What do you think?
Rate this book
The Blood Realm #1
All for a Rose
‘Twas Beauty that soothed the savage Beast.
It is recommended that you read the Blood Prince series first, but you won’t be lost if you don’t. May contain spoilers for books in the Blood Prince series.
A Man Becoming a Beast..
The naga lord Daman is trapped between forms, half man half wyvern. Once the savior of enslaved changelings all over the kingdom of Sanguenay, Daman is now a danger to everyone around him. The curse that holds him prisoner in his own skin and scales keeps him in a constant state of imbalance, his altruistic nature fighting with the quick and violent temper of his more bestial side. When his plan to capture the witch who cursed him fails and leaves him with a sweet and beautiful changeling, Daman finds himself with the perfect opportunity to prove to himself that he is more man than beast. But hope dies a little more every day, and with every passing sunset, Daman finds his temper growing more and more out of control…
A changeling searching for freedom...
Guilt is eating Gigi alive. Since her family lost their fortune and had to move out of their mansion to a poor farm, Gigi has never felt better--and her sister has never felt worse. It seems that every time Gigi digs her hands into the earth to work the farm, she feels stronger, and every time her sister even thinks about working the land, she grows weaker. Gigi’s existence is about easing her sister’s pain, and the guilt over wanting freedom from that responsibility is killing her. What does it say about her loyalty when she leaps at a chance to be the prisoner of a monster just to get away from being her sister’s keeper? And what does it say about her that this monster makes her feel more alive than she ever imagined?
A tale as old as time…
An enchanted rose. A witch’s curse. A beast’s temper. A maiden who can see the potential for good even beneath the scales of a monster. It’s amazing what can transpire… all for a Rose.
It is recommended that you read the Blood Prince series first, but you won’t be lost if you don’t. May contain spoilers for books in the Blood Prince series.
A Man Becoming a Beast..
The naga lord Daman is trapped between forms, half man half wyvern. Once the savior of enslaved changelings all over the kingdom of Sanguenay, Daman is now a danger to everyone around him. The curse that holds him prisoner in his own skin and scales keeps him in a constant state of imbalance, his altruistic nature fighting with the quick and violent temper of his more bestial side. When his plan to capture the witch who cursed him fails and leaves him with a sweet and beautiful changeling, Daman finds himself with the perfect opportunity to prove to himself that he is more man than beast. But hope dies a little more every day, and with every passing sunset, Daman finds his temper growing more and more out of control…
A changeling searching for freedom...
Guilt is eating Gigi alive. Since her family lost their fortune and had to move out of their mansion to a poor farm, Gigi has never felt better--and her sister has never felt worse. It seems that every time Gigi digs her hands into the earth to work the farm, she feels stronger, and every time her sister even thinks about working the land, she grows weaker. Gigi’s existence is about easing her sister’s pain, and the guilt over wanting freedom from that responsibility is killing her. What does it say about her loyalty when she leaps at a chance to be the prisoner of a monster just to get away from being her sister’s keeper? And what does it say about her that this monster makes her feel more alive than she ever imagined?
A tale as old as time…
An enchanted rose. A witch’s curse. A beast’s temper. A maiden who can see the potential for good even beneath the scales of a monster. It’s amazing what can transpire… all for a Rose.
330 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 27, 2015
102 people are currently reading
729 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Blackstream
53 books512 followersJennifer Blackstream is a USA Today bestselling author of urban fantasy and paranormal romance. She is amazed and grateful to have made a writing career out of a Master’s degree in Psychology, hours of couch-detecting watching Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries, and endless research into mythology and fairy tales. She firmly believes that whether it’s a village witch deciding she wants to be a private investigator, or a single mother having a go at being a full time writer, it’s never too late for a new adventure.
A fervent devotee of cooperative board games, Jennifer sets aside at least two nights a week for team-based adventures such as Mice & Mystics, Sentinels of the Multiverse, or Harry Potter: Battle at Hogwarts. She uses games with dice-based mechanics to lure in her ridiculously lucky-rolling son and daughter in the hope that they too will develop a passion for cooperative escapism.
Jennifer currently has three series going:
BLOOD PRINCE SERIES (PARANORMAL ROMANCE, COMPLETE):
Book 1 – Before Midnight
Book 2 – One Bite
Book 3 – Golden Stair
Book 4 – Divine Scales
Book 5 – Beautiful Salvation
Bonus Adventures in the Blood Prince World:
Book 2.5 – What Big Teeth You Have (free when you sign up for mailing list mentioned below)
Book 4.5 – The Pirate’s Witch
Book 5.5 – Dead to Begin With (available only between Thanksgiving and whenever Jennifer takes her Christmas tree down)
BLOOD REALM SERIES (PARANORMAL ROMANCE, IN PROGRESS SPIN-OFF OF BLOOD PRINCE SERIES):
Book 1 – All for a Rose
Book 2 – Blue Voodoo
Book 3 – The Archer
Book 4 – Bear With Me
Book 5 – Stolen Wish
BLOOD TRAILS SERIES (URBAN FANTASY, ONGOING)
Book 1 – Deadline
Book 2 – Monster
Book 3 – Taken
Book 4 – Corruption
Book 5 – Mercenary
Book 6 – Caged
Book 7 – Betrayal
A fervent devotee of cooperative board games, Jennifer sets aside at least two nights a week for team-based adventures such as Mice & Mystics, Sentinels of the Multiverse, or Harry Potter: Battle at Hogwarts. She uses games with dice-based mechanics to lure in her ridiculously lucky-rolling son and daughter in the hope that they too will develop a passion for cooperative escapism.
