A political spice-free fantasy retelling of Beauty and the Beast, where he has to break his curse, win the girl, and save the world. Or maybe just kidnap her instead?
A princess with a perfect family and secrets that could change the course of the world.
A prince who tried to ruin her life and instead destroyed his own.
A promise that turned a best friend into an enemy.
Two curses–One turned him into a beast. One threatens to devastate her peace.
Prince Icen must accept that only he can break his curse, but without the hand of Princess Axen, he will never be able to fulfill his destiny. Seizing their power to make a difference, both Icen and Axen take the plunge, despite the bad blood between their countries. When faced with life-altering decisions, can Axen look past the beast Icen has become? Can Icen forgive himself? Will Icen’s betrayed best friend destroy all hope of happiness for Icen, Axen, and the world?
What a lovely and unique beauty and the beast retelling! If you like whimsy, intriguing world-building, and intense moments as the characters are trying to understand the prince’s curse, then this book is definitely for you!
My my favorite part was the fae-based magic system I think! It reminded me of the spren in The Way of Kings! I also appreciated the addition of the princess’s consent in her marriage to the Prince. I was fully drawn into their commitment to each other and healing the magic of their world!
I’m looking forward to reading more by this author!
Jazmin's writing is beautiful!! From the first page, I was captivated by her words. I loved the world she created - full of magic, vivid imagery and interesting characters.
The Heart of the Beast Prince was one of my first forays into the clean fantasy space, and what an adventure it was! Jazmin's immersive world-building and descriptive ability is truly breathtaking, and she gave me many characters to root for in the battle of good versus evil. I particularly loved Axen's patience, fortitude, and grace under impossibly difficult circumstances, as well as Icen's devotion and commitment to self-improvement. There was a really cool twist at the end that sent chills up my spine when I figured it out, and also plenty of moments that made me laugh out loud (Kole, I'm looking at you). If you're like me and adored the traditional Beauty and the Beast tale, you'll fall in love with HOTBP, too.
** I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. **
I received an ARC for The Heart of the Beast Prince. Jazmin Lister has created a beautiful retelling that is its own unique tale. I fell in love with Princess Axen! I laughed while she shot a piece of fruit out of her brother’s hand. I cheered her on when she was fighting for her life. I cried with her while she faced mixed emotions at her fate. She showed amazing grace and wisdom in the face of her world coming to a breaking point. I would highly recommend giving this story a read! I’d give it more than five stars if I could.
This was such a unique twist on Beauty and the Beast. I love how the focus was on Axen. She is such a strong character and I love how she shares her courage with others! I loved how it was a battle of good versus evil and how the Beast’s curse took time to cure. It made the story feel more realistic. The magic system was fascinating, but a little complex for the length of the story. The world building was well done and I enjoyed the plot. This one kept my attention the whole way through and I loved it overall! I look forward to reading more from this author!