the Beast fairytale, how she's weaved it into her wider world. I felt every shift in my bones, it was very visceral.
I said in my review of Frost and Death, that she's an author I'd keep an eye on because I think she has great potential and I think she's proven this again by delivering a great story that now lives rent free in my head. She’s firmly on my auto-buy list.
I can't wait to read book 3 and see where this series will end up.
I love Viv and Beau so much - Beau is actually the first blonde MMC that I've liked. I love their kindness and grace towards each other. Their struggles, and the yearning! Throughout I've been kicking my feet in joy, ugly crying from heartbreak and ultimately left with a feeling of happiness on their behalf at the end.
This book is everything a fantasy Romance should be - excellent world building, characters to fall in love with and hate, ‘save the world’ plot and of course romance. I love Lacey's take on the Beauty and the Beast fairytale, how she's weaved it into her wider world. I felt every shift in my bones, it was very visceral.
I said in my review of Frost and Death, that she's an author I'd keep an eye on because I think she has great potential and I think she's proven this again by delivering a great story that now lives rent free in my head. She’s firmly on my auto-buy list.
I can't wait to read book 3 and see where this series will end up.
August 29, 2025
✨OH, SWEET MAKERS. I am SHATTERED. HEALED. REBORN. INFINITY STARS ✨
Beast and Remedy by L.L. Riley – A Book Review from the Deepest Part of My Soul
Happy release day to yet another book that owns my heart and soul by L.L Riley - Beast and Remedy. Let me be very clear: THIS BOOK IS AN INFINITY-STAR READ. If I could tattoo it on my soul, I would.
This was my #1 most anticipated read of 2025, and rightfully so. I devoured Frost and Death twice last year (my favorite of 2024!), and I knew this sequel would absolutely destroy me in the best way. I was hesitant to start it, knowing it would completely consume me… and I was 100% right.
This book is immaculate. Perfection. Raw and beautiful and achingly powerful. I don’t even have the right words because all the words fall short. I teared up. I laughed. I felt everything deeply in my soul. I fell in love with the characters, and the emotional grip it had on me was UNREAL.
Let’s talk about Beau and Vi. Oh, my heart. I ADORE THEM. I didn’t think anyone could top Tove and Jerrick (my beloveds from book one), but L.L. Riley said watch this - and now I’m absolutely obsessed. Vi, our redheaded, stubborn, fierce animal-loving apothecary, gifted with forest magic and cursed/blessed with the form of a bear is nothing short of ICONIC. And Beau- King Beau, her banished childhood friend/love, perfect, selfless, letter-writing, starry-eyed, healing masterpiece of a man? I fell for him immediately. He is literally the perfect MMC.
AND THOSE LETTERS. Sprinkled between chapters, from their childhood through their separation—they were so sweet to read and added so much depth to their connection. I’ve seen this done in other books, but never this well. These letters weren’t filler—they deepened their bond, layered their story, and made the love between them feel timeless and soul-deep. It gave us the insight as to how they are so fiercely protective of each other, and why their love is worth it.
“Because nothing. Death. Banishment. Infection. Curses. Beast or not, nothing will ever stop me or keep me from loving you.” AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH.
And then, the stakes: When Vi accidentally creates a disease while trying to heal an injured wolf, the plot kicks into high gear. The illness spreads—from animals to humans—and she and Beau must find a cure. Vi’s journey to accepting and owning her magic was so personal, so moving. And all while navigating politics, secrets, and betrayal right under her stubborn father’s nose. (Speaking of… Bernie? I loved you in book 1. But you’ve officially entered my literary villain list. Do BETTER.)
The worldbuilding, pacing and plot were all perfect. The snippets of Tove and Jer melted my heart because I wasn't ready for their story to be over from book 1 and seeing them as the united front that they are now was beautiful. The side characters are ALL gems. Every element was woven together so flawlessly that I didn’t want to leave this world. I need 500 more pages. Minimum.
And L.L. Riley… HOW is this only her second book? Her skill, her emotion, her storytelling—she’s outwriting some of the most hyped traditional authors out there. I will scream about her books until my lungs give out. She deserves ALL the recognition, ALL the fandom love, ALL the awards. I’m not kidding when I say I will follow this woman’s career like it’s my religion.
THANK THE MAKERS a novella is coming before book 3 because I physically cannot wait.
If you haven’t read Frost and Death or Beast and Remedy yet… you need to right this second.
Beast and Remedy by L.L. Riley – A Book Review from the Deepest Part of My Soul
Happy release day to yet another book that owns my heart and soul by L.L Riley - Beast and Remedy. Let me be very clear: THIS BOOK IS AN INFINITY-STAR READ. If I could tattoo it on my soul, I would.
This was my #1 most anticipated read of 2025, and rightfully so. I devoured Frost and Death twice last year (my favorite of 2024!), and I knew this sequel would absolutely destroy me in the best way. I was hesitant to start it, knowing it would completely consume me… and I was 100% right.
This book is immaculate. Perfection. Raw and beautiful and achingly powerful. I don’t even have the right words because all the words fall short. I teared up. I laughed. I felt everything deeply in my soul. I fell in love with the characters, and the emotional grip it had on me was UNREAL.
Let’s talk about Beau and Vi. Oh, my heart. I ADORE THEM. I didn’t think anyone could top Tove and Jerrick (my beloveds from book one), but L.L. Riley said watch this - and now I’m absolutely obsessed. Vi, our redheaded, stubborn, fierce animal-loving apothecary, gifted with forest magic and cursed/blessed with the form of a bear is nothing short of ICONIC. And Beau- King Beau, her banished childhood friend/love, perfect, selfless, letter-writing, starry-eyed, healing masterpiece of a man? I fell for him immediately. He is literally the perfect MMC.
AND THOSE LETTERS. Sprinkled between chapters, from their childhood through their separation—they were so sweet to read and added so much depth to their connection. I’ve seen this done in other books, but never this well. These letters weren’t filler—they deepened their bond, layered their story, and made the love between them feel timeless and soul-deep. It gave us the insight as to how they are so fiercely protective of each other, and why their love is worth it.
“Because nothing. Death. Banishment. Infection. Curses. Beast or not, nothing will ever stop me or keep me from loving you.” AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH.
And then, the stakes: When Vi accidentally creates a disease while trying to heal an injured wolf, the plot kicks into high gear. The illness spreads—from animals to humans—and she and Beau must find a cure. Vi’s journey to accepting and owning her magic was so personal, so moving. And all while navigating politics, secrets, and betrayal right under her stubborn father’s nose. (Speaking of… Bernie? I loved you in book 1. But you’ve officially entered my literary villain list. Do BETTER.)
The worldbuilding, pacing and plot were all perfect. The snippets of Tove and Jer melted my heart because I wasn't ready for their story to be over from book 1 and seeing them as the united front that they are now was beautiful. The side characters are ALL gems. Every element was woven together so flawlessly that I didn’t want to leave this world. I need 500 more pages. Minimum.
And L.L. Riley… HOW is this only her second book? Her skill, her emotion, her storytelling—she’s outwriting some of the most hyped traditional authors out there. I will scream about her books until my lungs give out. She deserves ALL the recognition, ALL the fandom love, ALL the awards. I’m not kidding when I say I will follow this woman’s career like it’s my religion.
THANK THE MAKERS a novella is coming before book 3 because I physically cannot wait.
If you haven’t read Frost and Death or Beast and Remedy yet… you need to right this second.
August 10, 2025
✨Beast and Remedy✨
Author: LL Riley
Release: August 29, 2025
Series: Standalones with an overarching plot, The Last of Heirs, book 2
I knew I was going to love Riley’s second standalone in her current series, because Frost and Death was one of my top reads in 2024, and she did NOT disappoint. Honestly, I was so beyond impressed with this - especially with our dashing MMC cinnamon roll with a dash cayenne (AKA a dirty mouth 🫠).
