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Beauty met the Beast and there was . . . Bloody murder?
It’s the Annual Ambassadorial Ball in Glause, and Lady Isabella Farrah, the daughter of New Civet’s Ambassador, is feeling pleasantly scintillated.
In the library is Lord Pecus, a charming gentleman whose double mask hides a beastly face, and who has decided that Isabella is the very person to break the Pecus curse.
In the ball-room is young Lord Topher, who is rapidly falling in love with an older woman.
And in the card-room, lying in a pool of his own blood, is the body of one of Isabella’s oldest friends: Raoul, Civet’s Head Guardsman. The papers sewn into his sash seem to suggest espionage gone wrong, but Isabella is not so certain.
Lord Pecus, as Commander of the Watch, is of the opinion that Isabella should keep out of the investigation and out of danger. Isabella is of the opinion that it is her murder to investigate, and that what a certain Beast-Lord doesn’t know won’t hurt him. . . .
Will Isabella find the murderer before Lord Pecus does, or will she end her investigation as a bloody spatter on the parlour floor?
It’s the Annual Ambassadorial Ball in Glause, and Lady Isabella Farrah, the daughter of New Civet’s Ambassador, is feeling pleasantly scintillated.
In the library is Lord Pecus, a charming gentleman whose double mask hides a beastly face, and who has decided that Isabella is the very person to break the Pecus curse.
In the ball-room is young Lord Topher, who is rapidly falling in love with an older woman.
And in the card-room, lying in a pool of his own blood, is the body of one of Isabella’s oldest friends: Raoul, Civet’s Head Guardsman. The papers sewn into his sash seem to suggest espionage gone wrong, but Isabella is not so certain.
Lord Pecus, as Commander of the Watch, is of the opinion that Isabella should keep out of the investigation and out of danger. Isabella is of the opinion that it is her murder to investigate, and that what a certain Beast-Lord doesn’t know won’t hurt him. . . .
Will Isabella find the murderer before Lord Pecus does, or will she end her investigation as a bloody spatter on the parlour floor?
335 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 16, 2014
98 people are currently reading
1889 people want to read
About the author
W.R. Gingell
46 books1,081 followersW.R. Gingell is a Tasmanian author of urban fantasy, fairy-tale retellings, and madcap science fiction who doesn’t seem to be able to write a book without a body suddenly turning up. She solemnly swears that all such bodies are strictly fictional in nature.
W.R. spends her time reading, drinking a truly ridiculous amount of tea, and slouching in front of the fire to write. Like Peter Pan, she never really grew up, and is still occasionally to be found climbing trees.
GOODREADS FRIEND POLICY: I don't tend to friend anyone unless they're a personal friend or someone from my close author circle. I have a limited social battery which needs constant care. If you want to keep up with my reading/writing, you can absolutely follow me here or on pretty much any social media site.
W.R. spends her time reading, drinking a truly ridiculous amount of tea, and slouching in front of the fire to write. Like Peter Pan, she never really grew up, and is still occasionally to be found climbing trees.
GOODREADS FRIEND POLICY: I don't tend to friend anyone unless they're a personal friend or someone from my close author circle. I have a limited social battery which needs constant care. If you want to keep up with my reading/writing, you can absolutely follow me here or on pretty much any social media site.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 283 reviews
April 28, 2019
The feeling has been growing on me for a few weeks that I needed to re-read this book, so I did, and galloped through it in a couple of days. Isabella is the MOST awesomely conniving, manipulative female you will ever read about, the kind of woman who would be the villainess in 999 out of 1000 books but who works amazingly well as the heroine of this one. It helps that she connives, schemes, manipulates and plots while being strictly truthful and at bottom, principled. I love her dearly and laughed like a horse all the way through this second reading.
~
MASQUE is a frothy comedy loosely structured around a murder mystery, which also happens to be, in some unexpected ways, a retelling of Beauty and the Beast. Very Georgette Heyerish, with light touches of Wodehouse, this book features a free-spirited heroine who instead of chafing under her regency-esque society's rules, instead manipulates them with awesome confidence. Lady Isabella Farrah reminded me of no one so much as Heyer's Grand Sophy, minus the rather chillingly manipulative high-handedness, and I loved how little she was fazed by this story's Beast, Lord Pecus.
I admit that I guessed the villain's identity within the first couple of chapters, but I forgave this because MASQUE made me laugh out loud on just about every second page. WR Gingell is an indie author to watch.
~
MASQUE is a frothy comedy loosely structured around a murder mystery, which also happens to be, in some unexpected ways, a retelling of Beauty and the Beast. Very Georgette Heyerish, with light touches of Wodehouse, this book features a free-spirited heroine who instead of chafing under her regency-esque society's rules, instead manipulates them with awesome confidence. Lady Isabella Farrah reminded me of no one so much as Heyer's Grand Sophy, minus the rather chillingly manipulative high-handedness, and I loved how little she was fazed by this story's Beast, Lord Pecus.
I admit that I guessed the villain's identity within the first couple of chapters, but I forgave this because MASQUE made me laugh out loud on just about every second page. WR Gingell is an indie author to watch.
June 10, 2016
How in the world have I not raved about this book yet? ... Well, nothing to be done but to fix that at once!
MASQUE is a regency-style, fantastical retelling of Beauty and the Beast, but it's also so much more than that. We have a murder mystery with magical elements, we have a Commander of the Watch who happens to hide his face behind a mask because... well, you know why. The dude's cursed, but that does not at all bother our intrepid and seriously smart heroine Isabella. She is such a pleasure to read--even when she's under house arrest, she doesn't sit still. If you were to kidnap Sophy from Georgette Heyer's The Grand Sophy and put her in a room with Isabella, they would probably turn the world upside down while becoming the best of friends.
Isabella is strong, loyal, protective of her family, and did I mention smart? I love heroines that I can not only respect but would love to spend a day with. Guaranteed, it would not be a quiet day!
What more can I say? Read it. I sincerely doubt you'll be disappointed.
MASQUE is a regency-style, fantastical retelling of Beauty and the Beast, but it's also so much more than that. We have a murder mystery with magical elements, we have a Commander of the Watch who happens to hide his face behind a mask because... well, you know why. The dude's cursed, but that does not at all bother our intrepid and seriously smart heroine Isabella. She is such a pleasure to read--even when she's under house arrest, she doesn't sit still. If you were to kidnap Sophy from Georgette Heyer's The Grand Sophy and put her in a room with Isabella, they would probably turn the world upside down while becoming the best of friends.
Isabella is strong, loyal, protective of her family, and did I mention smart? I love heroines that I can not only respect but would love to spend a day with. Guaranteed, it would not be a quiet day!
What more can I say? Read it. I sincerely doubt you'll be disappointed.
April 7, 2017
Don't forget--Every book I read this month is a possible Book of the Month winner! At the end of the month, I'll be giving away a copy of my Book of the Month and Cover of the Month to one lucky mailing list subscriber. So be sure to subscribe if you want a chance to win some amazing Beauty and the Beast retellings!
Okay, on to my review of "Masque" . . .
I went into this one thinking I would like it. I read the first few chapters and thought I was going to be disappointed. Then, by the time I turned the last page . . . I realized that I didn't just like it. I LOVED it.
WHAT I LOVED
This book is just nuts! Yes, it's a retelling of "Beauty and the Beast," so, you know, you kind of think you know what you're going to get. And it wasn't that AT ALL. It was hilarious and unexpected and magical and romantic and . . . you know what? It reminded me the most of Diana Wynne Jones since I last read Diana Wynne Jones. If you've read my "about me" page, you know I'm always looking for the next book that will give me at least some of the "Howl's Moving Castle" feels I love so well. THIS BOOK finally did that!
Lady Isabella was a riot. She could be a little exhaustingly herself sometimes, but after I got used to her incredibly larger-than-life personality, I find myself thoroughly enjoying her POV.
The magic was great. It was natural and intuitive, without a whole lot of specific development, but it read really well, really convincingly. I have to admit, I LOVED that Isabella was not magical. She had to be clever to solve her own problems, not falling back on magical abilities. She didn't stand out as a character because she is the Super Special endowed with Super Special Abilities. She stood out because of her own personality, determination, and humor.