Jennifer currently has three series going:
BLOOD PRINCE SERIES (PARANORMAL ROMANCE, COMPLETE):
Book 1 – Before Midnight
Book 2 – One Bite
Book 3 – Golden Stair
Book 4 – Divine Scales
Book 5 – Beautiful Salvation
Bonus Adventures in the Blood Prince World:
Book 2.5 – What Big Teeth You Have (free when you sign up for mailing list mentioned below)
Book 4.5 – The Pirate’s Witch
Book 5.5 – Dead to Begin With (available only between Thanksgiving and whenever Jennifer takes her Christmas tree down)
BLOOD REALM SERIES (PARANORMAL ROMANCE, IN PROGRESS SPIN-OFF OF BLOOD PRINCE SERIES):
Book 1 – All for a Rose
Book 2 – Blue Voodoo
Book 3 – The Archer
Book 4 – Bear With Me
Book 5 – Stolen Wish
BLOOD TRAILS SERIES (URBAN FANTASY, ONGOING)
Book 1 – Deadline
Book 2 – Monster
Book 3 – Taken
Book 4 – Corruption
Book 5 – Mercenary
Book 6 – Caged
Book 7 – Betrayal
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
March 25, 2017
Grouchy, grumpy and gruff, Daman is the emotional center of this adult fairy tale. Cursed to an existence as half-man and half-dragon, he becomes a snarly recluse. When the opportunity arises for Daman to get revenge on the witch who cursed him, he demands she be sent to his estate. Unfortunately, it is sweet Maribel who arrives to serve the sentence, for she is the sister who sent her father for the magic rose. Upon seeing Maribel, the lonely Daman demands she stay. In that moment he starts a war within himself; he knows he should send Maribel home but he selfishly sees her as the salvation to his self-imposed solitude. In keeping with his internal struggle, his moods vacillate wildly. I knew I was going to be hooked on Daman and Maribel when their first meeting ends with him hopelessly drawn to her yet disgusted with his need for her, so out of juvenile frustration he squeezes the tomatoes in her apron pocket. Like Maribel, my jaw dropped. And then I laughed. It was a great scene.
The romance in this book takes time to build, which is somewhat unusual for a paranormal couple. Maribel isn’t entirely sure she likes her surly host, plus his physical features take some getting used to. He growls. She’s gracious. He growls some more. She gets pissed. Over time they become used to one another while he suns in the garden and she tinkers with her plants. The love story is poignantly told from both perspectives. Then finally there is that kiss….. All this leads up to the classic climactic tension point in most “Beauty and the Beast” renditions: will she stay or will she go? There are strong arguments for both, and guilt is a strong motivator for Maribel.
Our heroine has left behind a sick sister. Author Jennifer Blackstream is clever, making us wonder if Maribel’s sister Corrine is really a witch or a much-maligned victim, prone to misunderstood epileptic seizures. The sisterly love is true, but Corrine has flashes of selfishness and meanness. Corrine is such a well-developed secondary character, that readers quickly realize she will be a lynchpin in the story.
Blackstream uses the bones of the Beauty and the Beast fairy tale, but there is enough variation that readers won’t know where the story is headed. Of course, there will be a HEA, right? But I’ll be darned if I wasn’t teary-eyed at one point out of despair. This book is full of highs and lows, humor and humanity, magic and madness, passion and compassion. One thing I do know, Jennifer Blackstream is a masterful story-teller.
P.S. The book blurb recommends reading Blackstream's Black Prince series first. It is totally unnecessary. Only the epilogue was an obvious reference to the other series.
The romance in this book takes time to build, which is somewhat unusual for a paranormal couple. Maribel isn’t entirely sure she likes her surly host, plus his physical features take some getting used to. He growls. She’s gracious. He growls some more. She gets pissed. Over time they become used to one another while he suns in the garden and she tinkers with her plants. The love story is poignantly told from both perspectives. Then finally there is that kiss….. All this leads up to the classic climactic tension point in most “Beauty and the Beast” renditions: will she stay or will she go? There are strong arguments for both, and guilt is a strong motivator for Maribel.
Our heroine has left behind a sick sister. Author Jennifer Blackstream is clever, making us wonder if Maribel’s sister Corrine is really a witch or a much-maligned victim, prone to misunderstood epileptic seizures. The sisterly love is true, but Corrine has flashes of selfishness and meanness. Corrine is such a well-developed secondary character, that readers quickly realize she will be a lynchpin in the story.
Blackstream uses the bones of the Beauty and the Beast fairy tale, but there is enough variation that readers won’t know where the story is headed. Of course, there will be a HEA, right? But I’ll be darned if I wasn’t teary-eyed at one point out of despair. This book is full of highs and lows, humor and humanity, magic and madness, passion and compassion. One thing I do know, Jennifer Blackstream is a masterful story-teller.
P.S. The book blurb recommends reading Blackstream's Black Prince series first. It is totally unnecessary. Only the epilogue was an obvious reference to the other series.
February 9, 2016
A beautiful and creative re-telling of The Beauty and the Beast. H is a dragon shifter and after being cursed by a witch he is stuck between his two forms: human male-like upper body with bluish skin and blue/green silvery scales and ridges nearly all over his body, lower body like a serpent with no feet at all (moves like a serpent), he has fangs, sharp claws, a forked tongue and silver eyes with reptilian pupils. He is broody, has permanent mood swings, always struggles to keep sane and not to give up the little humanity he has left, and when he's furious he starts speaking with sibilant sounds. The heroine is very likable, strong and not afraid of him. There are some very funny side characters (enchanted furniture and plants who talk and and their mannerisms made me laughing out loud). Up to around 75% there weren't any steamy scenes except for some hot kisses and I first thought due to his cursed form there are no man parts but lord, was I wrong, their mating was very hot and well written. There are some typos and a few issues with repeating already known infos but all in all I very much enjoyed it and would give 4.5 stars. It was exciting till the end though that came a bit suddenly. The last chapter is about the h's sister who has redeemed herself and I hope she will get her own story. And after the curse was broken, I wish we would have known more about what happened to the enchanted furniture or plants. The epilogue gives glimpses of the couple's HEA but it's actually more like a teaser for the next book in the series, by introducing new characters who I first thought will supposedly get their own story, but after checking out the author's other books I found out all their stories are already published. The first one of the Blood Prince series is Before Midnight and it's currently free on Amazon. The second one of the new Hidden Kingdom series is called Blue Voodoo.
September 26, 2015
NOTE: This book is FREE if you have a Kindle Unlimited subscription as I do.
This review may be a bit of a fake because I may have given it an extra half star because I see this series getting off to such a good start and the feel of her 5 Star Blood Prince series (which you really SHOULD read first, the first book Before Midnight: A Romantic Retelling of Cinderella (Blood Prince Series Book 1) is FREE to everyone) which this book was kind of a continuation becomes is evident at the end.
As with all those other "retelling" stories that Jennifer Blackstream has written they are only a retelling in the most basic definition, these are original stories set within that framework and done exceptionally well. This story is no exception and follows that well worn fairy tale just enough that you can see it faintly but some major things don't happen as you expect them to happen and I loved it.
This story has the main plot of the forced (and very rocky) relationship between Daman and Maribel was wonderfully done but there are at least 3 or 4 other plots going in this story and THAT is what makes all these books exceptional.