We follow our FMC, Vivienne, the crown princess of a kingdom that soon finds themselves under attack by wolves that have an infection that spreads to other animals as well as people. When her twin sister is infected and their kingdom is evacuated, Vivienne makes a rash decision to find refuge in the kingdom that is not only enemy to theirs but is also ran by the man she has loved since childhood.
This book is so full of yearning, found family, healing and support, and banter. Our MMC is EPIC and full of green flags yet accompanied by a delightfully dirty mouth. 🤭 He is all in and a phenomenal support despite the stakes being entirely against them. Betrayals and questions surround our found family. Secrets from the past cause strife and freedom. Chronic pain and anxiety rep is intentional and thoughtful throughout. And that ending!! See, I had a theory. And then it totally changed because Riley is just that good. And then the plot twist occurs. 🫠 so good.
Once again, it is confirmed how much I love LL Riley’s books. They are deep, dark, spicy, emotional, and yet never fail to make you laugh or feel seen. Thank you for letting me be an arc reader for you again!
Tropes you may find in BAR are childhood friends to lovers, second chance, forced proximity, shifter x healer, beauty and the beast unique retelling, cinnamon roll MMC, reluctant hero, found family, plot twists, political intrigue, forbidden love, nicknames, bonding over books and letters, and a HEA.
Author: LL Riley
Release: August 29, 2025
Series: Standalones with an overarching plot, The Last of Heirs, book 2
I knew I was going to love Riley’s second standalone in her current series, because Frost and Death was one of my top reads in 2024, and she did NOT disappoint. Honestly, I was so beyond impressed with this - especially with our dashing MMC cinnamon roll with a dash cayenne (AKA a dirty mouth 🫠).
We follow our FMC, Vivienne, the crown princess of a kingdom that soon finds themselves under attack by wolves that have an infection that spreads to other animals as well as people. When her twin sister is infected and their kingdom is evacuated, Vivienne makes a rash decision to find refuge in the kingdom that is not only enemy to theirs but is also ran by the man she has loved since childhood.
This book is so full of yearning, found family, healing and support, and banter. Our MMC is EPIC and full of green flags yet accompanied by a delightfully dirty mouth. 🤭 He is all in and a phenomenal support despite the stakes being entirely against them. Betrayals and questions surround our found family. Secrets from the past cause strife and freedom. Chronic pain and anxiety rep is intentional and thoughtful throughout. And that ending!! See, I had a theory. And then it totally changed because Riley is just that good. And then the plot twist occurs. 🫠 so good.
Once again, it is confirmed how much I love LL Riley’s books. They are deep, dark, spicy, emotional, and yet never fail to make you laugh or feel seen. Thank you for letting me be an arc reader for you again!
Tropes you may find in BAR are childhood friends to lovers, second chance, forced proximity, shifter x healer, beauty and the beast unique retelling, cinnamon roll MMC, reluctant hero, found family, plot twists, political intrigue, forbidden love, nicknames, bonding over books and letters, and a HEA.
August 30, 2025
OK so boom 👏 this one didn’t just deliver spice— it was swinging with spicy spice. And not only do we get my favorite flavor of retelling (Beauty and the Beast, aka the book that started my monster-lover era and cemented my lifelong enemies-to-lovers obsession), but this author looked at that blueprint and said: “Nah… let’s make the Beauty the Beast.” 😍 And bébés… it worked so well!
Our FMC? Strong, intelligent, independent; she’s got bite, she’s got brains, and she doesn’t bend for anyone. But don’t get it twisted, she still has a phenomenal arc, and watching her transform made me feral in the best way.
And the yearning… LORD. The kind of yearning that makes you kick your feet like you’re sixteen again. When the spice finally hits? It doesn’t just smolder— it slaps, it claws, it love-taps you across the forehead and you say thank you. 😌🔥
Now L… girl, who hurt you? Because the betrayal and the twist in this book topped the last one. My jaw was on the damn floor. Like, DN Hoxa-level GAGGED. I live for an author who can devastate me and have me begging for more, and you nailed it.
So, for my fellow Beauty & the Beast addicts: if you love your heroines fiery and defiant, your MMCs sweet-as-sin but with a mouth filthier than the bottom of your garbage can, and your betrayals so sharp they could slice your soul… highly, highly recommend you dive into this one immediately. 🥀
Our FMC? Strong, intelligent, independent; she’s got bite, she’s got brains, and she doesn’t bend for anyone. But don’t get it twisted, she still has a phenomenal arc, and watching her transform made me feral in the best way.
And the yearning… LORD. The kind of yearning that makes you kick your feet like you’re sixteen again. When the spice finally hits? It doesn’t just smolder— it slaps, it claws, it love-taps you across the forehead and you say thank you. 😌🔥
Now L… girl, who hurt you? Because the betrayal and the twist in this book topped the last one. My jaw was on the damn floor. Like, DN Hoxa-level GAGGED. I live for an author who can devastate me and have me begging for more, and you nailed it.
So, for my fellow Beauty & the Beast addicts: if you love your heroines fiery and defiant, your MMCs sweet-as-sin but with a mouth filthier than the bottom of your garbage can, and your betrayals so sharp they could slice your soul… highly, highly recommend you dive into this one immediately. 🥀
August 8, 2025
I loved this Beauty and the Beast retelling! I especially loved that the FMC (Female Main Character) was the beast!
This is the 2nd book in a series of standalone fairytale retellings. I read the first book in the series, Frost & Death, before reading Beast & Remedy, but reading it first isn't necessary to still thoroughly enjoy Beast & Remedy. That being said, there are some fun references to Frost & Death that you'll love if you've read it already!
This book was very emotional, it deals with some very heavy topics like loss of a parent and self-loathing. I thought L.L. Riley handled these topics very well and the way the characters dealt with them was very relatable and realistic.
There's exploration of complicated relationships in this book as well. I really enjoyed reading about all of the different dynamics between the characters and seeing how they played out. I'm looking forward to continuing to learn more about this world and the characters in the next standalone book in the series.
Overall, this was a fantastic, heartfelt story and since it is a standalone it does have a guaranteed HEA! :)
This is the 2nd book in a series of standalone fairytale retellings. I read the first book in the series, Frost & Death, before reading Beast & Remedy, but reading it first isn't necessary to still thoroughly enjoy Beast & Remedy. That being said, there are some fun references to Frost & Death that you'll love if you've read it already!
This book was very emotional, it deals with some very heavy topics like loss of a parent and self-loathing. I thought L.L. Riley handled these topics very well and the way the characters dealt with them was very relatable and realistic.
There's exploration of complicated relationships in this book as well. I really enjoyed reading about all of the different dynamics between the characters and seeing how they played out. I'm looking forward to continuing to learn more about this world and the characters in the next standalone book in the series.
Overall, this was a fantastic, heartfelt story and since it is a standalone it does have a guaranteed HEA! :)
September 5, 2025
**Thank you to the Author for the ARC; all opinions are my own.**
4.25 ⭐️
3 🌶
Beast & Remedy is a solid sequel and a solid romantasy novel. I had a fun time reading this one and getting back into the Last Heirs world! L.L. Riley is very good at writing complicated characters with difficult feelings and experiences. I enjoyed getting to know Vi since her introduction in the first book, and seeing her and Beau pine after one another was the star of the show! I loved all the side characters and can't wait to see who book 3 will be about!
(spoilers-ish: I did feel like the plot-twist at the end was meh? Not bad, but it wasnt my favorite.)
If you like:
☆beauty & the beast vibes
☆friends-to-lovers
☆magic
☆betrayal
☆tragedy
☆found family
Check this one out!!
4.25 ⭐️
3 🌶
Beast & Remedy is a solid sequel and a solid romantasy novel. I had a fun time reading this one and getting back into the Last Heirs world! L.L. Riley is very good at writing complicated characters with difficult feelings and experiences. I enjoyed getting to know Vi since her introduction in the first book, and seeing her and Beau pine after one another was the star of the show! I loved all the side characters and can't wait to see who book 3 will be about!