I actually was starting to think the book wasn't a real Beauty and the Beast retelling for a little while. You can't have Beauty and the Beast without at least SOME variation on the heroine's selfless exchange for her father as the beast's prisoner. But then . . . oh, my. Ms. Gingell pulled it off, and it totally fit with her world and her characters, and I was just blown away! I had been fully prepared to mark the book down, but the way that part of the story was done instead forced me to mark the book way up!
Also, let me just say that I really loved how vibrant all the side characters were. Lady Isabella is SO over the top, I half expected everyone else to pale by comparison. Instead, this author pulled off the miraculous and managed to give her whole cast sparkling life equal to that of her heroine. I loved Vadim and Keenan. I adored the Beast Lord (and can I just say that I loved that she made me love him WITHOUT him being all tortured by his curse and everything. Yes, he's cursed, but he doesn't let the curse define him. So great!)
I would be very happy to read a book about Isabella's sister Susan, and I am quite eager to pick up the book about Melchior and Annabel (which is coming later this month). And, even though I am well in the midst of my Beauty and the Beast Month and have a bazillion more Beauty and the Beast stories to read in the next few weeks, I went ahead and purchased "Spindle", another one of W.R. Gingell's fairytale retellings, which will be waiting for me come May!
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE SO MUCH
I do want to give readers a word of warning . . . those first few chapters are a bit exhausting. It takes some doing, getting used to Lady Isabella's perspective and W.R. Gingell's writing style. The style and approach is so different from anything else I've been reading lately, so at first I wasn't even sure I liked it. I did like it . . . I LOVED it . . . but I had to adapt to it first. So I do urge you to give it some time. Don't leap to a quick judgment.
And honestly, though Lady Isabella is ultimately a plus for this story, she can be a bit of a negative too. Her relentlessly cheerful attitude even in the face of grisly murders can come across as callous or cavalier by turns. Sometimes it made me struggle to like her. Granted, the book is told 1st person, so you have a sense that she is painting the story to hide some of her deeper, darker feelings. She controls her own narrative, after all. But I would have liked to see a little bit more real reaction from her to some of the deaths, several of which were REALLY sad.
And yeah . . . for such a funny book, there are quite a few very horrible murders. It ultimately all works, but sometimes I found myself a bit jarred by the incessantly bright style coupled with the incredibly dark subject matter.
Nevertheless, I'm not going to knock a star off for any of these critiques, because ultimately they were minor quibbles and definitely more about personal preference then about anything I think the author should have done differently. The author (if you're out there in the wide world reading this, Ms. Gingell) simply needs to write more amazing stories EXACTLY the way she wants to, without regard to any critiques from me or anyone, because she has a completely WONDERFUL writing voice that finally, finally, FINALLY gave me some of that Diana Wynne Jones feel I've been looking for!
Okay, on to my review of "Masque" . . .
I went into this one thinking I would like it. I read the first few chapters and thought I was going to be disappointed. Then, by the time I turned the last page . . . I realized that I didn't just like it. I LOVED it.
WHAT I LOVED
This book is just nuts! Yes, it's a retelling of "Beauty and the Beast," so, you know, you kind of think you know what you're going to get. And it wasn't that AT ALL. It was hilarious and unexpected and magical and romantic and . . . you know what? It reminded me the most of Diana Wynne Jones since I last read Diana Wynne Jones. If you've read my "about me" page, you know I'm always looking for the next book that will give me at least some of the "Howl's Moving Castle" feels I love so well. THIS BOOK finally did that!
Lady Isabella was a riot. She could be a little exhaustingly herself sometimes, but after I got used to her incredibly larger-than-life personality, I find myself thoroughly enjoying her POV.
The magic was great. It was natural and intuitive, without a whole lot of specific development, but it read really well, really convincingly. I have to admit, I LOVED that Isabella was not magical. She had to be clever to solve her own problems, not falling back on magical abilities. She didn't stand out as a character because she is the Super Special endowed with Super Special Abilities. She stood out because of her own personality, determination, and humor.
I actually was starting to think the book wasn't a real Beauty and the Beast retelling for a little while. You can't have Beauty and the Beast without at least SOME variation on the heroine's selfless exchange for her father as the beast's prisoner. But then . . . oh, my. Ms. Gingell pulled it off, and it totally fit with her world and her characters, and I was just blown away! I had been fully prepared to mark the book down, but the way that part of the story was done instead forced me to mark the book way up!
Also, let me just say that I really loved how vibrant all the side characters were. Lady Isabella is SO over the top, I half expected everyone else to pale by comparison. Instead, this author pulled off the miraculous and managed to give her whole cast sparkling life equal to that of her heroine. I loved Vadim and Keenan. I adored the Beast Lord (and can I just say that I loved that she made me love him WITHOUT him being all tortured by his curse and everything. Yes, he's cursed, but he doesn't let the curse define him. So great!)
I would be very happy to read a book about Isabella's sister Susan, and I am quite eager to pick up the book about Melchior and Annabel (which is coming later this month). And, even though I am well in the midst of my Beauty and the Beast Month and have a bazillion more Beauty and the Beast stories to read in the next few weeks, I went ahead and purchased "Spindle", another one of W.R. Gingell's fairytale retellings, which will be waiting for me come May!
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE SO MUCH
I do want to give readers a word of warning . . . those first few chapters are a bit exhausting. It takes some doing, getting used to Lady Isabella's perspective and W.R. Gingell's writing style. The style and approach is so different from anything else I've been reading lately, so at first I wasn't even sure I liked it. I did like it . . . I LOVED it . . . but I had to adapt to it first. So I do urge you to give it some time. Don't leap to a quick judgment.
And honestly, though Lady Isabella is ultimately a plus for this story, she can be a bit of a negative too. Her relentlessly cheerful attitude even in the face of grisly murders can come across as callous or cavalier by turns. Sometimes it made me struggle to like her. Granted, the book is told 1st person, so you have a sense that she is painting the story to hide some of her deeper, darker feelings. She controls her own narrative, after all. But I would have liked to see a little bit more real reaction from her to some of the deaths, several of which were REALLY sad.
And yeah . . . for such a funny book, there are quite a few very horrible murders. It ultimately all works, but sometimes I found myself a bit jarred by the incessantly bright style coupled with the incredibly dark subject matter.
Nevertheless, I'm not going to knock a star off for any of these critiques, because ultimately they were minor quibbles and definitely more about personal preference then about anything I think the author should have done differently. The author (if you're out there in the wide world reading this, Ms. Gingell) simply needs to write more amazing stories EXACTLY the way she wants to, without regard to any critiques from me or anyone, because she has a completely WONDERFUL writing voice that finally, finally, FINALLY gave me some of that Diana Wynne Jones feel I've been looking for!
October 17, 2018
Reread this too! (2018 Reread)
Yeah, still really enjoy this one. And, since I've now read the entire trilogy from the same world, I can confirm that Isabella's sister is at least mentioned in an earlier book! Could she have been mentioned earlier in this one, absolutely! Do I really care? Not particularly! Also, I figured out why the final resolution works this time around, so Yay? (Not gonna lie, I find this so much fun - particularly Isabella - that I don't care about the flaws.)
Basically, it's fun.
xxx
So, am in a reading slump. But yesterday this was 99 cents on Kobo, so I bought it on a win.
Yeah, this is super fun. Turns out what I wanted was a fantasty murder-mystery adaptation of Beauty and the Beast, set in a society with similarities to let's say Victorian London. Basically, I really enjoyed this. Also, you know how I've been demanding a heroine who actually likes elements of her society? MEET ISABELLA. She's an ambassador's daughter, and she basically uses social protocol and her position to her advantage FOR THE ENTIRE BOOK. She basically manipulates the system.
This is what I wanted. I want independent heroines using their society's rules to their advantage, and not just authorial tossing them out the window when they're inconvenient.
Also, the dialogue in this is excellent.
Fun, fun read.