Bottom Line: This is a wonderful story, I can't/won't tell you too much because between the synopsis and your own knowledge of the original fairy tale you have already got a good handle on the basic story. This is the start to a very in-depth overarching plot in addition to the couple that will be in each book (based on my knowledge of the first series) and I can hardly wait, I wish I could get them all now and lock myself away to read them all at once. 4+ Stars and I guess I gave it 5 because I can see this series will be 5 Star when it is finished and all motivations and sub plots are known (we did not know until the very last book of the first series WHY things were being done and it was wonderful)
This review may be a bit of a fake because I may have given it an extra half star because I see this series getting off to such a good start and the feel of her 5 Star Blood Prince series (which you really SHOULD read first, the first book Before Midnight: A Romantic Retelling of Cinderella (Blood Prince Series Book 1) is FREE to everyone) which this book was kind of a continuation becomes is evident at the end.
As with all those other "retelling" stories that Jennifer Blackstream has written they are only a retelling in the most basic definition, these are original stories set within that framework and done exceptionally well. This story is no exception and follows that well worn fairy tale just enough that you can see it faintly but some major things don't happen as you expect them to happen and I loved it.
This story has the main plot of the forced (and very rocky) relationship between Daman and Maribel was wonderfully done but there are at least 3 or 4 other plots going in this story and THAT is what makes all these books exceptional.
Bottom Line: This is a wonderful story, I can't/won't tell you too much because between the synopsis and your own knowledge of the original fairy tale you have already got a good handle on the basic story. This is the start to a very in-depth overarching plot in addition to the couple that will be in each book (based on my knowledge of the first series) and I can hardly wait, I wish I could get them all now and lock myself away to read them all at once. 4+ Stars and I guess I gave it 5 because I can see this series will be 5 Star when it is finished and all motivations and sub plots are known (we did not know until the very last book of the first series WHY things were being done and it was wonderful)
October 10, 2015
Mild Spoilers
2.5 Stars
I thought this book was ok but it had some problems. For the most part, it read like a really charming fairy tale. As I was reading I really couldn't make up my mind as to whether this was intended to be an adult or a young adult book. The personalities of the characters all seemed somewhat juvenile to me. At times I felt the characters acted clinical and emotionless. I also felt like there was a significant lack of sparks between the two main characters.
Maribel, the female lead, in my opinion was a lot less interesting than her sister Corrine, although certainly a much better person. I didn't want so much of the story to be told from the Corrine' point of view yet somehow I was much more entertained with her parts of the story than with Maribel's. And in regard to Maribel, I just re-read the Goodreads blurb for this book and in it, the main character is called Gigi. Gigi? Huh. In the version I just read, her name is Maribel.
My initial confusion over the YA vs. adult classification was certainly cleared up with a very detailed sex scene, during which Daman is still in his half man half dragon form. This form being described as a human torso with a lower half resembling a snake. This felt a little too much like bestiality to me but at least it cleared up my random curiosity regarding where he keeps his penis.
Overall I just have really mixed feelings about this. It wasn't terrible but I don't really have any interest in reading more of the series.
2.5 Stars
I thought this book was ok but it had some problems. For the most part, it read like a really charming fairy tale. As I was reading I really couldn't make up my mind as to whether this was intended to be an adult or a young adult book. The personalities of the characters all seemed somewhat juvenile to me. At times I felt the characters acted clinical and emotionless. I also felt like there was a significant lack of sparks between the two main characters.
Maribel, the female lead, in my opinion was a lot less interesting than her sister Corrine, although certainly a much better person. I didn't want so much of the story to be told from the Corrine' point of view yet somehow I was much more entertained with her parts of the story than with Maribel's. And in regard to Maribel, I just re-read the Goodreads blurb for this book and in it, the main character is called Gigi. Gigi? Huh. In the version I just read, her name is Maribel.
My initial confusion over the YA vs. adult classification was certainly cleared up with a very detailed sex scene, during which Daman is still in his half man half dragon form. This form being described as a human torso with a lower half resembling a snake. This felt a little too much like bestiality to me but at least it cleared up my random curiosity regarding where he keeps his penis.
Overall I just have really mixed feelings about this. It wasn't terrible but I don't really have any interest in reading more of the series.
on-sale-to-read
March 24, 2017
March 2, 2016
~3.5 stars~
This made for a pleasant fairytale retelling of Beauty and the Beast. The blurb on goodreads mentioned that the heroines name was GiGi, but I'm happy to report that it was actually Maribel in the book. Good call on the writers part. The story was pretty predictable throughout but I still liked it. The writing style was solid and the characters relatable. I also appreciate that it was offered as a kindleunlimited. I'll definitely check out more of this writers work.
This made for a pleasant fairytale retelling of Beauty and the Beast. The blurb on goodreads mentioned that the heroines name was GiGi, but I'm happy to report that it was actually Maribel in the book. Good call on the writers part. The story was pretty predictable throughout but I still liked it. The writing style was solid and the characters relatable. I also appreciate that it was offered as a kindleunlimited. I'll definitely check out more of this writers work.
March 13, 2016
its was ok !!!! maybe i would like the next one better
April 18, 2017
3.0 stars
The love story is way better than in the last two Blood Realm Prince books, but Corrine was so annoying and Maribels trust in her. I wished that side story would've been shorter. And I didn't liked it that Daman had a fucking penis in his naga(!) form, his lower half is a snake/wyvern. It's like imagining a merman with a penis or a mermaid with a vagina o.O It's unnecessary...
The love story is way better than in the last two Blood Realm Prince books, but Corrine was so annoying and Maribels trust in her. I wished that side story would've been shorter. And I didn't liked it that Daman had a fucking penis in his naga(!) form, his lower half is a snake/wyvern. It's like imagining a merman with a penis or a mermaid with a vagina o.O It's unnecessary...
January 4, 2018
This isn’t my favorite in the series, but it was still enjoyable! I have read the entire Blood Prince series and now the whole spin-off Blood Realm series. I have enjoyed reading each one as they come out and always eagerly anticipate the next one. They can all be read as standalones if you skip the prologues and epilogues, which I honestly skim through anyways. I really couldn’t care less about the whole “Hidden Kingdom” plot. WARNING: there is sex in this book, it is not erotica, but enough to be a steamy & hot adult romance. Blackstream usually sticks to just 1 scene towards the end of each book. Please do not read if you are looking for something PG. Romance-5/5 Steaminess-3/5 Explicitness-3/5
August 19, 2015
All for a Rose is Jennifer Blackstream’s latest re-imagined fairy tale. This time she takes on Beauty and the Beast, and it is definitely not the Disney version of this story. Maribel and Corrine are formerly of the upper class, their father having lost his shipping business fortune to pirates. Maribel is trying to make the best of their new, simple life, but Corrine wants nothing more than to find her way back to their family’s former glory. Corrine was touched with the “Evil Fire” as a child and as such has bouts of extreme weakness, hallucinations, and other maladies. It seems to have gotten worse since the family has been living on a farm, away from most civilization.
