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Tales of Faith #1
Befriending the Beast
Belle has returned unannounced to the castle to restore her relationship with the king, her father. Her hopes are dashed with the devastating "The king refuses to see you." Convinced that God has led her home, she is unwilling to return to Lord and Lady Kiralyn.Time is running out for the decision that will change her life. When tragedy strikes, will she and her father be pulled further apart or knit together? Could she stay at the castle even if she will never see her father again?
106 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2016
9 people are currently reading
272 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Tero
30 books550 followersAmanda Tero grew up attending a one room school with her eleven siblings—and loved it! She also fell in love with reading to the point her mom withheld her books to get her to do her chores. That love of reading turned into a love of writing YA fiction.
Amanda is a music teacher by day and a literary guide by night, creating stories that whisk readers off to new eras and introduce them to heroic but flawed characters that live out their faith in astonishing ways.
Amanda is a music teacher by day and a literary guide by night, creating stories that whisk readers off to new eras and introduce them to heroic but flawed characters that live out their faith in astonishing ways.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
April 11, 2017
4.5 of 5 stars
*happy sigh* Oh, what a beautiful story. This was the fourth story I had read by Miss Tero (previously – Letters From a Scatter-Brained Sister, Debt of Mercy, and Coffee Cake Days) and it's certainly my favorite. :)
When I first started reading "Befriending the Beast", I wasn't sure what to expect. The writing was good (really good!!), but I wasn't sure where the story was going or if I would like it that much. I was so wrong, peeps. :P
I loved it so much!!! It's a beautiful story, such a unique retelling of Beauty and the Beast. I had never ever considered a retelling with someone besides a love-interest as the beast. The change was so sweet and refreshing! Also, I loved all the names – Keirstrider, Galathia (horses), Favian, Kiralyn... Eeps! All the lovely medieval-ness! :D And then...ahhhhhh. I absolutely adored the ending. <3 I hope Miss Tero writes more, similar, retellings. :)
**I received an e-ARC of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.**
*happy sigh* Oh, what a beautiful story. This was the fourth story I had read by Miss Tero (previously – Letters From a Scatter-Brained Sister, Debt of Mercy, and Coffee Cake Days) and it's certainly my favorite. :)
When I first started reading "Befriending the Beast", I wasn't sure what to expect. The writing was good (really good!!), but I wasn't sure where the story was going or if I would like it that much. I was so wrong, peeps. :P
I loved it so much!!! It's a beautiful story, such a unique retelling of Beauty and the Beast. I had never ever considered a retelling with someone besides a love-interest as the beast. The change was so sweet and refreshing! Also, I loved all the names – Keirstrider, Galathia (horses), Favian, Kiralyn... Eeps! All the lovely medieval-ness! :D And then...ahhhhhh. I absolutely adored the ending. <3 I hope Miss Tero writes more, similar, retellings. :)
**I received an e-ARC of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.**
April 11, 2017
I wasn't sure what to expect since this was a fairy-tale retelling and I'm not much into that sort of book. I shouldn't have worried. Amanda did an incredible job of making the story real and the characters lovable. Yes, even the "beast." The message of love and patience was so true and encouraged me.
I'm glad I read this short book.
I'm glad I read this short book.
April 11, 2017
Recommended: Ages 12+
Such a sweet story! I really enjoyed it, even though it's supposed to be a retelling of the 'Beauty and the Beast' story, it's nothing like the fairy-tale at all, for which I was very thankful.
After living with her kind uncle and aunt, the princess, Belle, decides to return to her father's castle for the first time since her mother's death. She arrives at the castle, only to find that most of the servants have left, and only a handful remain. The king, apparently, took his wife's death very badly, and is now even more of a beast than he had been before. He refuses to see Belle, because she had deserted him after her mother's death.
Nevertheless she goes about trying to fix things, apologize to her father, and make things right. At first nothing seems to work, until the day she rashly rides out in a storm despite being warned not to.
I loved how Percy, the king's scribe, comforted Belle as a Christian, after her father had refused to see her; as well as talked some sense into her on various occasions, despite her impulsive nature. I did not like Anis, Belle's maid, at all, and I really wished Belle could have had the kindly Isabel to wait on her instead!
The only thing I disliked about the story was the fact that Belle had been converted after hearing a sermon preached by a friar. But apart from that, there was a good Christian message running throughout the book, which I found really pleasant.
Parts of this book reminded me very much of The Secret Garden, which I thought was lovely. And the cover is so beautiful, and it fits so well with the story-line, too!
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.
Such a sweet story! I really enjoyed it, even though it's supposed to be a retelling of the 'Beauty and the Beast' story, it's nothing like the fairy-tale at all, for which I was very thankful.
After living with her kind uncle and aunt, the princess, Belle, decides to return to her father's castle for the first time since her mother's death. She arrives at the castle, only to find that most of the servants have left, and only a handful remain. The king, apparently, took his wife's death very badly, and is now even more of a beast than he had been before. He refuses to see Belle, because she had deserted him after her mother's death.
Nevertheless she goes about trying to fix things, apologize to her father, and make things right. At first nothing seems to work, until the day she rashly rides out in a storm despite being warned not to.
I loved how Percy, the king's scribe, comforted Belle as a Christian, after her father had refused to see her; as well as talked some sense into her on various occasions, despite her impulsive nature. I did not like Anis, Belle's maid, at all, and I really wished Belle could have had the kindly Isabel to wait on her instead!
The only thing I disliked about the story was the fact that Belle had been converted after hearing a sermon preached by a friar. But apart from that, there was a good Christian message running throughout the book, which I found really pleasant.
Parts of this book reminded me very much of The Secret Garden, which I thought was lovely. And the cover is so beautiful, and it fits so well with the story-line, too!
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.
November 2, 2017
Age Appropriate For: All Ages
Best for Ages: 8-20
I’ve wanted to read this retelling for a while. Tero came up with a brilliant idea when she decided to retell Beauty and the Beast, casting Belle’s father as the beast. I’m happy to say that this story met my expectations.
You can always count on Tero to have strong faith element. I loved how Belle did what she knew was right even if it wasn’t easy. I like how she did what was right even when people older than her, who also loved the Lord, tried to convince her to do something else. It is an excellent lesson for younger readers.
The setting was fun and fairy-tale like, minus the magic that normally makes its way into these kinds of stories. Kingdom fiction seems to be the best classification for this tale. The castle and gardens that were described were beautiful and a worthy setting for the story.
There are several notable characters in this story, but some of them come across as flat, and motivations are at times fuzzy. However, I would say that is more than made up for by the stellar plot and well-written story.
I highly recommend this story for anyone who loves fairytales, faith-building stories, and happy endings.
Best for Ages: 8-20
I’ve wanted to read this retelling for a while. Tero came up with a brilliant idea when she decided to retell Beauty and the Beast, casting Belle’s father as the beast. I’m happy to say that this story met my expectations.
You can always count on Tero to have strong faith element. I loved how Belle did what she knew was right even if it wasn’t easy. I like how she did what was right even when people older than her, who also loved the Lord, tried to convince her to do something else. It is an excellent lesson for younger readers.
The setting was fun and fairy-tale like, minus the magic that normally makes its way into these kinds of stories. Kingdom fiction seems to be the best classification for this tale. The castle and gardens that were described were beautiful and a worthy setting for the story.
There are several notable characters in this story, but some of them come across as flat, and motivations are at times fuzzy. However, I would say that is more than made up for by the stellar plot and well-written story.
I highly recommend this story for anyone who loves fairytales, faith-building stories, and happy endings.
October 4, 2016
{4.5 stars}
I never been into the Beauty and the Beast story or any other fairytale for that matter, but as soon as I heard that the author was writing a retelling of the story I jumped at the chance. I love the idea of the father being the beast, rather than the suitor. It was a nice change (sometimes romance stories get a little old!!).
This isn't quite 100 pages, but there are so many good lessons in this. I love how the salvation message is so strong in this book, as well as the point of praying before making a decisions and having patience in God's plan. All these things seemed hammered at me and I believe they will convict many others as well.
I loved how there were chapter discussions at the end. That really gets the reader thinking. So even if you're like me and don't like fairytales, read this. You won't be disappointed. It ends happy ;) I felt like the end could have been drawn out a little more, but I usually feel that way with novellas.
*I received this in exchange for an honest review.*
I never been into the Beauty and the Beast story or any other fairytale for that matter, but as soon as I heard that the author was writing a retelling of the story I jumped at the chance. I love the idea of the father being the beast, rather than the suitor. It was a nice change (sometimes romance stories get a little old!!).
This isn't quite 100 pages, but there are so many good lessons in this. I love how the salvation message is so strong in this book, as well as the point of praying before making a decisions and having patience in God's plan. All these things seemed hammered at me and I believe they will convict many others as well.
I loved how there were chapter discussions at the end. That really gets the reader thinking. So even if you're like me and don't like fairytales, read this. You won't be disappointed. It ends happy ;) I felt like the end could have been drawn out a little more, but I usually feel that way with novellas.
*I received this in exchange for an honest review.*
July 7, 2017
Befriending the Beast, a beauty and the Beast retelling, was so different from any retelling I've ever read. Instead of being a romance, it was about a strained relationship between a father and his daughter. So unique and a great story! I liked the writing style -- it was easy to read. The only thing I really didn't like was how quickly the book ended...I wish there would have been a chapter or two more.
All in all, though, a great read!
*I received a complimentary eBook copy for my honest review. As always, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
All in all, though, a great read!
*I received a complimentary eBook copy for my honest review. As always, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
April 11, 2017
What I Loved: I love the Beauty and the Beast so I was thrilled to get my hands on Amanda Tero's retelling. She has such a creative take on the story that I admired right away. Tero stripped the story of all magic and romance and presented it in a brand new way. One of the highlights of the novella was the way Tero treated the gospel. The gospel was presented so clearly. The overall theme of forgiveness and following Christ's plan for you life was also well handled and beautifully presented.
Rating and Recommendation: I'm giving it Befriending the Beast 5 stars and I'd recommend it to anyone who enjoys Christian Fiction, Christian Fairy Tale Retellings, or Christian Historical Fiction.
~ I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own.
Rating and Recommendation: I'm giving it Befriending the Beast 5 stars and I'd recommend it to anyone who enjoys Christian Fiction, Christian Fairy Tale Retellings, or Christian Historical Fiction.
~ I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own.
June 2, 2017
About this book:
“Belle has returned unannounced to the castle to restore her relationship with the king, her father. Her hopes are dashed with the devastating message: "The king refuses to see you." Convinced that God has led her home, she is unwilling to return to Lord and Lady Kiralyn. But will the king offer her any other choice?
Time is running out and she has a life-changing decision to make. When tragedy strikes, will she and her father be pulled further apart or knit together? Could she stay at the castle even if she will never see her father again?”
Series: Book #1 in the “Tales of Faith” series.
Spiritual Content- A few Scriptures are read & quoted; Prayers; Talks about God, Jesus, being saved, the cross & sinners; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Belle has a strong faith; Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers & praising God; Mentions of a Bible & bible reading; Mentions of Christmas & church going; Mentions of Heaven; A few mentions of sins.
Negative Content- Pain (barely-above-not-detailed); A mention of beheading; Mentions of (a mother’s) death; Mentions of hunting, hunting weapons & game.
Sexual Content- N/A
-(Princess) Belle, age 15
P.O.V. of Belle
{Medieval/Fantasy}
106 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- Three Stars
New Teens- Four Stars
Early High School Teens- Four Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars
This was a really neat twist on the classic Beauty & the Beast story! I really enjoyed the no-romance version of this fairy-tale—the ‘beast’ was actually Belle’s father. Lots of faith content which was great, I only wish it was longer! ;)
(And that cover is adorable!)
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Author for this honest review.
“Belle has returned unannounced to the castle to restore her relationship with the king, her father. Her hopes are dashed with the devastating message: "The king refuses to see you." Convinced that God has led her home, she is unwilling to return to Lord and Lady Kiralyn. But will the king offer her any other choice?
Time is running out and she has a life-changing decision to make. When tragedy strikes, will she and her father be pulled further apart or knit together? Could she stay at the castle even if she will never see her father again?”
Series: Book #1 in the “Tales of Faith” series.
Spiritual Content- A few Scriptures are read & quoted; Prayers; Talks about God, Jesus, being saved, the cross & sinners; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Belle has a strong faith; Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers & praising God; Mentions of a Bible & bible reading; Mentions of Christmas & church going; Mentions of Heaven; A few mentions of sins.
Negative Content- Pain (barely-above-not-detailed); A mention of beheading; Mentions of (a mother’s) death; Mentions of hunting, hunting weapons & game.
Sexual Content- N/A
-(Princess) Belle, age 15
P.O.V. of Belle
{Medieval/Fantasy}
106 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- Three Stars
New Teens- Four Stars
Early High School Teens- Four Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars
This was a really neat twist on the classic Beauty & the Beast story! I really enjoyed the no-romance version of this fairy-tale—the ‘beast’ was actually Belle’s father. Lots of faith content which was great, I only wish it was longer! ;)
(And that cover is adorable!)
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Author for this honest review.
September 28, 2019
Scanning through the previous reviews for this book, I see many varying sentiments of, "I don't read/like fairy tales or their retellings, but I loved this book," and I'm here to echo that statement. Traditional fairy tales are of little interest to me, but when godly authors take hold of one and retell the tale in a Biblical, clean, sweet, God-honoring, encouraging, challenging manner, the result is something else entirely. It's in a camp of its own, something that can't be compared to the original tale. (I might add, this is true of many other genres as well.)
The Tales of Faith series is one of these. It's a breath of fresh air, not only in telling a story in a new way that's been retold thousands of times before, but in breathing life and Spirit and holiness into a genre that badly needs it.
Befriending the Beast wasn't quite as intriguing to me as The Secret Slipper, but nevertheless, the tale was well told. It wasn't action-packed - one wouldn't expect this story to be, after all, but it explored emotions, reactions, motives, desires, fulfillment, and the will of God. Any Christian who enjoys retellings should give this one a try, and any Christian who doesn't might still love it anyway. And a non-Christian just might find the entirely unique twist on the traditional tale fascinating, as well as the depth of the plot. :)
The Tales of Faith series is one of these. It's a breath of fresh air, not only in telling a story in a new way that's been retold thousands of times before, but in breathing life and Spirit and holiness into a genre that badly needs it.
Befriending the Beast wasn't quite as intriguing to me as The Secret Slipper, but nevertheless, the tale was well told. It wasn't action-packed - one wouldn't expect this story to be, after all, but it explored emotions, reactions, motives, desires, fulfillment, and the will of God. Any Christian who enjoys retellings should give this one a try, and any Christian who doesn't might still love it anyway. And a non-Christian just might find the entirely unique twist on the traditional tale fascinating, as well as the depth of the plot. :)
January 11, 2026
4 stars. Wow, it has been so many years since I read this. I still enjoyed it, though. The characters are interesting—Percy and Grede are still my favourites—and Belle's lesson was touching. I loved the way the author worked in the traditional Beauty & the Beast elements, and I enjoyed the fact that there were some other elements that reminded me of The Secret Garden—the few servants, the roses, the silent and deserted rooms, the secret garden itself... 😆 Also, I just have to shoutout the names, because they're so cool! Overall, it's well done.
A Favourite Quote: “Did these roses bloom as soon as you and your mother planted them? Or were you that impatient little girl, dragging her mama here every morn to search for buds? ... Did you stop watering and nurturing the rosebushes just because you didn't see flowers? .... Nay. Just like it takes time with flowers, it takes time for the Spirit's work. And you cannot give up ‘watering and nurturing’ because things aren't happening as quickly as you'd like them to.”
A Favourite Beautiful Quote: She knelt and gently fingered a faded rose petal. [O]nly a few faded petals were left to fall to the ground. She plucked one of them off. That was how she felt. Like a petal clinging to its stem, hopeful of staying, fearful of being cast away.
A Favourite Quote: “Did these roses bloom as soon as you and your mother planted them? Or were you that impatient little girl, dragging her mama here every morn to search for buds? ... Did you stop watering and nurturing the rosebushes just because you didn't see flowers? .... Nay. Just like it takes time with flowers, it takes time for the Spirit's work. And you cannot give up ‘watering and nurturing’ because things aren't happening as quickly as you'd like them to.”
A Favourite Beautiful Quote: She knelt and gently fingered a faded rose petal. [O]nly a few faded petals were left to fall to the ground. She plucked one of them off. That was how she felt. Like a petal clinging to its stem, hopeful of staying, fearful of being cast away.
April 11, 2017
Taking off from the fairytale, Ms. Tero has artfully crafted a story with elements from The Secret Garden, reminiscent of Patricia St. John’s style, but with an endearing spice of its own.
I connected easily with Belle and suffered through her struggles. She was one of the best done princess characters I’ve seen for a while. Gentle, yet able to command. Percy was well done as well; he was probably one of my favorites. Anis was well crafted too (good job the grumpy, huffy personality).
The plot moved forward at the right pace, and I really enjoy the way Ms. Tero spins biblical messages along with the plot that leave one thinking.
However, I didn’t feel like the “beast”, Belle’s father, was complete. Belle seemed to be the only truly round character, but I think the story would have been stronger if her father were as well. When he suddenly changed at Belle’s illness, the transition was so sudden, it was rough. To previously get to know her father (even before she does) and be able to see wisps of a kindly nature occasionally peeking out would have definitely pulled my heart to pieces when we see him acting not so kindly toward Belle.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and strongly recommend it...
**I received a copy in exchange for my honest review**
I connected easily with Belle and suffered through her struggles. She was one of the best done princess characters I’ve seen for a while. Gentle, yet able to command. Percy was well done as well; he was probably one of my favorites. Anis was well crafted too (good job the grumpy, huffy personality).
The plot moved forward at the right pace, and I really enjoy the way Ms. Tero spins biblical messages along with the plot that leave one thinking.
However, I didn’t feel like the “beast”, Belle’s father, was complete. Belle seemed to be the only truly round character, but I think the story would have been stronger if her father were as well. When he suddenly changed at Belle’s illness, the transition was so sudden, it was rough. To previously get to know her father (even before she does) and be able to see wisps of a kindly nature occasionally peeking out would have definitely pulled my heart to pieces when we see him acting not so kindly toward Belle.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and strongly recommend it...
**I received a copy in exchange for my honest review**
April 11, 2017
This was a simple amazing novella! I really enjoyed it. It was one of the most fantastic takes on the ‘Beauty and the Beast’ story that I’ve ever read! It was also refreshing … we all know what’s gonna happen in romances … but this … this is special.
Read the rest of the review on my blog.
~Kellyn Roth, Reveries Reviews
Read the rest of the review on my blog.
~Kellyn Roth, Reveries Reviews
April 11, 2017
Review to come when it's published!! (Hint: It's AMAZING!)
April 10, 2020
This book has a nifty premise: what if the beast isn't a romantic interest for Belle, but instead is her father? I really enjoyed that particular twist to this story, as it led the characters away from the "true love will cure your problems" trope and into "what does love between a parent and child mean" instead.
Amanda Tero couples that idea with the question: What if instead of having been changed into a literal monster, it's only his behavior that is beastly? No magic curses here, but only a daughter whose mother died when she was a child. Her mother's death drove her father into a deep depression, and she went to live with her aunt and uncle because of her father's emotional difficulties.
Belle is happy with her aunt and uncle, but she returns to the castle because she is convinced God wants her to try to repair her relationship with her father. Her father doesn't even want to see her, and she spends most of her time trying to clear out and restore her mother's neglected rose garden or riding horses. But when she suffers an accident, her father repents of his distant ways and healing begins at last.
This is a very sweet story, though it treads a little more lightly on the issues of emotional abuse than I would have liked. Belle's father can be cruel to her, and I worry a little that children might read this and feel like they need to -- or can -- fix their parents behavior if they just pray and have patience. Also, there was more decision-based theology about choosing to have a relationship with God than I could ever be comfortable with. If you keep those things in mind as things to watch out for, however, you can enjoy a cozy afternoon with this lovely little book.
Amanda Tero couples that idea with the question: What if instead of having been changed into a literal monster, it's only his behavior that is beastly? No magic curses here, but only a daughter whose mother died when she was a child. Her mother's death drove her father into a deep depression, and she went to live with her aunt and uncle because of her father's emotional difficulties.
Belle is happy with her aunt and uncle, but she returns to the castle because she is convinced God wants her to try to repair her relationship with her father. Her father doesn't even want to see her, and she spends most of her time trying to clear out and restore her mother's neglected rose garden or riding horses. But when she suffers an accident, her father repents of his distant ways and healing begins at last.
This is a very sweet story, though it treads a little more lightly on the issues of emotional abuse than I would have liked. Belle's father can be cruel to her, and I worry a little that children might read this and feel like they need to -- or can -- fix their parents behavior if they just pray and have patience. Also, there was more decision-based theology about choosing to have a relationship with God than I could ever be comfortable with. If you keep those things in mind as things to watch out for, however, you can enjoy a cozy afternoon with this lovely little book.
August 23, 2017
Why I Choose this Book:
I don’t generally read books with magic, so I grew up not reading fairy tales. I’ve always been slightly curious about the genre, so when I find a fairy tale retelling that is void of magic, I’m interested in reading more. The author was offering to let me read the book in exchange for an honest review, so I signed up.
What I Thought about this Book:
Sadly I think my lack of growing up with fairy tales lowers my ratings on fairy tale retellings because I don’t have the built-in love and fangirling that most readers of retellings have. From the reviews I’ve seen a lot of readers really enjoyed the twist of having the “beast” be her father instead of some romantic interest. I’m guessing that if I’d grown up with the original story I would have been really intrigued by this new look at the story.
This story was well written, with the descriptions being especially, well, descriptive. The main character also felt like she was well thought out and stayed true to her character the whole book. I liked the setting and the dialogue sounded like it fit the time period well.
Overall, I didn’t really find the book to be incredibly interesting, but I did enjoy reading it. There were a couple of times that I decided to read just a couple more pages because I was interested in finding out what was going to happen next.
Conclusion:
If you enjoy fairy tales, then I recommend this.
Rating:
I’m giving Befriending the Beast 3 out of 5 stars, and 5 out of 10
*I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review
I don’t generally read books with magic, so I grew up not reading fairy tales. I’ve always been slightly curious about the genre, so when I find a fairy tale retelling that is void of magic, I’m interested in reading more. The author was offering to let me read the book in exchange for an honest review, so I signed up.
What I Thought about this Book:
Sadly I think my lack of growing up with fairy tales lowers my ratings on fairy tale retellings because I don’t have the built-in love and fangirling that most readers of retellings have. From the reviews I’ve seen a lot of readers really enjoyed the twist of having the “beast” be her father instead of some romantic interest. I’m guessing that if I’d grown up with the original story I would have been really intrigued by this new look at the story.
This story was well written, with the descriptions being especially, well, descriptive. The main character also felt like she was well thought out and stayed true to her character the whole book. I liked the setting and the dialogue sounded like it fit the time period well.
Overall, I didn’t really find the book to be incredibly interesting, but I did enjoy reading it. There were a couple of times that I decided to read just a couple more pages because I was interested in finding out what was going to happen next.
Conclusion:
If you enjoy fairy tales, then I recommend this.
Rating:
I’m giving Befriending the Beast 3 out of 5 stars, and 5 out of 10
*I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review
April 17, 2018
I liked the theme of the story, the way that Belle sought reconciliation with her father, and the way she was forced to wait on God even when she felt like she didn't have time. Her struggle with patience and trying to find God's will was very relatable.
The setting was well-done and obviously well-researched, and the details didn't pull me out of the story, as sometimes happens to me with descriptions. I would have liked to get to know the other characters a little better and see them interact with Belle more. Also, I had a bit of trouble with the dialogue in places; I understood the desire to balance period-correctness and readability, but the old-fashioned words tended to throw me at times.
The setting was well-done and obviously well-researched, and the details didn't pull me out of the story, as sometimes happens to me with descriptions. I would have liked to get to know the other characters a little better and see them interact with Belle more. Also, I had a bit of trouble with the dialogue in places; I understood the desire to balance period-correctness and readability, but the old-fashioned words tended to throw me at times.
November 6, 2017
Pretty good-- er, i just don't normally read this genre. But man, it was free and it's popular so I had to read it. Pretty well-written. I think it could've had more character development but it was short and to the point of which I can approve (being ADHD...). Thus, it was pretty good.
Mayhap we break the fast in the morn, if 'tis thy will? Aye.
Mayhap we break the fast in the morn, if 'tis thy will? Aye.
May 7, 2017
This was a very sweet retelling of Beauty and the Beast! I loved the fact that the storyline was about a father and daughter instead of the expected romantic guy and girl. Very well written, with no plot holes and very few typos. Highly recommended! All ages would enjoy this sweet, short story!
August 10, 2019
It's not a romance! I love that this fairy tale retelling is not a romance. This one has no romance.
Oh yeah, there was also fun mix ups, but they weren't to dramatic.
Oh yeah, there was also fun mix ups, but they weren't to dramatic.
March 1, 2018
Befriending the Beast by Amanda Tero takes a twist on the Beauty and Beast fairytale that I’ve never seen done before—what if there’s not a romance and the Beast is the father? I’m not typically much for fairy-tale re-tellings, but this one captured my interest from the beginning.
For years Belle has been separated from her father, the king, ever since fleeing to her aunt and uncle’s, grieving herself over her mother’s death and not being able to handle her father’s grief as well. Years later as her uncle and aunt have raised her and her father completely cut off contact with her, withdrawing himself away not only from her but anyone else; they seek to gain guardianship of her, prompting Belle’s decision to return to her father’s castle. But now with a peace and relationship with her heavenly Father that causes her to want the same for her father and show him His love. But her attempts to open up a door (literally and figuratively) to speak with him are only met with rebuttals, and her uncle and aunt’s insistent requests to “come home” become more and more appealing.
That’s the plot of the story, but its heart really is with Belle’s in trying to win back her father’s love. From the beginning scene with her carriage rolling to a stop at the castle, Belle’s character charmed my heart, and throughout the story, I ached with her even at one point realizing that the reason I was having trouble reading was for the tears in my eyes. The side-characters, which in this case, are mostly servants, were developed beautifully, and I loved their roles in the story, supporting and encouraging the princess.
Befriending the Beast is a charming little tale that I quite enjoyed, and a beautiful introduction to an author I’m certainly planning on reading more by.
For years Belle has been separated from her father, the king, ever since fleeing to her aunt and uncle’s, grieving herself over her mother’s death and not being able to handle her father’s grief as well. Years later as her uncle and aunt have raised her and her father completely cut off contact with her, withdrawing himself away not only from her but anyone else; they seek to gain guardianship of her, prompting Belle’s decision to return to her father’s castle. But now with a peace and relationship with her heavenly Father that causes her to want the same for her father and show him His love. But her attempts to open up a door (literally and figuratively) to speak with him are only met with rebuttals, and her uncle and aunt’s insistent requests to “come home” become more and more appealing.
That’s the plot of the story, but its heart really is with Belle’s in trying to win back her father’s love. From the beginning scene with her carriage rolling to a stop at the castle, Belle’s character charmed my heart, and throughout the story, I ached with her even at one point realizing that the reason I was having trouble reading was for the tears in my eyes. The side-characters, which in this case, are mostly servants, were developed beautifully, and I loved their roles in the story, supporting and encouraging the princess.
Befriending the Beast is a charming little tale that I quite enjoyed, and a beautiful introduction to an author I’m certainly planning on reading more by.
February 9, 2017
After her mother died, Princess Belle’s father never really recovered, so Belle went to live with her aunt and uncle. Several years later, at the age of fifteen, Belle feels the need to go back home and restore her relationship with her surly father. But he is not of the same mind.
Befriending the Beast by Amanda Tero is a short but sweet retelling of “Beauty and the Beast,” featuring Belle’s father as the beast. There is no magic or romance. But it is the inspirational story of a girl who cared for her father enough to help him out of his grief-induced depression, despite his treatment toward her. Aside from that switch, the Befriending the Beast reminds me most of the Disney version of “Beauty and the Beast,” with a few other changes. Belle is truly beautiful of heart, not just of face, and her father is as beastly as a human can be. The turning point that made Belle want to have a good father-daughter relationship again revolves around the Christian faith, which was a nice touch and showed the kind of unconditional love Christians are supposed to have. My one critique is that the story is very short and could have been more complex and drawn-out. As it is, the simplicity of the language and plot make it appropriate for children and middle grade age-groups.
I truly enjoyed this sweet story and would recommend it those who enjoy sweet, fairy tale retellings.
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Befriending the Beast by Amanda Tero is a short but sweet retelling of “Beauty and the Beast,” featuring Belle’s father as the beast. There is no magic or romance. But it is the inspirational story of a girl who cared for her father enough to help him out of his grief-induced depression, despite his treatment toward her. Aside from that switch, the Befriending the Beast reminds me most of the Disney version of “Beauty and the Beast,” with a few other changes. Belle is truly beautiful of heart, not just of face, and her father is as beastly as a human can be. The turning point that made Belle want to have a good father-daughter relationship again revolves around the Christian faith, which was a nice touch and showed the kind of unconditional love Christians are supposed to have. My one critique is that the story is very short and could have been more complex and drawn-out. As it is, the simplicity of the language and plot make it appropriate for children and middle grade age-groups.
I truly enjoyed this sweet story and would recommend it those who enjoy sweet, fairy tale retellings.
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 30, 2016
I was not sure how I felt about this story. Initially I felt it was a little slow, and it took me a bit to get involved in the story and with the characters. Some of the language felt a little forced, though I know that the author was trying to draw in the readers to another time long ago. What clinched this story for me, and really made me love it, was a scene in the garden when Princess Belle is talking to an old servant. It is a hard moment for the princess, and the man reminds her of when she was a child anticipating the buds that would grow eventually from the seeds her mother had planted in their special garden. It would not always remain a little meaningless stem. It would not remain just a stem with thorns, but it would eventually blossom in loveliness. Perhaps it just hit me at the exact moment I needed it, but there was so much encouragement in that moment for me. This story is a take-off of Beauty and the Beast, and so unique. I found it practical in a contemporary way, while being set in a time long ago. I found the characters played their part well so as to create a brand new classic with an meaningful twist. I was encouraged and touched and pleased.
October 9, 2024
I loved seeing a Beauty and the Beast re-telling without magic or romance. It was pretty cool! The author pulled me in with amazing writing, and I was sad when it was over because I wanted more. This is one of the best re-tellings I've read of B&TB.
April 27, 2017
A sweet retelling of B&B, with elements of the Secret Garden. Probably the best non-magical retelling of the story that I've read.
January 9, 2020
STORY
Super duper nice retelling of Beauty and the Beast! My biggest qualm with the story was personal: it felt super rushed. Well structured, yes, but things would have made more of an impact on me had it been a slower struggle. However, novellas and such are super great, and this one was fantastic. I wanted more, haha.
THEMES
The themes of God's salvation and choosing to do His will, not our own, were prominent in this little book. Very well executed. Again, things were a bit rushed. I did love the themes though.
CHARACTERS
Allllll the stars for Percy. Percy is amazing.
The characters were all super well written and had great motivation.
A part of the too-rushed thing, I do think some choices or actions done by the characters were to keep things short and nondramatic, but it was still great.
CONTENT
Super clean read! No swearing, no violence, no gore, no sensual content. I'd say G or PG.
OVERALL
Super cute.
Super duper nice retelling of Beauty and the Beast! My biggest qualm with the story was personal: it felt super rushed. Well structured, yes, but things would have made more of an impact on me had it been a slower struggle. However, novellas and such are super great, and this one was fantastic. I wanted more, haha.
THEMES
The themes of God's salvation and choosing to do His will, not our own, were prominent in this little book. Very well executed. Again, things were a bit rushed. I did love the themes though.
CHARACTERS
Allllll the stars for Percy. Percy is amazing.
The characters were all super well written and had great motivation.
A part of the too-rushed thing, I do think some choices or actions done by the characters were to keep things short and nondramatic, but it was still great.
CONTENT
Super clean read! No swearing, no violence, no gore, no sensual content. I'd say G or PG.
OVERALL
Super cute.
April 11, 2017
I always enjoy all of Amanda’s stories, but I think this was one of my favorites. No, not because it’s a fairytale retelling; I’m actually not much into fairytales. I found it refreshing, because in this case the beast wasn’t some young man she had a romantic attraction to, but it was her own father with whom she desired to reestablish a relationship.
The setting is one of my favorites, and Amanda did a great job giving it the right ‘feel’.
Not least, Belle’s spiritual journey is portrayed realistically and the progression of her relationship with her father is so sweet.
I enjoyed every minute of this book!
The setting is one of my favorites, and Amanda did a great job giving it the right ‘feel’.
Not least, Belle’s spiritual journey is portrayed realistically and the progression of her relationship with her father is so sweet.
I enjoyed every minute of this book!
June 2, 2017
Honestly, I didn’t love it, but I think I could have if the story had been more developed and better paced. It fits too well around the theme; it was like the important plotlines had begun, but there weren’t enough pieces in between the key scenes to flesh out the story or the characters. It felt like a well-written but early draft version that only did the minimum instead of becoming the deeper story it could’ve been.
August 29, 2025
I won this book through a giveaway from Amanda Tero. I had not read any of her work before. I am so impressed with the author and her writing.
On Amanda's website it states that she "desires to provide God-honoring, family-friendly reading material." In this book that is exactly what she did. I enjoyed this book and look forward to lending it to my younger cousins. I loved the twist of Belle's father being the beast.
Not only did I enjoy the story but I enjoyed getting a glimpse at the author. Her intentions are beautiful and she shows affection for her readers. Her website says: "If something she has written draws an individual into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ, it is worth it!" That is an author I look to promote.
This was a very clean, well-written novella with beautiful imagery.
On Amanda's website it states that she "desires to provide God-honoring, family-friendly reading material." In this book that is exactly what she did. I enjoyed this book and look forward to lending it to my younger cousins. I loved the twist of Belle's father being the beast.
Not only did I enjoy the story but I enjoyed getting a glimpse at the author. Her intentions are beautiful and she shows affection for her readers. Her website says: "If something she has written draws an individual into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ, it is worth it!" That is an author I look to promote.
This was a very clean, well-written novella with beautiful imagery.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 30, 2019
That was one of the sweetest stories I've read in a while!
My heart was breaking for Belle, and I was cheering when Belle and her father were reconciled, <3 Percy's wise and timely advice was always perfectly given, and never offensive. The secret garden was lovely, also, and I could almost see it in some of the descriptions.
The storyline was sweet, and the way Amanda managed to capture the Beauty and Beast in this story, yet change it and make it even better, was amazing.
The Christian theme throughout the pages was perfect, and it formed the very essence of the tale. The themes of reconciliation and being willing to wait on God's perfect timing were ones I needed to be reminded of.
I highly recommend this book, and am looking forward to reading the second!
My heart was breaking for Belle, and I was cheering when Belle and her father were reconciled, <3 Percy's wise and timely advice was always perfectly given, and never offensive. The secret garden was lovely, also, and I could almost see it in some of the descriptions.
The storyline was sweet, and the way Amanda managed to capture the Beauty and Beast in this story, yet change it and make it even better, was amazing.
The Christian theme throughout the pages was perfect, and it formed the very essence of the tale. The themes of reconciliation and being willing to wait on God's perfect timing were ones I needed to be reminded of.
I highly recommend this book, and am looking forward to reading the second!
April 27, 2017
This was a very good retelling of the familiar tale, Beauty and the Beast. And like other reviews have said, it was very unique in the fact that the Beast character was portrayed in this story as Belle's father, instead of a romantic interest. I thought that was very clever, and very well-done!
I loved the medieval feel to it - it was rich in that. And the decorative formatting of each chapter was just lovely! I thought that was beautiful.
Well-written, and captivating. My favourite of Miss Tero's books that I've read so far. :)
**Thank you to the author for providing a complimentary ecopy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
I loved the medieval feel to it - it was rich in that. And the decorative formatting of each chapter was just lovely! I thought that was beautiful.
Well-written, and captivating. My favourite of Miss Tero's books that I've read so far. :)
**Thank you to the author for providing a complimentary ecopy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
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