(spoilers-ish: I did feel like the plot-twist at the end was meh? Not bad, but it wasnt my favorite.)
If you like:
☆beauty & the beast vibes
☆friends-to-lovers
☆magic
☆betrayal
☆tragedy
☆found family
Check this one out!!
August 2, 2025
Absolutely phenomenal book two!!!
I was fortunate enough to Gamma read this beauty and then again to ARC it!
This book had me jumping, kicking, swearing, cursing LL Riley out, fanning myself to cool down and of course, sobbing my heart out!
The growth that our MCs have across their journey towards love, happiness and safety for their Kingdoms first and themselves second is just beyond breathtaking.
There are so many wonderfully intricate nods, plot points, references to not only book 1, or what happened across book 2 but im sure there are some for book 3 aswell.
The spice as per usual in this one is next. Level. I loved it!
The romance is soooo swoonworthy and had me loving a blond MC!
Book 1 was my roman empire book, and book two is just as amazing. I really can't wait to see where you take us next!
I was fortunate enough to Gamma read this beauty and then again to ARC it!
This book had me jumping, kicking, swearing, cursing LL Riley out, fanning myself to cool down and of course, sobbing my heart out!
The growth that our MCs have across their journey towards love, happiness and safety for their Kingdoms first and themselves second is just beyond breathtaking.
There are so many wonderfully intricate nods, plot points, references to not only book 1, or what happened across book 2 but im sure there are some for book 3 aswell.
The spice as per usual in this one is next. Level. I loved it!
The romance is soooo swoonworthy and had me loving a blond MC!
Book 1 was my roman empire book, and book two is just as amazing. I really can't wait to see where you take us next!
August 29, 2025
story that make me feel happy because the retelling is very very very is well exploited.
I recommande you this book at 100%
I recommande you this book at 100%
August 29, 2025
4.25 ⭐️
Beast and Remedy is another solid entry into this world of interconnected standalones! You don’t have to read Frost and Death first (though I recommend it just because that book is great as well), but I really enjoyed seeing some of the callbacks to events in the previous book as well as seeing some of those characters from a different POV.
Vi and Beau are a sweet couple. They start out as friends growing up, eventually growing apart due to *certain* circumstances, but their reunion makes it seem as though they’d never been apart. Beau is a really caring and attentive MMC, and I loved getting to see the way he cared for Vi. He kept her grounded throughout their journey in this book.
I really liked the friend group/found family as well. The group is full of banter that really showcases the way the group grew up together. You could just tell they had been friends since they were children.
Perhaps my favorite part of this book though was the letter entries throughout. Those letters allowed us to get a feel of Vi and Beau’s relationship as kids and how it progressed without having the characters having to recall these memories on page. It was a nice way to show rather than tell, which I really appreciated. Their letters to one another were just so sweet and full of love.
Semi spoiler but also not really?? I’m not naming anyone or providing details but you know, still proceed at your own risk I guess:
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•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
My one final thought that I just have to get out is this: vindication!!! I just love when I read a book and I instantly don’t like a character but can’t pinpoint an exact reason, all for it to be justified in the end. *chefs kiss* really feeds my ego 😂
Thank you L.L. Riley for the early review copy of Beast and Remedy! All opinions are my own!
Beast and Remedy is another solid entry into this world of interconnected standalones! You don’t have to read Frost and Death first (though I recommend it just because that book is great as well), but I really enjoyed seeing some of the callbacks to events in the previous book as well as seeing some of those characters from a different POV.
Vi and Beau are a sweet couple. They start out as friends growing up, eventually growing apart due to *certain* circumstances, but their reunion makes it seem as though they’d never been apart. Beau is a really caring and attentive MMC, and I loved getting to see the way he cared for Vi. He kept her grounded throughout their journey in this book.
I really liked the friend group/found family as well. The group is full of banter that really showcases the way the group grew up together. You could just tell they had been friends since they were children.
Perhaps my favorite part of this book though was the letter entries throughout. Those letters allowed us to get a feel of Vi and Beau’s relationship as kids and how it progressed without having the characters having to recall these memories on page. It was a nice way to show rather than tell, which I really appreciated. Their letters to one another were just so sweet and full of love.
Semi spoiler but also not really?? I’m not naming anyone or providing details but you know, still proceed at your own risk I guess:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
My one final thought that I just have to get out is this: vindication!!! I just love when I read a book and I instantly don’t like a character but can’t pinpoint an exact reason, all for it to be justified in the end. *chefs kiss* really feeds my ego 😂
Thank you L.L. Riley for the early review copy of Beast and Remedy! All opinions are my own!
August 29, 2025
3.75 stars!
This is a very sweet, very heartwarming beauty and the beast retelling, that hits you with some unexpected twists.
My favourite parts of this book are the letters. They beautifully depict the innocence of friendship and childhood, touch on the struggles of adolescence and feeling alone, and morph into feelings of giddiness and longing as a result of first love.
Vi and Beau are both strong willed, passionate characters that have deep connections with those in their lives and would move mountains for those they care about. Their story is full of forbidden romance, second chances, lots of yearning, and a healthy amount of dirty talk ;)
The friendships in this story are also so special. This group of friends will give you the warm and fuzzies with their endless amounts of adoration and support for eachother. Even in the face of heartache and betrayal, they never waiver.
I'd recommend this book to anyone who is new to romantasy or loves a fairytale retelling!
This is a very sweet, very heartwarming beauty and the beast retelling, that hits you with some unexpected twists.
My favourite parts of this book are the letters. They beautifully depict the innocence of friendship and childhood, touch on the struggles of adolescence and feeling alone, and morph into feelings of giddiness and longing as a result of first love.
Vi and Beau are both strong willed, passionate characters that have deep connections with those in their lives and would move mountains for those they care about. Their story is full of forbidden romance, second chances, lots of yearning, and a healthy amount of dirty talk ;)
The friendships in this story are also so special. This group of friends will give you the warm and fuzzies with their endless amounts of adoration and support for eachother. Even in the face of heartache and betrayal, they never waiver.
I'd recommend this book to anyone who is new to romantasy or loves a fairytale retelling!
August 31, 2025
Rating: ★★★★.5 (4.5/5)
This just keeps getting better and better! My brain was working overtime trying to figure out which of my theories was the one 😮💨 I was switching sooo fast between potential culprits it was crazy… and I loved every second of it!!! So YES!, Plot and intrigue? A solid 5/5 ✨
Now, Beau and Vi… I can’t think of a better description for them than ABSOLUTE BEAUTY 🌹(yes, totally intentional 👀). Their love was pure, wholesome, and passionate 🌶️ I just can’t 🥹
The world building? It was exactly what I needed, the pacing was great, and I genuinely couldn’t peel my eyes away from the pages.
Now add the amazing and interesting side characters and you get a winner!🥇 Also, Tove + Jerrick? loveeeed!
This one delivered, and it delivered hard!
P.S. Can we talk about the Letters? That was such an exquisite touch 🤌🏻
This just keeps getting better and better! My brain was working overtime trying to figure out which of my theories was the one 😮💨 I was switching sooo fast between potential culprits it was crazy… and I loved every second of it!!! So YES!, Plot and intrigue? A solid 5/5 ✨
Now, Beau and Vi… I can’t think of a better description for them than ABSOLUTE BEAUTY 🌹(yes, totally intentional 👀). Their love was pure, wholesome, and passionate 🌶️ I just can’t 🥹
The world building? It was exactly what I needed, the pacing was great, and I genuinely couldn’t peel my eyes away from the pages.
Now add the amazing and interesting side characters and you get a winner!🥇 Also, Tove + Jerrick? loveeeed!
This one delivered, and it delivered hard!
P.S. Can we talk about the Letters? That was such an exquisite touch 🤌🏻
August 7, 2025
ARC Review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The amount of theories I had while reading this! Usually I am pretty good at figuring things out but this book kept me guessing.
I was on the edge of my seat for this whirlwind of a story. The absolute soul deep love brought me to tears a few times. It was just so sweet!
🖤The yearning!