Their father hears one of his ships has been recovered and travels to see what is left for his family. He promises to bring Corrine back a beautiful gown. Maribel asks only for the Rose of the Mist, a plant she read about that she believes will cure her sister. In his travels their father seeks refuge in the home of the beast, Daman. Daman ensures the man is fed and given a place to rest, but when he finds out the father is searching for the Rose, Daman becomes incensed. When he further discovers one of the man’s daughters is the witch who cursed him to his beast form, Damam tells the man either he must stay forever with the beast or his daughter must stay in his place. Little does Daman know the daughter who asked for the Rose and will come to stay with him is not the witch he was expecting.
Blackstream has a real talent for taking well know tales and making them her own. No one is who they seem in this story – not the sisters, the beast, or Mother Briar, Corrine’s mentor. I really liked that Daman was a naga, ordinarily able to shift between human and dragon form but stuck in a half-man half-serpent form due to the curse. His difficulty controlling his anger brought on by his cursed form makes for some great reading. Maribel sees past the exterior to the man within, but Daman cannot believe anyone would choose to be with a cursed beast such as him. They both have so many issues to overcome before they can determine if they really are meant to be together. The way everything comes to a climax is exciting, touching and very satifying.
The story eventually does link with others in Blackstream’s series, and certainly leaves the door open for more. I hope Corrine in particular gets her own story at some point. This can be read as a stand-alone story, but I think it’s better to read the series in order. They are all good, and I highly recommend this and the others by Blackstream.
I received a free ARC of this book with the request for an honest review.
Their father hears one of his ships has been recovered and travels to see what is left for his family. He promises to bring Corrine back a beautiful gown. Maribel asks only for the Rose of the Mist, a plant she read about that she believes will cure her sister. In his travels their father seeks refuge in the home of the beast, Daman. Daman ensures the man is fed and given a place to rest, but when he finds out the father is searching for the Rose, Daman becomes incensed. When he further discovers one of the man’s daughters is the witch who cursed him to his beast form, Damam tells the man either he must stay forever with the beast or his daughter must stay in his place. Little does Daman know the daughter who asked for the Rose and will come to stay with him is not the witch he was expecting.
Blackstream has a real talent for taking well know tales and making them her own. No one is who they seem in this story – not the sisters, the beast, or Mother Briar, Corrine’s mentor. I really liked that Daman was a naga, ordinarily able to shift between human and dragon form but stuck in a half-man half-serpent form due to the curse. His difficulty controlling his anger brought on by his cursed form makes for some great reading. Maribel sees past the exterior to the man within, but Daman cannot believe anyone would choose to be with a cursed beast such as him. They both have so many issues to overcome before they can determine if they really are meant to be together. The way everything comes to a climax is exciting, touching and very satifying.
The story eventually does link with others in Blackstream’s series, and certainly leaves the door open for more. I hope Corrine in particular gets her own story at some point. This can be read as a stand-alone story, but I think it’s better to read the series in order. They are all good, and I highly recommend this and the others by Blackstream.
I received a free ARC of this book with the request for an honest review.
May 11, 2016
All for a Rose by Jennifer Blackstream is a classic “Beauty and the Beast” tale, although this time the Beast is a naga lord, half-human, half-wyvern, with a temper growing more and more out of control. Magic spells, a changeling, and of course, a Rose. If you like the Dark Ages sort of castles, monsters, rich families reduced to peasants sort of thing, this is a well written one from my perusal, though the genre is not a favorite of mine. I did enjoy the references to herb usage, such as medicinal, and deadly, uses of Mountain Arnica for humans and fae creatures such as vampires. What turned me off the most was the spoiled sister, Corrine, who Maribel, the ‘nice’ sister, is so desperately trying to heal at the cost of everything. Meh. Not my thing, but again it may very well be perfect for you.
April 21, 2019
Alright. First off, I have to confess to being a long time Jennifer Blackstream fan, so you know from the start. Second, I'd like to point out that this Blood Realm series follows directly after the Blood Prince series (also of note, though The Pirate's Witch is part of the first series, it is not crucial to either series) and though I do feel you can read the stories without needing the background, the small moments at the end of the book, as well as some of the characters within, will be lost to you if you haven't read the first series. It is an amazing set of books, so I highly suggest giving them a read first.
All for a Rose is a Beauty and the Beast remake. If you don't like fairy tale retellings, walk away now. If you DO like them, and like them with so much more depth and passion, then please give this a go! Even as a child I loved knowing the origins of the stories that Disney chugged out on their assembly line and secretly snickered at how far off they were (on purpose of course, but still). This is a gritty, heartbreaking rendition of the beloved tale of a woman who trades her life for her father's to become the prisoner of a reclusive beast.
Maribel is not head in the clouds and flighty at all. She is very down to earth, level headed, and dependable. Her family, consisting of her father and older sister, recently found themselves uprooted from their lives when a bad turn of luck for her father sees them falling from mid level high society down to barely surviving on what they can grow. Maribel steps up and takes on the challenge not only with courage, but with relish. She flourishes in the country away from society whereas her sickly sister, a witch, grows weaker and languishes in misery in what she sees as an absolute hell. Maribel takes on most of her sisters work and also cares for her as best she is able. When her father accidentally insults the wrong man, the 'beast', and is sent home to bring his daughter in his place (he intends only to bid them farewell and let them know his fate, to his credit, as he is definitely a loving father), she actually finds herself excited to go.
Damon is a Naga; a being capable of taking on either a dragon form or a human one at will, and who has dedicated his life to saving changelings from harm. He was cursed by a witch and is stuck in a half-form between his two normal shapes with his lower half being tail and his upper mostly human. When he sends for Maribel he believes her to be the witch that cursed him and intends to make her change him back. He is confused when she turns out not to be the witch at all, but finds himself hard pressed to free her as she makes his life less lonely.
So we have the basic facets of the beauty and the beast story, and it moves pretty steadily from there with both growing to know one another and a rather convoluted story playing out and unraveling as we go. I really enjoyed Damon and Maribel both as people unto themselves, and getting to see them interact together was also very interesting. Mrs. Blackstream always does a wonderful job of fleshing her characters out and making them feel well rounded. We also had an appearance from a certain cuelebre (a tiny dragon like creature) from the Divine Scales novel.
