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The Beast
Next in the McQuoid Family Saga—
He doesn’t believe in love.
She doesn’t know how to stop wanting it.
From Christi Caldwell comes a dark Regency romance of power, betrayal, and desire.
One reckless night.
One mystery man.
One truth that refuses to stay buried.
Fleur McQuoid is left with nothing but questions—and a single clue she cannot ignore.
A night that should have been forgotten… and a man she cannot.
Her search draws her into the path of another. A man as cold as he is powerful… a duke who looks at her as though she is nothing—and yet watches her as though she is already his.
The recently jilted Duke of Hartwell is a man of control, distance, and unwavering restraint—entirely untouched by sentiment.
A man who does not love. Who does not yield. Who does not forgive weakness—least of all in himself.
Yet, through his loyalty to his brother, he remains entangled with the McQuoid family.
A family he considers beneath him.
A family he has no intention of ever joining.
He requires a suitable wife. A proper duchess.
Obedient. Flawless. Forgettable.
He came dangerously close to making a very inconvenient mistake—a mistake he has no intention of repeating.
But Fleur McQuoid—
is not so easily dismissed.
Somewhere between secrets, pride, and unspoken truths…
between defiance and desire… between resistance and ruin…
something begins that neither of them can control—
and neither of them can escape.
Because he does not want her.
He should not want her.
And yet… he cannot seem to let her go.
—and neither may survive.
He doesn’t believe in love.
She doesn’t know how to stop wanting it.
From Christi Caldwell comes a dark Regency romance of power, betrayal, and desire.
One reckless night.
One mystery man.
One truth that refuses to stay buried.
Fleur McQuoid is left with nothing but questions—and a single clue she cannot ignore.
A night that should have been forgotten… and a man she cannot.
Her search draws her into the path of another. A man as cold as he is powerful… a duke who looks at her as though she is nothing—and yet watches her as though she is already his.
The recently jilted Duke of Hartwell is a man of control, distance, and unwavering restraint—entirely untouched by sentiment.
A man who does not love. Who does not yield. Who does not forgive weakness—least of all in himself.
Yet, through his loyalty to his brother, he remains entangled with the McQuoid family.
A family he considers beneath him.
A family he has no intention of ever joining.
He requires a suitable wife. A proper duchess.
Obedient. Flawless. Forgettable.
He came dangerously close to making a very inconvenient mistake—a mistake he has no intention of repeating.
But Fleur McQuoid—
is not so easily dismissed.
Somewhere between secrets, pride, and unspoken truths…
between defiance and desire… between resistance and ruin…
something begins that neither of them can control—
and neither of them can escape.
Because he does not want her.
He should not want her.
And yet… he cannot seem to let her go.
—and neither may survive.
309 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 20, 2026
About the author
Christi Caldwell
142 books2,583 followersUSA TODAY Bestselling author CHRISTI CALDWELL blames Judith McNaught's "Whitney, My Love!" for luring her into the world of historical romance. While sitting in her graduate school apartment at the University of Connecticut, Christi decided to set aside her notes and pick up her laptop to try her hand at romance. She believes the most perfect heroes and heroines have imperfections, and she rather enjoys torturing them before crafting them a well deserved happily ever after!
Christi makes her home in Charlotte, North Carolina where she spends her time writing her own enchanting historical romances, and baking surprisingly good cakes (almost 2 years in lockdown will do that) with her courageous son and twin daughters, each who with their daily antics provides limitless source material.
Christi makes her home in Charlotte, North Carolina where she spends her time writing her own enchanting historical romances, and baking surprisingly good cakes (almost 2 years in lockdown will do that) with her courageous son and twin daughters, each who with their daily antics provides limitless source material.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
May 31, 2026
This is my 102nd book by Christi Caldwell. I read 2 of her books in 2013 but didn’t pick her up again faithfully until 2015. She is such a good author and I love her writing. She always has great stories and depending on the book, well written sex scenes. Except I have to say her books lately have all been really super steamy. I love this series.
I freakin' loved this book. I loved this story. I loved Fleur and Henry. I loved their tumultuous relationship. I loved the part of how they came together. That's such a great storyline. The sex was hot. I loved how controlled Henry was until he wasn't. Just a great read. Totally adding this to my favorite books read for May, 2026. LOVED IT!!!