Admittedly, I can't give it five stars for all I enjoyed it. There are plotting/pacing problems. The ending is abruptish. I'm still not sure why the resolution of the murder-mystery worked out. And I think that's part of a larger problem of the magical system not being super well-defined (partly because Isabella is non-magical - which P.S. also makes this an example of a non-magical user being awesome in a magical world). The author has decided to slowly explain things to you as you go along, not info-dump at the beginning. Which I generally like, but it also results in a few times where I thought I was missing information. The book will for example describe Isabella reading a bunch of juicy details about the case, but then the reader isn't really told them. Ever. Also, some of the things you find out as you go along are introduced ridiculously suddenly. Like the existence of Isabella's younger sister back at home. Who is only introduced more than midway through the book, when she is necessary for plot reasons. Look, I don't need the whole family tree up front, but it also seems ridiculous to introduce a younger sibling (and major character in the second half) the second she is needed for major plot-related purposes. Particularly since the sisters are super-close (also a nice feature). If they are that close, there should be a couple of passing references in the first half. A sentence or two would do! As it stands, it makes the character feel like a bit of a convenient plot contrivance. A fun one that I was totally willing to go along with, but I did have a moment of, "Well, that's awfully convenient." Also, I'm not entirely sure what was going on with the curse and how it came into effect. That was super-hand-wavey, and it is implied that Isabella knows what's going on, but she doesn't really share that information with the reader, which was... weird.
I think this is the second in the series, so some of the things that feel under-explained might be explained in the first book. But even if that's the case, a few sentences summarizing key points wouldn't go amiss.
But those are details. Mostly this is just super fun.
Yeah, still really enjoy this one. And, since I've now read the entire trilogy from the same world, I can confirm that Isabella's sister is at least mentioned in an earlier book! Could she have been mentioned earlier in this one, absolutely! Do I really care? Not particularly! Also, I figured out why the final resolution works this time around, so Yay? (Not gonna lie, I find this so much fun - particularly Isabella - that I don't care about the flaws.)
Basically, it's fun.
xxx
So, am in a reading slump. But yesterday this was 99 cents on Kobo, so I bought it on a win.
Yeah, this is super fun. Turns out what I wanted was a fantasty murder-mystery adaptation of Beauty and the Beast, set in a society with similarities to let's say Victorian London. Basically, I really enjoyed this. Also, you know how I've been demanding a heroine who actually likes elements of her society? MEET ISABELLA. She's an ambassador's daughter, and she basically uses social protocol and her position to her advantage FOR THE ENTIRE BOOK. She basically manipulates the system.
This is what I wanted. I want independent heroines using their society's rules to their advantage, and not just authorial tossing them out the window when they're inconvenient.
Also, the dialogue in this is excellent.
Fun, fun read.
Admittedly, I can't give it five stars for all I enjoyed it. There are plotting/pacing problems. The ending is abruptish. I'm still not sure why the resolution of the murder-mystery worked out. And I think that's part of a larger problem of the magical system not being super well-defined (partly because Isabella is non-magical - which P.S. also makes this an example of a non-magical user being awesome in a magical world). The author has decided to slowly explain things to you as you go along, not info-dump at the beginning. Which I generally like, but it also results in a few times where I thought I was missing information. The book will for example describe Isabella reading a bunch of juicy details about the case, but then the reader isn't really told them. Ever. Also, some of the things you find out as you go along are introduced ridiculously suddenly. Like the existence of Isabella's younger sister back at home. Who is only introduced more than midway through the book, when she is necessary for plot reasons. Look, I don't need the whole family tree up front, but it also seems ridiculous to introduce a younger sibling (and major character in the second half) the second she is needed for major plot-related purposes. Particularly since the sisters are super-close (also a nice feature). If they are that close, there should be a couple of passing references in the first half. A sentence or two would do! As it stands, it makes the character feel like a bit of a convenient plot contrivance. A fun one that I was totally willing to go along with, but I did have a moment of, "Well, that's awfully convenient." Also, I'm not entirely sure what was going on with the curse and how it came into effect. That was super-hand-wavey, and it is implied that Isabella knows what's going on, but she doesn't really share that information with the reader, which was... weird.
I think this is the second in the series, so some of the things that feel under-explained might be explained in the first book. But even if that's the case, a few sentences summarizing key points wouldn't go amiss.
But those are details. Mostly this is just super fun.
August 20, 2021
Reread October 2019: Just as good on the reread as it was the first time around. Isabella is who I want to be when I grow up, and you can't go wrong with a few good murders to solve.
==============
I love this book SO MUCH. There's murder and magic and mayhem and mystery and masks. There's a protagonist who mixes subtle snark with splendid smarts and substantial sneakery. There are colorful characters and mysterious murdering madmen and a love interest with a very interesting curse. There's humor and heart and happiness. There's a subtle fairy tale retelling. There's just so much to love here and I want to shout it from the rooftops.
Also, I would like to point out how nice it is that the protagonist starts off the story unmarried at age 28 and is happy about it? And she doesn't really have any particular plans to marry? But at the same time, she's not dramatic about it; she's just like "No, I'll get married when I'm ready, but until then, I'm happy to enjoy what I am?" As someone who is also unmarried, but younger than 28, and who is starting to feel a bit of pressure from the fact that a lot of my friends are getting married or engaged or, at the very least, are seriously dating people, I really appreciate an older, unmarried heroine. The fact that Isabelle is a wonderful protagonist in many other ways just makes everything better too. And her relationship with her family is just super fun, and ahhhhhh. I love this book and these characters and I want more.
==============
I love this book SO MUCH. There's murder and magic and mayhem and mystery and masks. There's a protagonist who mixes subtle snark with splendid smarts and substantial sneakery. There are colorful characters and mysterious murdering madmen and a love interest with a very interesting curse. There's humor and heart and happiness. There's a subtle fairy tale retelling. There's just so much to love here and I want to shout it from the rooftops.
Also, I would like to point out how nice it is that the protagonist starts off the story unmarried at age 28 and is happy about it? And she doesn't really have any particular plans to marry? But at the same time, she's not dramatic about it; she's just like "No, I'll get married when I'm ready, but until then, I'm happy to enjoy what I am?" As someone who is also unmarried, but younger than 28, and who is starting to feel a bit of pressure from the fact that a lot of my friends are getting married or engaged or, at the very least, are seriously dating people, I really appreciate an older, unmarried heroine. The fact that Isabelle is a wonderful protagonist in many other ways just makes everything better too. And her relationship with her family is just super fun, and ahhhhhh. I love this book and these characters and I want more.
February 26, 2018
Delicious heroine. The voice in this is to die for.
February 23, 2016
Disclaimer: I loved this book and got it for free from the author - score hard!
- - - - - - - - - -
Masque brings the spirit of Elizabeth Peters' delightfully forthright Amelia Peabody into a vaguely 'oh-by-the-way-Beauty and the Beast' reworking which is actually more of a Jane Austen drawing room comedy murder mystery with politics, magic, ballroom gown design, and a snarky 'talking' book thrown in for good measure. Add a starship and Gingell would have covered all the series possibilities. Frankly I don't put starships past her at this point, and I think she'd pull it off, too!
The great thing is: it all works, and works very enjoyably. This reads like a complete world and all it's rules and politics are well in place, and even poked fun at by the author once in a while.
Masque is by far my favorite read by Gingell thus far: witty, droll, surprising, and occasionally laugh-out-loud. Her 'Belle', Lady Isabella, is a formidable and complete woman, perfectly happy as a self-described spinster at age 28. She's been assisting her widowed Ambassador father since she was 14, knows her own mind (and everyone else's too, if they know what's good for them), and has no desire to get caught up in anything as love-fraught as curse breaking. Unfortunately there's been a murder and her dear Papa has been framed for it so she really has no choice but to solve the crime, not to mention an army couldn't keep her away from it. She's made up her mind. As the book goes on more dead bodies appear and it's clear she's up against some serious magic; she has absolutely no magic whatsoever which dissuades her not at all. She uses her wits to even the playing field and grandly sails in where angels fear to tread, bending kings to her will and outwitting even very clever Beasts.
As with all of Gingell's work that I've read thus far I was able to see the ending coming but it was still a thrilling climax. She does a great job of bringing the murder mystery genre into tweaked fantasy fiction, almost its own genre at this point, using interesting plotting and strong characterizations to keep the pages turning.