I think what really clenched the five stars for me was the fact that through the book we watch Damon struggle with his animal nature. He's stuck between forms, so he has the confusing problem of being stuck with multiple drives always clashing. That sometimes makes him very volatile and that very obviously upsets him greatly. Just because she comes to care for him, that doesn't just vanish like some writers will have happen. Maribel has to come to accept him for what he is and embrace that while learning to deal with those quirks. I thoroughly enjoyed the romance in this book, for that reason alone (among others).
All for a Rose is a Beauty and the Beast remake. If you don't like fairy tale retellings, walk away now. If you DO like them, and like them with so much more depth and passion, then please give this a go! Even as a child I loved knowing the origins of the stories that Disney chugged out on their assembly line and secretly snickered at how far off they were (on purpose of course, but still). This is a gritty, heartbreaking rendition of the beloved tale of a woman who trades her life for her father's to become the prisoner of a reclusive beast.
Maribel is not head in the clouds and flighty at all. She is very down to earth, level headed, and dependable. Her family, consisting of her father and older sister, recently found themselves uprooted from their lives when a bad turn of luck for her father sees them falling from mid level high society down to barely surviving on what they can grow. Maribel steps up and takes on the challenge not only with courage, but with relish. She flourishes in the country away from society whereas her sickly sister, a witch, grows weaker and languishes in misery in what she sees as an absolute hell. Maribel takes on most of her sisters work and also cares for her as best she is able. When her father accidentally insults the wrong man, the 'beast', and is sent home to bring his daughter in his place (he intends only to bid them farewell and let them know his fate, to his credit, as he is definitely a loving father), she actually finds herself excited to go.
Damon is a Naga; a being capable of taking on either a dragon form or a human one at will, and who has dedicated his life to saving changelings from harm. He was cursed by a witch and is stuck in a half-form between his two normal shapes with his lower half being tail and his upper mostly human. When he sends for Maribel he believes her to be the witch that cursed him and intends to make her change him back. He is confused when she turns out not to be the witch at all, but finds himself hard pressed to free her as she makes his life less lonely.
So we have the basic facets of the beauty and the beast story, and it moves pretty steadily from there with both growing to know one another and a rather convoluted story playing out and unraveling as we go. I really enjoyed Damon and Maribel both as people unto themselves, and getting to see them interact together was also very interesting. Mrs. Blackstream always does a wonderful job of fleshing her characters out and making them feel well rounded. We also had an appearance from a certain cuelebre (a tiny dragon like creature) from the Divine Scales novel.
I think what really clenched the five stars for me was the fact that through the book we watch Damon struggle with his animal nature. He's stuck between forms, so he has the confusing problem of being stuck with multiple drives always clashing. That sometimes makes him very volatile and that very obviously upsets him greatly. Just because she comes to care for him, that doesn't just vanish like some writers will have happen. Maribel has to come to accept him for what he is and embrace that while learning to deal with those quirks. I thoroughly enjoyed the romance in this book, for that reason alone (among others).
February 20, 2018
I sooooooo did NOT have a good time ;(
This story was too much, and not enough all at the same time...
Soooo much of the story was taken up with Corrine it felt like it was more about her than it as about Damon and Maribel and that was just a huge waste to me....
Damon and Maribel are both consumed with fear and judgement that was all started mainly by Corrine who ran around in circles of fear and self loathing because someone gave her magic she didn’t know about or understand,which made her a hazard to herself and others, and while she might not wanted to be the lazy beyotch she was, Maribel was sooo naïve and trusting with her, she should have had WELCOME printed on her forehead to make her being a total doormat complete .....
Ugh!!!
With Damon all Maribel did was fight and argue,and believe me very little of it was hot or exciting or even interesting, both were soo mistrustful and beaten down neither wanting to believe the other could be being honest with them or want them , it was painful to watch after a while ,even with a talking snake and wardrobe to help.... Honestly at times all they seemed to do was muddy the waters....
This was supposed be some deluded take on Beauty and the beast I think,haughty, arrogant man, who looks like a beast cut off from the outside world, even a rose in the mix....
But this was too muddy and muddled to me, Corrine should have had her own story separate from Maribel’s and Maribel should have had more back bone and more sense, Mari had the kinda loyalty that makes you into a clueless fool/idiot , there were times where it felt Mari could been given irrefutable proof her sister was a liar, a thieve and a murder ( video even) and Mari still would have stuck blindly with her.....
No, no, no, between having almost two complete and separate and complete stories going on at the same time, the mistrust between the h and H going almost the entire ,length of the story this was just a big mess to me...
We barely have a complete chapter where Damon and Mari are happy with each and together ,sighs the only thing I enjoyed was when Mari showed him just how much she loved his current form ...
I won’t be reading more...
This story was too much, and not enough all at the same time...
Soooo much of the story was taken up with Corrine it felt like it was more about her than it as about Damon and Maribel and that was just a huge waste to me....
Damon and Maribel are both consumed with fear and judgement that was all started mainly by Corrine who ran around in circles of fear and self loathing because someone gave her magic she didn’t know about or understand,which made her a hazard to herself and others, and while she might not wanted to be the lazy beyotch she was, Maribel was sooo naïve and trusting with her, she should have had WELCOME printed on her forehead to make her being a total doormat complete .....
Ugh!!!
With Damon all Maribel did was fight and argue,and believe me very little of it was hot or exciting or even interesting, both were soo mistrustful and beaten down neither wanting to believe the other could be being honest with them or want them , it was painful to watch after a while ,even with a talking snake and wardrobe to help.... Honestly at times all they seemed to do was muddy the waters....
This was supposed be some deluded take on Beauty and the beast I think,haughty, arrogant man, who looks like a beast cut off from the outside world, even a rose in the mix....
But this was too muddy and muddled to me, Corrine should have had her own story separate from Maribel’s and Maribel should have had more back bone and more sense, Mari had the kinda loyalty that makes you into a clueless fool/idiot , there were times where it felt Mari could been given irrefutable proof her sister was a liar, a thieve and a murder ( video even) and Mari still would have stuck blindly with her.....
No, no, no, between having almost two complete and separate and complete stories going on at the same time, the mistrust between the h and H going almost the entire ,length of the story this was just a big mess to me...
We barely have a complete chapter where Damon and Mari are happy with each and together ,sighs the only thing I enjoyed was when Mari showed him just how much she loved his current form ...
I won’t be reading more...
October 20, 2017
I don't know where to start but, I'll try my best.
I did not like this story. Only one thing bothered me; everything else was great. The writing, the plot, the idea behind it; great. The content on the other hand, tempted me to put this book in my DNF pile. It probably deserves 3-4 stars but damnit, I'm too mad+sad+annoyed to give this book a 3 star rating.