🔥The tension!
Yes please! The amount of times this book had me squealing and kicking my feet. Love love love! This read will break your heart and mend it!
If you love:
* Friends to Lovers
* Yearning
* Mending bonds
* Found Family
* Soul deep love
Then you will love this book! Add this one to your tbr! Beast and Remedy releases August 29th!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The amount of theories I had while reading this! Usually I am pretty good at figuring things out but this book kept me guessing.
I was on the edge of my seat for this whirlwind of a story. The absolute soul deep love brought me to tears a few times. It was just so sweet!
🖤The yearning!
🔥The tension!
Yes please! The amount of times this book had me squealing and kicking my feet. Love love love! This read will break your heart and mend it!
If you love:
* Friends to Lovers
* Yearning
* Mending bonds
* Found Family
* Soul deep love
Then you will love this book! Add this one to your tbr! Beast and Remedy releases August 29th!!
August 25, 2025
This is book 2 in a series of books that can be read as standalone. Firstly, if anyone knows me, I love fairytale retellings! And this was so well done. I will be honest, I didn't read book 1, however I will be asap. Vivienne and Beau are meant for each other! Whether they want it or not 🤭 Omg the tension and chemistry! The yearning! Romantasy at its finest! The world building brings you in immediately. This is one of my favourite retellings, it brought the stories together. You still knew it was a retelling but had its own form and world.
August 29, 2025
Ok, let me start by saying book 1 of this interconnected standalone series gave me some major PTSD from the love interests involved. So I was suspicious of Beau, the MMC, in Beast and Remedy at first but I am glad to say I had nothing to worry about!
The characters, plot, and emotional depth of this book blew my mind out of the water! I absolutely love everything about it and the VILLAIN!!! The villain will make you want to throw it across the room and curl up in a sad little ball.
Vivienne, the FMC, is very relatable in the struggles she faces and Beau is right there next to her through it all. Along with all her friends and family the found family trope is strong and comforting. I would definitely recommend this one to those who enjoy a blend of classic romance tropes, high-stakes adventure, and deeply emotional character development.
The characters, plot, and emotional depth of this book blew my mind out of the water! I absolutely love everything about it and the VILLAIN!!! The villain will make you want to throw it across the room and curl up in a sad little ball.
Vivienne, the FMC, is very relatable in the struggles she faces and Beau is right there next to her through it all. Along with all her friends and family the found family trope is strong and comforting. I would definitely recommend this one to those who enjoy a blend of classic romance tropes, high-stakes adventure, and deeply emotional character development.
October 16, 2025
I mean wow. This book is for the lovers. Beau? He is every woman’s dream, I mean god he loves unconditionally. I seriously want to blush just thinking about him. The flirting, the pining, the want….it was all SO good!! Frost & Death is definitely for people who like the mysterious broody man//enemies to lovers but Beast & Remedy is for the girls who want a man who yearns, who will fight for what he wants, and also a friends to lovers dynamic!! I usually am not a fan of friends to lovers, but the way Riley does it just worked perfectly for me! We get to see glimpses of the past of the friendship and their journey and then go through the present alongside Vivienne where they tackle what their relationship looks like now. I think what helped tremendously is we weren’t stuck in the friend zone for most of the book. Both of the characters knew what they wanted, but also had to fight for their kingdoms and families as well. Vivienne’s emotional battle and growth is so amazing in this book and it was a pleasure to watch her grow from book 1 to the woman she becomes in book 2.
The TWIST? Honestly maybe I’m a silly little one but I did NOT SEE IT COMING AT ALL. Like I’m still flabbergasted by it. I’m not sure what this means but it opens up so many questions for book three and I am SO looking forward to not only finding out what retelling it will be/characters it will follow but also to see how this plot will continue and unfold! I’m already theorizing SO MUCH 🫣😅😀 LIKE WHAT DOES IT ALL MEAN
If you haven’t read Frost & Death (book 1 of this standalone series!!) I seriously suggest going and reading it!! Not only for all the easter eggs and crossovers between the two books, but because it is yet another great love story. Riley does an amazing job of weaving a fantasy retelling perfectly with a romance. It has the romance and spice, but also has an amazing plot and cast of characters that just all come together to create an amazing world!! I seriously recommend these books even if you don’t like fairytale retellings because Riley takes them and puts her own spin on them to the point where it’s fun to see where the stories are the same or share similar aspects, but they truly take on a direction of their own where it doesn’t even feel like a retelling and feels like an incredible fantasy world with love stories to go around.
4.75? 5 stars? I don’t know I keep going back and forth but every time I think of something that I’m like well ehhh I always come back with a but it doesn’t matter because blah blah. I am an enemies to lovers fiend, so while I LOVE Beau and my god is he a dream man (like seriously he is what every woman dreams of, or at least what I dream of 🤣) I think I still love the couple in Frost & Death better. Seeing them in Beast & Remedy only made me love it more, but the support Tove had for Vivienne in this book really made it such a heartwarming story. Overall another amazing retelling that doesn’t feel like a retelling and addition to the Last of the Heirs realm!!
God I’m still blushing over Beau, GET THIS MAN OUT OF MY HEAD HE IS A BLONDE (I love a blonde and that is hard to do man, but GOD Beau could take my heart and crush it and put it back together and I’d say thank you even though he would never crush it in the first place)
The TWIST? Honestly maybe I’m a silly little one but I did NOT SEE IT COMING AT ALL. Like I’m still flabbergasted by it. I’m not sure what this means but it opens up so many questions for book three and I am SO looking forward to not only finding out what retelling it will be/characters it will follow but also to see how this plot will continue and unfold! I’m already theorizing SO MUCH 🫣😅😀 LIKE WHAT DOES IT ALL MEAN
If you haven’t read Frost & Death (book 1 of this standalone series!!) I seriously suggest going and reading it!! Not only for all the easter eggs and crossovers between the two books, but because it is yet another great love story. Riley does an amazing job of weaving a fantasy retelling perfectly with a romance. It has the romance and spice, but also has an amazing plot and cast of characters that just all come together to create an amazing world!! I seriously recommend these books even if you don’t like fairytale retellings because Riley takes them and puts her own spin on them to the point where it’s fun to see where the stories are the same or share similar aspects, but they truly take on a direction of their own where it doesn’t even feel like a retelling and feels like an incredible fantasy world with love stories to go around.
4.75? 5 stars? I don’t know I keep going back and forth but every time I think of something that I’m like well ehhh I always come back with a but it doesn’t matter because blah blah. I am an enemies to lovers fiend, so while I LOVE Beau and my god is he a dream man (like seriously he is what every woman dreams of, or at least what I dream of 🤣) I think I still love the couple in Frost & Death better. Seeing them in Beast & Remedy only made me love it more, but the support Tove had for Vivienne in this book really made it such a heartwarming story. Overall another amazing retelling that doesn’t feel like a retelling and addition to the Last of the Heirs realm!!
God I’m still blushing over Beau, GET THIS MAN OUT OF MY HEAD HE IS A BLONDE (I love a blonde and that is hard to do man, but GOD Beau could take my heart and crush it and put it back together and I’d say thank you even though he would never crush it in the first place)
August 24, 2025
Review of the eARC!
“Beast and Remedy” is a vivid and ambitious fairytale retelling that takes the bones of Beauty and the Beast and reshapes them into something grittier, more magical, and emotionally resonant. L.L. Riley blends folklore, romance, and high-stakes fantasy into a story that feels both familiar and brand-new, with a heroine whose struggles are as internal as they are external.
Vivienne, the heir to Belmur, bears the Maker’s gift as both blessing and curse: shifting between woman and bear is not only painful but also isolating, leaving her torn between responsibility and self-preservation. Her journey—marked by grief, experimentation, and the weight of leadership—touches deeply on themes of identity, sacrifice, and what it means to be whole. Alongside her, King Beauvais brings steadiness, loyalty, and a quietly beautiful dynamic that balances out Vivienne’s turmoil. Their history together feels genuine, and their relationship—equal parts banter, tenderness, and vulnerability—was one of the most rewarding aspects of the novel. The addition of love letters was an especially moving touch, adding intimacy and grounding to their romance.