A thoroughly enjoyable romp of a book with a wonderful cast of characters and situations.
- - - - - - - - - -
Masque brings the spirit of Elizabeth Peters' delightfully forthright Amelia Peabody into a vaguely 'oh-by-the-way-Beauty and the Beast' reworking which is actually more of a Jane Austen drawing room comedy murder mystery with politics, magic, ballroom gown design, and a snarky 'talking' book thrown in for good measure. Add a starship and Gingell would have covered all the series possibilities. Frankly I don't put starships past her at this point, and I think she'd pull it off, too!
The great thing is: it all works, and works very enjoyably. This reads like a complete world and all it's rules and politics are well in place, and even poked fun at by the author once in a while.
Masque is by far my favorite read by Gingell thus far: witty, droll, surprising, and occasionally laugh-out-loud. Her 'Belle', Lady Isabella, is a formidable and complete woman, perfectly happy as a self-described spinster at age 28. She's been assisting her widowed Ambassador father since she was 14, knows her own mind (and everyone else's too, if they know what's good for them), and has no desire to get caught up in anything as love-fraught as curse breaking. Unfortunately there's been a murder and her dear Papa has been framed for it so she really has no choice but to solve the crime, not to mention an army couldn't keep her away from it. She's made up her mind. As the book goes on more dead bodies appear and it's clear she's up against some serious magic; she has absolutely no magic whatsoever which dissuades her not at all. She uses her wits to even the playing field and grandly sails in where angels fear to tread, bending kings to her will and outwitting even very clever Beasts.
As with all of Gingell's work that I've read thus far I was able to see the ending coming but it was still a thrilling climax. She does a great job of bringing the murder mystery genre into tweaked fantasy fiction, almost its own genre at this point, using interesting plotting and strong characterizations to keep the pages turning.
A thoroughly enjoyable romp of a book with a wonderful cast of characters and situations.
June 24, 2024
You know, that was a lot of fun to read!
I always enjoy Beauty and the Beast retellings, so took a chance on this one. It was definitely quirky and fun...right down my alley! The take-charge heroine Belle reminded me of The Grand Sophy, and her interactions with the Beast were a joy as they each tried to outsmart the other, solve the crime, and protect each other and their friends and country-mates. The espionage element and murders added dramatic interest. Very fun world-building. I am looking forward to the other 2 books in this series (particularly Blackfoot, coming in April. The hero's character, as introduced this book, intrigues me.)
I've found a new and enjoyable author and plan to work my way through Gingell's books.
I always enjoy Beauty and the Beast retellings, so took a chance on this one. It was definitely quirky and fun...right down my alley! The take-charge heroine Belle reminded me of The Grand Sophy, and her interactions with the Beast were a joy as they each tried to outsmart the other, solve the crime, and protect each other and their friends and country-mates. The espionage element and murders added dramatic interest. Very fun world-building. I am looking forward to the other 2 books in this series (particularly Blackfoot, coming in April. The hero's character, as introduced this book, intrigues me.)
I've found a new and enjoyable author and plan to work my way through Gingell's books.
May 5, 2016
4.5
This is a murder mystery set in a fantasy/steampunk world incorporating a unique take on the Beauty and the Beast story.
What really makes the novel special is the ironic and witty narrative voice of the wonderfully clever and very capable heroine. I spotted the murderer early on and there was some (I thought) unnecessary exposition towards the end. I would have loved some more information about the curse and how it came about, but none of these quibbles interfered with my enjoyment. Every character is memorable and it's an utterly charming read.
This is a murder mystery set in a fantasy/steampunk world incorporating a unique take on the Beauty and the Beast story.
What really makes the novel special is the ironic and witty narrative voice of the wonderfully clever and very capable heroine. I spotted the murderer early on and there was some (I thought) unnecessary exposition towards the end. I would have loved some more information about the curse and how it came about, but none of these quibbles interfered with my enjoyment. Every character is memorable and it's an utterly charming read.
June 10, 2022
I started reading this book last night, read until 2 this morning, and finished reading it after I woke up. It is addictive and by far the best Beauty and the Beast retelling I’ve read.
RTC!
RTC!
January 9, 2018
Intrigue, curses, dancing, and spies
Reader thoughts: Lady Isabella's ability to read faces (even masked faces, even cursed faces) is truly phenomenal. She notices when people are actually teasing and when they're serious, and she responds appropriately. Most of the time she's sarcastic and prying, but she does know how to comfort and listen, too. She's a perfect ambassador.
She constantly jokes that she's an old maid and hides behind this identity (she's 28). She loves sewing and fashion, and she knows how to appreciate someone's value (her streetrat servants are awesome!). She has no magic, but that doesn't slow her down.
For the plot, it unwrapped at a good pace. The ending was a touch confusing (magical curse stuff works how?), but it's not a problem. I guessed the murderer, but I didn't know for sure much before Isabella did. She and Lord Pecus really should have worked together.
The romance was clean and sweet. They understood each other on a level many couples never enjoy. Several times one would figure out the other was only pretending to be upset in order to make such and such happen. Then they would laugh together. I quite enjoyed that each had such a ready sense of humor.
The similarities between this story and Beauty and the Beast are many but not overwhelming. Roses cropped up a lot (he gave her rose tea once, ha!). She was imprisoned in her father's stead. She had a magic mirror that communicated with others. The beast's servants were sort of cursed, too. I think there was even a Gaston character.
Very fun!
Favorite quotes:
"I absolutely refuse to discuss matters of dress with a book."
(discussing a homecoming gift) "A vase, perhaps. Something ugly for their children to break."
And last but not least
Beast "And you said something about my face?"
Little boy. "Well, it's a bit ugly, init?"
"So I'm told. Your mistress thinks otherwise."
"Well, she's a girl, though."
Writer thoughts: Isabella is a great example of a 3D character. She has likes (tea, sewing), dislikes (horses, mornings, humidity), talents (navigating a crowd, managing unruly councilors), weaknesses (magic skill, trusting others), a past (boarding school with future queen, childhood of getting siblings in trouble), and even a plethora of nicknames (Belle, Bella, Lady Farrah, Carrots, etc.). Perhaps the only thing she doesn't have is a comprehensive religious view.
When you write a character, especially a main character (and especially an MC when she is the first-person narrator), you need to know all these things, or else the character will fall flat. Now, weave them into the narration without infodumping or becoming repetitive.
Reader thoughts: Lady Isabella's ability to read faces (even masked faces, even cursed faces) is truly phenomenal. She notices when people are actually teasing and when they're serious, and she responds appropriately. Most of the time she's sarcastic and prying, but she does know how to comfort and listen, too. She's a perfect ambassador.
She constantly jokes that she's an old maid and hides behind this identity (she's 28). She loves sewing and fashion, and she knows how to appreciate someone's value (her streetrat servants are awesome!). She has no magic, but that doesn't slow her down.
For the plot, it unwrapped at a good pace. The ending was a touch confusing (magical curse stuff works how?), but it's not a problem. I guessed the murderer, but I didn't know for sure much before Isabella did. She and Lord Pecus really should have worked together.
The romance was clean and sweet. They understood each other on a level many couples never enjoy. Several times one would figure out the other was only pretending to be upset in order to make such and such happen. Then they would laugh together. I quite enjoyed that each had such a ready sense of humor.
The similarities between this story and Beauty and the Beast are many but not overwhelming. Roses cropped up a lot (he gave her rose tea once, ha!). She was imprisoned in her father's stead. She had a magic mirror that communicated with others. The beast's servants were sort of cursed, too. I think there was even a Gaston character.
Very fun!
Favorite quotes:
"I absolutely refuse to discuss matters of dress with a book."
(discussing a homecoming gift) "A vase, perhaps. Something ugly for their children to break."
And last but not least
Beast "And you said something about my face?"
Little boy. "Well, it's a bit ugly, init?"
"So I'm told. Your mistress thinks otherwise."
"Well, she's a girl, though."