The beginning snagged me with a ill tempered (with reason) hero and a strong + clear minded heroine. Then chapter 2 came around and it was a trial to keep reading. The heroine went from being lovable to being totally insufferable. NOBODY IS THAT STUPID! At least that's what I thought until Maribel. I got no satisfaction whatsoever from this story. I kept reading because I was excited to see how the antagonists would be dealt with; and I didn't even get that small bit of satisfaction. Nothing. Nada. None.
I was tempted to give this a 1 star but, if you can see my 'updates' on my reading, you'll see why I gave one extra 🌟. I will continue on reading to Book 2 of this series but I'm crossing my fingers + toes and praying that the next heroine be the total opposite of this one. If not then I guess this series is just not for me. And can I just say...this is nothing like any of the Blood Prince serie. I don't remember a heroine as stupid as this one. Even Loupe who was abused 24/7 and was half a fikkin beast wasn't this stupid. Even Marcela who met obstacles left and right, with NO ONE on her side (on land that is), wasn't this stupid. Maribel...yeah she's in her own category. She was very brave but blind as...well, blind as Maribel. I have yet to think of a blindness like Maribel's. Even blind people use their other senses to their full advantage *sigh*. Anyway, here's to hoping Book 2 is better 🍻.
P.S: I just read another 2 star review and she mentioned a 'Gigi' in the goodreads blurb. OhMyGeorgee! The blurb says the main heroine is 'Gigi' 😂😂😂😂😂. The book says Maribel. There's no Gigi in this book. Who's Gigi? If you know can you tell me pls. Thanks 😂😂😂😂.
I did not like this story. Only one thing bothered me; everything else was great. The writing, the plot, the idea behind it; great. The content on the other hand, tempted me to put this book in my DNF pile. It probably deserves 3-4 stars but damnit, I'm too mad+sad+annoyed to give this book a 3 star rating.
The beginning snagged me with a ill tempered (with reason) hero and a strong + clear minded heroine. Then chapter 2 came around and it was a trial to keep reading. The heroine went from being lovable to being totally insufferable. NOBODY IS THAT STUPID! At least that's what I thought until Maribel. I got no satisfaction whatsoever from this story. I kept reading because I was excited to see how the antagonists would be dealt with; and I didn't even get that small bit of satisfaction. Nothing. Nada. None.
I was tempted to give this a 1 star but, if you can see my 'updates' on my reading, you'll see why I gave one extra 🌟. I will continue on reading to Book 2 of this series but I'm crossing my fingers + toes and praying that the next heroine be the total opposite of this one. If not then I guess this series is just not for me. And can I just say...this is nothing like any of the Blood Prince serie. I don't remember a heroine as stupid as this one. Even Loupe who was abused 24/7 and was half a fikkin beast wasn't this stupid. Even Marcela who met obstacles left and right, with NO ONE on her side (on land that is), wasn't this stupid. Maribel...yeah she's in her own category. She was very brave but blind as...well, blind as Maribel. I have yet to think of a blindness like Maribel's. Even blind people use their other senses to their full advantage *sigh*. Anyway, here's to hoping Book 2 is better 🍻.
P.S: I just read another 2 star review and she mentioned a 'Gigi' in the goodreads blurb. OhMyGeorgee! The blurb says the main heroine is 'Gigi' 😂😂😂😂😂. The book says Maribel. There's no Gigi in this book. Who's Gigi? If you know can you tell me pls. Thanks 😂😂😂😂.
August 16, 2022
Some may say I have an obsession with Beauty and the Beast. I may also say that. That being said, I am constantly searching for new retellings of my favorite story so I can re-experience the magic and romance and this book definitely hit the mark. I’ve noticed some saying they didn’t feel the spark but I disagree. I loved the two main characters and their relationship. It was wholesome and gentle. It started out rocky, as this plot line usually does, but it led into a love that was fueled by a desire to care for one another. The book had enough unique elements to it that it stood out as it’s own story and didn’t feel repetitive. The only reason I gave 4 stars and not 5 was because of some typos and continuity errors that distracted from the story a bit. I also felt as though I was left with a lot of unanswered background questions; Meaning things that didn’t necessarily affect the overall story but still left me feeling dissatisfied. I feel as though this book could have gone on for another 10 chapters but I suppose that’s how all good books feel.
Spoilers ahead:
I’ve been dying to discuss questions and confusions about this book but it’s not well known so I’m directing them here. I would have loved to know where the cuelebre came from. He just appeared and knew things but he was never explained. I got the feeling he may have been Jacque, the guard that was briefly mentioned as a friend but it never came up again. I also would have like to know what happened to Maribel’s dad. Did anyone let him know that his daughters were ok? Or the Mirabel was a changeling? Did Mirabel’s Fey parents ever come looking for her? And how about Mother Briar? Is she gonna get what’s coming to her? And how did Maribel react to Corrine’s note? How did Corrine even attract a pixie in the first place? Also, what about the enchanted furniture and plants? Can they still talk? The book felt unfinished and I would love continue the story.
Spoilers ahead:
I’ve been dying to discuss questions and confusions about this book but it’s not well known so I’m directing them here. I would have loved to know where the cuelebre came from. He just appeared and knew things but he was never explained. I got the feeling he may have been Jacque, the guard that was briefly mentioned as a friend but it never came up again. I also would have like to know what happened to Maribel’s dad. Did anyone let him know that his daughters were ok? Or the Mirabel was a changeling? Did Mirabel’s Fey parents ever come looking for her? And how about Mother Briar? Is she gonna get what’s coming to her? And how did Maribel react to Corrine’s note? How did Corrine even attract a pixie in the first place? Also, what about the enchanted furniture and plants? Can they still talk? The book felt unfinished and I would love continue the story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 30, 2022
I didn’t like this book at all, and the ending just made me angry.
From the very beginning you see that Corrine is spoiled, self-centred and selfish, and yet everyone around her acts as if she’s the queen. I didn’t understand why everyone was trying to make her happy when she just made everyone miserable with her constant guilt tripping.
I didn’t like Maribel because she was a doormat and even when something was obvious, she ignored it and went on with her previous beliefs about Corrine. When Maribel goes to Daman’s manor, immediately there is a time jump which happens several times, so you don’t see Maribel and Daman getting to know each other, much less developing a relationship.
There are a few arguments because Maribel won’t accept what’s right in front of her, but when Daman compares Maribel to Corrine, I thought that that was insulting.
There are a few chapters told from Corrine’s POV which I hated, because of course she’s not actually horrible, she’s just misunderstood and everything she’s ever done doesn’t count as bad. I really didn’t like the end because Corrine isn’t held responsible for anything that she has done and instead the author tries to make you like her.
