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The Heart of the Beast Prince: A Beauty and the Beast Retelling
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?
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?
- GenresBeauty and The Beast
361 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 26, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
May 2, 2026
Far-off places, daring sword fights, magic spells, a prince in disguise!
I’m a sucker for a Beauty and the Beast retelling, especially in a romantasy context. When I dug into “The Heart of the Beast Prince,” I was pleasantly surprised to also find a Jekyll-and-Hyde-type subplot and, interestingly, a dash of Star Wars: characters fighting to balance a force greater than themselves by bringing more love and light into the world.
Indeed, this story’s sparkling jewel is its worldbuilding. It’s easily the best I’ve ever seen in a self-published novel. From the flowers that dot the FMC’s homeland to the supernatural energy that keeps the threads of the Five Lands tightly stitched, author Jazmin Lister leaves no stone unturned. She really thought of everything, but was careful not to overwhelm the reader with irrelevant details, which is a difficult balance to strike. One of my pet peeves is over-worldbuilding (fantasy authors who feel the need to tell the reader about an event that happened 500 years ago that has absolutely no relevance to the immediate story, etc.), and there’s none of that to be had here. As Goldilocks would say, it was juuuuust right.
Also, Lister really knows how to construct a sentence. My gosh. Hers is very pretty writing with a gem on every page. Sentences like “He was more bandage than flesh” say more than entire paragraphs could.
The character development left a little to be desired, in my opinion. By chapter two, Icen, the titular “beast prince,” has already reformed and repented his previously wicked ways, so there’s nowhere for him to grow. Everyone keeps talking about what a “beast” and a “monster” he is, and he and his confidants talk about the monstrous things he did in the past, but that’s all it is: talk.
For example, in the prologue, the spirit of Icen’s mother turns him into a beast, which is a cool twist on a classic setup. She tells him she’s turned his outward appearance into a reflection of what he looks like within. At this point, this is all telling and no showing, because the reader hasn’t been shown an example of Icen acting monstrous. That would be very easy to do in a war setting. Why not show him torturing POWs? Mistreating his soldiers? Needlessly taking lives on the battlefield after the enemy has already surrendered?
In fact, I found that to be consistent throughout the novel: characters remember and discuss events that already happened that are integral to the story, but the reader doesn’t get to see these events play out firsthand (e.g., Axen receiving Icen’s letter, Icen’s father and best friend seeing his transfigurated appearance for the first time, Icen sending Maarten into Axen’s kingdom, the fistfight between Icen and Kole, etc). Much of the story of the novel happens off the page, and we’re left with many scenes of characters just standing around talking about events that already happened. Personally, I don’t find that as engaging as the alternative.
That aside, I would love to read more of this author’s work, especially novels that feature such rich worldbuilding and lore. Learning about the topic of her next book, I already know I’ll be slamming my credit card down and demanding that she take my money.
—
Thank you to the author for sending me an advance copy in exchange for a honest review!
I’m a sucker for a Beauty and the Beast retelling, especially in a romantasy context. When I dug into “The Heart of the Beast Prince,” I was pleasantly surprised to also find a Jekyll-and-Hyde-type subplot and, interestingly, a dash of Star Wars: characters fighting to balance a force greater than themselves by bringing more love and light into the world.
Indeed, this story’s sparkling jewel is its worldbuilding. It’s easily the best I’ve ever seen in a self-published novel. From the flowers that dot the FMC’s homeland to the supernatural energy that keeps the threads of the Five Lands tightly stitched, author Jazmin Lister leaves no stone unturned. She really thought of everything, but was careful not to overwhelm the reader with irrelevant details, which is a difficult balance to strike. One of my pet peeves is over-worldbuilding (fantasy authors who feel the need to tell the reader about an event that happened 500 years ago that has absolutely no relevance to the immediate story, etc.), and there’s none of that to be had here. As Goldilocks would say, it was juuuuust right.
Also, Lister really knows how to construct a sentence. My gosh. Hers is very pretty writing with a gem on every page. Sentences like “He was more bandage than flesh” say more than entire paragraphs could.
The character development left a little to be desired, in my opinion. By chapter two, Icen, the titular “beast prince,” has already reformed and repented his previously wicked ways, so there’s nowhere for him to grow. Everyone keeps talking about what a “beast” and a “monster” he is, and he and his confidants talk about the monstrous things he did in the past, but that’s all it is: talk.
For example, in the prologue, the spirit of Icen’s mother turns him into a beast, which is a cool twist on a classic setup. She tells him she’s turned his outward appearance into a reflection of what he looks like within. At this point, this is all telling and no showing, because the reader hasn’t been shown an example of Icen acting monstrous. That would be very easy to do in a war setting. Why not show him torturing POWs? Mistreating his soldiers? Needlessly taking lives on the battlefield after the enemy has already surrendered?
In fact, I found that to be consistent throughout the novel: characters remember and discuss events that already happened that are integral to the story, but the reader doesn’t get to see these events play out firsthand (e.g., Axen receiving Icen’s letter, Icen’s father and best friend seeing his transfigurated appearance for the first time, Icen sending Maarten into Axen’s kingdom, the fistfight between Icen and Kole, etc). Much of the story of the novel happens off the page, and we’re left with many scenes of characters just standing around talking about events that already happened. Personally, I don’t find that as engaging as the alternative.
That aside, I would love to read more of this author’s work, especially novels that feature such rich worldbuilding and lore. Learning about the topic of her next book, I already know I’ll be slamming my credit card down and demanding that she take my money.
—
Thank you to the author for sending me an advance copy in exchange for a honest review!
February 28, 2026
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!
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!
March 2, 2026
Truly a unique retelling of Beauty & the Beast!
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.
Such a wonderful debut!
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.
Such a wonderful debut!
April 20, 2026
This book has potential, but the writing needs work. Sentences don’t flow, it’s repetitive, and there’s a lot of telling instead of showing. The prose is pretty dense, which didn’t make the story immersive and was the biggest issue for me. If I were just getting back into reading, I probably would have liked it.
April 28, 2026
This story takes you on a journey of healing, which is the best part. Icen has not been a good guy, consumed by grief and fueled by revenge. He’s cursed due to his actions, becoming a lizard-like beast, and the only way to break it is to heal his inner wounds. And maybe marry a princess to heal the world’s magic, while he’s at it. I really enjoyed Princess Axen’s character: she’s got inner strength and determination to do right by her people. I felt that the romance was on the lighter side, as it is a slow burn, but knowing the healing that Icen has to go through, I found that appropriate. There are a few twists to the story that make this Beauty + The Beast retelling unique in its own right.
April 14, 2026
Beauty & The Beast retelling!
Need I say more?
I am astonished at how well this book is written. I quickly got hocked and didn't wanna put it down, so I carried it everywhere! Literally. Normally, 3rd person novels are not for me, but I was so consumed by Jazmin's twist on a childhood favorite that I couldn't get enough. Forget the spice because it is not needed. This book will grip you hard and have you on the edge of your seat the entire time.
Need I say more?
I am astonished at how well this book is written. I quickly got hocked and didn't wanna put it down, so I carried it everywhere! Literally. Normally, 3rd person novels are not for me, but I was so consumed by Jazmin's twist on a childhood favorite that I couldn't get enough. Forget the spice because it is not needed. This book will grip you hard and have you on the edge of your seat the entire time.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“I am trying to heal my heart. I don’t think she deserves the broken me. I wish I could tell her that I am the man she deserves, but I am a coward. Will she reject me? Will I hurt her?”
This Beauty and the Beast retelling is filled with wonderful characters, danger, suspense, betrayal, and a tender romance. The world building was great, with magical elements that I had never read before. I’m still pretty new to the fantasy genre though. I really liked that this retelling’s beast was very unique.
Axen is brave, kind, and determined. I loved her willingness to sacrifice for the good of her people and their world. I loved that she trusted her parents, Maarten, and eventually Icen. Her determination to fulfill her part in restoring the magic was incredible. I loved her understanding and acceptance of Icen and his curse while encouraging him to break it and supporting him in the process. Icen is repentant, gentle, and protective. I loved his change of heart and determination to change. I loved his gentleness toward and protection of Axen. I loved when he trusted her to see him both physically and emotionally. They faced danger and betrayal side by side and their connection and love only grew stronger.
A few more quotes:
“I am afraid. Being vulnerable is hard. I . . . fear rejection and failure.” “Doesn’t everyone?”
“With me . . . here . . . you are safe. With my magic . . . with our fae . . . the castle is safe, the world is . . . safe.”
“We are getting so close to healing the magic,” she whispered, her voice barely audible. “Don’t give up on learning to care for me.”