Writer thoughts: Isabella is a great example of a 3D character. She has likes (tea, sewing), dislikes (horses, mornings, humidity), talents (navigating a crowd, managing unruly councilors), weaknesses (magic skill, trusting others), a past (boarding school with future queen, childhood of getting siblings in trouble), and even a plethora of nicknames (Belle, Bella, Lady Farrah, Carrots, etc.). Perhaps the only thing she doesn't have is a comprehensive religious view.
When you write a character, especially a main character (and especially an MC when she is the first-person narrator), you need to know all these things, or else the character will fall flat. Now, weave them into the narration without infodumping or becoming repetitive.
March 29, 2016
If you love fantasy, mystery, love, and amazing heroines then this may be your next favorite book. I'm a huge fan of beauty and the beast stories, and while this does have that element, I'm not sure it could be called a retelling. What you get is a thoroughly inventive take on beauty and the beast, in the form of a fantasy mystery. Added to that is one of the best character voices I've read in quite a long time.
Gingell puts you in a nineteenth century-esque fantasy world with a touch of the steampunk to it. We have diplomatic relationships between neighboring nations, monarchies, street urchins, magic—all the good things you want in any story, right? The characters shine and though it's a murder mystery, with some particularly grisly murders, the story manages to be lighthearted and extraordinarily fun.
The love story was a subtle thread throughout—just enough to satisfy my inner romance fanatic. I really can't say enough good things about it!
The exact method of the resolution left me scratching my head a bit, however, the story builds up so much good will that the details stopped bothering me almost immediately. As I write this, Masque is free, but even if that changes, it's worth every penny!
Gingell puts you in a nineteenth century-esque fantasy world with a touch of the steampunk to it. We have diplomatic relationships between neighboring nations, monarchies, street urchins, magic—all the good things you want in any story, right? The characters shine and though it's a murder mystery, with some particularly grisly murders, the story manages to be lighthearted and extraordinarily fun.
The love story was a subtle thread throughout—just enough to satisfy my inner romance fanatic. I really can't say enough good things about it!
The exact method of the resolution left me scratching my head a bit, however, the story builds up so much good will that the details stopped bothering me almost immediately. As I write this, Masque is free, but even if that changes, it's worth every penny!
April 10, 2017
Masque was a book I had on my 2016 Indie-Mas TBR post, and I'm so excited that I actually read a book on my TBR (that actually happens rarely cause... SQUIRREL!). This one is as I said: A Beauty and the Beast retelling plus a murder mystery.
But the reason why I recommend this book isn't because of that (I mean, how many BatB retellings are out there?), but it was actually the protagonist. Girl was TWENTY-EIGHT and was like "Yo, I'm an old maid and I am proud of it!"
After my own heart, right?
Really, it was so refreshing to see a woman who patted the twenty-something men on the top of their head and sent them on their merry way, who treated her teen/tweenaged servance as her "children," and was totally cool with an unmarried life. No bitterness, no snide remarks to her friends with kiddos. And when Prince Charming shows up, she's very much like "Uh, we will get to you when we have time."
Even though the protagonist is 28, the heat rating is negligible, so this one is actually for most fans of YA and up. Definitely put this one on your TBR if you haven't already.
But the reason why I recommend this book isn't because of that (I mean, how many BatB retellings are out there?), but it was actually the protagonist. Girl was TWENTY-EIGHT and was like "Yo, I'm an old maid and I am proud of it!"
After my own heart, right?
Really, it was so refreshing to see a woman who patted the twenty-something men on the top of their head and sent them on their merry way, who treated her teen/tweenaged servance as her "children," and was totally cool with an unmarried life. No bitterness, no snide remarks to her friends with kiddos. And when Prince Charming shows up, she's very much like "Uh, we will get to you when we have time."
Even though the protagonist is 28, the heat rating is negligible, so this one is actually for most fans of YA and up. Definitely put this one on your TBR if you haven't already.
May 3, 2016
I ❤︎ this book so hard! What an amazing story!!
August 29, 2017
So I enjoyed this, but also DITTO ANDREE'S REVIEW RE MISSING INFORMATION. I thought for sure I was missing a whole Annabel book, but apparently it does not exist yet.
(I liked the Beauty and the Beast adaptation a lot. One of those that isn't afraid to do its own thing with the bare bones of the story.)
(I liked the Beauty and the Beast adaptation a lot. One of those that isn't afraid to do its own thing with the bare bones of the story.)
September 3, 2015
Really, truly enjoyed it! Full review to come.
My Review
So, the gorgeous cover is what initially caught my eye in regards to this book. Then I read that it was a retelling of Beauty and the Beast, and I was completely in -- hook, line, and sinker!
But for the first half of the book, it's far more of a slight fantasy/Victorian-esque murder mystery, and screwball comedy. I absolutely LOVED Lady Farrah (aka Isabella, aka Belle)! She was such an intelligent, manipulative (in a good way), strong-minded woman who refuses to let her status as woman and lack of magic stop her from solving the murder of a friend. Her father is an Ambassador, so she's used to political dealings and working around people. So it shouldn't be any different managing Lord Pecus, head of the Watch, right? Wrong! He's there to intercept her at every turn and the investigation becomes a battle of wits before long. Who will solve the mystery first and who will make it out alive?
This is a difficult book to explain. It is fantasy in the sense that everything happens in a made up world with a complex political system, it's own laws and social codes, royalty, treaties, feuds, magic, etc. You are thrown into the deep end right away, with no background. This is a learn-as-you-go book and that will put off quite a few people. Usually it puts me off. But the bright, shining wit and the loveable heroine made me keep reading. Also, love Keenan and his older sister Vadim, resourceful (and quite cheeky) orphans, who come to "work" for Belle. Lord Pecus is also somewhat likeable, and improves as the book moves along. He's grumpy, over-protective, wears a mask at all times (so do all of his servants), and has a secret curse placed upon him that he's trying to break.
Belle however, is determined that she won't be the one to break it. She likes her independence and her father needs her to take care of him. There are some surprises, the famous "I won't come to dinner" scene (with a hilarious twist), and the ending wasn't what I expected at all! Although it did feel like it stopped kind of abruptly, I really enjoyed reading it and I'd recommend it for anyone who doesn't mind being taken on a bit of a wild ride. If you like fairy tales, screwball comedies, and fantasy, this one's for you. It was just plain fun!
My Review
So, the gorgeous cover is what initially caught my eye in regards to this book. Then I read that it was a retelling of Beauty and the Beast, and I was completely in -- hook, line, and sinker!
But for the first half of the book, it's far more of a slight fantasy/Victorian-esque murder mystery, and screwball comedy. I absolutely LOVED Lady Farrah (aka Isabella, aka Belle)! She was such an intelligent, manipulative (in a good way), strong-minded woman who refuses to let her status as woman and lack of magic stop her from solving the murder of a friend. Her father is an Ambassador, so she's used to political dealings and working around people. So it shouldn't be any different managing Lord Pecus, head of the Watch, right? Wrong! He's there to intercept her at every turn and the investigation becomes a battle of wits before long. Who will solve the mystery first and who will make it out alive?
This is a difficult book to explain. It is fantasy in the sense that everything happens in a made up world with a complex political system, it's own laws and social codes, royalty, treaties, feuds, magic, etc. You are thrown into the deep end right away, with no background. This is a learn-as-you-go book and that will put off quite a few people. Usually it puts me off. But the bright, shining wit and the loveable heroine made me keep reading. Also, love Keenan and his older sister Vadim, resourceful (and quite cheeky) orphans, who come to "work" for Belle. Lord Pecus is also somewhat likeable, and improves as the book moves along. He's grumpy, over-protective, wears a mask at all times (so do all of his servants), and has a secret curse placed upon him that he's trying to break.
Belle however, is determined that she won't be the one to break it. She likes her independence and her father needs her to take care of him. There are some surprises, the famous "I won't come to dinner" scene (with a hilarious twist), and the ending wasn't what I expected at all! Although it did feel like it stopped kind of abruptly, I really enjoyed reading it and I'd recommend it for anyone who doesn't mind being taken on a bit of a wild ride. If you like fairy tales, screwball comedies, and fantasy, this one's for you. It was just plain fun!