I really didn’t like the characters in this book and I’m definitely not going to continue with this series as there was nothing about this book that would make me want to see more of this world.
From the very beginning you see that Corrine is spoiled, self-centred and selfish, and yet everyone around her acts as if she’s the queen. I didn’t understand why everyone was trying to make her happy when she just made everyone miserable with her constant guilt tripping.
I didn’t like Maribel because she was a doormat and even when something was obvious, she ignored it and went on with her previous beliefs about Corrine. When Maribel goes to Daman’s manor, immediately there is a time jump which happens several times, so you don’t see Maribel and Daman getting to know each other, much less developing a relationship.
There are a few arguments because Maribel won’t accept what’s right in front of her, but when Daman compares Maribel to Corrine, I thought that that was insulting.
There are a few chapters told from Corrine’s POV which I hated, because of course she’s not actually horrible, she’s just misunderstood and everything she’s ever done doesn’t count as bad. I really didn’t like the end because Corrine isn’t held responsible for anything that she has done and instead the author tries to make you like her.
I really didn’t like the characters in this book and I’m definitely not going to continue with this series as there was nothing about this book that would make me want to see more of this world.
May 11, 2017
This was enjoyable, but not really what I was expecting. I never really felt that connection between the two characters. It was like they tiptoed around each other then decided they were in love all of a sudden. I can't remember them actually talking and getting to know each other besides sharing a meal. Maybe that's all it takes, but I wasn't satisfied with that result. During the book you're also interrupted by the heroine's sister who has her own storyline. I'm wondering if future books are going to feature her, because otherwise I feel a lot of time was wasted learning her backstory.
I will say that the "beast" in this story had an interesting take. It was a little overwhelming trying to imagine his form. I'm definitely not a fan of snakes so trying to picture a man with the lower body of one kind of grossed me out. So by the time I got to the big sex scene I was all "nope". Just didn't do it for me. But interesting all the same.
I will say that the "beast" in this story had an interesting take. It was a little overwhelming trying to imagine his form. I'm definitely not a fan of snakes so trying to picture a man with the lower body of one kind of grossed me out. So by the time I got to the big sex scene I was all "nope". Just didn't do it for me. But interesting all the same.
August 11, 2017
thought this was just like a beauty and the beast book but the best is a dragon that is frozen in half human half dragon. he was cursed by a witch that wanted to be his wife and life there with all the finer things in life. but then he finds out what she is and it's not what he is trying to save she gets upset and curses him.. later her father shows up and tried to pick a rose for his other daug and when he does that's when the beast demands he bring his daug r he has to live out his life there but he brings the wrong daug.. so the book is good reading the next anyway lol..
June 13, 2017
All for a rose was pretty good, 3.5 stars. So the first chapter made me want to quit reading so slow, but after that it had a nice pace to it. There was at times parts of the book that are just to much and a different skim over. Though for the most part it was good. Now I must say the author really off my with the ending chapter. That's is how she will keep them coming back for more.
January 4, 2019
I love fairy tales with a twist and this book was no exception! This take on Beauty & the Beast with Damon as a part man, part dragon beast is one of my favorite re-tellings of this story. I couldn't put this one down and immediately had to buy the rest of the series. I do love that this book and the others in the series are standalone novels, no cliffhangers here!
December 29, 2017
Love this Spin off
Fairytale dragons, magic, witches, Fae. This book has it all and takes you on a wild ride when the beauty takes the wild beast but it's the witch that finally saves them both.
Fairytale dragons, magic, witches, Fae. This book has it all and takes you on a wild ride when the beauty takes the wild beast but it's the witch that finally saves them both.
July 10, 2018
Hit everything on my list
This story hit everything on my favorite list! It had a romance, in the style of beauty and the Beast, with a dragon like creature. Also there are witches thrown in to make it interesting. With all that, what more do you want?
This story hit everything on my favorite list! It had a romance, in the style of beauty and the Beast, with a dragon like creature. Also there are witches thrown in to make it interesting. With all that, what more do you want?
March 6, 2019
Intrigued
I was aware that the books are connected but I was still surprised at the characters I recognized. Awesome work on Corrine, I started with the Blood series so yeah😀 Any way, I'm off to buy more of these! Thanks for the fun.
I was aware that the books are connected but I was still surprised at the characters I recognized. Awesome work on Corrine, I started with the Blood series so yeah😀 Any way, I'm off to buy more of these! Thanks for the fun.
November 1, 2022
It's hard not to like this boonotIt is a retelling of beauty and the beast butn not like any I have read before. The characters show depth and growth. there are a few aspects that seem a little brushed over but it certainly didnt take away from my enjoyment of the story.
November 29, 2017
It was wonderful! Beauty and the beast has always been my all time favourite fairytale and this book just gave me a wonderful perspective of the story! I loved it!
Want to read
September 27, 2020Pretty cool book. Definitely gonna read the rest in the series.
March 7, 2017
I read this in the Wicked Magic anthology which did not warn that there is a preceding series that may have helped with much of my confusion of the last chapter and the fact that the girls name is Maribel not Gigi.
Maribel's family lost their money and moved to a farm. Maribel is the happiest she's ever been but her sister is miserable and her health seems to be declining. When given the opportunity to live with a cursed lord in her fathers place Maribel looks forward to getting away from the demands and unappreciative nature of her sister. She falls in love with Damon but has to figure out how to be happy when her new love and her sister hate one another.
I think Corinne was a really bad person and really the only evidence we have to the contrary is her stating that she's not a bad person....usually directly after she has done something awful. As for Maribel you can love your sister and still understand that she can be a bad person. Her whole "no one is bad" attitude was really irritating. Damon was ok. But overall, just meh.
Maribel's family lost their money and moved to a farm. Maribel is the happiest she's ever been but her sister is miserable and her health seems to be declining. When given the opportunity to live with a cursed lord in her fathers place Maribel looks forward to getting away from the demands and unappreciative nature of her sister. She falls in love with Damon but has to figure out how to be happy when her new love and her sister hate one another.
I think Corinne was a really bad person and really the only evidence we have to the contrary is her stating that she's not a bad person....usually directly after she has done something awful. As for Maribel you can love your sister and still understand that she can be a bad person. Her whole "no one is bad" attitude was really irritating. Damon was ok. But overall, just meh.
March 11, 2017
It was ok but doubtful I'll continue the series.