The novel shines in its mental health representation, its diverse cast, and its willingness to let its characters be flawed—sometimes frustratingly so. Riley doesn’t shy away from gore or darker turns, which only heightens the emotional payoff when the plot takes its unexpected twists. And yes, the ending is one of those that lingers long after you close the book—equal parts devastating and satisfying.
That said, the book isn’t without its flaws. At times, the characters’ interactions veer into overly youthful territory, almost like watching an animated adventure about “the power of teamwork,” which can feel tonally off against the heavier themes. There’s also a noticeable repetition of certain phrases, which dulled some of the narrative’s otherwise sharp edge. And while some characters are instantly endearing, others lean into unlikable traits a bit too strongly, making them harder to root for.
Still, those minor quibbles don’t overshadow the strengths here. Between the rich magic system, the balance of humor and heartbreak, and the sheer emotional weight of Vivienne’s journey, Beast and Remedy stands out as both a strong addition to Riley’s interconnected series and a compelling retelling in its own right.
If you love fairytale retellings that aren’t afraid to get dark, characters who feel raw and imperfect, and romances built on friendship, loyalty, and soul-deep connection, this book is well worth picking up.🐻❤️🩹
“Beast and Remedy” is a vivid and ambitious fairytale retelling that takes the bones of Beauty and the Beast and reshapes them into something grittier, more magical, and emotionally resonant. L.L. Riley blends folklore, romance, and high-stakes fantasy into a story that feels both familiar and brand-new, with a heroine whose struggles are as internal as they are external.
Vivienne, the heir to Belmur, bears the Maker’s gift as both blessing and curse: shifting between woman and bear is not only painful but also isolating, leaving her torn between responsibility and self-preservation. Her journey—marked by grief, experimentation, and the weight of leadership—touches deeply on themes of identity, sacrifice, and what it means to be whole. Alongside her, King Beauvais brings steadiness, loyalty, and a quietly beautiful dynamic that balances out Vivienne’s turmoil. Their history together feels genuine, and their relationship—equal parts banter, tenderness, and vulnerability—was one of the most rewarding aspects of the novel. The addition of love letters was an especially moving touch, adding intimacy and grounding to their romance.
The novel shines in its mental health representation, its diverse cast, and its willingness to let its characters be flawed—sometimes frustratingly so. Riley doesn’t shy away from gore or darker turns, which only heightens the emotional payoff when the plot takes its unexpected twists. And yes, the ending is one of those that lingers long after you close the book—equal parts devastating and satisfying.
That said, the book isn’t without its flaws. At times, the characters’ interactions veer into overly youthful territory, almost like watching an animated adventure about “the power of teamwork,” which can feel tonally off against the heavier themes. There’s also a noticeable repetition of certain phrases, which dulled some of the narrative’s otherwise sharp edge. And while some characters are instantly endearing, others lean into unlikable traits a bit too strongly, making them harder to root for.
Still, those minor quibbles don’t overshadow the strengths here. Between the rich magic system, the balance of humor and heartbreak, and the sheer emotional weight of Vivienne’s journey, Beast and Remedy stands out as both a strong addition to Riley’s interconnected series and a compelling retelling in its own right.
If you love fairytale retellings that aren’t afraid to get dark, characters who feel raw and imperfect, and romances built on friendship, loyalty, and soul-deep connection, this book is well worth picking up.🐻❤️🩹
August 28, 2025
💔✨ Beast and Remedy wrecked me in the best way
This book was such a fun and emotional twist on Beauty and the Beast. It’s not just a retelling, it’s a story full of grief, healing, and that kind of deep, aching love that never really goes away. Vivienne and Beau? Ugh, they’re absolute sweethearts. You can feel how much they love each other, even though they’ve had to bury it under so much pain, pressure, and loss. It’s heartbreaking and beautiful all at once.
Vivienne is everything. She’s smart, snarky, and has this razor-sharp sass that makes her voice so fun to read, but underneath it all, she’s got a heart that’s soft and loyal and aching. I loved watching her navigate love, friendship, sisterhood, her magic, and her past. She’s messy and real and brave in ways that sneak up on you. And the way the author included letters from the past? Genius. It gave us little glimpses into their history without pulling us out of the present, and it made their connection feel even deeper.
And Beau? Oh, he plays the part of the noble king so well, loyal, composed, always saying the right thing. But when things start to heat up? That man has a way with words that’ll make you blink twice and wonder where the gentleman went. I was caught off guard... and absolutely not complaining.
And okay — I did not see that twist coming. I was straight-up shocked. Like, full-body gasp, jaw-on-the-floor, rereading-the-page kind of shocked. It flipped everything I thought I knew and made the story hit even harder.
The mystery and adventure woven into their quest to find the remedy kept me hooked the whole way through. It wasn’t just about romance, it was about survival, sacrifice, and through it all, you see what it really means to fight for the people you love, even when it hurts.
This book was such a fun and emotional twist on Beauty and the Beast. It’s not just a retelling, it’s a story full of grief, healing, and that kind of deep, aching love that never really goes away. Vivienne and Beau? Ugh, they’re absolute sweethearts. You can feel how much they love each other, even though they’ve had to bury it under so much pain, pressure, and loss. It’s heartbreaking and beautiful all at once.
Vivienne is everything. She’s smart, snarky, and has this razor-sharp sass that makes her voice so fun to read, but underneath it all, she’s got a heart that’s soft and loyal and aching. I loved watching her navigate love, friendship, sisterhood, her magic, and her past. She’s messy and real and brave in ways that sneak up on you. And the way the author included letters from the past? Genius. It gave us little glimpses into their history without pulling us out of the present, and it made their connection feel even deeper.
And Beau? Oh, he plays the part of the noble king so well, loyal, composed, always saying the right thing. But when things start to heat up? That man has a way with words that’ll make you blink twice and wonder where the gentleman went. I was caught off guard... and absolutely not complaining.
And okay — I did not see that twist coming. I was straight-up shocked. Like, full-body gasp, jaw-on-the-floor, rereading-the-page kind of shocked. It flipped everything I thought I knew and made the story hit even harder.
The mystery and adventure woven into their quest to find the remedy kept me hooked the whole way through. It wasn’t just about romance, it was about survival, sacrifice, and through it all, you see what it really means to fight for the people you love, even when it hurts.
August 6, 2025
How would you like to read a story of a boy and a girl who became friends at a young age, bonding over their shared love of books and knowledge? A story of a boy and a girl whose friendship bloomed over the years through handwritten letters, only to fizzle out, suddenly and without closure? A story of a boy and a girl from two different kingdoms, destined to lead but forbidden to love each other?
What would happen if these two ever met years later, in the direst of circumstances? Would those buried feelings resurface, even when everything and everyone they love is at stake?
I’ll let Beau, the MMC, speak for himself:
"I've waited seven agonizing years. Let me back in", he pleads. "Let me fulfill every promise and every pleasure in every letter I've ever written to you."
But it will take more than these devastatingly beautiful, aching words. It will take time, patience, courage, and strength. It will take all that and more in a world plagued by a vicious illness, a terrifying need to find a cure, and the clock racing forward far too quickly.
Beast and Remedy, a Beauty and the Beast retelling with a twist or two, will bring you to your knees. Your heart will pitter-patter dance from the first page to the last. And your soul will be fully immersed in this journey.
So... Why not read a story about a boy and a girl and see where it takes you?
Thank you, L.L. Riley, for once again allowing me to join your ARC team. Your words don’t just tell stories. They heal.
What would happen if these two ever met years later, in the direst of circumstances? Would those buried feelings resurface, even when everything and everyone they love is at stake?
I’ll let Beau, the MMC, speak for himself:
"I've waited seven agonizing years. Let me back in", he pleads. "Let me fulfill every promise and every pleasure in every letter I've ever written to you."