June 22, 2016
I heard about this book when Intisar Khanani posted her own review here on Goodreads. And I'm so glad she did, because not only did this book see me through an icky allergic reaction where I was laid up all day, but this book was fantastic. Truly. I can never pass up a retelling of "Beauty and The Beast." But when you add murder mystery, political intrigue, and a heroine who is just as laugh out loud funny as Sophie from Georgette Heyer's "The Grand Sophie," I'm completely smitten.
My only complaint is that I guessed the villain right from the very start. That being said, I will definitely be reading more from this author.
My only complaint is that I guessed the villain right from the very start. That being said, I will definitely be reading more from this author.
June 3, 2016
What a lovely Beauty and the Beast retelling (and the Kindle edition is free on Amazon). Thanks to Mary Anne for leaving a comment on my blog to recommend this. I'm getting ready to fly back to Singapore but will try review this once things have settled down. Will probably start reading its companion novel, Spindle (and also free), soon!
September 17, 2021
This one started out rougher than the others, but got so good in the second half I had to give it four stars. The villain reveal, in particular, was excellent. A good villain reveal doth cover a multitude of shortcomings. Besides, Lady Isabella is the protagonist, this time as a nosy twenty-eight-year-old old maid of a diplomat who knows her strengths and weaknesses and revels in all of them, and who runs rings around folk by being strictly truthful. (W. R. Gingell is absolutely going on my (sadly short) list of authors who Actually Know How to Write a Female Character.) Isabella deserves four stars, just in and of her bright, fashionable self.
The story is a magical murder mystery mixed with Beauty and the Beast retelling. Which I thought was brilliant. A bit gory in places. And then Raoul was such a lovely character in Staff & Crown and supposedly great friends with Isabella and I was miffed that Isabella 1) was quite so ready to believe him a traitor, and 2) never appeared to really mourn him. All in all, though, I had fun.
And I just...I just love the petty disgust everyone has in this series for how stupid and ridiculous and unsophisticated love curses are. It’s like people who unironically would NEVER shop at Walmart - the amusing foibles of a loveable snob, if you will.
The story is a magical murder mystery mixed with Beauty and the Beast retelling. Which I thought was brilliant. A bit gory in places. And then Raoul was such a lovely character in Staff & Crown and supposedly great friends with Isabella and I was miffed that Isabella 1) was quite so ready to believe him a traitor, and 2) never appeared to really mourn him. All in all, though, I had fun.
And I just...I just love the petty disgust everyone has in this series for how stupid and ridiculous and unsophisticated love curses are. It’s like people who unironically would NEVER shop at Walmart - the amusing foibles of a loveable snob, if you will.
November 28, 2016
Another version of this review can be found here
***I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review***
"Love curses are always about free will and love winning out over ridiculous odds: quite honestly, it's embarrassing."
MASQUE is without doubt, a very unique retelling of Beauty and the Beast. The author has added to the story it's own creative flair, while only keeping the very basics of the original story intact. In this book we get the reclusive, formidable Lord Pecus who has been quite unfortunately cursed with a beast's face, and the incredibly mischievous Lady Isabella Farrah who has a slight problem in refraining from poking her nose into affairs that don't really concern her. Lord Pecus believes that Bella is the one to break his curse, but circumstances prove that that is easier envisioned than contrived.
The mystery aspect of the story was given more priority while the romance was just barely there- and that suited me perfectly fine. I found the wheels on my brain whirring as I tried to figure out who the killer was- and I'm proud to say my first guess turned out to be correct. No, it wasn't THAT obvious, but let's just say I'm very suspicious in nature and so I didn't fully trust that character's motives at the beginning. I still had fun waiting to see whether my guess would turn out to be correct and did a little happy jig when it proved correct.
The story is set in an imaginary land and the author did a terrific job in the world-building- perhaps a little too terrific, since it took me quite some time to really grasp it, but the narrative voice was so strong that it didn't irk me at all. There was an enchanting mix of magic in the story that made it all the more wonderful, and I can frankly say that the author's style of writing immediately clicked with me. There was a fantastic undercurrent of dry humor throughout the book that pleasantly surprised me and me fall in love with the storyteller just a bit more.
There was a host of characters throughout the book, and they were all done very well. The author managed to make me like quite a lot of them, particularly Isabella, who was a very feisty, witty character who managed to keep me enraptured until the very end.
She was one strong woman with a mind of her own. She knew exactly what she wanted- and didn't want- and wasn't afraid to speak up whenever necessary. I loved that she was not only intelligent, but also very brave and capable, and quite managed to keep her promise of "no torn petticoats, and no bruised knees" to her father. I liked that the author portrayed Bella not only as an independent woman, but also a womanly, imperfect one- something which authors tend to forget when portraying "strong" female leads. I found myself liking Lord Pecus quite a lot, but I do so wish we had got to know a bit more about his history.
The many relationships were portrayed exceptionally well in the book. I particularly loved the relationship between Isabella and her sister, Susan, who was just as mischievous as her- or even more so. It was therefore very fitting when Curran, a horselord, remarked, "Heaven help us, there's two of 'em now!" on Su's arrival. I loved how Bella treated her maid Vadim and Vadim's little brother Keenan, and it's not wrong to say that they were fellow mischief-makers after Bella's own heart! The flow of conversation, the little banters between the characters and their manner of speaking all made this book one awesome read.
The mystery in the book deserves a special mention here because of how exciting it was. I had a distinct sense of foreboding when anticipating what was to come and it was simply splendidly done- the author scored big there. Considering the length of the book and the importance given to building up the suspense, the author could have perhaps made the ending a bit more drawn out- it felt slightly too abrupt and underwhelming, but maybe that's just the dramatic side in me speaking up!
All said, I also have to mention that one thought I constantly had after reading the book was that while I personally loved the cover, maybe the author should go for one that's a bit more understated, since this one certainly doesn't do the book justice- MASQUE was one superb retelling of Beauty and the Beast which you simply MUST read if you're into those! If you have any doubts regarding this book , I daresay its dedication would be more than enough to convince you to pick it up:
“This one is for me. It was written entirely for my own selfish amusement. You can still enjoy it, though. That’s okay.”
The story idea: 5/5
The realization of the story: 4.5/5
The characters: 5/5
The cover: 3/5
Enjoy factor: 4.5/5
Final rating: A well-deserved 5/5
August 13, 2015
Even though it’s not flawless, I enjoyed this hilarious, witty book. I think it’s a delightful blending of fantasy, mystery and “Beauty and the Beast” re-imagination, with a touch of “Veronica Mars”.
The plot
Lady Isabella Farrah, the daughter of New Civet’s Ambassador, is taking part to the Annual Ambassadorial Ball in Glause, when she stumbles across a murder scene: Raoul, one of her oldest friends and Civet’s Head Guardsman, is lying in a pool of his own blood.
The investigation are led by the Commander of the Watch, Lord Pecus, and the evidence found seems to scream “treason”, but Isabella is not so certain. Especially since other crimes suggest that maybe the murderer has broader plans.
Will Isabella achieve in solve the mystery herself (despite Lord Pecus’ intention to keep her out of the investigation)? And will she figure out how to break the curse that afflict Lord Pecus?
What I liked
✅ Amuse me, please: as the dedication page states, the Author really enjoyed herself writing this book and her amusement is clearly reflected in the pages. The result? You can’t help to feel amused too.
✅ God save the spinster: for once we don’t have thequite obvious typical “some-teen-year-old” main character. Instead, we have this funny 28-year-old woman that defines herself as a “meek old maid”, according to the customs of the 18th-century-like society she lives in. Furthermore, she’s smart, witty, stubborn and very nosy (here the resemblance to Veronica Mars): it’s difficult not to root for her.
✅ The quarrels: the dialogues are very funny and masterfully orchestrated. Obviously, the best parts are the quarrels and the game of deception between Isabella and Lord Pecus.