I freakin' loved this book. I loved this story. I loved Fleur and Henry. I loved their tumultuous relationship. I loved the part of how they came together. That's such a great storyline. The sex was hot. I loved how controlled Henry was until he wasn't. Just a great read. Totally adding this to my favorite books read for May, 2026. LOVED IT!!!
May 23, 2026
All the stars! What a wonderful story! When I realized she was going to redeem Hart, the Duke of Hartwell, who treated Meghan so abominably in The Villain, I was annoyed. However, I quickly fell in love with Fleur and saw him through her eyes. He doesn’t suddenly become a different person, thankfully, he is the same rough and ruthless man in both books. But perspective is everything. Fleur and Lord Cassian are able to show a different side of him. His behavior doesn’t change, but his attitude does. I adore a good character arc, and Christi Caldwell knows how to write great characters. There are some beautiful scenes in this book, absolutely swoon worthy and very sexy. The ending is spectacular. I loved every minute of this amazing story. Highly recommended, with fireworks and marching bands!
Edit: I forgot to mention the underlying theme is Lord Byron’s Don Juan which is quoted throughout the book. I adore Lord Byron’s poetry so I was thrilled to enjoy these references to the gorgeous man who was Mad, Bad, and Dangerous to know. My dog is named Byron in his honor. Just thought I’d mention it.
Edit: I forgot to mention the underlying theme is Lord Byron’s Don Juan which is quoted throughout the book. I adore Lord Byron’s poetry so I was thrilled to enjoy these references to the gorgeous man who was Mad, Bad, and Dangerous to know. My dog is named Byron in his honor. Just thought I’d mention it.
May 21, 2026
Fleur McQuoid attends a masquerade with two of her relatives, whilst there she is swept away by a masked man who recites Byron, she has no idea who he is apart from a worn signet ring. So the search begins. The recently jilted Duke of Hartwell is a man of control, distance, and unwavering restraint—entirely untouched by sentiment. Yet, through his loyalty to his brother, he remains entangled with the McQuoid family. But Fleur McQuoid gets under his skin.
Another unputdownable book from the author, wonderful characters, a well paced story, sizzling chemistry & delicious banter. I loved Fleur who’s unconventional, intelligent & basically a hoyden but she falls for Henry. However she has to find the mystery man from the masquerade. I didn’t warm to Henry in the earlier books & wondered if he could be redeemed – answer a definite yes. I love it when a heartless rake falls. He’s also searching for the mysterious French woman at the masquerade. The chemistry between the couple sizzles but it’s their banter which make this book special. Also the author takes you through a gamut of emotions but leaves you with a satisfied smile on your face. I’m now waiting for the next in the series
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
Another unputdownable book from the author, wonderful characters, a well paced story, sizzling chemistry & delicious banter. I loved Fleur who’s unconventional, intelligent & basically a hoyden but she falls for Henry. However she has to find the mystery man from the masquerade. I didn’t warm to Henry in the earlier books & wondered if he could be redeemed – answer a definite yes. I love it when a heartless rake falls. He’s also searching for the mysterious French woman at the masquerade. The chemistry between the couple sizzles but it’s their banter which make this book special. Also the author takes you through a gamut of emotions but leaves you with a satisfied smile on your face. I’m now waiting for the next in the series
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
May 30, 2026
I was prepared for something dark and deeply gothic. I’m not sure why the synopsis gave me that impression. But instead, this story turned out to be incredibly funny. It has some of the best verbal ping-pong I’ve ever read.
The chemistry between the main characters is what truly makes this story fantastic. We also get the absolute best grumpy x sunshine pairing, and I loved every second of it. The only recent book that gave me a similar vibe was The Rake by Suzanne Enoch and I absolutely loved that one too.
What impressed me even more was how vividly everything is described. Every reaction, every look, every emotion feels so real that you can practically see it happening in front of your eyes.
Christi Caldwell is an incredible writer. Another 5-star read from her. Bravo!
I’m so grateful for the opportunity given by the author to read this. . I honestly don’t think I’ll forget this story anytime soon. Definitely not. Highly recommended!
The chemistry between the main characters is what truly makes this story fantastic. We also get the absolute best grumpy x sunshine pairing, and I loved every second of it. The only recent book that gave me a similar vibe was The Rake by Suzanne Enoch and I absolutely loved that one too.
What impressed me even more was how vividly everything is described. Every reaction, every look, every emotion feels so real that you can practically see it happening in front of your eyes.