But it will take more than these devastatingly beautiful, aching words. It will take time, patience, courage, and strength. It will take all that and more in a world plagued by a vicious illness, a terrifying need to find a cure, and the clock racing forward far too quickly.
Beast and Remedy, a Beauty and the Beast retelling with a twist or two, will bring you to your knees. Your heart will pitter-patter dance from the first page to the last. And your soul will be fully immersed in this journey.
So... Why not read a story about a boy and a girl and see where it takes you?
Thank you, L.L. Riley, for once again allowing me to join your ARC team. Your words don’t just tell stories. They heal.
August 28, 2025
Beauty and Remedy is a stunning and emotionally rich retelling of Beauty and the Beast, and I’m honestly still recovering from the journey it took me on.
The story centers around Vivian, a young woman cursed with the ability to transform into a beast - a secret that isolates her and complicates everything she loves. When a devastating curse spreads across the kingdoms, infecting both wolves and humans, Vi is forced to break her father’s laws and seek help from an old friend: Beau, a banished king from her childhood.
What unfolds is a beautifully layered story of found family, impossible promises, and a desperate quest to save not only the world, but Vi’s own heart. The slow build of the plot took me a moment to get into, but once I was in, I couldn’t stop.
And speaking of twists - I thought I saw it coming. I didn’t. The plot twist genuinely caught me off guard in the best way.
The relationship between Vi and Beau was a highlight. It’s tender, respectful, and filled with longing. Beau is a true gentleman, completely smitten, and I was absolutely here for it. Their bond added so much depth and warmth to the story, balancing the darker themes beautifully.
The writing itself is both heartwarming and heartbreaking. There were several moments that brought tears to my eyes, not because the story was overly tragic, but because the emotional resonance was that strong.
If you’re into found family, magic, shifters and healers, childhood lovers reunited and emotional storytelling…this book is for you.
The story centers around Vivian, a young woman cursed with the ability to transform into a beast - a secret that isolates her and complicates everything she loves. When a devastating curse spreads across the kingdoms, infecting both wolves and humans, Vi is forced to break her father’s laws and seek help from an old friend: Beau, a banished king from her childhood.
What unfolds is a beautifully layered story of found family, impossible promises, and a desperate quest to save not only the world, but Vi’s own heart. The slow build of the plot took me a moment to get into, but once I was in, I couldn’t stop.
And speaking of twists - I thought I saw it coming. I didn’t. The plot twist genuinely caught me off guard in the best way.
The relationship between Vi and Beau was a highlight. It’s tender, respectful, and filled with longing. Beau is a true gentleman, completely smitten, and I was absolutely here for it. Their bond added so much depth and warmth to the story, balancing the darker themes beautifully.
The writing itself is both heartwarming and heartbreaking. There were several moments that brought tears to my eyes, not because the story was overly tragic, but because the emotional resonance was that strong.
If you’re into found family, magic, shifters and healers, childhood lovers reunited and emotional storytelling…this book is for you.
August 29, 2025
I will say it until my last day; classic retellings will forever have my heart.
Welcome to the reenvisioning of Beauty and The Beast perfectly blending in with the heat/spice you never knew you needed and a story you never saw coming.
This is the second installment of an interconnected standalone series. Although you don't need to read Frost and Death first, I promise you won't regret it if you do.
Being heir to a throne doesn't always come easy, but let's throw in a princess fighting between her curse of shifting from human to bear. Her story is fueled by the past, pain, grief and an experiment that will change everything, forever. Even within the hearts greatest struggles, she will find someone who can bring her quiet, balancing and worthy healing. But every great love story, comes at a price.
The characters in this story were beyond exceptional. Touching on many sensitive subjects, this journey is emotional now only for the FMC but the readers as well. I truly enjoyed how 'real' this story felt in the sense of characters and how each one of them has their flaws. Their connections were captivating, and each vital role provides deepening developments with each page turn. I didn't know that I could like a reimaging as much as I did this. It felt like a nostalgic ride, familiar and comfortable. Yet at the same time it was a breath of something new, something I didn't know my heart needed.
I will never get over this story and how much it has chokehold on me. I will forever follow this series, writing style and author through and through.
Welcome to the reenvisioning of Beauty and The Beast perfectly blending in with the heat/spice you never knew you needed and a story you never saw coming.
This is the second installment of an interconnected standalone series. Although you don't need to read Frost and Death first, I promise you won't regret it if you do.
Being heir to a throne doesn't always come easy, but let's throw in a princess fighting between her curse of shifting from human to bear. Her story is fueled by the past, pain, grief and an experiment that will change everything, forever. Even within the hearts greatest struggles, she will find someone who can bring her quiet, balancing and worthy healing. But every great love story, comes at a price.
The characters in this story were beyond exceptional. Touching on many sensitive subjects, this journey is emotional now only for the FMC but the readers as well. I truly enjoyed how 'real' this story felt in the sense of characters and how each one of them has their flaws. Their connections were captivating, and each vital role provides deepening developments with each page turn. I didn't know that I could like a reimaging as much as I did this. It felt like a nostalgic ride, familiar and comfortable. Yet at the same time it was a breath of something new, something I didn't know my heart needed.
I will never get over this story and how much it has chokehold on me. I will forever follow this series, writing style and author through and through.
August 8, 2025
Beast and Remedy is an absolutely stunning reimagining of Beauty and the Beast—but make it shifter magic, royal stakes, second-chance longing, and a heroine who is carrying everything on her shoulders.
Vivienne is the ultimate eldest daughter: headstrong, loyal, self-sacrificing to a fault, and so deep in her own head it’s impossible not to scream at the page (lovingly). Her transformation burden is both literal and emotional, and the pressure she carries as heir to Belmur is palpable. You feel her grief. You feel her walls. And you root for her fiercely.
The story takes its time teasing a slow-burn forbidden love between Vivienne and King Beauvais—childhood friends whose history crackles under the surface. The flashbacks, the letter exchanges, the ache of a connection interrupted? I was hooked before Beau even stepped on the page. It’s a love that feels fated, but earned.
This book blends:
• 🐻 Shifter lore with fresh, folkloric magic
• 👑 Royal politics across six kingdoms
• 💔 A gut-punch twist that hits hard and rewires your understanding of the story
• 🧪 Found family and sacrifice
• 💌 Second chances and star-crossed yearning
And that plot twist? You won’t see it coming. Zero breadcrumbs. Full emotional devastation.
💫 If you love fairytale retellings that are rich with worldbuilding, emotion, and magic — add this to your TBR immediately. I can’t wait for everyone to meet Vivienne and Beau.
Vivienne is the ultimate eldest daughter: headstrong, loyal, self-sacrificing to a fault, and so deep in her own head it’s impossible not to scream at the page (lovingly). Her transformation burden is both literal and emotional, and the pressure she carries as heir to Belmur is palpable. You feel her grief. You feel her walls. And you root for her fiercely.
The story takes its time teasing a slow-burn forbidden love between Vivienne and King Beauvais—childhood friends whose history crackles under the surface. The flashbacks, the letter exchanges, the ache of a connection interrupted? I was hooked before Beau even stepped on the page. It’s a love that feels fated, but earned.
This book blends:
• 🐻 Shifter lore with fresh, folkloric magic
• 👑 Royal politics across six kingdoms
• 💔 A gut-punch twist that hits hard and rewires your understanding of the story
• 🧪 Found family and sacrifice
• 💌 Second chances and star-crossed yearning
And that plot twist? You won’t see it coming. Zero breadcrumbs. Full emotional devastation.
💫 If you love fairytale retellings that are rich with worldbuilding, emotion, and magic — add this to your TBR immediately. I can’t wait for everyone to meet Vivienne and Beau.
August 29, 2025
2.5 ⭐
The blurb sounded intriguing, and I expected this book to be fun, but unfortunately, it wasn’t for me. For starters, it’s 600 pages long (which isn’t unusual for a romantasy) but in my opinion, it felt completely unnecessary here. The constant repetitions and the quality of the dialogues made it a real challenge to get through.