August 19, 2015
I'm a first time Mom and I exclusively breastfeed my 2 MO, that being said, you can't really DO much while your angel is munching away. So I read. Since I first got introduced to Blackstream in Before Midnight, I was hooked to her talent of writing. Enough so that I forgo many much needed naps to read her books. So when I had the chance to read her newest novel and review it, I jumped at the chance! I was fully prepared to invest my time- well as much as my child would let me. I'm happy to say, it did not disappoint.
I have loved fairy tales, and retelling of them since as far back as I can remember. So believe me when I say, this retelling of Beauty and the Beast stood out to me. It stuck very close to the fairy tale story that I know and love, and yet still changed some major aspects of it that made the novel all the more interesting for it.
The biggest one being the introduction of the Beast himself. He's not your average beast, but a Naga. A serpentine being of dragon descent. That's right, he's a DRAGON ! How awesome is that ?! As you can imagine, snakes are often depicted as evil and vile creatures. The way they slither around, tongue flicking in and out, pretty scary stuff. Yet, Blackstream makes Daman, the beast, all the more sexy and endearing for it.
The relationship between the "Beauty" Maribel and Daman is one delicious to read. It develops in a way that you are expecting and yet not expecting. One that has you waiting for them to meet again because you can't wait to see what they're gonna do or say next. The sparks that fly between these two, make me look at my husband, and shake my fist at him and his lack of dragon-like qualities.
Maribel's relationship with her family is the major driving force behind the storyline itself, especially with her sister, Corrine. Corrine is selfish, and abusive in the way that she uses Maribel for her own gains, all the while still being very much, "I-love-my-sister, wouldn't-dream-of-hurting-her." Oh how I disliked her and I was okay with doing so for the rest of the novel. However, Blackstream was good, very good at creating a character in her with such depth that in the end I ended up wanting to know Corrine's story !
This novel is one to get lost in, as all the best books are. I like to see it as this- the relationships between the characters are the addicting cake, and the mystery, drama, and unexpected surprises of the story line is the sweet icing on it.
The joy in being able to read this novel before it goes live (not having to wait, I honestly have no patience) in return for an honest review is one I deeply appreciate the author for. Thank you.
I have loved fairy tales, and retelling of them since as far back as I can remember. So believe me when I say, this retelling of Beauty and the Beast stood out to me. It stuck very close to the fairy tale story that I know and love, and yet still changed some major aspects of it that made the novel all the more interesting for it.
The biggest one being the introduction of the Beast himself. He's not your average beast, but a Naga. A serpentine being of dragon descent. That's right, he's a DRAGON ! How awesome is that ?! As you can imagine, snakes are often depicted as evil and vile creatures. The way they slither around, tongue flicking in and out, pretty scary stuff. Yet, Blackstream makes Daman, the beast, all the more sexy and endearing for it.
The relationship between the "Beauty" Maribel and Daman is one delicious to read. It develops in a way that you are expecting and yet not expecting. One that has you waiting for them to meet again because you can't wait to see what they're gonna do or say next. The sparks that fly between these two, make me look at my husband, and shake my fist at him and his lack of dragon-like qualities.
Maribel's relationship with her family is the major driving force behind the storyline itself, especially with her sister, Corrine. Corrine is selfish, and abusive in the way that she uses Maribel for her own gains, all the while still being very much, "I-love-my-sister, wouldn't-dream-of-hurting-her." Oh how I disliked her and I was okay with doing so for the rest of the novel. However, Blackstream was good, very good at creating a character in her with such depth that in the end I ended up wanting to know Corrine's story !
This novel is one to get lost in, as all the best books are. I like to see it as this- the relationships between the characters are the addicting cake, and the mystery, drama, and unexpected surprises of the story line is the sweet icing on it.
The joy in being able to read this novel before it goes live (not having to wait, I honestly have no patience) in return for an honest review is one I deeply appreciate the author for. Thank you.
August 19, 2015
A romantic retelling of Beauty and the Beast (with some echoes of a Cinderella’s nasty stepsister) which had me hooked from the 1st but more than that the story is about the enduring love of sisters. The author has a wonderful writing style that flows wonderfully and captures your interest from the 1st page.
Maribel, her older sister Corrine and their father live on a farm on the outskirts of the kingdom. Once well to do & living in high society, when their merchant Father’s ships are lost to pirates and their wealth disappears, their only option is to buy a small farm & work the lands for a living. Both Maribel & her father thrive in the country & soon learn to love their simple and practical life, but Corinne hankers for the rich, pampered life they left behind. Taking advantage of the illness that has plagued her since childhood - Corrine suffers from fits & ergotism since birth– it is Maribel who does all the work on the farm (her chores and Corinne’s) while Corinne spends the day ailing in bed dressed in garments from their previous lifestyle.
When news is brought that one of their father’s ships survived & has come into port, their father travels to the harbor but on his journey back he becomes lost & ends up in an abandoned manor. Which of course belongs to the accursed Beast.
There are many variations in this retelling that make it stand out from previous ones I’ve read. The focus is not only on the relationship between Maribel & Daman (the Beast) who is really a naga, a noble being who can shapeshift into a dragon but cursed by a witch to be in caught in a half man, half dragon form but also that of sisterly love between Maribel and Corinne.
I have to admit I loved the Maribel-Daman story and wanted more. The awkwardness in their initial relationship was cute, touching and amusing & she gets under his skin (scales? LOL) pretty quickly!
Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review.
Maribel, her older sister Corrine and their father live on a farm on the outskirts of the kingdom. Once well to do & living in high society, when their merchant Father’s ships are lost to pirates and their wealth disappears, their only option is to buy a small farm & work the lands for a living. Both Maribel & her father thrive in the country & soon learn to love their simple and practical life, but Corinne hankers for the rich, pampered life they left behind. Taking advantage of the illness that has plagued her since childhood - Corrine suffers from fits & ergotism since birth– it is Maribel who does all the work on the farm (her chores and Corinne’s) while Corinne spends the day ailing in bed dressed in garments from their previous lifestyle.
When news is brought that one of their father’s ships survived & has come into port, their father travels to the harbor but on his journey back he becomes lost & ends up in an abandoned manor. Which of course belongs to the accursed Beast.
There are many variations in this retelling that make it stand out from previous ones I’ve read. The focus is not only on the relationship between Maribel & Daman (the Beast) who is really a naga, a noble being who can shapeshift into a dragon but cursed by a witch to be in caught in a half man, half dragon form but also that of sisterly love between Maribel and Corinne.
I have to admit I loved the Maribel-Daman story and wanted more. The awkwardness in their initial relationship was cute, touching and amusing & she gets under his skin (scales? LOL) pretty quickly!
Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews