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Grimm Reapers #2
Beast Mode: The Grimm Reapers
Belle doesn’t need saving. She needs insurance. Living out of her van and working nonstop to keep her father in memory care, she’s used to surviving alone. Until a brutal roller derby injury leaves her desperate and her wealthy, intensely private client makes an outrageous offer.
A marriage. In name only.
Raphael Renault is rumored to be a beast. He is reclusive, rigid, and more comfortable behind locked doors than at the dinner table. His house feels less like a home and more like a castle built to keep the world out.
But Belle has never been afraid of monsters.
She brings warmth into his silent kitchen. Laughter into rooms long untouched. And when she opens the one door that was meant to stay closed, she uncovers the grief he’s been hiding for years.
As a storm gathers and the past threatens everything they’ve built, Belle must decide if loving the Beast means losing herself… or finally choosing a partnership where power is shared and hearts are unguarded.
Beast Mode is a Beauty and the Beast–inspired, marriage-of-convenience romance about grief, vulnerability, found family, and the courage to love without shrinking. Spicy, tender, and fiercely heart-forward.
A marriage. In name only.
Raphael Renault is rumored to be a beast. He is reclusive, rigid, and more comfortable behind locked doors than at the dinner table. His house feels less like a home and more like a castle built to keep the world out.
But Belle has never been afraid of monsters.
She brings warmth into his silent kitchen. Laughter into rooms long untouched. And when she opens the one door that was meant to stay closed, she uncovers the grief he’s been hiding for years.
As a storm gathers and the past threatens everything they’ve built, Belle must decide if loving the Beast means losing herself… or finally choosing a partnership where power is shared and hearts are unguarded.
Beast Mode is a Beauty and the Beast–inspired, marriage-of-convenience romance about grief, vulnerability, found family, and the courage to love without shrinking. Spicy, tender, and fiercely heart-forward.
362 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 28, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
May 29, 2026
4.5 stars.
I loved "Beast Mode" by Mary Warren! This is a "Beauty and the Beast" retelling featuring a badass, determined, plus-size Belle, who is just trying to make enough money to take care of her father, who has dementia, and Raphael, the grumpy, rich, rigid hermit who likes everything just so, but whose world is turned upside down when he meets Belle. It's a marriage of convenience, forced proximity romance where he falls first and HARD. I found this book to be very emotional at times. Belle is trying to juggle her father's dementia care, multiple jobs, her horrible boss, and one of the only things she loves: her roller derby league. She lives in her van, takes showers at her local gym, and scrimps and saves every penny, going so far as to eat old leftover bakery items. She has been given a new assignment at work to clean Raphael "The Beast" Renault's home, and he immediately takes a curious interest in her. Belle is headstrong and determined to make more money to get better care for her father without asking for help from anyone, including her closest friends, who are more than willing to lend whatever aid they can. Unfortunately, Belle recently got injured playing roller derby, but doesn't have insurance. Raphael proposes that Belle marry him so she can get on his insurance... and she agrees! Ohhhh noooooOOoOooo, he eventually ends up loving his wife! And she winds up loving her husband! MY FAVORITE. I loved the connection between Raphael and Belle. There is a push and pull between them for control from their very first encounter. Raphael always wants to fix things for Belle without realizing the power imbalance between them, and Belle is overly independent and not used to a man telling her what to do or doing things for her. The more they are in each other's orbit, the more they let down their walls very slowly but surely. Belle becomes a little less tough-as-nails, allowing Raphael to shoulder some of the burdens and grief she's facing, and Raphael becomes a little less analytical, a little less evasive, and a little more loving. The banter between them really worked for me. I also love the found-family aspect between Belle and the other women on the Grim Reapers roller derby team. They have her back no matter what and despite whatever reservations she may have about asking for help. I also adored Chandler and Geoffrey, Raphael's two butler-types, who are clearly meant as the Lumiere/Cogsworth comic relief. They inject some much-needed humor into the tension and pining between Belle and Raphael. All in all, this is a wonderful book, and I cannot wait for the third installment in the series!
Thank you to Mary Warren for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
I loved "Beast Mode" by Mary Warren! This is a "Beauty and the Beast" retelling featuring a badass, determined, plus-size Belle, who is just trying to make enough money to take care of her father, who has dementia, and Raphael, the grumpy, rich, rigid hermit who likes everything just so, but whose world is turned upside down when he meets Belle. It's a marriage of convenience, forced proximity romance where he falls first and HARD. I found this book to be very emotional at times. Belle is trying to juggle her father's dementia care, multiple jobs, her horrible boss, and one of the only things she loves: her roller derby league. She lives in her van, takes showers at her local gym, and scrimps and saves every penny, going so far as to eat old leftover bakery items. She has been given a new assignment at work to clean Raphael "The Beast" Renault's home, and he immediately takes a curious interest in her. Belle is headstrong and determined to make more money to get better care for her father without asking for help from anyone, including her closest friends, who are more than willing to lend whatever aid they can. Unfortunately, Belle recently got injured playing roller derby, but doesn't have insurance. Raphael proposes that Belle marry him so she can get on his insurance... and she agrees! Ohhhh noooooOOoOooo, he eventually ends up loving his wife! And she winds up loving her husband! MY FAVORITE. I loved the connection between Raphael and Belle. There is a push and pull between them for control from their very first encounter. Raphael always wants to fix things for Belle without realizing the power imbalance between them, and Belle is overly independent and not used to a man telling her what to do or doing things for her. The more they are in each other's orbit, the more they let down their walls very slowly but surely. Belle becomes a little less tough-as-nails, allowing Raphael to shoulder some of the burdens and grief she's facing, and Raphael becomes a little less analytical, a little less evasive, and a little more loving. The banter between them really worked for me. I also love the found-family aspect between Belle and the other women on the Grim Reapers roller derby team. They have her back no matter what and despite whatever reservations she may have about asking for help. I also adored Chandler and Geoffrey, Raphael's two butler-types, who are clearly meant as the Lumiere/Cogsworth comic relief. They inject some much-needed humor into the tension and pining between Belle and Raphael. All in all, this is a wonderful book, and I cannot wait for the third installment in the series!
Thank you to Mary Warren for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
May 28, 2026
Bell is working multiple jobs just to keep her head above water and barely surviving in her purple van that she is living out of to keep her father in the nursing home due to his dementia. She takes a cleaning job at hotel Mogul Raphael’s home, and he instantly falls in love with her, brings her back for overtime for unnecessary jobs just to be around her. She gets hurt at roller derby and needs insurance, and he proposes marriage for her to have healthcare. I loved the friend group and the upcoming book, I will definitely be interested to read as well! Absolutely adored this retelling; it was unique and very nostalgic for me. I binged it in a day and a half for good reason
June 5, 2026
This is the second Mary Warren book I've read, and I'll be honest, I haven't been impressed regardless of the hype around her within the plus fmc community.
I feel like this author's thing is writing absolutely insufferable and self righteous fmcs and then trying to pretend like it's just a girl-boss or independent woman thing... it's not. Belle was infuriating to read because she constantly twisted Raphael's intentions and tried to make it seem like he was wrong for trying to take care of her regarding her financial struggles as if she didn't dully take advantage of his perks when it benefited her (she literally suggest her marry her so that she can get covered by his medical insurance, and then agreed to it). Girly was homeless living in her van, behind payment on her father's care residence, and worked 3 jobs, and then when a hot rich man who literally doesn't need to have any romantic interest in an obnoxious homeless girl tells her that he cares for her and wants to protect her/take away her financial burden so she's able to relax... she goes and acts like he's trying to buy her affection and is controlling... okay then just shut up and leave instead of pretending like you are some steam of a deal that he would want to have. Yeah yeah there's a power imbalance, but girl didn't sign a pre-nup, and he's doing it as a gift without expectation for reciprocation. Just continue to work at your jobs and shut the fuck up because getting pissed about your rich husband being rich while you aren't gets old really fucking fast. It's like going to France and getting mad they speak fluent French while you only speak a few words of French, like now you're in an environment where you are able to learn more so do it... it's not the other person's fault that you're insecure and emotionally infantile. Grow up. Fucking hell, she was so annoying beyond belief.
Steam was once again vague and without much substance. Like yes, it was on page, but it was rushed over and there was no connection shown between the characters.
The fact that both books I've read from this author have had fmc who throw tantrums over the mmc being sweet to them... I'm not particularly interested in reading from this author again.
*as a side note, having her Derby name as "Belle Ringer" makes her sound more like Quasimodo the hunchback of Notre Dame than anything
I feel like this author's thing is writing absolutely insufferable and self righteous fmcs and then trying to pretend like it's just a girl-boss or independent woman thing... it's not. Belle was infuriating to read because she constantly twisted Raphael's intentions and tried to make it seem like he was wrong for trying to take care of her regarding her financial struggles as if she didn't dully take advantage of his perks when it benefited her (she literally suggest her marry her so that she can get covered by his medical insurance, and then agreed to it). Girly was homeless living in her van, behind payment on her father's care residence, and worked 3 jobs, and then when a hot rich man who literally doesn't need to have any romantic interest in an obnoxious homeless girl tells her that he cares for her and wants to protect her/take away her financial burden so she's able to relax... she goes and acts like he's trying to buy her affection and is controlling... okay then just shut up and leave instead of pretending like you are some steam of a deal that he would want to have. Yeah yeah there's a power imbalance, but girl didn't sign a pre-nup, and he's doing it as a gift without expectation for reciprocation. Just continue to work at your jobs and shut the fuck up because getting pissed about your rich husband being rich while you aren't gets old really fucking fast. It's like going to France and getting mad they speak fluent French while you only speak a few words of French, like now you're in an environment where you are able to learn more so do it... it's not the other person's fault that you're insecure and emotionally infantile. Grow up. Fucking hell, she was so annoying beyond belief.
Steam was once again vague and without much substance. Like yes, it was on page, but it was rushed over and there was no connection shown between the characters.
The fact that both books I've read from this author have had fmc who throw tantrums over the mmc being sweet to them... I'm not particularly interested in reading from this author again.
*as a side note, having her Derby name as "Belle Ringer" makes her sound more like Quasimodo the hunchback of Notre Dame than anything
May 17, 2026
Independent to a fault, Belle is nonetheless in dire straits: her father’s place in memory care has just doubled in cost, she’s been living in her van to survive, working two minimum wage jobs, and now just as she’s picking up steady work at the palatial home of the hotelier known as The Beast, she sustains a debilitating injury playing roller derby, and she no longer has health insurance because she couldn’t keep up with the premiums.
For reasons he doesn’t wish to examine too deeply, the notoriously reclusive except when absolutely necessary Raphael is intrigued by and interested in the self-possessed, efficient young woman who’s been sent to clean his personal residence. So much so that when he finds she’s been working a second job whenever shifts become available, he invents a task for her to do which will take many hours. Then he adds preparing - and sharing - meals to the list of tasks, to keep her gainfully employed and within his orbit. When he notices her limping badly and wincing in pain, learning that she’s without insurance or money to visit a healthcare provider, and also realizes she’s been living in her van, he proposes a marriage on paper so she can partake in his benefits.