Christi Caldwell is an incredible writer. Another 5-star read from her. Bravo!
I’m so grateful for the opportunity given by the author to read this. . I honestly don’t think I’ll forget this story anytime soon. Definitely not. Highly recommended!
May 21, 2026
I wasn't ready for this book to end. I want more of Henry and Fleur. I loved the witty banter between the two and then their unlikely friendship. This book was hard to put down. I love a pompous duke that likes to be in control and a heroine that does as she pleases. Their relationship progressed in a sad and romantic way. Oh how my heart ached for Fleur and even for Henry at times. They even heated up the pages a little.
The Beast is part of The McQuoid Family Sage, but can be read alone. I recommend series. I am excited for the next book and please let Kilmartin have his own book.
The Beast is part of The McQuoid Family Sage, but can be read alone. I recommend series. I am excited for the next book and please let Kilmartin have his own book.
May 31, 2026
Woooof. Tropes done WELL! Fleur and Henry were so well written and had such a compelling story.
May 22, 2026
The best of the series so far.
It had a bit of a rough start and was a bit prose-y. However, the love story didn't disappoint, and isn't that the most important thing?
It had a bit of a rough start and was a bit prose-y. However, the love story didn't disappoint, and isn't that the most important thing?
May 21, 2026
Christi Caldwell is one of my favorite and most-read historical romance authors, so when she offered an ARC of The Beast, I didn't hesitate — even though I'd somehow missed book 2. That gap is worth flagging up front: this is book 3 in a sprawling family series, and reading in order will serve you better than it served me.
The Duke of Hartwell and Fleur McQuoid have some history together. They enjoyed a rendezvous at a masquerade, and even though neither knows who the other is, they’re both obsessing over their anonymous lover.
The banter between the two, starting with the book auction in chapter one is my favorite part of the book. It’s sharp, cutting and also flirtatious (as these things go). Fleur and Hart drive each other crazy and seem to know just the right buttons to push to topple the other over the edge. Each believes they cannot stand the other, though somehow they are constantly drawn together.
Hart is an emotionally constipated duke with layers of trauma and ducal brainwashing to shed. He is regularly appalled by the boisterous McQuoid clan for being too loud, laughing too much, flouting convention. But he also wants what they have. Working through what Fleur stirs in him, and through the years of damage his father left behind, is hard work.
By comparison, Fleur's arc is somewhat flatter, but she moves toward understanding Hart in a way no one else really has. Her growth in empathy and understanding for someone who grew up so differently from the way she was raised and who is burdened with vastly different expectations is compelling.
I have a real love for the use of names in fiction – how they are used, who uses them. And in historical romance, this usage takes on an important meanings. When Fleur shifts to calling Hart by his given name, it feels monumental.
The masquerade "secret" stays murky longer than it should and left me feeling like I’d missed something. A prologue would have set that up well and created a bridge from book two. In the faster-paced scenes, the dialogue gets a bit tangled and I’d need to re-read sections to make sure I was tracking. The McQuoid + Tremaine cast is large and the first third of the book moves fast.
Lord Cassian Kilmartin, Hartwell’s friend and man-of-affairs is a strong secondary character who helps move the plot forward in important ways. I’m hoping he gets his own story soon!
Caldwell always delivers and this is still a four-star read despite a few rough edges. You do need to read this series in order to follow the motley McQuoid and Tremaine crew. Caldwell always finds a way to make even a constipated, beastly duke worth rooting for. Hart and Fleur are no different.
Thank you to the author for an advance copy.
The Duke of Hartwell and Fleur McQuoid have some history together. They enjoyed a rendezvous at a masquerade, and even though neither knows who the other is, they’re both obsessing over their anonymous lover.
The banter between the two, starting with the book auction in chapter one is my favorite part of the book. It’s sharp, cutting and also flirtatious (as these things go). Fleur and Hart drive each other crazy and seem to know just the right buttons to push to topple the other over the edge. Each believes they cannot stand the other, though somehow they are constantly drawn together.
Hart is an emotionally constipated duke with layers of trauma and ducal brainwashing to shed. He is regularly appalled by the boisterous McQuoid clan for being too loud, laughing too much, flouting convention. But he also wants what they have. Working through what Fleur stirs in him, and through the years of damage his father left behind, is hard work.
By comparison, Fleur's arc is somewhat flatter, but she moves toward understanding Hart in a way no one else really has. Her growth in empathy and understanding for someone who grew up so differently from the way she was raised and who is burdened with vastly different expectations is compelling.
I have a real love for the use of names in fiction – how they are used, who uses them. And in historical romance, this usage takes on an important meanings. When Fleur shifts to calling Hart by his given name, it feels monumental.
The masquerade "secret" stays murky longer than it should and left me feeling like I’d missed something. A prologue would have set that up well and created a bridge from book two. In the faster-paced scenes, the dialogue gets a bit tangled and I’d need to re-read sections to make sure I was tracking. The McQuoid + Tremaine cast is large and the first third of the book moves fast.
Lord Cassian Kilmartin, Hartwell’s friend and man-of-affairs is a strong secondary character who helps move the plot forward in important ways. I’m hoping he gets his own story soon!
Caldwell always delivers and this is still a four-star read despite a few rough edges. You do need to read this series in order to follow the motley McQuoid and Tremaine crew. Caldwell always finds a way to make even a constipated, beastly duke worth rooting for. Hart and Fleur are no different.
Thank you to the author for an advance copy.
May 21, 2026
Fleur McQuoid goes to a masquerade to mind her own business & instead gets swept off her feet by a masked man who quotes Byron like he’s trying to seduce the entire ballroom. After they part, all she has to identify him is a signet ring & the memory of a kiss that could probably power the entire British Empire.
Enter Henry, the Duke of Hartwell - recently jilted, emotionally constipated, & so committed to self-control he probably schedules his brooding in 15‑minute increments. He’s also the last man Fleur should fall for, because their families have been locked in "hate" feud so spicy it could season an entire pot of Regency stew. And Fleur; she’s the last woman Henry should even look at unless he wants to ignite a scandal, a duel, or both. Naturally, this means they are absolutely doomed to fall for each other in the most deliciously inconvenient way possible.
Watching Fleur; the unconventional, brilliant, hoyden, get under Henry’s skin is pure joy. She pokes, she prods, she exists, & suddenly His Grace of Ice & Restraint is melting faster than a snowman in July. Meanwhile, both of them are hunting their mysterious masquerade partners, blissfully unaware they’re basically chasing each other in circles like Regency Scooby-Doo. I did not like or ever think I would warm to Henry after meeting him previously; but consider him redeemed, reformed, & fully claimed. Nothing hits quite like a heartless rake falling hard & fast for the one woman who refuses to be impressed by his title, his walls, or his tragic backstory.
The chemistry is sizzling - the banter is delicious - and the emotional payoff was me grinning like a fool & absolutely refusing to accept the book was ending. Christi Caldwell once again drags you through every emotion known to man, woman, & beast; then leaves you smiling like you just got away with something scandalous. Another unputdownable gem. Another couple I’m not ready to let go. And yes, I’m already impatient for the next book because Christi Caldwell owns my entire heart at this point. I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Enter Henry, the Duke of Hartwell - recently jilted, emotionally constipated, & so committed to self-control he probably schedules his brooding in 15‑minute increments. He’s also the last man Fleur should fall for, because their families have been locked in "hate" feud so spicy it could season an entire pot of Regency stew. And Fleur; she’s the last woman Henry should even look at unless he wants to ignite a scandal, a duel, or both. Naturally, this means they are absolutely doomed to fall for each other in the most deliciously inconvenient way possible.
Watching Fleur; the unconventional, brilliant, hoyden, get under Henry’s skin is pure joy. She pokes, she prods, she exists, & suddenly His Grace of Ice & Restraint is melting faster than a snowman in July. Meanwhile, both of them are hunting their mysterious masquerade partners, blissfully unaware they’re basically chasing each other in circles like Regency Scooby-Doo. I did not like or ever think I would warm to Henry after meeting him previously; but consider him redeemed, reformed, & fully claimed. Nothing hits quite like a heartless rake falling hard & fast for the one woman who refuses to be impressed by his title, his walls, or his tragic backstory.
The chemistry is sizzling - the banter is delicious - and the emotional payoff was me grinning like a fool & absolutely refusing to accept the book was ending. Christi Caldwell once again drags you through every emotion known to man, woman, & beast; then leaves you smiling like you just got away with something scandalous. Another unputdownable gem. Another couple I’m not ready to let go. And yes, I’m already impatient for the next book because Christi Caldwell owns my entire heart at this point. I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 21, 2026
3.5 STARS!
Cuuuutee!! Low level angst.
There was plenty of silliness in this story, but it was strangely enjoyable.
The flowery writing in the first few chapters gave me a headache. I couldn't tell what was up or down, but thankfully I persevered.
I do enjoy an enemies to lovers romance, and Fleur & Henry were exactly that. Henry had the pompousness and arrogance of a staid Duke, whereas Fleur was the complete opposite. Their banters were fun to watch, but my only lament was the passion. Their chemistry was fire, but we didn't get enough steamy scenes! Such a shame!
Henry was raised by a horrid father, who conditioned him into believing that women were whores and he should only value the duchy. In other words, love was a foreign emotion to him. Money, power and status were the only currency. Emotion was a weakness. The only person he comes close to caring for is his brother.
Fleur was okay, I believe she could have been much more endearing. Her outbursts were a little too much for me at times, but at least she was no harpy. At least the woman wasn't afraid to go toe to toe with the Duke.
OVERALL this could have gone worse, and I've read better HR along the same plot - deeper and where the characters connected on a whole other level. This was a bit superficial, and HENRY was a dolt and ass mostly. A good grovel and steamy reunion would have made the story better, but alas, I was left slightly wanting. There was no epilogue too. I would have loved to see them with their son/daughter.
Cuuuutee!! Low level angst.
There was plenty of silliness in this story, but it was strangely enjoyable.
The flowery writing in the first few chapters gave me a headache. I couldn't tell what was up or down, but thankfully I persevered.
I do enjoy an enemies to lovers romance, and Fleur & Henry were exactly that. Henry had the pompousness and arrogance of a staid Duke, whereas Fleur was the complete opposite. Their banters were fun to watch, but my only lament was the passion. Their chemistry was fire, but we didn't get enough steamy scenes! Such a shame!
Henry was raised by a horrid father, who conditioned him into believing that women were whores and he should only value the duchy. In other words, love was a foreign emotion to him. Money, power and status were the only currency. Emotion was a weakness. The only person he comes close to caring for is his brother.
Fleur was okay, I believe she could have been much more endearing. Her outbursts were a little too much for me at times, but at least she was no harpy. At least the woman wasn't afraid to go toe to toe with the Duke.
OVERALL this could have gone worse, and I've read better HR along the same plot - deeper and where the characters connected on a whole other level. This was a bit superficial, and HENRY was a dolt and ass mostly. A good grovel and steamy reunion would have made the story better, but alas, I was left slightly wanting. There was no epilogue too. I would have loved to see them with their son/daughter.
May 26, 2026
Extremely well written, full of society, drama, secrets, lies, truth, steam, resistance, witty, emotions, history, feelings, enemies, masquerade, rules, misunderstandings, supportive friends and family. Fleur McQuoid is a young lady who loves to read, smile and laugh. She comes from a family that is so scandalous that everyone writes or talks about them, whether it's true or not. Henry, Hart the Duke of Hartwell, dislikes the McQuoids as the woman he was to marry marries someone else for love. Hart was raised to think of a woman as needed only to birth an heir or be a mistress. He learned that from his father yet he did protect his brother , Tremaine from his father's hate. Tremaine did marry Linnie McQuoid, sister to both Fleur and the one that got away. It's to help the shipping line but does marry her for love. Kilmartin is a friend to both of them but also Hart's man of affairs. Fluer has meet Hart at different social engagements but never really connects with him. Yet at a masquerade, they meet and never realize who the other is. Again they meet at an book auction wanting the same book. Feelings start to fly and kisses exchange. The best scene of all is the tree scene near the end of the story, absolutely the best. Storyline and characters are as always fantastic. Can't wait for another story about this family. Would strongly recommend to everyone.
I received this book and leave this unbiased, honest review.
I received this book and leave this unbiased, honest review.
May 30, 2026
The Duke of Hartwell really WAS a beast. He did not believe emotion, fidelity or love. He had his reasons he had experienced rejection, and he was never going back to that feeling of weakness again.
When it was time to choose a wife, he would pick a perfect lady who would present no problems and elicit no emotions on his part at all.
Lady Fleur McQuoid came from a family with a rather wild reputation, a well read, lovely young woman, favored by the ton, about to enter the season's marriage mart. A girl with a secret.
The story begins at an event in which the two are in competition with each other. This leads to Fleur suggesting that men and women can indeed be friends and that the two of them should attempt it. But as the old cliche goes, no good deed goes unpunished... camaraderie can become complicated when lust rears its ugly head.
I thoroughly savored this story of two people who held back parts of themselves, each to their own detriment. I enjoyed the banter and conflict between them very much. It was well done. It had drama, humor, heat and it was well worth the read.As a result, I've decided to go back and read the other ones in the series that I have yet to enjoy. I also appreciated the added touch of quotes from Byron at the beginning of each chapter.
I highly recommend.
I read this as an arc, but my opinions are my own.
When it was time to choose a wife, he would pick a perfect lady who would present no problems and elicit no emotions on his part at all.
Lady Fleur McQuoid came from a family with a rather wild reputation, a well read, lovely young woman, favored by the ton, about to enter the season's marriage mart. A girl with a secret.
The story begins at an event in which the two are in competition with each other. This leads to Fleur suggesting that men and women can indeed be friends and that the two of them should attempt it. But as the old cliche goes, no good deed goes unpunished... camaraderie can become complicated when lust rears its ugly head.
I thoroughly savored this story of two people who held back parts of themselves, each to their own detriment. I enjoyed the banter and conflict between them very much. It was well done. It had drama, humor, heat and it was well worth the read.As a result, I've decided to go back and read the other ones in the series that I have yet to enjoy. I also appreciated the added touch of quotes from Byron at the beginning of each chapter.
I highly recommend.
I read this as an arc, but my opinions are my own.
May 23, 2026
The best installment of the McQuoid Family Saga by far in my opinion. Lady Fleur McQuoid attends an auction to purchase a book of poems written by Lord Byron- as she is waiting for the auction to begin, The Duke of Hartwell comes into the room. Fleur doesn't want to communicate with him as there has been bad blood between the Tremaine and McQuoid family for years- made worse after her sister Meghan jilted the Duke in favor of her current husband. A delicious blend of the stuffy aristocrat- raised to be stoic and duty bound to the title and the typical hellion/minx who is independent and does not care what anyone thinks about her actions. Although the book wasn't as steamy as the previous installments, the interactions between Hart and Fleur are electric, hot and sassy. The plot is very well written and many characters from previous books make appearances in the story and add flavor and context to the storyline revolving around Henry and Fleur. I read this in one sitting and thoroughly enjoyed it. Looking forward to more from Christi in this series.
May 23, 2026
To say I enjoyed this book would be an understatement. I loved this book. I loved Fleur and Hart, Henry. They were great together, I loved their banter, I loved their communication and I loved how Hart was when he was with her. This is the first book I have read in the series, but I am going to find the other books and read those now. I also loved a lot of the side characters, Fleur’s relatives, Hart’s brother Tremaine and his friend Kilmartin. I want Kilmartin to have a story next, as a matter of fact I want them all to have a story, I want more of all of them. Christi Caldwell is a great writer, and she has never disappointed me in any book I have read.
I received an ARC of this book, and I am leaving my honest opinion.
I received an ARC of this book, and I am leaving my honest opinion.
May 20, 2026
This book is an exciting continuation of the series, delivering everything I hoped for and more. The characters are both excellent and deeply interesting, each with their own unique charm and development that kept me invested from start to finish.
The plot moves at an adroit and fun pace, never lagging or feeling rushed, and the dialogue is easy to follow while still sparkling with wit and emotion. Christi Caldwell once again crafts a story that pulls you in and keeps you turning the pages. Best of all, it ends with a truly satisfying happy ending that left me smiling.
If you’re a fan of historical romance with heart, depth, and engaging storytelling, The Beast is a must-read!
The plot moves at an adroit and fun pace, never lagging or feeling rushed, and the dialogue is easy to follow while still sparkling with wit and emotion. Christi Caldwell once again crafts a story that pulls you in and keeps you turning the pages. Best of all, it ends with a truly satisfying happy ending that left me smiling.
If you’re a fan of historical romance with heart, depth, and engaging storytelling, The Beast is a must-read!
May 25, 2026
Not the best
I wanted this book yo be my favorite but it was not, it started well and it had so much potential as Henry was my favorite character but I felt it lacked depth, fell flat and the end was rushed. It doesn't have an epilog either. The book is not a stand alone i highly recommend to read at least rhe and book the Villain to understand most of the characters and what happens in this book, there are too many characters and stories connected to the second book for it to make sense. In all I recommend to read it as everyone has to have their own personally opinion as I have mine.
I wanted this book yo be my favorite but it was not, it started well and it had so much potential as Henry was my favorite character but I felt it lacked depth, fell flat and the end was rushed. It doesn't have an epilog either. The book is not a stand alone i highly recommend to read at least rhe and book the Villain to understand most of the characters and what happens in this book, there are too many characters and stories connected to the second book for it to make sense. In all I recommend to read it as everyone has to have their own personally opinion as I have mine.
June 6, 2026
Frustrating
This could have been better but having read these books in order it is so frustrating for an author to completely change recent history. In The Villain, Hartwell has 2 overt lovers/doxies at the masquerade. And suddenly in this book, he had only 1 for the whole night and it was Fleur. The timeline breaks and it makes my brain rebel against getting onboard with this love story. I wish authors would just take a few minutes to plan things out and not retcon whole very prominent story points to make it fit a new book. It really sucked a lot of the joy out of this book for me. And it makes me less likely to read this author again.
This could have been better but having read these books in order it is so frustrating for an author to completely change recent history. In The Villain, Hartwell has 2 overt lovers/doxies at the masquerade. And suddenly in this book, he had only 1 for the whole night and it was Fleur. The timeline breaks and it makes my brain rebel against getting onboard with this love story. I wish authors would just take a few minutes to plan things out and not retcon whole very prominent story points to make it fit a new book. It really sucked a lot of the joy out of this book for me. And it makes me less likely to read this author again.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Henry, the Duke of Hartwell, has a serious reason for holding a grudge against the McQuoid family. Fleur McQuoid thinks he should get over it. She wants them to be friends. Henry is resisting, but she is persisting. Hidden identities, a ring and an unexpected secret, will turn their relationship upside down. Not to mention those kisses.
This book is one big emotional roller coaster keeping you on your toes from one page to the next.
Descriptive sex.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book gifted by the author.
This book is one big emotional roller coaster keeping you on your toes from one page to the next.
Descriptive sex.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book gifted by the author.
May 24, 2026
Don Juan
Duke of Hartwell, Hart, was recently jilted and his brother married her. She was a McQuoid a family beneath Hart and he was happy to let her go. Fleur was her cousin and saw another Duke, she called him Henry. He wasn’t cold, but had a poetic charm. He was definitely mad, bad & dangerous. The chemistry between Fleur & Henry sizzled and steamed. He needed power and betrayal & desire wasn’t him. He needed a proper flawless Dutchess. Beautifuly written with flawless characters and one reckless night!
Duke of Hartwell, Hart, was recently jilted and his brother married her. She was a McQuoid a family beneath Hart and he was happy to let her go. Fleur was her cousin and saw another Duke, she called him Henry. He wasn’t cold, but had a poetic charm. He was definitely mad, bad & dangerous. The chemistry between Fleur & Henry sizzled and steamed. He needed power and betrayal & desire wasn’t him. He needed a proper flawless Dutchess. Beautifuly written with flawless characters and one reckless night!
July 13, 2026
loved this book
This was great. So entertaining. It was a good match up with the Duke and Fleur. I enjoyed their banter and their rumble at the jewelry store. The Duke is so arrogant and harsh that he’s not someone I would suffer. However, we do see him falling for Fleur he just doesn’t understand it. So that’s cute. This had a great storyline and characters. I loved the ending. My reason for not giving 5 stars is the Duke was clueless and harsh quite a bit until the last 5% of the book. But I would fully recommend this book!
This was great. So entertaining. It was a good match up with the Duke and Fleur. I enjoyed their banter and their rumble at the jewelry store. The Duke is so arrogant and harsh that he’s not someone I would suffer. However, we do see him falling for Fleur he just doesn’t understand it. So that’s cute. This had a great storyline and characters. I loved the ending. My reason for not giving 5 stars is the Duke was clueless and harsh quite a bit until the last 5% of the book. But I would fully recommend this book!
May 28, 2026
The Beast is the next in Christi Caldwell’s McQuoid Family Saga series. Not since the Tidemore family have I laughed so much at a group of mischievous ladies. Fleur McQuoid is shunned by society due to the supposed misdeeds of her family & not for anything she herself has done yet! While trying to buy a sought after copy of Lord Byron’s works she encounters the Duke of Hartwell, recently jilted by her cousin Meghan. This story centers around how enemies become frenemies then ultimately lovers. While there is a fair bit of humor and a lightheartedness to this book there is also some deep emotional moments. We find that Hart has never really shown his true self until Fleur and she has always felt she has to hide her desires and wants. It’s a story about discovery and opening oneself up to love. Redemption is what Christi does so well, when villainous characters from previous stories become heroes and find their happy ever after. It was such a wonderful story, with characters who have depth and who you root for. I highly recommend this book
I received and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book and these are my honest opinions and review.
I received and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book and these are my honest opinions and review.
May 26, 2026
I loved the previous book in this series, The Villian, so I wasn’t sure if this book could live up to it. I have to tell you, it did and in some aspects, it surpassed it. I laughed so hard at all of the banter which is totally my jam. The love story is endearing and full of excitement. The vulnerability of both characters was so well written. Oh, and the yearning, oh the yearning was so thick you need a knife to cut through it. This is exactly what I want in romance.
June 2, 2026
Book 4 of the McQuoid family isn't the one to miss out on. I don't recommend it as a standalone because the prior stories set the stage for something you won't put down. He's controlled and so unbending, you want to just rattle his cage just to see him break. She's beneath him in ways that do more than rattle the cage! A powerful story of two souls who should never be together yet are drawn like magnets by forces beyond their own wants.
May 20, 2026
Just beautiful! I love a masquerade, hidden identity trope and this really touched me.
I really didn’t like Hartwell in the previous book but Christi redeemed him and then some.
I would have liked to read their full encounter but I guess that would have been difficult to integrate without giving away the truth far too early in the book.
Well I’m looking forward to the next one!
I really didn’t like Hartwell in the previous book but Christi redeemed him and then some.
I would have liked to read their full encounter but I guess that would have been difficult to integrate without giving away the truth far too early in the book.
Well I’m looking forward to the next one!
May 26, 2026
I’ve been a fan of Christi’s writing since she started and I can say, unequivocally, that she keeps getting better. Every book is a journey through situations, family dynamics and emotions.
Hartwell, an *ss in the rest of the series truly gets what he deserves in this story!
This series about the unconventional McQuoid’s is becoming one of my favorite series!!
Hartwell, an *ss in the rest of the series truly gets what he deserves in this story!
This series about the unconventional McQuoid’s is becoming one of my favorite series!!
May 28, 2026
2.5 stars. I recommend reading the books in this series in order. I made the mistake of simply thinking this was an interconnected standalone, but there is a lot of information, characters, and storylines that continue from previous books. I would have enjoyed the story more had I read those books first.
June 2, 2026
The Beast
Christi's masterful storytelling never fails to captivate me. Each novel surpasses my expectations, weaving intricate plots that evoke profound emotional responses. Her writing is so compelling that I hesitate to begin a new book, knowing it will pale in comparison to the rich narrative and depth she consistently delivers.
Christi's masterful storytelling never fails to captivate me. Each novel surpasses my expectations, weaving intricate plots that evoke profound emotional responses. Her writing is so compelling that I hesitate to begin a new book, knowing it will pale in comparison to the rich narrative and depth she consistently delivers.
June 8, 2026
Put this one on your Must Read list! One of my favorite books of the year! Who doesn’t love a surly, loveless Duke, who, when he falls, he falls hard? Add a feisty little spitfire birthed from the family he hates the most. Created by the amazing pen of Christi Caldwell, you get a sizzling romance that runs hot and passionate! A most entertaining and enjoyable read! Loved it!
May 22, 2026
This romance has a swath of emotions - pride, defiance and desire. Two people that are drawn to each other in many ways, an unforgettable pull and a fulfilling happily ever after. Henry and Fleur are meant to be.
May 27, 2026
Lost in this book
I lost my kindle on a flight home. I started reading The Beast on my iPhone -Kindle app and I could not put it down. I finished it shortly and will continue to read the McQuoid Family Saga. Great writing by Christi Caldwell.
I lost my kindle on a flight home. I started reading The Beast on my iPhone -Kindle app and I could not put it down. I finished it shortly and will continue to read the McQuoid Family Saga. Great writing by Christi Caldwell.
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