When I finally reached the ending, I realized that throughout all those 600 pages, the FMC hadn’t gone through any meaningful character development. In the end, she remains the same insecure woman who allows others to dictate her life-altering decisions, and I was left feeling genuinely sorry for her. Vivienne’s happiness came only through her love interest’s actions, her friends’ help, and ultimately, her father’s decision.
That said, I did find two things I really appreciated. First were the descriptions of Vi’s transformation into the beast. They were written convincingly, capturing her pain, her struggle, and her emotions in a way that felt vivid and real. Second was the MMC, Beau—a complete green-flag guy who instantly won me over.
This book certainly has potential, and I’m sure it will find its readers. I just wasn’t one of them.
🆃🆁🅾🅿🅴🆂
🐻 shifter x healer
🤎 found family
🐻 friends to lovers
🤎 love letters
🐻 interconnected standalone
🤎 searching for a cure
The blurb sounded intriguing, and I expected this book to be fun, but unfortunately, it wasn’t for me. For starters, it’s 600 pages long (which isn’t unusual for a romantasy) but in my opinion, it felt completely unnecessary here. The constant repetitions and the quality of the dialogues made it a real challenge to get through.
When I finally reached the ending, I realized that throughout all those 600 pages, the FMC hadn’t gone through any meaningful character development. In the end, she remains the same insecure woman who allows others to dictate her life-altering decisions, and I was left feeling genuinely sorry for her. Vivienne’s happiness came only through her love interest’s actions, her friends’ help, and ultimately, her father’s decision.
That said, I did find two things I really appreciated. First were the descriptions of Vi’s transformation into the beast. They were written convincingly, capturing her pain, her struggle, and her emotions in a way that felt vivid and real. Second was the MMC, Beau—a complete green-flag guy who instantly won me over.
This book certainly has potential, and I’m sure it will find its readers. I just wasn’t one of them.
🆃🆁🅾🅿🅴🆂
🐻 shifter x healer
🤎 found family
🐻 friends to lovers
🤎 love letters
🐻 interconnected standalone
🤎 searching for a cure
August 24, 2025
Beast and Remedy is book 2 in the interconnected standalone series, The Last of the Heirs. The first book, Frost and Death, set the bar really high and I honestly wasn’t sure if this one would meet the mark. Well…it definitely did!
This is the most unique take on Beauty and the Beast that I’ve read yet. And I’ve read a lot of them because it’s my fav fairy tale. It’s so different from other retellings and I absolutely loved it.
This is a dark romantasy so there are some complex and sensitive topics in this book but I think they are handled so well. The yearning is palpable and relatable. You really feel the joy and the pain. The spice is well done and doesn’t overtake the plot at all.
The plot twists..and that ending! I gasped out loud and my dogs looked at me like I was crazy 😂. I like to think that I usually have somewhat solid idea of how the book will end but I honestly did not see that coming.
This was one of my most anticipated books this year and I’m so grateful I got to arc read. I can’t wait for the third book in this series!
Fav tropes:
Slow burn ❤️🔥
Herbalism 🌱
One horse 🐎
Found family 💞
Court politics 👑
Fav quotes:
“You’re strong. You’re smart. You’re brave”
“Nurture your magic and yourself how you do for your loved ones.”
Thank you LL Riley for the advanced copy!
This is the most unique take on Beauty and the Beast that I’ve read yet. And I’ve read a lot of them because it’s my fav fairy tale. It’s so different from other retellings and I absolutely loved it.
This is a dark romantasy so there are some complex and sensitive topics in this book but I think they are handled so well. The yearning is palpable and relatable. You really feel the joy and the pain. The spice is well done and doesn’t overtake the plot at all.
The plot twists..and that ending! I gasped out loud and my dogs looked at me like I was crazy 😂. I like to think that I usually have somewhat solid idea of how the book will end but I honestly did not see that coming.
This was one of my most anticipated books this year and I’m so grateful I got to arc read. I can’t wait for the third book in this series!
Fav tropes:
Slow burn ❤️🔥
Herbalism 🌱
One horse 🐎
Found family 💞
Court politics 👑
Fav quotes:
“You’re strong. You’re smart. You’re brave”
“Nurture your magic and yourself how you do for your loved ones.”
Thank you LL Riley for the advanced copy!
August 25, 2025
4.25 ⭐️
2.5 🌶️
Beast and Remedy was such a fun take on Beauty and the Beast! I was looking forward to reading this one since I loved book 1 in this interconnected standalone series, Frost & Death. I really enjoyed the story in B&R and loved how the characters were so different than the coupon in F&D. I also always enjoy reading a romantasy where the FMC is "older." In this case, Vivienne is 29.
B&R is a really touching story, full of yearning, grief and healing. Vivienne, the crown princess of her kingdom, has a secret power that few know. She is forced to shift into a bear once a month. Because of her power, she has always had a protectiveness to animals. But that backfires when an infection spreads across the realm affecting animals and humans alike. When her twin sister is infected, she must seek help from a neighboring kingdom. Once allies, and now enemies, they two kingdom's have to reconcile their past and work together to find a remedy to this virus.
I loved the second chance romance in this story. Our MMC Beau, the king of the neighboring kingdom, is such a golden retriever. He is madly in love with Vivienne and will do anything he can to help her and her kingdom, as well as try to atone for their past. Viv and Beau have such a sweet and touching dynamic. And though Beau is full of green flags, he has a sinfully dirty mouth with the heat gets turned up 😏
I also loved all of the old friends from Beau's kingdom that Vivienne gets to reconnect with. They brought along some fun banter to break up the tension in the story. I enjoyed the mystery as well and the adventure the characters went on to find a remedy. I was truly shocked by the plot twist in the end. I thought I had it all figured out but I was definitely wrong 😅
Beast and Remedy is perfect for fans of romantasy and especially fans who enjoy new takes on a Beauty and the Beast retelling. Thank you LL Riley for the gifted eArc to read and review!
2.5 🌶️
Beast and Remedy was such a fun take on Beauty and the Beast! I was looking forward to reading this one since I loved book 1 in this interconnected standalone series, Frost & Death. I really enjoyed the story in B&R and loved how the characters were so different than the coupon in F&D. I also always enjoy reading a romantasy where the FMC is "older." In this case, Vivienne is 29.
B&R is a really touching story, full of yearning, grief and healing. Vivienne, the crown princess of her kingdom, has a secret power that few know. She is forced to shift into a bear once a month. Because of her power, she has always had a protectiveness to animals. But that backfires when an infection spreads across the realm affecting animals and humans alike. When her twin sister is infected, she must seek help from a neighboring kingdom. Once allies, and now enemies, they two kingdom's have to reconcile their past and work together to find a remedy to this virus.
I loved the second chance romance in this story. Our MMC Beau, the king of the neighboring kingdom, is such a golden retriever. He is madly in love with Vivienne and will do anything he can to help her and her kingdom, as well as try to atone for their past. Viv and Beau have such a sweet and touching dynamic. And though Beau is full of green flags, he has a sinfully dirty mouth with the heat gets turned up 😏
I also loved all of the old friends from Beau's kingdom that Vivienne gets to reconnect with. They brought along some fun banter to break up the tension in the story. I enjoyed the mystery as well and the adventure the characters went on to find a remedy. I was truly shocked by the plot twist in the end. I thought I had it all figured out but I was definitely wrong 😅
Beast and Remedy is perfect for fans of romantasy and especially fans who enjoy new takes on a Beauty and the Beast retelling. Thank you LL Riley for the gifted eArc to read and review!
August 19, 2025
Arc Review
Beast and Remedy by
@llrileyauthor
This retelling of beauty and the beast has latched on to my heart. I so loved everything about this book. Through out this book I was wrong about so many things, which I wish I wasn't. It hurt my heart so badly.
Vi and Beau are just literally sweethearts and just have to much burdens, pressure, grief, loss and pain between them but they also have that one unconditional love for one another what they've had to deny.
Just to say I really am enamoured with people write letters to each other. It's the old tradition of communication what alot of people have forgotten. It's what we used to use to bond over, learn about each other. Friendship, courtship and all that. I love how it's this.
When it's over, when it's all done. It's just a bittersweet and heartfelt ending to the story.
MVP is Tove and Jer. Their so formidable and lovable but deadly.
Thanks you, for letting me read this as an e arc. It has been a absolute rollercoaster of emotions.
Release August 29th. Put on your want to read on Goodreads. Don't miss out.
Beast and Remedy by
@llrileyauthor
This retelling of beauty and the beast has latched on to my heart. I so loved everything about this book. Through out this book I was wrong about so many things, which I wish I wasn't. It hurt my heart so badly.
Vi and Beau are just literally sweethearts and just have to much burdens, pressure, grief, loss and pain between them but they also have that one unconditional love for one another what they've had to deny.
Just to say I really am enamoured with people write letters to each other. It's the old tradition of communication what alot of people have forgotten. It's what we used to use to bond over, learn about each other. Friendship, courtship and all that. I love how it's this.
When it's over, when it's all done. It's just a bittersweet and heartfelt ending to the story.
MVP is Tove and Jer. Their so formidable and lovable but deadly.
Thanks you, for letting me read this as an e arc. It has been a absolute rollercoaster of emotions.
Release August 29th. Put on your want to read on Goodreads. Don't miss out.
August 27, 2025
Thank you so much to Behind the Pages PR and the author for the eARC!
I was hooked from the very first page! This is the second book in The Last of the Heirs series, but it works perfectly as a standalone. I immediately fell in love with the world and the characters.
In this world, six deities granted six kingdoms unique powers. Vivienne, heir to the Kingdom of Belmur, can shift into a bear and serves as the Protector of the Forest. She is smart, determined, and understands her duty. She puts her role as future Queen above her own desires, even if it means giving up the man she has loved for a long time, King Beauvais (Beau) of Torgem.
Beau is loyal, steady, and the only one who truly sees Vivienne for who she is. These two have so much chemistry, and when they finally give into their love and desires, they escape their duties to their Kingdoms. But Vivienne’s journey is not without heartbreak as she faces a betrayal by someone she trusted with her whole heart.
Overall, I couldn’t put this book down and I’ll definitely be going back to read the first book. I can’t wait to see what comes next in the series!
I was hooked from the very first page! This is the second book in The Last of the Heirs series, but it works perfectly as a standalone. I immediately fell in love with the world and the characters.
In this world, six deities granted six kingdoms unique powers. Vivienne, heir to the Kingdom of Belmur, can shift into a bear and serves as the Protector of the Forest. She is smart, determined, and understands her duty. She puts her role as future Queen above her own desires, even if it means giving up the man she has loved for a long time, King Beauvais (Beau) of Torgem.
Beau is loyal, steady, and the only one who truly sees Vivienne for who she is. These two have so much chemistry, and when they finally give into their love and desires, they escape their duties to their Kingdoms. But Vivienne’s journey is not without heartbreak as she faces a betrayal by someone she trusted with her whole heart.
Overall, I couldn’t put this book down and I’ll definitely be going back to read the first book. I can’t wait to see what comes next in the series!
August 29, 2025
Rating: 4.5/5
Spice Rating: 3.75/5
Loved reading this book so much!
Beau and Vi have my whole heart. The yearning between these two had me just wanting to shove them together. Beau definitely has a way with words and had me melting into a puddle.
I love Vi’s strong will and huge heart. All she wants is for her family and kingdom to be safe.
My favorite part of it was the mystery of it all. Even from reading the first book I always get the sense that the kingdoms get along really well but then there’s always the silent war between 2 that no one knows about. I was so curious the whole time of what truly happened to Vi’s mom.
Every time I thought I knew what happened I changed my mind and then when it was revealed what really happened my jaw was on the floor. That plot twist through me around like a rag doll!
The virus was such an interesting aspect of this story. It made me so nervous because I didn’t want these characters I have fallen in love with to be plaque by it.
I need to know more! I have so many questions still that I feel has yet to be revealed.
Spice Rating: 3.75/5
Loved reading this book so much!
Beau and Vi have my whole heart. The yearning between these two had me just wanting to shove them together. Beau definitely has a way with words and had me melting into a puddle.
I love Vi’s strong will and huge heart. All she wants is for her family and kingdom to be safe.
My favorite part of it was the mystery of it all. Even from reading the first book I always get the sense that the kingdoms get along really well but then there’s always the silent war between 2 that no one knows about. I was so curious the whole time of what truly happened to Vi’s mom.
Every time I thought I knew what happened I changed my mind and then when it was revealed what really happened my jaw was on the floor. That plot twist through me around like a rag doll!
The virus was such an interesting aspect of this story. It made me so nervous because I didn’t want these characters I have fallen in love with to be plaque by it.
I need to know more! I have so many questions still that I feel has yet to be revealed.
August 16, 2025
This was another fantastic novel from LL Riley!
Though the second book in the Last of the Heirs series, this book can be read as a standalone. However, if you would like to read book one (Frost and Death) and haven’t yet—go do so! It is an amazing book and you will not be disappointed.
Plus, some things in book two will be extra sweet if you have read book one :)
This book is a Beauty and the Beast retelling and follows Princess Vivienne in her quest to help the kingdoms after brutal animal attacks threaten their subjects and her family. When the attacks hit close to home, Vivienne must enlist the help of King Beauvais and his magic if she has a hope of helping her people.
Though almost 600 pages, the book moves quickly thanks to Riley’s storytelling and writing. The worldbuilding in this book and the first are outstanding and I can’t recommend them enough to anyone who loves fairytales, retellings, love stories, and magic.
Though the second book in the Last of the Heirs series, this book can be read as a standalone. However, if you would like to read book one (Frost and Death) and haven’t yet—go do so! It is an amazing book and you will not be disappointed.
Plus, some things in book two will be extra sweet if you have read book one :)
This book is a Beauty and the Beast retelling and follows Princess Vivienne in her quest to help the kingdoms after brutal animal attacks threaten their subjects and her family. When the attacks hit close to home, Vivienne must enlist the help of King Beauvais and his magic if she has a hope of helping her people.
Though almost 600 pages, the book moves quickly thanks to Riley’s storytelling and writing. The worldbuilding in this book and the first are outstanding and I can’t recommend them enough to anyone who loves fairytales, retellings, love stories, and magic.
August 25, 2025
This is book 2 in The Last of the Heirs series (can be read as a standalone) and I loved it!!
I'm a huge sucker for fairy tales and retellings of them and this one was a wonderful retelling of Beauty and the Beast and probably better than the original in my opinion.
We have a beast, a library and a rose and that is where the similarities end and this fabulous romantasy takes you on a completely different adventure with twists and turns all the way to the last few pages.
The tension and chemistry between Vi and B is off the charts, I don't normally fall for the blonde MMC but I am definitely making an exception for this green flag man and that dirty mouth 🤭
and their friend group is one we all hope for.
I am so grateful I got to ARC read this book - LL Riley is a great story teller who continues to give us all the spicy emotional feels, with plenty of tears and laughter in this latest page turner and I cannot wait for book 3!!
ARC read 📚
I'm a huge sucker for fairy tales and retellings of them and this one was a wonderful retelling of Beauty and the Beast and probably better than the original in my opinion.
We have a beast, a library and a rose and that is where the similarities end and this fabulous romantasy takes you on a completely different adventure with twists and turns all the way to the last few pages.
The tension and chemistry between Vi and B is off the charts, I don't normally fall for the blonde MMC but I am definitely making an exception for this green flag man and that dirty mouth 🤭
and their friend group is one we all hope for.
I am so grateful I got to ARC read this book - LL Riley is a great story teller who continues to give us all the spicy emotional feels, with plenty of tears and laughter in this latest page turner and I cannot wait for book 3!!
ARC read 📚
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