Belle and Raphael aren’t in the same household long before their attraction turns physical, although neither is forthcoming about their true feelings. When Belle’s job is threatened by her controlling and casually cruel boss, Raphael unilaterally makes some boss level moves without consulting her, which Belle resents, fearing she’s completely powerless in their relationship. Then to make matters worse, Belle violates the sanctity of a massive wound Raphael’s been concealing, and the blowup is instant and ugly.
Just as they’re resolving one rough patch, another threat to Belle’s well being cones about, and it’s one that could take both her and her beloved father out for good. It would make Raphael’s transformation into a Beast of a man if it were to transpire. Once again, both the MCs’ stubborn independence could destroy everything they hold dear.
This was a steamy, engaging read by Mary Warren. Belle is not a rail thin woman, but it’s simply a fact about her, just as it’s a fact that she’s strong, hardworking, and capable. The book also highlights sisterhood, as Belle’s teammates and friends were supportive without being judgmental, hopeful and wary alike for her situation and her wellbeing, and of course, she for theirs. The depiction of Belle and many of her friends as the working poor, and all the difficult, often heartbreaking choices faced by people who live at or near the margins are all too real, and even Belle’s stubborn insistence on keeping the worst of her situation from her friends rings true. Raphael’s presence as the well-intended, wealthy savior less so, obviously, but we all deserve to dream.
I was generously provided an advance reader copy from The Author Agency, and I’m pleased to share my honest review.
For reasons he doesn’t wish to examine too deeply, the notoriously reclusive except when absolutely necessary Raphael is intrigued by and interested in the self-possessed, efficient young woman who’s been sent to clean his personal residence. So much so that when he finds she’s been working a second job whenever shifts become available, he invents a task for her to do which will take many hours. Then he adds preparing - and sharing - meals to the list of tasks, to keep her gainfully employed and within his orbit. When he notices her limping badly and wincing in pain, learning that she’s without insurance or money to visit a healthcare provider, and also realizes she’s been living in her van, he proposes a marriage on paper so she can partake in his benefits.
Belle and Raphael aren’t in the same household long before their attraction turns physical, although neither is forthcoming about their true feelings. When Belle’s job is threatened by her controlling and casually cruel boss, Raphael unilaterally makes some boss level moves without consulting her, which Belle resents, fearing she’s completely powerless in their relationship. Then to make matters worse, Belle violates the sanctity of a massive wound Raphael’s been concealing, and the blowup is instant and ugly.
Just as they’re resolving one rough patch, another threat to Belle’s well being cones about, and it’s one that could take both her and her beloved father out for good. It would make Raphael’s transformation into a Beast of a man if it were to transpire. Once again, both the MCs’ stubborn independence could destroy everything they hold dear.
This was a steamy, engaging read by Mary Warren. Belle is not a rail thin woman, but it’s simply a fact about her, just as it’s a fact that she’s strong, hardworking, and capable. The book also highlights sisterhood, as Belle’s teammates and friends were supportive without being judgmental, hopeful and wary alike for her situation and her wellbeing, and of course, she for theirs. The depiction of Belle and many of her friends as the working poor, and all the difficult, often heartbreaking choices faced by people who live at or near the margins are all too real, and even Belle’s stubborn insistence on keeping the worst of her situation from her friends rings true. Raphael’s presence as the well-intended, wealthy savior less so, obviously, but we all deserve to dream.
I was generously provided an advance reader copy from The Author Agency, and I’m pleased to share my honest review.
May 30, 2026
Belle is used to surviving alone. But with a recent injury she needs insurance. Raphael is a rigid business man known as the beast. So, it's a big surprise when he offers to marry her to resolve her problem 😮.
The author always has the ability to project actual problems in our daily life through her stories.
This book is fill with grief, workplace harassment, taking care of a loved one but there is romance and hope, too.
I saw myself multiple times on the FMC, so it felt personal 🤭.
I loved the subtle connections to Beauty and the Beast 💜. I was kicking my feet.
This is the second book of the Grimm Reapers Series. I also recommend the Glendale Magic Series.
Thanks to the author for the opportunity of reading a pre-release form of this book.
The author always has the ability to project actual problems in our daily life through her stories.
This book is fill with grief, workplace harassment, taking care of a loved one but there is romance and hope, too.
I saw myself multiple times on the FMC, so it felt personal 🤭.
I loved the subtle connections to Beauty and the Beast 💜. I was kicking my feet.
This is the second book of the Grimm Reapers Series. I also recommend the Glendale Magic Series.
Thanks to the author for the opportunity of reading a pre-release form of this book.
May 28, 2026
OMG THIS BOOK!!! THIS WORLD I LOVE EVERYTHING ABOUT IT. Yes I'm shouting. It's that good! I feel like I've been in a reading slump ALL MONTH and this book cured me of it! The Beauty & the Beast inspired story was perfection, including the sweet but "forgetful" father, the trashy and terrible Gaston (aka Tripp) as well as Lumiere and Cogsworth. Being a Canadian, I have no idea the lengths people go to be able to afford health care and how close one can be to making crazy decisions like this in order to survive, so props to the author for highlighting a very real life struggle in this work of fiction
What I love about this series, is that while each book highlights a certain couple, the backbone of the story is the sisterhood of the Grimm Reapers and the ride or die connecti0ns they have. I saw it in Skate Ever After and it was definitely back in Beast Mode. These are not weak women who need saving, they can handle their shit, but finding a partner who supports instead of saves is soooo freaking refreshing.
Honestly just pick up this series.....and word on the street - the next one is a gender swap Robin Hood retelling. I cannot wait
What I love about this series, is that while each book highlights a certain couple, the backbone of the story is the sisterhood of the Grimm Reapers and the ride or die connecti0ns they have. I saw it in Skate Ever After and it was definitely back in Beast Mode. These are not weak women who need saving, they can handle their shit, but finding a partner who supports instead of saves is soooo freaking refreshing.
Honestly just pick up this series.....and word on the street - the next one is a gender swap Robin Hood retelling. I cannot wait
May 29, 2026
Beast Mode by Mary Warren is a tender and emotionally satisfying Beauty and the Beast retelling that balances vulnerability, healing, and romance beautifully. Beneath the marriage of convenience setup is a story about grief, trust, and learning how to let someone into the parts of yourself you would rather keep hidden.
Belle is such a strong and resilient heroine, and I loved how her warmth slowly transformed the isolated world Raphael had built around himself. Their relationship develops through quiet moments, emotional honesty, and growing trust, which made the romance feel intimate and genuine. Raphael’s guarded nature paired with Belle’s refusal to be intimidated created a dynamic that was both emotional and deeply comforting.
The story blends emotional depth with tenderness and chemistry in a way that feels immersive from beginning to end. Fans of softer retellings with strong emotional themes and character driven romance will likely really enjoy this one.
Belle is such a strong and resilient heroine, and I loved how her warmth slowly transformed the isolated world Raphael had built around himself. Their relationship develops through quiet moments, emotional honesty, and growing trust, which made the romance feel intimate and genuine. Raphael’s guarded nature paired with Belle’s refusal to be intimidated created a dynamic that was both emotional and deeply comforting.
The story blends emotional depth with tenderness and chemistry in a way that feels immersive from beginning to end. Fans of softer retellings with strong emotional themes and character driven romance will likely really enjoy this one.
June 6, 2026
The Grimm Reapers series continues with this second installment, featuring my girl Belle!!
Beauty and the Beast is my favorite Disney movie, so of course I’m going to love that this is a reimagining. Warren did a great job including enough similarities to make the nostalgia come into full force for me but upped the badass meter with our tough as nails roller derby player and her beastly boss/husband.
Belle was very relatable. She was so used to doing everything on her own, never leaning on anyone, so I loved how much Raphael took off her plate allowing her to breathe, sometimes without her even realizing it. I loved how she was also one of few who could stand up to Raphael, being the intimidating and powerful person he was. I absolutely loved watching her tilt his axis from the first time he met her and watching him fall for her fast and hard. Further, Belle was worried about a power imbalance (which was valid) but he made it very clear that she held all the cards in his mind. He also helped to redistribute some of the power when he realized it was a big problem for her. These two balanced each other out so well, both inside and outside the bedroom 😉
I enjoyed that we got to meet/spend more time with more derby players in this installment, like Zella (who I’m pretty sure is going to be Rapunzel) and Robin (who definitely has to be Robin Hood)! I also absolutely loved Geoffrey and Chandler and how they were both cheeky in their own ways, always ribbing Raphael (2 of the 3 who actually got away with it hahaha).
Thank you to Mary Warren for the eARC! The thoughts and opinions expressed above are honest and my own.
Beauty and the Beast is my favorite Disney movie, so of course I’m going to love that this is a reimagining. Warren did a great job including enough similarities to make the nostalgia come into full force for me but upped the badass meter with our tough as nails roller derby player and her beastly boss/husband.
Belle was very relatable. She was so used to doing everything on her own, never leaning on anyone, so I loved how much Raphael took off her plate allowing her to breathe, sometimes without her even realizing it. I loved how she was also one of few who could stand up to Raphael, being the intimidating and powerful person he was. I absolutely loved watching her tilt his axis from the first time he met her and watching him fall for her fast and hard. Further, Belle was worried about a power imbalance (which was valid) but he made it very clear that she held all the cards in his mind. He also helped to redistribute some of the power when he realized it was a big problem for her. These two balanced each other out so well, both inside and outside the bedroom 😉
I enjoyed that we got to meet/spend more time with more derby players in this installment, like Zella (who I’m pretty sure is going to be Rapunzel) and Robin (who definitely has to be Robin Hood)! I also absolutely loved Geoffrey and Chandler and how they were both cheeky in their own ways, always ribbing Raphael (2 of the 3 who actually got away with it hahaha).
Thank you to Mary Warren for the eARC! The thoughts and opinions expressed above are honest and my own.
May 17, 2026
Review to come !
Review of advance copy received from Author
My problem with this was that it was just so damn robotic that it came off as artificial. As in, I consulted Panagram at one point and got positives on multiple sections. I trust the author (who has been vocal about her anti-AI beliefs) not to do this, but I think this ultimately speaks to how shallow this book was.
Besides that, I think the plot elements were alright -- a Beauty and the Beast retelling that was very direct. I liked the depth added with the grief of loss (the MMC) and impending loss (the FMC), I just didn't think the characters had enough personality interwoven in the novel to support those complicated feelings. And the romance itself is hardly even justified, just assumed and skittered around.
Also, this book had the audacity to not only be set in/near my city, but to mention going to Paris when I just got back from Paris two days before I started reading it. Not its fault, but dang
Besides that, I think the plot elements were alright -- a Beauty and the Beast retelling that was very direct. I liked the depth added with the grief of loss (the MMC) and impending loss (the FMC), I just didn't think the characters had enough personality interwoven in the novel to support those complicated feelings. And the romance itself is hardly even justified, just assumed and skittered around.
Also, this book had the audacity to not only be set in/near my city, but to mention going to Paris when I just got back from Paris two days before I started reading it. Not its fault, but dang
May 30, 2026
Amazon
Belle works multiple jobs just to make ends meet and pay for her father's care. She doesn't like to rely on anyone but herself, doesn't like to ask for help, not wanting to be seen as a charity case. Then she meets a Beast, a grumpy guy short on social skills, and she sees past his controlled exterior. She shouldn't say yes to his marriage of convenience proposal, but it could be the answer to all her needs, ALL of them.