What didn’t convince me
✘ Lack of world-building: I think this book would have been better with a more deeply developed worldbuilding. We get only bit and pieces here and there. I would have known something more about the relationship between the two monarchies of New Civet and Glause, about the army merger in which Isabella’s father is involved, about Isabella’s backstory, about the curse affecting Lord Pecus…
✘ Too much chatter about dresses: I really liked Isabella, she's not at all the damsel-in-distress type. However, I think she is a bit too fashion addict for me. It’s nonsense that even in the most dangerous situations her first worry is trying to avoid to ruin her dress.
✘ Not a single tear for poor Raoul?: even though Raoul is one of her oldest, dearest friend, Isabella never seems shocked/sad/mourning about his death… the same lack of (more than understandable) reactions applies in other situations, making me wonder about Isabella’s “believableness” as a character.
The plot
Lady Isabella Farrah, the daughter of New Civet’s Ambassador, is taking part to the Annual Ambassadorial Ball in Glause, when she stumbles across a murder scene: Raoul, one of her oldest friends and Civet’s Head Guardsman, is lying in a pool of his own blood.
The investigation are led by the Commander of the Watch, Lord Pecus, and the evidence found seems to scream “treason”, but Isabella is not so certain. Especially since other crimes suggest that maybe the murderer has broader plans.
Will Isabella achieve in solve the mystery herself (despite Lord Pecus’ intention to keep her out of the investigation)? And will she figure out how to break the curse that afflict Lord Pecus?
What I liked
✅ Amuse me, please: as the dedication page states, the Author really enjoyed herself writing this book and her amusement is clearly reflected in the pages. The result? You can’t help to feel amused too.
“This one is for me. It was written entirely for my own selfish amusement. You can still enjoy it, though. That’s okay”
✅ God save the spinster: for once we don’t have the
And after all, it turned out to be not terribly difficult to appropriate of one of the spare masks. By appropriate I mean, of course, steal; but if Lord Pecus though that keeping them in the butler's closet was good security, it was just as well for him to be shown his error.
✅ The quarrels: the dialogues are very funny and masterfully orchestrated. Obviously, the best parts are the quarrels and the game of deception between Isabella and Lord Pecus.
What didn’t convince me
✘ Lack of world-building: I think this book would have been better with a more deeply developed worldbuilding. We get only bit and pieces here and there. I would have known something more about the relationship between the two monarchies of New Civet and Glause, about the army merger in which Isabella’s father is involved, about Isabella’s backstory, about the curse affecting Lord Pecus…
✘ Too much chatter about dresses: I really liked Isabella, she's not at all the damsel-in-distress type. However, I think she is a bit too fashion addict for me. It’s nonsense that even in the most dangerous situations her first worry is trying to avoid to ruin her dress.
“Oh lady, he didn’t kill you!” She threw her arms around my neck, all but chocking me. “Vadim, I am flattered, but I will not have my hair rumpled!” I told her tartly.
✘ Not a single tear for poor Raoul?: even though Raoul is one of her oldest, dearest friend, Isabella never seems shocked/sad/mourning about his death… the same lack of (more than understandable) reactions applies in other situations, making me wonder about Isabella’s “believableness” as a character.
February 10, 2018
If Agatha Christie and Jane Austen had a brain baby that was raised by fairies, it would be this book. Gingell manages to take the old fairytale we know and love while tossing in societal scandal, politics, magic, and a healthy dose of snarky humor. I laughed one moment, was on the edge of my seat the next, and was making serious *heart eyes* at my Kindle paragraphs later.
The plot:
This story mixes the intrigue of a murder-mystery thriller and the high society setting of a historical romance with the magic and sorcery of a fantasy novel. I absolutely loved it. This was a bit longer work than the novellas that initially got me to read Gingell's work, but it moves at a steady clip and I was never sure quite what to expect.
The characters:
It's nice to finally have a heroine in a "girly" society that likes the "girly" things while still taking names and running the show. Isabella is feminine with the graces of the most proficient socialite, but hardcore and kind-hearted. I low-key want to be her. I also loved that she didn't take it easy on Pecus...AT ALL. Their banter and constantly trying to outmaneuver each other made this story all the better.
Lord Pecus is Mr. Darcy, Colonel Brandon, and Aragorn rolled into one. If WHEN you read it, you'll see what I mean. ALL THE HEART EYES TO THIS MAN, OKAY?
Also, we have a story with a heroine who has actual friends! Female friends and more than one. They talk girl talk and political talk and actually matter to the storyline! It's revolutionary, people!
I honestly have no idea what order these books are supposed to be read, but this one makes sense on its own. I'm preordering the upcoming one and have downloaded the others. I love how this author writes and 100% recommend pretty much anything she's written.
The plot:
This story mixes the intrigue of a murder-mystery thriller and the high society setting of a historical romance with the magic and sorcery of a fantasy novel. I absolutely loved it. This was a bit longer work than the novellas that initially got me to read Gingell's work, but it moves at a steady clip and I was never sure quite what to expect.
The characters:
It's nice to finally have a heroine in a "girly" society that likes the "girly" things while still taking names and running the show. Isabella is feminine with the graces of the most proficient socialite, but hardcore and kind-hearted. I low-key want to be her. I also loved that she didn't take it easy on Pecus...AT ALL. Their banter and constantly trying to outmaneuver each other made this story all the better.
Lord Pecus is Mr. Darcy, Colonel Brandon, and Aragorn rolled into one. If WHEN you read it, you'll see what I mean. ALL THE HEART EYES TO THIS MAN, OKAY?
Also, we have a story with a heroine who has actual friends! Female friends and more than one. They talk girl talk and political talk and actually matter to the storyline! It's revolutionary, people!
I honestly have no idea what order these books are supposed to be read, but this one makes sense on its own. I'm preordering the upcoming one and have downloaded the others. I love how this author writes and 100% recommend pretty much anything she's written.
March 17, 2015
This book was so delightfully witty. The dry humor was wonderfully understated. The premise of this exciting mystery involves a heroine, Isabella, who is a bit of a thrill seeker, discovering clues that will lead to the identity of the man who killed a long time friend of hers. She is forced to keep her investigation a secret due to the fact that Lord Pecus is intent upon heading his own investigation while keeping her safe and secure in the confines of his own home.
Lord Pecus has been cursed with a beastly face, and wears nothing but a mask he has created from magic. He believes that Isabella can break the curse, but runs into one obstacle after another in order to keep her safe.
I thought both characters played off of one another beautifully, and Isabella has to be the funniest most lovable character I've come across in a long time. I'm a huge fan of strong willed, clever, resourceful females. Isabella is all of that and more. The dialogue was masterfully executed, and the pacing of the story line was perfect. I honestly can't understand why this book hasn't received more attention.
I will say that the novel is first and foremost a mystery, with romance being of a more secondary part of the story. Just a heads up for those of you assuming that romance will be the main focus of this novel, though the ending does not disappoint in the romance department. I am a huge fan of this novel and its author either way.
A hilarious romantic romp with loads of mystery ensconced in a clever Beauty And The Beast retelling. Seriously, what's not to love here?
If you would like to read an excerpt from the book and a character interview from the heroine of the story please visit my blog at http://authorcjanaya.com/blog
Lord Pecus has been cursed with a beastly face, and wears nothing but a mask he has created from magic. He believes that Isabella can break the curse, but runs into one obstacle after another in order to keep her safe.
I thought both characters played off of one another beautifully, and Isabella has to be the funniest most lovable character I've come across in a long time. I'm a huge fan of strong willed, clever, resourceful females. Isabella is all of that and more. The dialogue was masterfully executed, and the pacing of the story line was perfect. I honestly can't understand why this book hasn't received more attention.
I will say that the novel is first and foremost a mystery, with romance being of a more secondary part of the story. Just a heads up for those of you assuming that romance will be the main focus of this novel, though the ending does not disappoint in the romance department. I am a huge fan of this novel and its author either way.
A hilarious romantic romp with loads of mystery ensconced in a clever Beauty And The Beast retelling. Seriously, what's not to love here?
If you would like to read an excerpt from the book and a character interview from the heroine of the story please visit my blog at http://authorcjanaya.com/blog
October 11, 2018
Ahhh!! I loved this book so much! The banter, the murder-mystery! Also it's Beauty and the Beast so...
I could not stop reading! I adored all the characters, and Isabella might be one of my favorite female characters ever.
Loved the writing style and the delicious words sprinkled throughout. It was pretty much just amazing, and I have no useful information for you in this review except to go read it!
I also think I've discovered a new favorite author, so there's also that. :)
I could not stop reading! I adored all the characters, and Isabella might be one of my favorite female characters ever.
Loved the writing style and the delicious words sprinkled throughout. It was pretty much just amazing, and I have no useful information for you in this review except to go read it!
I also think I've discovered a new favorite author, so there's also that. :)
October 14, 2016
Best book EVER!!
I'm almost speechless, and that never happens. This is the most witty, fascinating, romantic book I'll ever read. It a masterpiece, and a must read. A MUST.
I'm almost speechless, and that never happens. This is the most witty, fascinating, romantic book I'll ever read. It a masterpiece, and a must read. A MUST.
December 1, 2025
(To reread for review.)
October 8, 2018
I loved this book. Lord Pecus may now be one of my favourite fictional male heroes ever. And I loved Isabella’s friendships, especially her sisterly friendship with Melchior and Raoul. And SUSAN. I’M SO EXCITED FOR SUSAN’S BOOK.
June 30, 2018
I don't have enough words to describe how in love I am with this book. Scratch that, I have too many words. Imagine Jane Austen and Diana Wynne Jones had a book baby, and this is it.
It's lush, intelligent, and humorous with just that hint of darkness to keep it compelling. I didn't want it to end, and I can't remember the last time I felt that way about a book.
The Beauty and the Beast references are subtle and interwoven with a slightly bloody murder mystery. Isabella is not only a smart and capable protagonist but surprisingly funny too. She's a lady with a plan and many hats. The plans don't always succeed but the hats are always stylish.
Importantly, we are shown rather than told that she is intelligent and perceptive. Her wry sense of humor is so refreshing and I love how she keeps her nerve even in distressing situations. Isabella doesn't take herself too seriously which makes reading about her shenanigans and scheming all the more fun. I love her. I would honestly read a novel about her buttering toast, okay?
And Lord Pecus is the 'Beast' archetype I've always wanted. Sure, he's under a curse but he generally gets on with it. He's not angry or petulant or sorry for himself. He has a cool job. The curse...well, he's working on it but there are murders to investigate and criminals to catch in the meantime. I felt the arch humor, cleverness, and quiet charisma of this man, even behind the mask.
I especially loved how he and Isabella are both so capable and have rich lives independent of each other. They're the perfect foils for each other, so whenever they interact there are just layers upon layers of subtext and emotion. It's a slow burn romance in the absolute best way.
Even the secondary characters feel deep and well rounded, even if they only appear briefly. It feels more like meeting humans than reading book characters. I also loved the gentle political intrigue in the background of this world. Perhaps because the protagonist is an ambassador's daughter with a diplomatic mission, intrigue and negotiation felt like something that was actually happening behind the scenes and having discernable effects on the story. From the consequences of a treaty to a glint in the king's eyes, there was a world of politicking happening in the backdrop. It made me want to read histories of these imaginary countries.
And finally, can I mention about how incredibly well-written this is? What a talent! Particularly with the dialogue. The writing is so gorgeous and smart, it almost reads like a classic novel. It can seem verbose at first but it's really fun once you get into the rhythm. What else can I say except that...this book is my perfect fairy tale.
It's lush, intelligent, and humorous with just that hint of darkness to keep it compelling. I didn't want it to end, and I can't remember the last time I felt that way about a book.
The Beauty and the Beast references are subtle and interwoven with a slightly bloody murder mystery. Isabella is not only a smart and capable protagonist but surprisingly funny too. She's a lady with a plan and many hats. The plans don't always succeed but the hats are always stylish.
Importantly, we are shown rather than told that she is intelligent and perceptive. Her wry sense of humor is so refreshing and I love how she keeps her nerve even in distressing situations. Isabella doesn't take herself too seriously which makes reading about her shenanigans and scheming all the more fun. I love her. I would honestly read a novel about her buttering toast, okay?
And Lord Pecus is the 'Beast' archetype I've always wanted. Sure, he's under a curse but he generally gets on with it. He's not angry or petulant or sorry for himself. He has a cool job. The curse...well, he's working on it but there are murders to investigate and criminals to catch in the meantime. I felt the arch humor, cleverness, and quiet charisma of this man, even behind the mask.
I especially loved how he and Isabella are both so capable and have rich lives independent of each other. They're the perfect foils for each other, so whenever they interact there are just layers upon layers of subtext and emotion. It's a slow burn romance in the absolute best way.
Even the secondary characters feel deep and well rounded, even if they only appear briefly. It feels more like meeting humans than reading book characters. I also loved the gentle political intrigue in the background of this world. Perhaps because the protagonist is an ambassador's daughter with a diplomatic mission, intrigue and negotiation felt like something that was actually happening behind the scenes and having discernable effects on the story. From the consequences of a treaty to a glint in the king's eyes, there was a world of politicking happening in the backdrop. It made me want to read histories of these imaginary countries.
And finally, can I mention about how incredibly well-written this is? What a talent! Particularly with the dialogue. The writing is so gorgeous and smart, it almost reads like a classic novel. It can seem verbose at first but it's really fun once you get into the rhythm. What else can I say except that...this book is my perfect fairy tale.
July 25, 2016
What a treat! I am a confirmed sucker for any type of Beauty & the Beast retelling and this one did not disappoint! (plus, it's FREE on kindle!)
In Ms. Gingell's version, Lady Farrah (Isabella or Belle to friends) is an ambassador's daughter whose skillful wit and penchant for intrigue has landed her in the middle a startling murder investigation. Constantly at odds with Lord Pecus (or The Beast Lord), Lady Isabella employs her not-inconsiderable mental talents to his eternal exasperation and hilarity ensues. Not only was it immensely satisfying to watch the two try to outwit the other, but Belle's interactions with her lively maid and erstwhile page, Vadim and Keenan, were beyond amusing.
Magic and intrigue and oh, the WIT! Isabella had me going with her mental gymnastics and constant 'maneuvering' of everyone and everything around her. What a pleasant story with characters I'd be more than happy to spend the afternoon with again. So pleased to see the author has several other books that I am excited to try.
In Ms. Gingell's version, Lady Farrah (Isabella or Belle to friends) is an ambassador's daughter whose skillful wit and penchant for intrigue has landed her in the middle a startling murder investigation. Constantly at odds with Lord Pecus (or The Beast Lord), Lady Isabella employs her not-inconsiderable mental talents to his eternal exasperation and hilarity ensues. Not only was it immensely satisfying to watch the two try to outwit the other, but Belle's interactions with her lively maid and erstwhile page, Vadim and Keenan, were beyond amusing.
Magic and intrigue and oh, the WIT! Isabella had me going with her mental gymnastics and constant 'maneuvering' of everyone and everything around her. What a pleasant story with characters I'd be more than happy to spend the afternoon with again. So pleased to see the author has several other books that I am excited to try.
June 3, 2016
I had never read a retelling of Beauty and the Beast done in such a way. I loved how this was retold, not quite what I expected. I did not want to put it down.
The story of this retelling involves a heroine, Isabella, who is a bit of a thrill seeker, discovering clues that will lead to the identity of the man who killed a long time friend of hers. She is forced to keep her investigation a secret due to the fact that Lord Pecus is intent upon heading his own investigation while keeping her safe and secure in the confines of his own home.
Lord Pecus has been cursed with a beastly face, and wears nothing but a mask he has created from magic. He believes that Isabella can break the curse, but runs into one obstacle after another in order to keep her safe.
This book makes me want to read everything else by the author.
The story of this retelling involves a heroine, Isabella, who is a bit of a thrill seeker, discovering clues that will lead to the identity of the man who killed a long time friend of hers. She is forced to keep her investigation a secret due to the fact that Lord Pecus is intent upon heading his own investigation while keeping her safe and secure in the confines of his own home.
Lord Pecus has been cursed with a beastly face, and wears nothing but a mask he has created from magic. He believes that Isabella can break the curse, but runs into one obstacle after another in order to keep her safe.
This book makes me want to read everything else by the author.
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