“I wish you were here, Axen. I wish you could see me now. When I was broken, you still saw the good in me. I believe that you loved me and that your love is what caused me to heal.”
This ARC was provided by the author. I was not required to give a positive review, rating and opinions are my own.
This Beauty and the Beast retelling is filled with wonderful characters, danger, suspense, betrayal, and a tender romance. The world building was great, with magical elements that I had never read before. I’m still pretty new to the fantasy genre though. I really liked that this retelling’s beast was very unique.
Axen is brave, kind, and determined. I loved her willingness to sacrifice for the good of her people and their world. I loved that she trusted her parents, Maarten, and eventually Icen. Her determination to fulfill her part in restoring the magic was incredible. I loved her understanding and acceptance of Icen and his curse while encouraging him to break it and supporting him in the process. Icen is repentant, gentle, and protective. I loved his change of heart and determination to change. I loved his gentleness toward and protection of Axen. I loved when he trusted her to see him both physically and emotionally. They faced danger and betrayal side by side and their connection and love only grew stronger.
A few more quotes:
“I am afraid. Being vulnerable is hard. I . . . fear rejection and failure.” “Doesn’t everyone?”
“With me . . . here . . . you are safe. With my magic . . . with our fae . . . the castle is safe, the world is . . . safe.”
“We are getting so close to healing the magic,” she whispered, her voice barely audible. “Don’t give up on learning to care for me.”
“I wish you were here, Axen. I wish you could see me now. When I was broken, you still saw the good in me. I believe that you loved me and that your love is what caused me to heal.”
This ARC was provided by the author. I was not required to give a positive review, rating and opinions are my own.
August 9, 2026
A New Take on a B&B Retelling
If you love Beauty and the Beast retellings but are looking for something that feels fresh and different, The Heart of the Beast Prince by Jazmin Lister is definitely worth adding to your TBR.
At its heart, this is a story about love, sacrifice, forgiveness, and finding the courage to change. I really enjoyed how the Beauty and the Beast inspiration was woven into the story while still allowing it to stand completely on its own. The cursed prince, Icen, is a particularly unique take on the “beast.” He sees himself as a monster and carries so much guilt and regret, but beneath that is someone who desperately wants redemption and the chance to become better.
Axen was also a character I really admired. She is compassionate, brave, and determined, but what I loved most was her willingness to sacrifice for the people and world she loves. She doesn’t simply see Icen as his curse or his mistakes. She chooses to understand him, believe in him, and encourage him to become the person he wants to be.
The world-building was one of my favorite parts. The concepts of Cohesion, Harmony, and Entropy gave the magic system a unique feel and made the conflict about so much more than just breaking a curse. The political tension, betrayal, grief, and consequences of past choices all tied together in a way that made the story feel bigger and more layered.
And the romance? Tender, emotional, and beautifully slow-burn. While the romance is closed-door, the emotional connection between Axen and Icen carries so much weight. Their relationship grows through trust, vulnerability, forgiveness, and the decision to see each other beyond their wounds.
Overall, The Heart of the Beast Prince is a sweet, atmospheric fantasy romance with a unique magical world, a memorable cursed prince, a strong heroine, and a touching message about redemption and the power of love and forgiveness.
If you enjoy Beauty and the Beast retellings, fantasy romance, cursed princes, political intrigue, magical curses, and emotionally driven slow-burn romances, I think this one is worth checking out!
If you love Beauty and the Beast retellings but are looking for something that feels fresh and different, The Heart of the Beast Prince by Jazmin Lister is definitely worth adding to your TBR.
At its heart, this is a story about love, sacrifice, forgiveness, and finding the courage to change. I really enjoyed how the Beauty and the Beast inspiration was woven into the story while still allowing it to stand completely on its own. The cursed prince, Icen, is a particularly unique take on the “beast.” He sees himself as a monster and carries so much guilt and regret, but beneath that is someone who desperately wants redemption and the chance to become better.
Axen was also a character I really admired. She is compassionate, brave, and determined, but what I loved most was her willingness to sacrifice for the people and world she loves. She doesn’t simply see Icen as his curse or his mistakes. She chooses to understand him, believe in him, and encourage him to become the person he wants to be.
The world-building was one of my favorite parts. The concepts of Cohesion, Harmony, and Entropy gave the magic system a unique feel and made the conflict about so much more than just breaking a curse. The political tension, betrayal, grief, and consequences of past choices all tied together in a way that made the story feel bigger and more layered.
And the romance? Tender, emotional, and beautifully slow-burn. While the romance is closed-door, the emotional connection between Axen and Icen carries so much weight. Their relationship grows through trust, vulnerability, forgiveness, and the decision to see each other beyond their wounds.
Overall, The Heart of the Beast Prince is a sweet, atmospheric fantasy romance with a unique magical world, a memorable cursed prince, a strong heroine, and a touching message about redemption and the power of love and forgiveness.
If you enjoy Beauty and the Beast retellings, fantasy romance, cursed princes, political intrigue, magical curses, and emotionally driven slow-burn romances, I think this one is worth checking out!
May 19, 2026
The Heart of the Beast Prince by Jazmin Lister is a tender love story.
Grief, betrayal, magic, and sacrifice tie two kingdoms together. Within those two kingdoms, there is a cursed prince who sees himself as monstrous, and a princess carrying the weight of prophecy and peace on her shoulders.
I absolutely loved the Beauty and the Beast inspiration, but this story felt like its own thing. The magic system surrounding Cohesion, Harmony, and Entropy added so much depth to the world and made the stakes feel larger than just romance. Everything felt connected; the curses, the politics, the broken friendships, even the emotional wounds passed from one generation to the next.
Icen honestly broke my heart. The scenes where he sees himself as a monster while still desperately seeking redemption were some of my favorites in the book. Then, there is Axen, who is such a steady, compassionate counterpart to him without ever feeling weak.
The romance is closed door, but the emotional intimacy absolutely carries the story. This felt sweet, atmospheric, magical, and deeply emotional all at once.
I recommend The Heart of the Beast Prince for readers who love fantasy romance with emotional healing, cursed princes, political tension, layered magic systems, and a soft slow-burn connection.
Grief, betrayal, magic, and sacrifice tie two kingdoms together. Within those two kingdoms, there is a cursed prince who sees himself as monstrous, and a princess carrying the weight of prophecy and peace on her shoulders.
I absolutely loved the Beauty and the Beast inspiration, but this story felt like its own thing. The magic system surrounding Cohesion, Harmony, and Entropy added so much depth to the world and made the stakes feel larger than just romance. Everything felt connected; the curses, the politics, the broken friendships, even the emotional wounds passed from one generation to the next.
Icen honestly broke my heart. The scenes where he sees himself as a monster while still desperately seeking redemption were some of my favorites in the book. Then, there is Axen, who is such a steady, compassionate counterpart to him without ever feeling weak.
The romance is closed door, but the emotional intimacy absolutely carries the story. This felt sweet, atmospheric, magical, and deeply emotional all at once.
I recommend The Heart of the Beast Prince for readers who love fantasy romance with emotional healing, cursed princes, political tension, layered magic systems, and a soft slow-burn connection.
August 28, 2026
Having been cursed by the spirit of his deceased mother and her fae magic to bear the physical attributes of a beast until his heart changes, Prince Icen, the Beast Prince, extends a truce and a marriage offer to Princess Axel. Until true love is developed between Icen and Axel, the imbalance of the magical forces that nourish their lands is slowly fading, which would mean the death of all life within their borders.
Axel agrees to the marriage, in an effort to bring an end to the intense war between their lands and save their peoples.
Icen’s challenge is not only to forgive his former enemies, but to own his mistakes, and find his way to self forgiveness and healing as he changes into the man his loved ones know him capable of being
A unique retelling of Beauty and the Beast with a hint of the Cupid and Psyche myth, I found this story fascinating. The history of the land and the magic of the fae felt so different to me, it made it all the more gripping.
I loved that Icen and Axel intentionally worked to know each other and the respect in their, and many other relationships in the story, displayed. While one or two elements of the world confused me at first, I found the story compelling, the relationships real, and the ending completely satisfying. I am very interested to see what happens next in this world.
Axel agrees to the marriage, in an effort to bring an end to the intense war between their lands and save their peoples.
Icen’s challenge is not only to forgive his former enemies, but to own his mistakes, and find his way to self forgiveness and healing as he changes into the man his loved ones know him capable of being
A unique retelling of Beauty and the Beast with a hint of the Cupid and Psyche myth, I found this story fascinating. The history of the land and the magic of the fae felt so different to me, it made it all the more gripping.
I loved that Icen and Axel intentionally worked to know each other and the respect in their, and many other relationships in the story, displayed. While one or two elements of the world confused me at first, I found the story compelling, the relationships real, and the ending completely satisfying. I am very interested to see what happens next in this world.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thoughts:
If you're into:
✅Beauty and the Beast
✅Fantasy Retellings
✅Clean Romance
✅Marriage of Convenience
Then I think this book is for you!
Characters:
I do like the way Icen and Axen were portrayed, it reminded me of something I used to read. "My husband hides his beauty" cheesy name, I know but it's quite similar here. He's not allowed to talk much about his curse or something will stop him, the FMC doesn't see him as ugly and constantly encourages him. He doesn't believe in himself and tries to distance himself from the FMC all the time because he believes as the supposed "monster" that people call him he would one day hurt her.
Pacing:
I would say it's pretty fast paced, considering it's less description and more conversing between characters. What I do get confused about was the time skips, like I got left out of something and I'm just rereading things as if I missed a page or two.
Ending:
I can say the ending is quite interesting, I won't spoil anything obviously but it definitely made me smile. Actually, not just smile, I giggled like a maniac... Ok goodbye.
If you're into:
✅Beauty and the Beast
✅Fantasy Retellings
✅Clean Romance
✅Marriage of Convenience
Then I think this book is for you!
Characters:
I do like the way Icen and Axen were portrayed, it reminded me of something I used to read. "My husband hides his beauty" cheesy name, I know but it's quite similar here. He's not allowed to talk much about his curse or something will stop him, the FMC doesn't see him as ugly and constantly encourages him. He doesn't believe in himself and tries to distance himself from the FMC all the time because he believes as the supposed "monster" that people call him he would one day hurt her.
Pacing:
I would say it's pretty fast paced, considering it's less description and more conversing between characters. What I do get confused about was the time skips, like I got left out of something and I'm just rereading things as if I missed a page or two.
Ending:
I can say the ending is quite interesting, I won't spoil anything obviously but it definitely made me smile. Actually, not just smile, I giggled like a maniac... Ok goodbye.
Review of advance copy received from Author
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 advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. **
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Heart of the Beast Prince by Jazmin Lister
Prince Icen must accept that only he can break his curse, but without the hand of Princess Axen, he will never fulfill his destiny...
Very much enjoyed this Beauty and the Beast retelling! Always a fan of the arranged marriage trope. And I really liked how the beast had to break his curse himself. I actually found the FMC's confusion about the MMC to be quite amusing as the reader knows more than she does at that point! Overall a great fantasy story that's more than just the romance! Would recommend! And side note, I absolutely love the cover! (Yes, those are magic swords!)
Genre: Fairytale retelling (no spice)
Standalone
Favorite characters: Axen's family
Favorite scene: the Night Icen/Day Icen situation
4.5⭐
ARC (will be published Mar 26, all opinions are my own)
Prince Icen must accept that only he can break his curse, but without the hand of Princess Axen, he will never fulfill his destiny...
Very much enjoyed this Beauty and the Beast retelling! Always a fan of the arranged marriage trope. And I really liked how the beast had to break his curse himself. I actually found the FMC's confusion about the MMC to be quite amusing as the reader knows more than she does at that point! Overall a great fantasy story that's more than just the romance! Would recommend! And side note, I absolutely love the cover! (Yes, those are magic swords!)
Genre: Fairytale retelling (no spice)
Standalone
Favorite characters: Axen's family
Favorite scene: the Night Icen/Day Icen situation
4.5⭐
ARC (will be published Mar 26, all opinions are my own)
August 31, 2026
Jazmin Lister’s creative imagination in retelling a timeless tale was spectacular! I am a huge fan of Beauty and the Beast. So when I came across this retelling, I had to read it. Lister did such a superb job that I read it in one day. The old saying: I couldn’t put it down. Her world-building is refreshing for the fantasy genre. Everything was vivid and visceral. She’s very skilled at weaving in the characters’ emotions and motives. Best of all, what I love in any genre is a problem-solving scenario, and the two MCs were landed one that was truly unpredictable. The twist at the end was oh so good. This was so much fun to read. I’m looking forward to reading another retelling story in her vision.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was such a fascinating retelling. Jazmin has brought new life to such a good story already.
This book has set up a new world of possibilities to incorporate more stories within.
The world building as something I’m looking to see more of.
Icen has to overcome a curse that he brought on himself with his inability to see past his hurt.
Axen, is such a strong FMC that is looking at what she can do/be for the people and for the magic world.
I really enjoyed reading this debut novel and hope to see more from Jazmin.
**I received an advanced copy of this book and am leaving this review
voluntarily.
This book has set up a new world of possibilities to incorporate more stories within.
The world building as something I’m looking to see more of.
Icen has to overcome a curse that he brought on himself with his inability to see past his hurt.
Axen, is such a strong FMC that is looking at what she can do/be for the people and for the magic world.
I really enjoyed reading this debut novel and hope to see more from Jazmin.
**I received an advanced copy of this book and am leaving this review
voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Heart of the Beast Prince is a wonderful retelling of Beauty and the Beast.
For being Lister’s debut, she does a wonderful job of building the world without being too wordy which kept me flipping to the next page with anticipation. I enjoyed the character Axen from the moment she shot a piece of fruit out of her brother’s hand and she continued to be a character that sparked my curiosity as the story progressed.
In my opinion Lister displayed the perfect amount of originality while still making me feel nostalgic for Beauty and the Beast. You can feel the time and energy she put into this book.
Looking forward to what this author works on next!
For being Lister’s debut, she does a wonderful job of building the world without being too wordy which kept me flipping to the next page with anticipation. I enjoyed the character Axen from the moment she shot a piece of fruit out of her brother’s hand and she continued to be a character that sparked my curiosity as the story progressed.
In my opinion Lister displayed the perfect amount of originality while still making me feel nostalgic for Beauty and the Beast. You can feel the time and energy she put into this book.
Looking forward to what this author works on next!
April 11, 2026
An uplifting and wonderful read.
Loved the thought provoking arc in the main male character Prince Icen. We first meet Prince Icen as he is brought forcibly and painfully to the realization that his poor decisions have hurt not only himself but those he is responsible for. We follow him through the denial, blame, self loathing, acceptance, ownership and self forgiveness of reconciling his past with his current desire to be a good man and his future potential. He does this with more than a little help from an angel of a woman who has agreed to marry him, despite his better judgement. It provides a powerful reminder that grace becomes more forceful as we do what we can to make amends.
Loved the thought provoking arc in the main male character Prince Icen. We first meet Prince Icen as he is brought forcibly and painfully to the realization that his poor decisions have hurt not only himself but those he is responsible for. We follow him through the denial, blame, self loathing, acceptance, ownership and self forgiveness of reconciling his past with his current desire to be a good man and his future potential. He does this with more than a little help from an angel of a woman who has agreed to marry him, despite his better judgement. It provides a powerful reminder that grace becomes more forceful as we do what we can to make amends.
Review of advance copy received from Author
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.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is such an incredible and unuique retelling of Beauty and the Beast!! I love how he’s the one who has to break his own curse and how strong the FMC is physically and mentally!! I love the tropes, the adventure and the fantasy mix. Seeing how their relationship blossomed and how much respect they have for each others families as well was such a heartwarming moment🥹
I did receive an ARC of the book thanks to the author however this review is MY OWN opinion, thank you.
I have a little bit more of a review on my Instagram @ aris.bookcorner:)
I did receive an ARC of the book thanks to the author however this review is MY OWN opinion, thank you.
I have a little bit more of a review on my Instagram @ aris.bookcorner:)
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an arc of this book, this is such an amazing retelling of my absolute favorite story. This had everything I wanted in a retelling - some fantastic unique aspects to make this its own but there were also a couple nods to the original cartoon that holds a special place in my heart and I just loved it. The characters, the writing, the magic system, the world building, so so well done. I also really loved that this will be a book that I feel comfortable sharing with my daughters, as it is clean and spice free. Easy 5 ⭐ for me!
August 28, 2026
Okay, this book is incredible! A unique and authentic retelling of Beauty and the Beast. It's simply wonderful!! I absolutely loved every moment of this book!! It filled me with so much emotion! Themes of forgiveness, courage and bravery woven into this book help create a whole world so unique and beautiful!
It's gorgeous! I love the world building, magic, danger, family, slow-burn romance that is well earned!
It is a must read! And worth every moment spent in a story, that wraps you up into its glorious embrace.
It's gorgeous! I love the world building, magic, danger, family, slow-burn romance that is well earned!
It is a must read! And worth every moment spent in a story, that wraps you up into its glorious embrace.
March 28, 2026
"The Heart of the Beast Prince" by Jazmin Lister is a beautiful fantasy retelling of Beauty and the Beast.
I love the different elements of the fantasy world she adds to the story!!
I also love the mystery behind the beast, foes, and the fae that is woven into the book!
The ending is one I did not see coming but I love that!!! It shocked me to my core but was very satisfying:)
Well done and sooo good!!
Thank you so much Jazmin for the honor of being on your ARC team!!
I love the different elements of the fantasy world she adds to the story!!
I also love the mystery behind the beast, foes, and the fae that is woven into the book!
The ending is one I did not see coming but I love that!!! It shocked me to my core but was very satisfying:)
Well done and sooo good!!
Thank you so much Jazmin for the honor of being on your ARC team!!
June 9, 2026
This was a clever take on Beauty and the Beast! For the story itself and the characters, I would give it 4-5 stars. I really loved it! The fact that the author put your own rich culture into it was beautiful.
The only reason I'm giving it 3 stars is because the writing was a bit difficult/choppy at times. I could ignore it for the sake of the wonderful story, but it might bother some readers.
Overall, I highly recommend giving this book a try if you love a unique fantasy retelling!!
The only reason I'm giving it 3 stars is because the writing was a bit difficult/choppy at times. I could ignore it for the sake of the wonderful story, but it might bother some readers.
Overall, I highly recommend giving this book a try if you love a unique fantasy retelling!!
June 19, 2026
I was really surprised by this retelling of Beauty and the Beast. It kept me going through pages and I found myself often thinking about making some time to finish the book.
The story follows Axen and Oven as they struggle to know eachother and help their world.
If you like fantasy and romance you will surely enjoy this.
The story follows Axen and Oven as they struggle to know eachother and help their world.
If you like fantasy and romance you will surely enjoy this.
June 29, 2026
An interesting twist
I’ve read a lot of B&B tellings and this one was quite different than the others. The fight for balance in a kingdom being quickly overtaken by entropy, the need for harmony-love and forgiveness-to balance it, and a young woman willing to sacrifice to bring peace, all made for a compelling story.
I’ve read a lot of B&B tellings and this one was quite different than the others. The fight for balance in a kingdom being quickly overtaken by entropy, the need for harmony-love and forgiveness-to balance it, and a young woman willing to sacrifice to bring peace, all made for a compelling story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is a very sweet Beauty and Beast retelling and fans of the B&B will be satisfied. The magic system is creative and delightful. The steady pacing and focus on the interpersonal dynamics gives it a cozy vibe and I think fans of cozy fantasy, especially, will really enjoy it.
Read
August 10, 2026DNF
March 23, 2026
I adore retellings and this one is the perfect example why. The author has taken the Beauty and the Beast story and made it her own. We get angst and emotions from these characters that a multidimensional. Prince Icen's story was so intriguing. As we got to know more and more of him you can't help but want to cheer for him and Princess Axen.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I ARC read this for Jazmin, and I loved it! Definitely 4.5 stars.
The Heart of The Beast Prince was a different take on Beauty and The Beast. I loved how unique the storyline was and how unique the rose situation was.
The characters were phenomenal! I loved Axen and Icen’s chemistry. It wasn’t forced, but it was built upon. I could have used a few more romantic moments with them, but the ending was amazing!
The villain in the story was amazing. I never knew exactly what was happening in the story because it kept me guessing.
There were twists and turns I didn’t see coming.
The Heart of The Beast Prince is a retelling of Beauty and The Beast. It has so much going for it! I hope you all love it!
The Heart of The Beast Prince was a different take on Beauty and The Beast. I loved how unique the storyline was and how unique the rose situation was.
The characters were phenomenal! I loved Axen and Icen’s chemistry. It wasn’t forced, but it was built upon. I could have used a few more romantic moments with them, but the ending was amazing!
The villain in the story was amazing. I never knew exactly what was happening in the story because it kept me guessing.
There were twists and turns I didn’t see coming.
The Heart of The Beast Prince is a retelling of Beauty and The Beast. It has so much going for it! I hope you all love it!
May 24, 2026
This was such a unique take and just loosely based on beauty and the beast. I really liked that because retelling of fairy tales can get boring. I liked the world building and various cultures represented. Who knew the beast was a reptile instead of a mammal!?
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