Raphael doesn't know why he's so drawn to his new employee. All he knows is he can't get her off his mind. So proposing a marriage of convenience so she can have insurance and afford her father's memory care is just the thing to get her to stay, at least for awhile. What she doesn't realize is that he has no intention of letting her go once they're married. She's it for him, and wants to be it for her.
Now this is the way you do a retelling! Belle is strong, independent and confident, such a contrast to socially awkward, controlled Raphael who's so taken with her from their first meeting. Opposites attract, from different worlds, these two really don't make a good couple on paper, but they are actually perfect for each other. Their physical connection is intense, only second to their emotional connection, which deepens with every day they spend falling in love. She has a wonderful group of friends and fellow derby girls, who offer up support even if she's loathe to ask for anything, and Raphael has his own wonderful circle. I love this story, and can't wait to read more of the Grimm Reapers falling in love.
ARC provided by The Author Agency for an honest review.
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May 28, 2026
The Beast Mode by Mary Warren completely stole my heart ❤️🥹 This Beauty and the Beast inspired romance was emotional, tender, funny, steamy, & so much deeper than I expected. Between the emotional vulnerability, banter-filled chemistry, forced proximity, & thoughtful romance development, this story pulled me in immediately & never let go.
Belle was such a strong, memorable heroine ❤️ From the very beginning, my heart hurt for her. She’s barely keeping her life together while working multiple jobs, living in her van, & trying to cover the overwhelming cost of her father’s dementia care. What I loved most though was that the story never reduced her struggles to just a sad backstory. Belle is hardworking, capable, stubbornly independent, & incredibly resilient, but the book also explores how exhausting it becomes when you feel like you have to carry everything alone all the time. Watching her slowly learn to trust someone enough to lean on emotionally felt genuinely moving.
And Raphael 😮💨❤️ Whew. This man was PEAK reclusive billionaire “Beast” energy. From the start, it’s obvious Belle fascinates him in a way no one else has before. I loved how attentive he was to the little things about her long before either of them openly acknowledged their feelings. Acts of care quickly became his love language — finding excuses to keep her around, making sure she was eating, worrying over her injury, & quietly trying to help without fully understanding how fiercely Belle protected her independence. Underneath all of his wealth, control, & intimidating presence, Raphael was honestly such a lonely & emotionally vulnerable character.
The relationship between Belle & Raphael was one of my favorite parts of the book ❤️ Their chemistry was incredible, but what made the romance stand out was how much of their connection developed through trust, vulnerability, concern, & emotional intimacy instead of only attraction. The marriage of convenience setup felt emotionally believable because it directly tied into Belle’s struggles with healthcare, housing, & survival. I also loved how Belle constantly challenged Raphael instead of simply falling into the role he expected, which created so much tension, banter, & emotional push-and-pull throughout the story.
The Beauty and the Beast inspiration was woven into the story beautifully ✨ The mansion, hidden spaces, gala scenes, wounded hero energy, & emotional isolation all felt familiar in the best way without overpowering the actual story. It added a soft fairy tale atmosphere underneath the emotional realism that made the romance feel even more magical.
I also loved the supporting characters. Belle’s roller derby teammates & friends brought such strong found family & sisterhood vibes to the story, while Chandler & Geoffrey constantly calling Raphael out added some of my favorite humorous moments 😂 Their presence balanced the heavier emotional themes really well & made the world feel warm & lived in.
There were definitely emotional moments that hurt in the best way, especially once more of Raphael’s past & the meaning behind parts of the house were revealed. The story balanced tenderness, longing, humor, steam, emotional healing, & suspense beautifully from beginning to end.
Overall, The Beast Mode was emotional, romantic, comforting, & impossible not to fall in love with ❤️ If you love Beauty and the Beast retellings, wounded billionaire heroes, strong FMCs, marriage of convenience vibes, emotional healing, found family, banter-filled chemistry, & romances built around acts of care & emotional intimacy, this book is absolutely worth picking up ✨
Belle was such a strong, memorable heroine ❤️ From the very beginning, my heart hurt for her. She’s barely keeping her life together while working multiple jobs, living in her van, & trying to cover the overwhelming cost of her father’s dementia care. What I loved most though was that the story never reduced her struggles to just a sad backstory. Belle is hardworking, capable, stubbornly independent, & incredibly resilient, but the book also explores how exhausting it becomes when you feel like you have to carry everything alone all the time. Watching her slowly learn to trust someone enough to lean on emotionally felt genuinely moving.
And Raphael 😮💨❤️ Whew. This man was PEAK reclusive billionaire “Beast” energy. From the start, it’s obvious Belle fascinates him in a way no one else has before. I loved how attentive he was to the little things about her long before either of them openly acknowledged their feelings. Acts of care quickly became his love language — finding excuses to keep her around, making sure she was eating, worrying over her injury, & quietly trying to help without fully understanding how fiercely Belle protected her independence. Underneath all of his wealth, control, & intimidating presence, Raphael was honestly such a lonely & emotionally vulnerable character.
The relationship between Belle & Raphael was one of my favorite parts of the book ❤️ Their chemistry was incredible, but what made the romance stand out was how much of their connection developed through trust, vulnerability, concern, & emotional intimacy instead of only attraction. The marriage of convenience setup felt emotionally believable because it directly tied into Belle’s struggles with healthcare, housing, & survival. I also loved how Belle constantly challenged Raphael instead of simply falling into the role he expected, which created so much tension, banter, & emotional push-and-pull throughout the story.
The Beauty and the Beast inspiration was woven into the story beautifully ✨ The mansion, hidden spaces, gala scenes, wounded hero energy, & emotional isolation all felt familiar in the best way without overpowering the actual story. It added a soft fairy tale atmosphere underneath the emotional realism that made the romance feel even more magical.
I also loved the supporting characters. Belle’s roller derby teammates & friends brought such strong found family & sisterhood vibes to the story, while Chandler & Geoffrey constantly calling Raphael out added some of my favorite humorous moments 😂 Their presence balanced the heavier emotional themes really well & made the world feel warm & lived in.
There were definitely emotional moments that hurt in the best way, especially once more of Raphael’s past & the meaning behind parts of the house were revealed. The story balanced tenderness, longing, humor, steam, emotional healing, & suspense beautifully from beginning to end.
Overall, The Beast Mode was emotional, romantic, comforting, & impossible not to fall in love with ❤️ If you love Beauty and the Beast retellings, wounded billionaire heroes, strong FMCs, marriage of convenience vibes, emotional healing, found family, banter-filled chemistry, & romances built around acts of care & emotional intimacy, this book is absolutely worth picking up ✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
A Tale As Old As Time
******************************
Tropes: Beauty & the Beast retelling, marriage of convenience, forced proximity, he falls first, power imbalance, black cat heroine
******************************
Content Warning: Poverty, FMC’s homelessness, dementia of a parent, injury, past grief, brief description of violence, workplace harassment, and explicit sexual content
******************************
Synopsis: Raphael Renault is the billionaire businessman, known colloquially as The Beast. Belle Blythe is the roller derby darling of the Grimm Reapers, known colloquially as Belle Ringer. Belle is currently working at least two jobs, picking up shifts whenever she can, supporting her father as he lives in a memory care facility. A proud woman, she lives in her van and refuses assistance as she struggles to pay for that care. Her boss at her day job, a maid service, is a loathsome lecherous serial harasser. He assigns Belle to the Renault house, whose reputation as the Beast includes firing past cleaners for small offenses, including smiling too much, or being overly familiar.
The Beast is instantly drawn to Belle. Her attraction isn’t as fast, but it’s developing when Belle is injured during roller derby. Because she is living below the poverty line, she’s had to make a decision many working poor face: letting her health insurance lapse in order to pay for other expenses. A facetious remark from Belle to the Beast as he grills her for not seeking medical attention leads to an offer of a on paper only marriage between them to provide her medical insurance. She reluctantly accepts, and despite clear boundaries being set, the two end up in a real HEA.
*****************************
Quote: Beast: “ I had married her for practical reasons, yet standing there in a hospital lobby, claiming her without hesitation, I realized something disconcerting. I did not want this to be temporary.”
Belle: “Yet somewhere between the MRI and the pasta dinner, I had started to suspect something inconvenient. I might have a little crush on my husband. It was absurd . . . and entirely true.”
****************************
Review: Mary Warren is the jammer we all did not know we needed. Belle is bad-ass, but still vulnerable, doing her very best to live in the face of some ugly life truths. Raphael as the Beast is the Prince straight off the pages of Gabrielle-Suzanne Barbot de Villeneuve‘s novella. Their story was perfect, with elements from both the original story and the Disney movie. I smiled more than I should when Chandler reminded Raphael, “She is our guest after all.” Chandler and Geoffrey’s obvious roles as Lumiere and Cogsworth were a cherry on top of the whole delicious confection.
Any working class woman, or should I say any one who has ever struggled, recognizes themselves in Belle. I always enjoy Mary Warren’s characters, but I truly connected with Belle. The story is captivating, the characters bright and visceral. Dialogue was natural. And the ending? Chef’s kiss. I thought the fight over Belle’s discovery of Raphael’s hidden grief was the catharsis, but bam! She slips in the show down between Belle and the real monster, Tripp. Brava Ms. Warren!
I recommend this and the other books she has written. Usual caution, though, read the triggers and the synopsis to ensure you burden your mental health. 💙
****************************
Ratings: Movie R, Overall 5/5 stars, Romance 4/5, Violence 2/5, Spice 3/5, Cover 4/5
****************************
444 pages EPUB, 05/28/2026 publish date
******************************
Tropes: Beauty & the Beast retelling, marriage of convenience, forced proximity, he falls first, power imbalance, black cat heroine
******************************
Content Warning: Poverty, FMC’s homelessness, dementia of a parent, injury, past grief, brief description of violence, workplace harassment, and explicit sexual content
******************************
Synopsis: Raphael Renault is the billionaire businessman, known colloquially as The Beast. Belle Blythe is the roller derby darling of the Grimm Reapers, known colloquially as Belle Ringer. Belle is currently working at least two jobs, picking up shifts whenever she can, supporting her father as he lives in a memory care facility. A proud woman, she lives in her van and refuses assistance as she struggles to pay for that care. Her boss at her day job, a maid service, is a loathsome lecherous serial harasser. He assigns Belle to the Renault house, whose reputation as the Beast includes firing past cleaners for small offenses, including smiling too much, or being overly familiar.
The Beast is instantly drawn to Belle. Her attraction isn’t as fast, but it’s developing when Belle is injured during roller derby. Because she is living below the poverty line, she’s had to make a decision many working poor face: letting her health insurance lapse in order to pay for other expenses. A facetious remark from Belle to the Beast as he grills her for not seeking medical attention leads to an offer of a on paper only marriage between them to provide her medical insurance. She reluctantly accepts, and despite clear boundaries being set, the two end up in a real HEA.
*****************************
Quote: Beast: “ I had married her for practical reasons, yet standing there in a hospital lobby, claiming her without hesitation, I realized something disconcerting. I did not want this to be temporary.”
Belle: “Yet somewhere between the MRI and the pasta dinner, I had started to suspect something inconvenient. I might have a little crush on my husband. It was absurd . . . and entirely true.”
****************************
Review: Mary Warren is the jammer we all did not know we needed. Belle is bad-ass, but still vulnerable, doing her very best to live in the face of some ugly life truths. Raphael as the Beast is the Prince straight off the pages of Gabrielle-Suzanne Barbot de Villeneuve‘s novella. Their story was perfect, with elements from both the original story and the Disney movie. I smiled more than I should when Chandler reminded Raphael, “She is our guest after all.” Chandler and Geoffrey’s obvious roles as Lumiere and Cogsworth were a cherry on top of the whole delicious confection.
Any working class woman, or should I say any one who has ever struggled, recognizes themselves in Belle. I always enjoy Mary Warren’s characters, but I truly connected with Belle. The story is captivating, the characters bright and visceral. Dialogue was natural. And the ending? Chef’s kiss. I thought the fight over Belle’s discovery of Raphael’s hidden grief was the catharsis, but bam! She slips in the show down between Belle and the real monster, Tripp. Brava Ms. Warren!
I recommend this and the other books she has written. Usual caution, though, read the triggers and the synopsis to ensure you burden your mental health. 💙
****************************
Ratings: Movie R, Overall 5/5 stars, Romance 4/5, Violence 2/5, Spice 3/5, Cover 4/5
****************************
444 pages EPUB, 05/28/2026 publish date
June 9, 2026
Belle is a fiercely independent roller derby skater living in her van to fund her dad's care, but a brutal injury leaves her desperate. Enter Raphael Renault, her wealthy and reclusive client who offers an outrageous solution: a fake marriage for health insurance. As Belle brings warmth into his guarded life and uncovers his hidden grief, their arrangement starts feeling beautifully, terrifyingly real.
- Marriage of Convenience
- Beauty and the Beast Retelling
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- Found Family
***
This book was stalking me for weeks before its release, so obviously I had to take it on holiday with me. It was a perfect poolside read with its fun and feisty attitude, real human emotions and struggles, and its gorgeous love story. I am so glad I picked it up. Despite not having read book one, I was still able to enjoy the story without feeling like I had missed out on anything.
Our FMC is Belle, hyper-independent to the point of refusing any and all possible help or respite for herself. She has found herself in a difficult situation that seemingly has no end or solutions. She is living out of her van, showering in the local gym, and not making ends meet financially, and the only bright spark in her life is roller derby. But is such a physical and aggressive sport a good idea with no insurance?
Raphael, nicknamed the Beast due to his exacting standards and reputation in business, is a man who controls every aspect of his life. But is it controlling, or hiding from past traumas and secrets? Socially awkward and with little patience for distractions, how will he handle Belle entering his home and turning his life upside down?
The story moved at an easy pace and was a quick read for me, and I enjoyed the balance of spicy fun times to real human emotion and plot. The dynamic between our main characters is so much fun; with sarcasm and adorable missed cues, you will find yourself chuckling along without realising. The tension is delicious. It’s a smooth transition to spicy times, almost like melted chocolate rather than fireworks, which I really found an enjoyable change of pace.
I particularly enjoyed watching how their completely different personalities clash, work together, and challenge each other to be better, to be more, and to grow into a new life for both of them. I am, of course, a sucker for forced proximity, which this book provides in spades, but in such a quiet and simple way that you can't help but sigh and have heart eyes at our characters.
Expect strong women who know their own minds, a socially awkward but straight-up adorable MMC who wants to do it right, and a low-stakes marriage of convenience retelling of The Beauty and The Beast. You don’t need to read book one to follow this story, but I look forward to more roller derby FMCs in my life.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ - She says she’s fine, he stands next to her anyway. Yes please.
- Marriage of Convenience
- Beauty and the Beast Retelling
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- Found Family
***
This book was stalking me for weeks before its release, so obviously I had to take it on holiday with me. It was a perfect poolside read with its fun and feisty attitude, real human emotions and struggles, and its gorgeous love story. I am so glad I picked it up. Despite not having read book one, I was still able to enjoy the story without feeling like I had missed out on anything.
Our FMC is Belle, hyper-independent to the point of refusing any and all possible help or respite for herself. She has found herself in a difficult situation that seemingly has no end or solutions. She is living out of her van, showering in the local gym, and not making ends meet financially, and the only bright spark in her life is roller derby. But is such a physical and aggressive sport a good idea with no insurance?
Raphael, nicknamed the Beast due to his exacting standards and reputation in business, is a man who controls every aspect of his life. But is it controlling, or hiding from past traumas and secrets? Socially awkward and with little patience for distractions, how will he handle Belle entering his home and turning his life upside down?
The story moved at an easy pace and was a quick read for me, and I enjoyed the balance of spicy fun times to real human emotion and plot. The dynamic between our main characters is so much fun; with sarcasm and adorable missed cues, you will find yourself chuckling along without realising. The tension is delicious. It’s a smooth transition to spicy times, almost like melted chocolate rather than fireworks, which I really found an enjoyable change of pace.
I particularly enjoyed watching how their completely different personalities clash, work together, and challenge each other to be better, to be more, and to grow into a new life for both of them. I am, of course, a sucker for forced proximity, which this book provides in spades, but in such a quiet and simple way that you can't help but sigh and have heart eyes at our characters.
Expect strong women who know their own minds, a socially awkward but straight-up adorable MMC who wants to do it right, and a low-stakes marriage of convenience retelling of The Beauty and The Beast. You don’t need to read book one to follow this story, but I look forward to more roller derby FMCs in my life.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ - She says she’s fine, he stands next to her anyway. Yes please.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Belle’s story hit hard from the very beginning, watching her carry the weight of caring for her father while barely staying afloat herself was emotional and grounding. The fact that she was living in her van while trying to survive and keep everything together made her resilience even more admirable. She was such a strong heroine, but the story also showed how exhausting it is to always be the strong one.
Raphael’s dynamic with Belle was everything I wanted. From the start, it was obvious she fascinated him in a way no one else had before. I loved how quickly he noticed the little things about her, how persistent he was when it came to making sure she was okay, and how acts of care became his love language long before either of them fully acknowledged what was happening between them. Their chemistry was incredible, all that tension, the banter, the stubbornness on both sides. Belle refusing to be intimidated by him made every interaction even better.
One of my favorite parts of the book was how thoughtful the romance felt. The relationship developed through gestures, concern, trust, and vulnerability rather than just words. Belle had spent so long relying only on herself that accepting help felt almost impossible, and I appreciated that the story explored how independence can become armor after years of struggle. Watching her slowly let someone in emotionally was genuinely moving.
The supporting cast added so much life to the story too. Chandler and Geoffrey constantly calling Raphael out had me laughing every time, and Belle’s friend group brought such an important emotional layer to the book. I especially loved how the story emphasized female friendships and the importance of having people who can support you, challenge your perspective, and remind you that you do not have to carry everything alone.
The Beauty and the Beast inspirations were woven in so well without feeling heavy-handed. The little nods and parallels throughout the story made the reading experience even more fun, especially the mansion details, the hidden spaces, the gala, and the character counterparts. It felt familiar in the best way while still fully standing on its own.
There were multiple emotional moments that genuinely hurt in the best way, especially once more of Raphael’s past and the meaning behind certain parts of the house were revealed. The story balanced tenderness, humor, longing, and emotional depth really well. I also appreciated that the communication between the main characters was stronger than in a lot of romances, even when emotions and misunderstandings complicated things.
Overall, this was emotional, romantic, funny, and deeply comforting. The tension was fantastic, the fairy tale elements were beautifully done, and the emotional vulnerability underneath the romance made it memorable. A story about love, care, trust, and learning that letting people help you does not make
Thank you to the Author for the ARC!
Raphael’s dynamic with Belle was everything I wanted. From the start, it was obvious she fascinated him in a way no one else had before. I loved how quickly he noticed the little things about her, how persistent he was when it came to making sure she was okay, and how acts of care became his love language long before either of them fully acknowledged what was happening between them. Their chemistry was incredible, all that tension, the banter, the stubbornness on both sides. Belle refusing to be intimidated by him made every interaction even better.
One of my favorite parts of the book was how thoughtful the romance felt. The relationship developed through gestures, concern, trust, and vulnerability rather than just words. Belle had spent so long relying only on herself that accepting help felt almost impossible, and I appreciated that the story explored how independence can become armor after years of struggle. Watching her slowly let someone in emotionally was genuinely moving.
The supporting cast added so much life to the story too. Chandler and Geoffrey constantly calling Raphael out had me laughing every time, and Belle’s friend group brought such an important emotional layer to the book. I especially loved how the story emphasized female friendships and the importance of having people who can support you, challenge your perspective, and remind you that you do not have to carry everything alone.
The Beauty and the Beast inspirations were woven in so well without feeling heavy-handed. The little nods and parallels throughout the story made the reading experience even more fun, especially the mansion details, the hidden spaces, the gala, and the character counterparts. It felt familiar in the best way while still fully standing on its own.
There were multiple emotional moments that genuinely hurt in the best way, especially once more of Raphael’s past and the meaning behind certain parts of the house were revealed. The story balanced tenderness, humor, longing, and emotional depth really well. I also appreciated that the communication between the main characters was stronger than in a lot of romances, even when emotions and misunderstandings complicated things.
Overall, this was emotional, romantic, funny, and deeply comforting. The tension was fantastic, the fairy tale elements were beautifully done, and the emotional vulnerability underneath the romance made it memorable. A story about love, care, trust, and learning that letting people help you does not make
Thank you to the Author for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The fairytale-inspired Grimm Reapers series continues with a Beauty and the Beast retelling in book two. Belle, whom readers met in Skate Ever After, is the FMC in Beast Mode, where she finds herself homeless and in dire financial straits.
It was heartbreaking to read that Belle was sleeping in her van in parking lots across the city, eating leftover bakery items, showering at a 24-hour gym, and working two jobs to pay for her father’s dementia care. She was wearing herself out. It was a blessing that her jerk of a boss, Tripp, assigned her to clean Raphael ‘The Beast’ Renault’s house before she got injured, which ultimately led to a marriage of convenience.
Belle and Raphael share an intriguing dynamic defined by a mutual struggle for control. Having long managed both her own life and her father’s welfare, Belle is reluctant to surrender her independence in an age of equality. The core issue is her inability to accept help. Consequently, Raphael’s offer of marriage and health insurance isn't meant to be controlling, though a power imbalance inevitably remains—he has the financial means, while she does not. This dynamic serves as an ongoing theme throughout the book and makes for some fantastic bantering between the two.
The comedic relief in this book comes from Raphael’s right-hand men, Chandler and Geoffrey, who wear many hats. Having seen Raphael at both his best and worst, the duo can only play matchmakers when they witness his close interactions with Belle.
Belle and Raphael are a perfect match, but Raphael is hiding a secret that could destroy their budding romance. To make matters worse, it puts someone's life in the balance in a classic suspense twist.
It was wonderful to reunite with the characters from book one, especially the main duo, Eleanor and Alex. It was great getting an insight into how their relationship is progressing. They are great friends to Belle, and I like how close they have become.
Mary Warren has delivered another enjoyable read! I absolutely loved Raphael’s constant corrections and Belle’s fiery pushback—their fantastic banter creates serious chemistry and heat between the sheets. I love these characters and can't wait for the next pairing.
It was heartbreaking to read that Belle was sleeping in her van in parking lots across the city, eating leftover bakery items, showering at a 24-hour gym, and working two jobs to pay for her father’s dementia care. She was wearing herself out. It was a blessing that her jerk of a boss, Tripp, assigned her to clean Raphael ‘The Beast’ Renault’s house before she got injured, which ultimately led to a marriage of convenience.
Belle and Raphael share an intriguing dynamic defined by a mutual struggle for control. Having long managed both her own life and her father’s welfare, Belle is reluctant to surrender her independence in an age of equality. The core issue is her inability to accept help. Consequently, Raphael’s offer of marriage and health insurance isn't meant to be controlling, though a power imbalance inevitably remains—he has the financial means, while she does not. This dynamic serves as an ongoing theme throughout the book and makes for some fantastic bantering between the two.
The comedic relief in this book comes from Raphael’s right-hand men, Chandler and Geoffrey, who wear many hats. Having seen Raphael at both his best and worst, the duo can only play matchmakers when they witness his close interactions with Belle.
Belle and Raphael are a perfect match, but Raphael is hiding a secret that could destroy their budding romance. To make matters worse, it puts someone's life in the balance in a classic suspense twist.
It was wonderful to reunite with the characters from book one, especially the main duo, Eleanor and Alex. It was great getting an insight into how their relationship is progressing. They are great friends to Belle, and I like how close they have become.
Mary Warren has delivered another enjoyable read! I absolutely loved Raphael’s constant corrections and Belle’s fiery pushback—their fantastic banter creates serious chemistry and heat between the sheets. I love these characters and can't wait for the next pairing.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved this book just as much as Skate Ever After and was so happy to return to this world. Mary Warren continues to balance heart, humour, and emotional depth beautifully, creating characters and relationships that feel incredibly real.
The Grimm Reapers are quickly becoming one of my favourite found families. I loved how they continually checked in with Belle to make sure she was genuinely happy and safe rather than simply accepting her situation at face value. Their support feels like true sisterhood, and it adds so much connection to the story.
Raphael is a fantastic Beast-inspired hero. His analytical nature makes for some wonderfully endearing moments as he tries to solve Belle's problems and protect her, often believing money can fix everything. The contrast between his world of wealth and luxury and Belle's determination to maintain her independence creates some of the strongest moments in the book. I particularly felt for Belle when she explained that freedom and self-determination mattered more to her than comfort, even if that meant sleeping in her van.
The Beauty and the Beast retelling elements are woven into the story so thoughtfully. Raphael's assistants immediately gave me Lumiere and Cogsworth vibes, and I loved how Warren reimagines the story's climax through the lens of dementia representation. It felt careful, realistic, and emotionally impactful. My Disney-princess-loving self absolutely approved. Tripp also makes a perfect Gaston figure—the version of Gaston we all recognised beneath the muscles and bravado in the cartoon.
Beast Mode worked perfectly for me because I love retellings that honour the original story while creating something entirely their own. Mary Warren consistently writes heroines I can relate to: women who are resilient and strong but who still want love and support on their own terms. I came to Warren’s stories for the plus-size rep, and I stay because the emotive writing is so strong.
This is for readers who love fairy tale retellings, found family, plus-size representation, emotionally intelligent romance, and heroines who refuse to sacrifice their independence for a happily-ever-after. If you enjoy stories with heart, depth, and a strong sense of community, this is an easy recommendation.
The Grimm Reapers are quickly becoming one of my favourite found families. I loved how they continually checked in with Belle to make sure she was genuinely happy and safe rather than simply accepting her situation at face value. Their support feels like true sisterhood, and it adds so much connection to the story.
Raphael is a fantastic Beast-inspired hero. His analytical nature makes for some wonderfully endearing moments as he tries to solve Belle's problems and protect her, often believing money can fix everything. The contrast between his world of wealth and luxury and Belle's determination to maintain her independence creates some of the strongest moments in the book. I particularly felt for Belle when she explained that freedom and self-determination mattered more to her than comfort, even if that meant sleeping in her van.
The Beauty and the Beast retelling elements are woven into the story so thoughtfully. Raphael's assistants immediately gave me Lumiere and Cogsworth vibes, and I loved how Warren reimagines the story's climax through the lens of dementia representation. It felt careful, realistic, and emotionally impactful. My Disney-princess-loving self absolutely approved. Tripp also makes a perfect Gaston figure—the version of Gaston we all recognised beneath the muscles and bravado in the cartoon.
Beast Mode worked perfectly for me because I love retellings that honour the original story while creating something entirely their own. Mary Warren consistently writes heroines I can relate to: women who are resilient and strong but who still want love and support on their own terms. I came to Warren’s stories for the plus-size rep, and I stay because the emotive writing is so strong.
This is for readers who love fairy tale retellings, found family, plus-size representation, emotionally intelligent romance, and heroines who refuse to sacrifice their independence for a happily-ever-after. If you enjoy stories with heart, depth, and a strong sense of community, this is an easy recommendation.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book gave me something I don’t see nearly enough in romance: a curvy FMC who is genuinely, fiercely independent without that independence magically disappearing the second a rich man enters the picture. Belle was such a refreshing heroine because she understood the difference between control and partnership, and she refused to compromise her boundaries just because Raphael could make her life easier. Even when he offers financial support, she doesn’t instantly cave or lose herself in the relationship, and honestly? I loved her for that.
The Beauty & the Beast inspiration worked SO well here too. If you know me or follow my reviews, you already know I’m an absolute sucker for a fairytale retelling, and this one nailed the atmosphere perfectly. Raphael is the definition of a touch-starved, obsessed billionaire hero: reclusive, emotionally guarded, and carrying so much grief beneath the surface. While Belle slowly brings warmth and life back into his world without ever shrinking herself to do it.
The “little plot curve” (not quite a full twist, but definitely an unexpected turn) fit seamlessly into the story and elevated the emotional stakes in such a natural way. Add in the forced proximity, marriage of convenience setup, found family vibes, hurt/comfort moments, and the fact that he absolutely falls first, and this was such an enjoyable read.
What stood out most to me was how heart-forward the romance felt. Beneath the spice and tension, this story was really about vulnerability, trust, and building a relationship where power is shared equally. Belle doesn’t need saving. And thankfully, this book never forgets that.
Why you’ll love this book:
🔥 Fairytale retelling – Beauty & The Beast
🔥 Curvy Heroine
🔥 Marriage of Convenience
🔥 He Falls First
🔥 Obsessed Billionaire
🔥 Touch-Starved Hero
🔥 Hyper-Independent Heroine
🔥 Hurt/Comfort
🔥 Forced Proximity
🔥 Found Family
Thank you to the Author and The Author Agency for the ARC. This review is only my opinion.
The Beauty & the Beast inspiration worked SO well here too. If you know me or follow my reviews, you already know I’m an absolute sucker for a fairytale retelling, and this one nailed the atmosphere perfectly. Raphael is the definition of a touch-starved, obsessed billionaire hero: reclusive, emotionally guarded, and carrying so much grief beneath the surface. While Belle slowly brings warmth and life back into his world without ever shrinking herself to do it.
The “little plot curve” (not quite a full twist, but definitely an unexpected turn) fit seamlessly into the story and elevated the emotional stakes in such a natural way. Add in the forced proximity, marriage of convenience setup, found family vibes, hurt/comfort moments, and the fact that he absolutely falls first, and this was such an enjoyable read.
What stood out most to me was how heart-forward the romance felt. Beneath the spice and tension, this story was really about vulnerability, trust, and building a relationship where power is shared equally. Belle doesn’t need saving. And thankfully, this book never forgets that.
Why you’ll love this book:
🔥 Fairytale retelling – Beauty & The Beast
🔥 Curvy Heroine
🔥 Marriage of Convenience
🔥 He Falls First
🔥 Obsessed Billionaire
🔥 Touch-Starved Hero
🔥 Hyper-Independent Heroine
🔥 Hurt/Comfort
🔥 Forced Proximity
🔥 Found Family
Thank you to the Author and The Author Agency for the ARC. This review is only my opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is Book 2 in Mary’s Grimm Realer series and my first read of theirs. Beauty and the Beast is my all time favourite and this dolly derby version does not disappoint!
Belle is living out of her van while working as a cleaner, and part time in her friend’s coffee shop to pay for her father’s care. Belle’s father lives at Long Creek Memory Care and has Alzheimer’s. Some days her Dad thinks she is her Mom who passed, some days he thinks she is a nurse, and on his good days he recognizes her.
Belle’s father has been getting worse: 3 wandering incidents in the past 2 weeks, and an escalation in nighttime agitation and disorientation. The Care facility suggests he be placed in the step-up wing with more supervision, additional overnight staff to receive a different level of support within a month. All Belle can think about is how she’s barely making it by with her part-time income and that this will cost more money.
Belle burns off steam at the Grim Reapers’ roller derby rink. As a plus size curvy woman, she was a natural blocker. After practice, Belle rotated where she’d park her van for the night before double checking the locks and turning on her fairy lights.
Belle stresses about making more money to pay for her Dad’s care when she receives her next cleaning assignment -cleaning Raphael Renault’s residence. She’s heard he’s known as the Beast. From the moment he sees Belle, he’s distracted by Belle’s soft curves. Raphael offers Belle extra project hours, to see her more often and after Belle hurts her knee badly at practice, he offers to marry her, for the insurance coverage only.
Could you marry for insurance or must it be for love? You’ll want to read the roller derby version of Beauty and the Beast to find out what happens next!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Belle is living out of her van while working as a cleaner, and part time in her friend’s coffee shop to pay for her father’s care. Belle’s father lives at Long Creek Memory Care and has Alzheimer’s. Some days her Dad thinks she is her Mom who passed, some days he thinks she is a nurse, and on his good days he recognizes her.
Belle’s father has been getting worse: 3 wandering incidents in the past 2 weeks, and an escalation in nighttime agitation and disorientation. The Care facility suggests he be placed in the step-up wing with more supervision, additional overnight staff to receive a different level of support within a month. All Belle can think about is how she’s barely making it by with her part-time income and that this will cost more money.
Belle burns off steam at the Grim Reapers’ roller derby rink. As a plus size curvy woman, she was a natural blocker. After practice, Belle rotated where she’d park her van for the night before double checking the locks and turning on her fairy lights.
Belle stresses about making more money to pay for her Dad’s care when she receives her next cleaning assignment -cleaning Raphael Renault’s residence. She’s heard he’s known as the Beast. From the moment he sees Belle, he’s distracted by Belle’s soft curves. Raphael offers Belle extra project hours, to see her more often and after Belle hurts her knee badly at practice, he offers to marry her, for the insurance coverage only.
Could you marry for insurance or must it be for love? You’ll want to read the roller derby version of Beauty and the Beast to find out what happens next!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
May 27, 2026
May 2026 Small Business BookTok ARC Reviews (BookFable Edition): “Beast Mode” by Mary Warren
Note: This ARC was given to me for free by the author and I am reviewing this book voluntarily.
The no-nonsense, hyper-independent Roller Derby Queen who
is trying to make ends meet to cover her dad’s medical bills…
The guarded, but kind Business Man who wants to take care of her…
The tale as old as time that you know and love is getting a new set of wheels!
From the author that brought you “Magic in the Mountains” and the “Glendale Magic” series comes the second installment in Mary Warren’s new Contemporary Romance series “The Grim Reapers”! This series not only delivers a unique spin on some of our favorite Disney films and fairytales, but Warren also tackles important topics such as hyper-independence and the courage to ask for help when needed, economic anxieties and healthcare finance complications, and the power-imbalance anxieties that can come with trying to navigate potential relationships. The “Beauty and the Beast”-inspired characters of the story, Belle and Raphael, were truly the heart of the narrative, perfectly balancing a gradual, “opposites attract” chemistry with lingering, steaming, will-they-won’t-they hijinks. Did I also mention that the main friendship group of the overall series consists of alternate versions of our favorite cartoon princesses as a Roller Skating Derby Group? Is your curiosity piqued? Then “be our guest” and check out this book when it hits online shelves on May 28th, 2026!
Rating: 5/5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Meter: 4/5🌶🌶🌶🌶
Tropes: Contemporary Romance, Roller Derby Queen FMC x Protective Business Man MMC, Found Family, Roller Derby Sisterhood, Marriage of Convenience, He Falls First, Shady Boss Antagonist, Meddling Staff Members, Plus-Sized Heroine, Disability Representation (Alzheimer’s), Hurt/Comfort, Forced Proximity, and Fairytale Reimagining!
Trigger Warning: (Full Description Can Be Found In The Book).
Note: This ARC was given to me for free by the author and I am reviewing this book voluntarily.
The no-nonsense, hyper-independent Roller Derby Queen who
is trying to make ends meet to cover her dad’s medical bills…
The guarded, but kind Business Man who wants to take care of her…
The tale as old as time that you know and love is getting a new set of wheels!
From the author that brought you “Magic in the Mountains” and the “Glendale Magic” series comes the second installment in Mary Warren’s new Contemporary Romance series “The Grim Reapers”! This series not only delivers a unique spin on some of our favorite Disney films and fairytales, but Warren also tackles important topics such as hyper-independence and the courage to ask for help when needed, economic anxieties and healthcare finance complications, and the power-imbalance anxieties that can come with trying to navigate potential relationships. The “Beauty and the Beast”-inspired characters of the story, Belle and Raphael, were truly the heart of the narrative, perfectly balancing a gradual, “opposites attract” chemistry with lingering, steaming, will-they-won’t-they hijinks. Did I also mention that the main friendship group of the overall series consists of alternate versions of our favorite cartoon princesses as a Roller Skating Derby Group? Is your curiosity piqued? Then “be our guest” and check out this book when it hits online shelves on May 28th, 2026!
Rating: 5/5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Meter: 4/5🌶🌶🌶🌶
Tropes: Contemporary Romance, Roller Derby Queen FMC x Protective Business Man MMC, Found Family, Roller Derby Sisterhood, Marriage of Convenience, He Falls First, Shady Boss Antagonist, Meddling Staff Members, Plus-Sized Heroine, Disability Representation (Alzheimer’s), Hurt/Comfort, Forced Proximity, and Fairytale Reimagining!
Trigger Warning: (Full Description Can Be Found In The Book).
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Beauty and the Beast gets a roller derby makeover, and it shouldn't work, but it does.
Belle is a derby blocker living in her van and managing an impossible situation: a father with advancing dementia, a creep of a boss, no health insurance, and exactly zero room for error.
Raphael is the reclusive billionaire she's been assigned to clean for: guarded, intense, and completely blindsided by a woman who refuses to be managed. When Belle gets injured and can't afford care, Raphael proposes a marriage of convenience. You know. For the insurance. NOT because he has the hots for her, of course not.
What I loved about this book is how seriously it takes Belle's circumstances without letting them flatten her into a suffering object. She's funny, self-reliant to a fault, and the narrative never asks her to be grateful for being rescued. The power imbalance is real and the book doesn't gloss over it, but Warren builds trust incrementally, and by the time the emotional walls start coming down, you feel it.
Raphael is the soft-dominant, gruff-but-secretly-tender archetype done well. He's not verbal about his feelings, but his actions stack up and feel genuine instead of controlling. If he had been controlling, I don't think it would have landed as well as it did.
The healthcare and poverty stakes are a true criticism of the state of affairs regarding the USA's healthcare system (the author's foreword is honest about that). This isn't a poverty romance that treats hardship as décor; it treats it as systemic and real, even while giving us the fantasy.
My one note: the middle stretch slows slightly as the domestic-proximity tension builds, but the payoff in the back half is worth the patience.
Beauty and the Beast gets a roller derby makeover, and it shouldn't work, but it does.
Belle is a derby blocker living in her van and managing an impossible situation: a father with advancing dementia, a creep of a boss, no health insurance, and exactly zero room for error.
Raphael is the reclusive billionaire she's been assigned to clean for: guarded, intense, and completely blindsided by a woman who refuses to be managed. When Belle gets injured and can't afford care, Raphael proposes a marriage of convenience. You know. For the insurance. NOT because he has the hots for her, of course not.
What I loved about this book is how seriously it takes Belle's circumstances without letting them flatten her into a suffering object. She's funny, self-reliant to a fault, and the narrative never asks her to be grateful for being rescued. The power imbalance is real and the book doesn't gloss over it, but Warren builds trust incrementally, and by the time the emotional walls start coming down, you feel it.
Raphael is the soft-dominant, gruff-but-secretly-tender archetype done well. He's not verbal about his feelings, but his actions stack up and feel genuine instead of controlling. If he had been controlling, I don't think it would have landed as well as it did.
The healthcare and poverty stakes are a true criticism of the state of affairs regarding the USA's healthcare system (the author's foreword is honest about that). This isn't a poverty romance that treats hardship as décor; it treats it as systemic and real, even while giving us the fantasy.
My one note: the middle stretch slows slightly as the domestic-proximity tension builds, but the payoff in the back half is worth the patience.
May 29, 2026
The latest book in the Grimm Reapers Roller Derby series, Beast Mode is another fantastic fairytale retelling. Beauty and the Beast is probably a favorite story of most book girlies. This retelling does it justice as far as I can tell.
Belle is going through some trials as a minimum wage maid and the sole provider for her father who is ill with dementia. Currently homeless and barely making it with multiple jobs, she gets a break when she is assigned to clean for Raphael Renault, a local businessman commonly known as the Beast. Raphael is a typical control freak workaholic, but something about Belle snaps him out of his focus, and demands he put all his focus on her.
I love the way the fairytale is adapted to the modern circumstances. Each of the characters from the popular Disney story are well represented in their counterparts here. Raphael makes a perfect Beast, he even understands the way to Belle's heart is through her library.
I also loved the way Belle personifies the way a caregiver feels. It's easy for a caregiver to get lost in taking care of their loved one, and sometimes it takes someone taking over the reins for that to sink in. While still dealing with some heavy issues surrounding medical care, and even abuse in the workplace, I think this book feels relatively low stakes and cozy. I was invested because of the characters, but the fairytale feel made me confident they would find a way through the hard stuff.
The ending is probably my favorite thing about this book. It really feels genuine to the characters, and is the happiest solution possible. I think if Belle is your Disney princess of choice, you will love this book like I do.
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
Belle is going through some trials as a minimum wage maid and the sole provider for her father who is ill with dementia. Currently homeless and barely making it with multiple jobs, she gets a break when she is assigned to clean for Raphael Renault, a local businessman commonly known as the Beast. Raphael is a typical control freak workaholic, but something about Belle snaps him out of his focus, and demands he put all his focus on her.
I love the way the fairytale is adapted to the modern circumstances. Each of the characters from the popular Disney story are well represented in their counterparts here. Raphael makes a perfect Beast, he even understands the way to Belle's heart is through her library.
I also loved the way Belle personifies the way a caregiver feels. It's easy for a caregiver to get lost in taking care of their loved one, and sometimes it takes someone taking over the reins for that to sink in. While still dealing with some heavy issues surrounding medical care, and even abuse in the workplace, I think this book feels relatively low stakes and cozy. I was invested because of the characters, but the fairytale feel made me confident they would find a way through the hard stuff.
The ending is probably my favorite thing about this book. It really feels genuine to the characters, and is the happiest solution possible. I think if Belle is your Disney princess of choice, you will love this book like I do.
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
❤︎ “Ma belle,” said softly, “ would give you everything.” ❤︎
𝓑𝓮𝓪𝓼𝓽 𝓜𝓸𝓭𝓮: The Grimm Reapers
(Grimm Reapers ²)
by Mary Warren
𝘦𝘈𝘙𝘊
𝘔𝘢𝘳𝘺 𝘔𝘢𝘳𝘺 𝘔𝘢𝘳𝘺!!! 𝘖𝘩 𝘮𝘺 𝘨𝘢𝘩!
𝖳𝗁𝖾𝗋𝖾 𝗐𝖺𝗌 𝗇𝗈 𝖽𝗈𝗎𝖻𝗍 𝖨 𝗅𝗈𝗏𝖾𝖽 𝖡𝖾𝗅𝗅𝖾 𝖿𝗋𝗈𝗆 𝗁𝖾𝗋 𝗂𝗇𝗍𝗋𝗈𝖽𝗎𝖼𝗍𝗂𝗈𝗇 𝗂𝗇 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝖿𝗂𝗋𝗌𝗍 𝖦𝗋𝗂𝗆𝗆 𝖱𝖾𝖺𝗉𝖾𝗋𝗌 𝗇𝗈𝗏𝖾𝗅... 𝖡𝗎𝗍 𝖽𝖺𝗒𝗎𝗆! I think MW created a character that many people are going to say they relate to or find similarities to with her. She is a stand out FMC.
And our yummy French pastry of a Beast??? Hands down loved. I have to be careful with what I say - I hate spoilers & Raphael is so special and layered- his depth of journey was excellent. I’ll just leave that there.
The plot, spice, timing, and little details are excellent. I feel like this is very much a character showcase though- because both main characters absolutely come to life.
The inclusion of Geoffrey & Chandler felt like such a sweet tip of the hat to Beauty & the Beast. ❤︎
I got momentarily worried towards the end that the stakes & action was going to be too much- but NOPE! It was exactly what was needed. I was wrong- it hit just right! High marks for that!!!
————-❤︎
➽ 𝗧𝗥𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗦 & 𝗚𝗢𝗢𝗗𝗜𝗘 𝗚𝗢𝗢𝗗𝗦:
•𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗨𝗦𝗔 𝗶𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝘀𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗺 𝘀𝘂𝗰𝗸𝘀 𝗮𝘀𝘀
•PROTECTIVE HERO
•BAD ASS PLUS SIZE FMC
•BEAUTY & THE BEAST RETELLING
•MARRIAGE OF CONVIENCE
•𝖲𝖴𝖯𝖯𝖮𝖱𝖳𝖨𝖵𝖤 𝖥𝖱𝖨𝖤𝖭𝖣 𝖦𝖱𝖮𝖴𝖯
•𝖴𝖭𝖧𝖮𝖴𝖲𝖤𝖣 𝖲𝖳𝖱𝖴𝖦𝖦𝖫𝖤𝖲
•𝖢𝖠𝖲𝖳 OF 𝖢𝖧𝖠𝖱𝖠𝖢𝖳𝖤𝖤𝖲
•𝖲𝖳𝖱𝖤𝖲𝖲
•𝖬𝖠 𝖡𝖤𝖫𝖫𝖤
•HURT/COMFORT
•𝖦𝖱𝖨𝖤𝖥 (𝖨𝗇 𝗆𝗎𝗅𝗍𝗂 𝖿𝗈𝗋𝗆𝗌)
•HE FALLS FIRST
•𝖳𝖧𝖤 𝖡𝖤𝖲𝖳 𝖣𝖠𝖳𝖤
•𝖡𝖮𝖮𝖪 𝖫𝖮𝖵𝖨𝖭𝖦
••••••••••
▁▁▁★★★★★▁▁▁
𝗙𝗜𝗩𝗘 𝗪𝗘𝗟𝗟 𝗗𝗘𝗦𝗘𝗥𝗩𝗘𝗗 𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗥𝗦
▬▬▬❤︎▬▬▬
“Do not ever do that again,” I murmured into her
hair, my voice rougher than I intended.
✸✸✸❤︎✸✸✸
𝗛𝗮𝗽𝗽𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴. 𝗕𝗲 𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲𝗹𝗳. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝘄𝗲 𝗲𝘅𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝘀, 𝘄𝗲 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗮𝗹𝘀𝗼 𝗴𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲𝗹𝘃𝗲𝘀. ❤︎ ❤︎ ❤︎
𝓑𝓮𝓪𝓼𝓽 𝓜𝓸𝓭𝓮: The Grimm Reapers
(Grimm Reapers ²)
by Mary Warren
𝘦𝘈𝘙𝘊
𝘔𝘢𝘳𝘺 𝘔𝘢𝘳𝘺 𝘔𝘢𝘳𝘺!!! 𝘖𝘩 𝘮𝘺 𝘨𝘢𝘩!
𝖳𝗁𝖾𝗋𝖾 𝗐𝖺𝗌 𝗇𝗈 𝖽𝗈𝗎𝖻𝗍 𝖨 𝗅𝗈𝗏𝖾𝖽 𝖡𝖾𝗅𝗅𝖾 𝖿𝗋𝗈𝗆 𝗁𝖾𝗋 𝗂𝗇𝗍𝗋𝗈𝖽𝗎𝖼𝗍𝗂𝗈𝗇 𝗂𝗇 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝖿𝗂𝗋𝗌𝗍 𝖦𝗋𝗂𝗆𝗆 𝖱𝖾𝖺𝗉𝖾𝗋𝗌 𝗇𝗈𝗏𝖾𝗅... 𝖡𝗎𝗍 𝖽𝖺𝗒𝗎𝗆! I think MW created a character that many people are going to say they relate to or find similarities to with her. She is a stand out FMC.
And our yummy French pastry of a Beast??? Hands down loved. I have to be careful with what I say - I hate spoilers & Raphael is so special and layered- his depth of journey was excellent. I’ll just leave that there.
The plot, spice, timing, and little details are excellent. I feel like this is very much a character showcase though- because both main characters absolutely come to life.
The inclusion of Geoffrey & Chandler felt like such a sweet tip of the hat to Beauty & the Beast. ❤︎
I got momentarily worried towards the end that the stakes & action was going to be too much- but NOPE! It was exactly what was needed. I was wrong- it hit just right! High marks for that!!!
————-❤︎
➽ 𝗧𝗥𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗦 & 𝗚𝗢𝗢𝗗𝗜𝗘 𝗚𝗢𝗢𝗗𝗦:
•𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗨𝗦𝗔 𝗶𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝘀𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗺 𝘀𝘂𝗰𝗸𝘀 𝗮𝘀𝘀
•PROTECTIVE HERO
•BAD ASS PLUS SIZE FMC
•BEAUTY & THE BEAST RETELLING
•MARRIAGE OF CONVIENCE
•𝖲𝖴𝖯𝖯𝖮𝖱𝖳𝖨𝖵𝖤 𝖥𝖱𝖨𝖤𝖭𝖣 𝖦𝖱𝖮𝖴𝖯
•𝖴𝖭𝖧𝖮𝖴𝖲𝖤𝖣 𝖲𝖳𝖱𝖴𝖦𝖦𝖫𝖤𝖲
•𝖢𝖠𝖲𝖳 OF 𝖢𝖧𝖠𝖱𝖠𝖢𝖳𝖤𝖤𝖲
•𝖲𝖳𝖱𝖤𝖲𝖲
•𝖬𝖠 𝖡𝖤𝖫𝖫𝖤
•HURT/COMFORT
•𝖦𝖱𝖨𝖤𝖥 (𝖨𝗇 𝗆𝗎𝗅𝗍𝗂 𝖿𝗈𝗋𝗆𝗌)
•HE FALLS FIRST
•𝖳𝖧𝖤 𝖡𝖤𝖲𝖳 𝖣𝖠𝖳𝖤
•𝖡𝖮𝖮𝖪 𝖫𝖮𝖵𝖨𝖭𝖦
••••••••••
▁▁▁★★★★★▁▁▁
𝗙𝗜𝗩𝗘 𝗪𝗘𝗟𝗟 𝗗𝗘𝗦𝗘𝗥𝗩𝗘𝗗 𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗥𝗦
▬▬▬❤︎▬▬▬
“Do not ever do that again,” I murmured into her
hair, my voice rougher than I intended.
✸✸✸❤︎✸✸✸
𝗛𝗮𝗽𝗽𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴. 𝗕𝗲 𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲𝗹𝗳. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝘄𝗲 𝗲𝘅𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝘀, 𝘄𝗲 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗮𝗹𝘀𝗼 𝗴𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲𝗹𝘃𝗲𝘀. ❤︎ ❤︎ ❤︎
Review of advance copy received from Author
Beast Mode is the second book in the Grimm Reapers series by @marywarren that follows Belle, a hyper-independent roller derby QUEEN struggling to support her father with Dementia. Working multiple jobs and living out of her car proves unsatisfactory when she is sidelined due to injury. Raphael is nicknamed “beast”, living like a recluse has the means to support this firecracker he can’t tame but she is resistant to letting him. When she voices not having insurance and the only way he could help would be marriage, he does the obviously sane and non-illogical things ever, he asks her to marry him.
They both agree that this is simply business exchange but they are fooliingggggggg themselves REAL BAD as the looks linger, the sparks fly and this big house can no longer hold what’s brewing. Belle has to choose if she is ready to let someone lead and while still accepting her as she is and Raphael has to start dusting off the painful events of his past.
I really enjoyed Belle’s character in Book 1 and enjoyed this Beauty and the Beast retelling. She is strong and fearless and it takes a bit for her to realize you can be strong and fearless but also vulnerable and soft at the same time. Mary has a way of writing about grief and validating people’s behaviors in a way. There are no right and wrong ways in grief, it just is, weather it is grieving the end of relationships, former versions of yourself, lives never lived or friendships lost. We are all just figuring it out and it takes a village sometimes along the way.
I received this as an arc review in exchange for my honest response :)
They both agree that this is simply business exchange but they are fooliingggggggg themselves REAL BAD as the looks linger, the sparks fly and this big house can no longer hold what’s brewing. Belle has to choose if she is ready to let someone lead and while still accepting her as she is and Raphael has to start dusting off the painful events of his past.
I really enjoyed Belle’s character in Book 1 and enjoyed this Beauty and the Beast retelling. She is strong and fearless and it takes a bit for her to realize you can be strong and fearless but also vulnerable and soft at the same time. Mary has a way of writing about grief and validating people’s behaviors in a way. There are no right and wrong ways in grief, it just is, weather it is grieving the end of relationships, former versions of yourself, lives never lived or friendships lost. We are all just figuring it out and it takes a village sometimes along the way.
I received this as an arc review in exchange for my honest response :)
May 28, 2026
So when one of your favorite writers comes out with a new book, There is no way i wont read it. And a retelling of one of my favorite stories? I was hooked.
So the last few days i was struggeling with reading with my new job. I got home tired and didnt read much during the day.
But to say i eat this book? I Inhaled this like air to breath in a headwave. No kidding.
Belle (our FMC) is independed. No matter what the issue is, she will try to fix it herself. She works for a cleaning service and lives in her van.
One day she gets a new client to clean his house. The bease aka Rahpael. He is know for being a beast.
He is intruged by the curvy cleaning woman who talks back in his house so he offers extra work.
Then the bad things started to pile up for Belle and suddenly she found herself with no way out. Thats where Raphael shows up and offers to marry her for 6 months.
There was a lot i loved about this book. I loved Raphael as MMC. However i would have loved to see more of his backstory. That was an intersting part but it feld glimsed over.
Belle reminded me a little off myself. Not asking for help. Trying to fix everything on her own. In the end however it was a little to much. She has an amazing found family in her roller derby friends. I would have loved to see her lean on them a little more.
One of my favorite parts is that Mary writes in each book a cameo of Bridget. And that part always makes a book form her feels like home.
However i had loads of fun. Cried a small tear. And basicly if you have never read a book by Mary Warren. Call me when you do.
So the last few days i was struggeling with reading with my new job. I got home tired and didnt read much during the day.
But to say i eat this book? I Inhaled this like air to breath in a headwave. No kidding.
Belle (our FMC) is independed. No matter what the issue is, she will try to fix it herself. She works for a cleaning service and lives in her van.
One day she gets a new client to clean his house. The bease aka Rahpael. He is know for being a beast.
He is intruged by the curvy cleaning woman who talks back in his house so he offers extra work.
Then the bad things started to pile up for Belle and suddenly she found herself with no way out. Thats where Raphael shows up and offers to marry her for 6 months.
There was a lot i loved about this book. I loved Raphael as MMC. However i would have loved to see more of his backstory. That was an intersting part but it feld glimsed over.
Belle reminded me a little off myself. Not asking for help. Trying to fix everything on her own. In the end however it was a little to much. She has an amazing found family in her roller derby friends. I would have loved to see her lean on them a little more.
One of my favorite parts is that Mary writes in each book a cameo of Bridget. And that part always makes a book form her feels like home.
However i had loads of fun. Cried a small tear. And basicly if you have never read a book by Mary Warren. Call me when you do.
May 29, 2026
I received an ARC copy of Beast Mode by Mary Warren via The Author Agency.
Beauty and the Beast is my all time favorite fairy tale, and I was excited for a modern take wirh a fierce heroine and a marriage of convenience trope!
Belle is a kick butt roller derby player who is down on her luck and behind on her health insurance payments. Raphael is a beastly force in the real estate world and notorious for his practicality and efficiency as well as his dislike of people.
Besst Mode delivered on all of it's modern fair tale retelling, with some funny nods to some of my favorite scenes from the Disney animated classic of Beauty and the Beast. I loved the conversations Raphael had with Chandler and Geoffrey, his employees and advisors, while they advised him how to woo Belle. I loved the scene where Belle comes down the staircase. I REALLY loved this book's version of a library scene- setting up a date in a romance bookstore and telling her to pick out as much as she wants! (SWOON!) The nods to a classic and the contemporary and fresh takes that Warre writes were absolutely delightful!
I really identified with this version of Belle, too. Having a father with a deteriorating mental state and struggling with poverty and the constant crises that barely getting by cause is ao relatable to myself and many. Belle's tendency to internalize her problems and not trust that she can share them with others or rely on their help is a big struggle I can really identify with, and it felt nice to identify with her and then read her heal from it.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Beast Mode and hope that you will enjoy it, too!
Beauty and the Beast is my all time favorite fairy tale, and I was excited for a modern take wirh a fierce heroine and a marriage of convenience trope!
Belle is a kick butt roller derby player who is down on her luck and behind on her health insurance payments. Raphael is a beastly force in the real estate world and notorious for his practicality and efficiency as well as his dislike of people.
Besst Mode delivered on all of it's modern fair tale retelling, with some funny nods to some of my favorite scenes from the Disney animated classic of Beauty and the Beast. I loved the conversations Raphael had with Chandler and Geoffrey, his employees and advisors, while they advised him how to woo Belle. I loved the scene where Belle comes down the staircase. I REALLY loved this book's version of a library scene- setting up a date in a romance bookstore and telling her to pick out as much as she wants! (SWOON!) The nods to a classic and the contemporary and fresh takes that Warre writes were absolutely delightful!
I really identified with this version of Belle, too. Having a father with a deteriorating mental state and struggling with poverty and the constant crises that barely getting by cause is ao relatable to myself and many. Belle's tendency to internalize her problems and not trust that she can share them with others or rely on their help is a big struggle I can really identify with, and it felt nice to identify with her and then read her heal from it.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Beast Mode and hope that you will enjoy it, too!
May 30, 2026
I had the absolute pleasure to receive an ARC from the author of the book and The Author Agency and I am leaving an honest review.
Who doesn’t love a man who takes charge?! Sometimes hyper independent queens need just that.
This is the story of Belle and Raphael. Belle is struggling to keep paying for her father’s dementia care, taking as much work as is offered to her. She’s assigned to work for the hotel and real estate mogul, Raphael Renault better known as The Beast. As soon as Raphael meets her, he’s instantly caught in her orbit and requests her to work special projects for him just to be around her. After she sustains an injury during a roller derby scrimmage, he proposes a marriage only on paper so she gets insurance.
This book is tender, filled with emotion, with a lot of fast and witty banter and is so much deeper than what I expected. Although they are attracted physically, their relationship evolves through emotional intimacy, trust, concern and vulnerability. I loved how gone Raphael was from the start and that Belle challenged him constantly with her strength and intelligence. She didn’t fall into the expectation of blind obedience. I also enjoyed how both open up and share their troubles, fears and pasts. And can we talk about this man love language?? Acts of service!! He might not be the most vocal about his love for her, but he definitely shows it.
Overall this book is about being seen and known completely. About knowing one can always ask for help, because there are people willing to pick us up always. That is not failing to accept care from others. If you love stories like this one this book is for you.
Thank you Mary and The Author Agency for letting me be on this ARC Team.
Who doesn’t love a man who takes charge?! Sometimes hyper independent queens need just that.
This is the story of Belle and Raphael. Belle is struggling to keep paying for her father’s dementia care, taking as much work as is offered to her. She’s assigned to work for the hotel and real estate mogul, Raphael Renault better known as The Beast. As soon as Raphael meets her, he’s instantly caught in her orbit and requests her to work special projects for him just to be around her. After she sustains an injury during a roller derby scrimmage, he proposes a marriage only on paper so she gets insurance.
This book is tender, filled with emotion, with a lot of fast and witty banter and is so much deeper than what I expected. Although they are attracted physically, their relationship evolves through emotional intimacy, trust, concern and vulnerability. I loved how gone Raphael was from the start and that Belle challenged him constantly with her strength and intelligence. She didn’t fall into the expectation of blind obedience. I also enjoyed how both open up and share their troubles, fears and pasts. And can we talk about this man love language?? Acts of service!! He might not be the most vocal about his love for her, but he definitely shows it.
Overall this book is about being seen and known completely. About knowing one can always ask for help, because there are people willing to pick us up always. That is not failing to accept care from others. If you love stories like this one this book is for you.
Thank you Mary and The Author Agency for letting me be on this ARC Team.
June 17, 2026
This was a good book. I enjoyed the characters, could understand their perspective based on their experiences and the romance between the FMC/MMC was believable and overall a good read.
I enjoyed this book until it got 88%(I checked) into this book. As someone who is impoverished and can relate to the experiences of the FMC her concerns were valid, in the beginning. This FMC was the most insufferable personality that somehow manifested in the most feral way at this point in the book, for me. Belle's(POOR FMC) hyper-independence was going to be her downfall when Raphael(RICH MMC) was doing nothing but looking out for her. She was determined to suffer just to say she did it by herself, to the detriment of herself and her father that she has responsibility of.
Belle treated Raphael as if he was the enemy when all he did was try to look out for her. Could conversations be had that could have made thing clearer, of course but she twisted every nice thing this man was doing for her.
She deluded herself into thinking the marriage was beneficial to both of them but it was ok as long as she felt she was in control of the situation. Raphael was made to seem like he was controlling but he deferred to her a lot for her comfort but did not compromise when it came to her well being. He was a pretty solid guy in my opinion.
She had control issues under the guise of hyper independence. She had a support system before Raphael but refused to lean on it but married a random man, that doesn't make sense.
*I am poor and a rich man wants to support me but I have too much pride to take what he is offering trope has to be stopped, please lol*
I enjoyed this book until it got 88%(I checked) into this book. As someone who is impoverished and can relate to the experiences of the FMC her concerns were valid, in the beginning. This FMC was the most insufferable personality that somehow manifested in the most feral way at this point in the book, for me. Belle's(POOR FMC) hyper-independence was going to be her downfall when Raphael(RICH MMC) was doing nothing but looking out for her. She was determined to suffer just to say she did it by herself, to the detriment of herself and her father that she has responsibility of.
Belle treated Raphael as if he was the enemy when all he did was try to look out for her. Could conversations be had that could have made thing clearer, of course but she twisted every nice thing this man was doing for her.
She deluded herself into thinking the marriage was beneficial to both of them but it was ok as long as she felt she was in control of the situation. Raphael was made to seem like he was controlling but he deferred to her a lot for her comfort but did not compromise when it came to her well being. He was a pretty solid guy in my opinion.
She had control issues under the guise of hyper independence. She had a support system before Raphael but refused to lean on it but married a random man, that doesn't make sense.
*I am poor and a rich man wants to support me but I have too much pride to take what he is offering trope has to be stopped, please lol*
June 1, 2026
#AdvancedReaderCopy
Title: Beast Mode: Grimm Reapers (Book 2)
Author: Mary Warren
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Pages: 362
Rating: 4⭐️/5
“I don’t like watching problems I can address remain unaddressed.”
Belle has always relied on herself, but when an injury leaves her struggling to make ends meet, she accepts an unexpected deal from Raphael, a wealthy and extremely private man; a marriage that’s supposed to be in name only. Living under the same roof starts to blur the lines of their arrangement as Belle brings warmth and chaos into Raphael’s quiet life while slowly uncovering the pain he’s been keeping hidden. What begins as a simple solution soon turns into something neither of them planned, forcing them to figure out if they’re ready to let someone else in.
This Beauty and the Beast retelling is equal parts emotional, heartwarming, and hopeful. Belle is doing everything she can to keep going: working as a cleaner, picking up extra shifts, and living out of her van while struggling to cover the rising cost of her father’s Alzheimer’s care. Her strength, determination, and deep love for her father make her impossible not to root for. I loved the fake marriage setup and watching it slowly grow into something real as Belle and Raphael built a relationship based on trust, friendship, and understanding. Their connection felt natural, tender, and incredibly satisfying to watch unfold.
A big thanks to The Author Agency and Mary Warren for providing me with a digital ARC of this book!
Released 05/28/2026 on Amazon, KU and paperback.
Title: Beast Mode: Grimm Reapers (Book 2)
Author: Mary Warren
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Pages: 362
Rating: 4⭐️/5
“I don’t like watching problems I can address remain unaddressed.”
Belle has always relied on herself, but when an injury leaves her struggling to make ends meet, she accepts an unexpected deal from Raphael, a wealthy and extremely private man; a marriage that’s supposed to be in name only. Living under the same roof starts to blur the lines of their arrangement as Belle brings warmth and chaos into Raphael’s quiet life while slowly uncovering the pain he’s been keeping hidden. What begins as a simple solution soon turns into something neither of them planned, forcing them to figure out if they’re ready to let someone else in.
This Beauty and the Beast retelling is equal parts emotional, heartwarming, and hopeful. Belle is doing everything she can to keep going: working as a cleaner, picking up extra shifts, and living out of her van while struggling to cover the rising cost of her father’s Alzheimer’s care. Her strength, determination, and deep love for her father make her impossible not to root for. I loved the fake marriage setup and watching it slowly grow into something real as Belle and Raphael built a relationship based on trust, friendship, and understanding. Their connection felt natural, tender, and incredibly satisfying to watch unfold.
A big thanks to The Author Agency and Mary Warren for providing me with a digital ARC of this book!
Released 05/28/2026 on Amazon, KU and paperback.
June 1, 2026
I give this book 3 stars. It is a solid retelling of the classic Beauty and the Beast with a bit of Roller Derby thrown in for fun!
Belle is a Roller derby playing ‘Jill of All Trades’. She is working multiple jobs and living out of her van. She is not only supporting herself, she is supporting her father in a Memory Care Center. Belle Blythe has learned to rely on only herself and is determined to make it alone. Working at Merry Maids as a cleaner, at Coffee Shops as a Barista, and more. She is doing just fine by herself, or she was until she gets hurt at roller derby. Then Belle is forced to face the awful truth that being hurt in todays world with no insurance is a huge mountain many can never climb. What is a girl to do when in agony yet needing money for health care and for her Dad?
Enter Raphael Renault, or as those in business call him, The Beast. Raphael is a man used to solving problems and getting things his own way. He has old money and tons of it. Yet due to personal tragedy in his past he no longer see the world the same. When he meets Belle she forces him to face not only his past yet all his preconceived feelings about how he operates. For having enough money to solve problems does not mean one should just go ahead and do it, right? Or can he?
I personally enjoyed this fun, easy read yet found it to be a bit predictable. This lack of surprising moments gave it the three stars. However it has solid characters and plot lines! It truly is a well written homage to the old classic. Read this for a fun time!
Belle is a Roller derby playing ‘Jill of All Trades’. She is working multiple jobs and living out of her van. She is not only supporting herself, she is supporting her father in a Memory Care Center. Belle Blythe has learned to rely on only herself and is determined to make it alone. Working at Merry Maids as a cleaner, at Coffee Shops as a Barista, and more. She is doing just fine by herself, or she was until she gets hurt at roller derby. Then Belle is forced to face the awful truth that being hurt in todays world with no insurance is a huge mountain many can never climb. What is a girl to do when in agony yet needing money for health care and for her Dad?
Enter Raphael Renault, or as those in business call him, The Beast. Raphael is a man used to solving problems and getting things his own way. He has old money and tons of it. Yet due to personal tragedy in his past he no longer see the world the same. When he meets Belle she forces him to face not only his past yet all his preconceived feelings about how he operates. For having enough money to solve problems does not mean one should just go ahead and do it, right? Or can he?
I personally enjoyed this fun, easy read yet found it to be a bit predictable. This lack of surprising moments gave it the three stars. However it has solid characters and plot lines! It truly is a well written homage to the old classic. Read this for a fun time!
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