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Tales from St. Giles #1
Taming the Beast
"...flat-out wonderful." - Kate Douglas, author of the Wolf Tales A Tale from St. Giles The suspicious death of Dante Bartholomew’s wife changed him, especially in the eyes of the residents of St. Giles. They no longer see a successful businessman… only a monster they believe was involved. Dante’s horrific reputation eclipses the truth to the point that he sees no choice but to isolate himself and his heart. The plan backfires when he meets counselor Beau Clarity and the children he works with. Beau and the kids see beyond the beastly reputation to the beautiful soul inside Dante, and Dante’s cold heart begins to thaw as they slip past his defenses. The warmth and hope Beau brings to Dante’s life help him see his entire existence—his trials and sorrows—in a brighter light. But Dante’s secrets could rip happiness from their grasp… especially since someone isn’t above hurting those Dante has grown to love in order to bring him down.
200 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 13, 2017
32 people are currently reading
216 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
November 3, 2017
⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*A beast who's not a beast*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱
This was a easy read. Nothing fancy, nothing great. Pretty straight forward and a theme of guilt and healing. The book centers around Dante ‘the Beast of St. Giles’ Bartholomew (how old?) and counselor Beau Clarity (how old?). Beau sees more to Dante than just a beast; he sees someone in pain and Dante finally has someone who actually sees him. Overall, I got a bit annoyed with the use of ‘the Beast’, as I didn't see a beast, only a man with a past he can't let go off. Still it was a quick read, with a little bit a insta-love.
“It’s been a long time since anyone stood up for me.” Dante seemed genuinely shocked.
“Then it’s about fucking time,” Beau said with more vehemence than he initially intended.
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Contemporary Romance (M/M)
Series: - Standalone.
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Dante ‘the Beast of St. Giles’ Bartholomew.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Unsure.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Unsure.
Will I read this again in the future? - No.
Rating - 2/2.5 stars.
September 24, 2017
I was lucky enough to get an advance copy of Taming the Beast.
I absolutely love Andrew Grey’s stories. He writes the most romantic books about real men in real-life situations who handle those situations with intelligence and strength, sometimes with humor, other times with deep sadness, but always in the manner we would expect people we care about to deal with the conflicts in their lives.
Taming the Beast is flat-out wonderful. Both Dante and Beau have suffered, and they bear the scars of that suffering. Beau’s are external, terrible scars from a childhood event that has left him feeling unattractive and vulnerable. Dante’s scars aren’t anything anyone can see, but he, not Beau, is the Beast, a veritable pariah in the small town of St. Giles. It’s a role he never asked for, but it’s the only one he knows.
Beau is determined to redeem the beast, while Dante wants to do whatever he can to help Beau, who heads a small mental health clinic for the families of addicts and alcoholics. Beau wants the town’s citizens to understand that Dante is a good man, not the murderous animal the locals have tagged him, but Dante is a recluse by choice who isn’t quite so sure he deserves saving.
Still, Dante finds it impossible to say no to Beau, and the evolution of their growing relationship is absolutely wonderful. I love stories with characters so well-written that they are absolutely real to the reader. Both Dante and Beau are beautifully drawn, their personalities so powerful that that practically walk off the page. If you’ve never read a M/M romance, I highly recommend any and all of Andrew Grey’s stories. It doesn’t take long to become so caught up in his protagonists’ world that you’re rooting for the men to find love from the moment they meet.
And find it they do. Dante and Beau’s story left me smiling, and isn’t that what a really good romance should do? Thank you, Andrew, for the chance to read this marvelous story.
I absolutely love Andrew Grey’s stories. He writes the most romantic books about real men in real-life situations who handle those situations with intelligence and strength, sometimes with humor, other times with deep sadness, but always in the manner we would expect people we care about to deal with the conflicts in their lives.
Taming the Beast is flat-out wonderful. Both Dante and Beau have suffered, and they bear the scars of that suffering. Beau’s are external, terrible scars from a childhood event that has left him feeling unattractive and vulnerable. Dante’s scars aren’t anything anyone can see, but he, not Beau, is the Beast, a veritable pariah in the small town of St. Giles. It’s a role he never asked for, but it’s the only one he knows.
Beau is determined to redeem the beast, while Dante wants to do whatever he can to help Beau, who heads a small mental health clinic for the families of addicts and alcoholics. Beau wants the town’s citizens to understand that Dante is a good man, not the murderous animal the locals have tagged him, but Dante is a recluse by choice who isn’t quite so sure he deserves saving.
Still, Dante finds it impossible to say no to Beau, and the evolution of their growing relationship is absolutely wonderful. I love stories with characters so well-written that they are absolutely real to the reader. Both Dante and Beau are beautifully drawn, their personalities so powerful that that practically walk off the page. If you’ve never read a M/M romance, I highly recommend any and all of Andrew Grey’s stories. It doesn’t take long to become so caught up in his protagonists’ world that you’re rooting for the men to find love from the moment they meet.
And find it they do. Dante and Beau’s story left me smiling, and isn’t that what a really good romance should do? Thank you, Andrew, for the chance to read this marvelous story.
April 7, 2018
Dante Bartholomew is known as The Beast of St. Giles. The town blames Dante for the death of his wife, Allison and because it's convenient to believe the worst of him, even though his foundation and business are what keeps the town going. It's this attitude that has Dante avoiding the town as much as possible.
The only time Dante goes into town is for business and one night when he's forced to attend a town function for business he meets Beau Clarity.
Beau, who heads a small mental health clinic for families of addicts and alcoholics, is instantly smitten the moment he lays eyes on Dante, and being relatively new to town, he hasn't been tainted by the gossip surrounding Dante. The Dante he meets and gets to know is different from the man the townspeople try to warn him away from and Beau is determined to get to know Dante better.
Both Dante and Beau have scars from their pasts and it will take a fight to make it through to their HEA together.
This is my second audiobook narrated by Jack Wesley and I continue to be impressed with just how smoothly he performs. His character voices are unique and easy to follow, and his pacing and timing are great. Wesley made Taming the Beast a pleasure to listen to.
The story has a fairytale-esque theme with some hurt/comfort and focuses on forgiveness, letting go of guilt, and healing. While the history of Dante wife's death, and his guilt, got old fast for me, I liked Beau, especially how he stood up to, and for, Dante.
On the whole, the story didn't really resonate for me, but it had a nice thread of hurt/comfort, and I really enjoyed the narration.
Story = 2.5 Stars, Narration = 4.5 Stars; Overall 3.5 Stars
Audio copy of Taming the Beast (Tales from St. Giles #1) provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
November 16, 2017
3.5*
I liked the two main characters and the story was ok, but this one was very simple.
The bad guy is clearly pointed out very soon in the story so is not very much intrigue to add.
ALso the drama with Allison is a bit drained
I liked the two main characters and the story was ok, but this one was very simple.
The bad guy is clearly pointed out very soon in the story so is not very much intrigue to add.
ALso the drama with Allison is a bit drained
October 26, 2017
Taming the Beast by Andrew Grey is a powerful story of strength and perseverance. Sadness, joy, misunderstanding, suffering, and love are masterfully depicted amongst its pages. The guys are real, with painful histories, bearing scars to prove it.
Dante Bartholomew is known as the Beast of St. Giles. His scars are internal and he has closed himself off to the world. Because of his circumstances he believes himself to be the monster “beast” that most see him as. His history is all too familiar, born of prejudice and irrational fears. Once a vibrant and open man, tragedy shuts him down and he lets people believe what they want about him. Unbeknownst to most, Dante is an amazing, kind, giving man that just longs to love and be loved in return.
Beau Clarity is your average looking young man on the outside. However, under his clothing is the physical evidence of his past that fosters low self esteem issues for him. He runs the local mental health clinic focusing on supporting those impacted by substance abuse. Beau is one of the most generous and giving men you could meet. With his scars one would assume he would be the “beast” but that title is bestowed solely onto Dante.
These two men take an amazing journey. Together they break down each others walls of self doubt and fear, along the way finding beauty in each other.
Their progression is fraught with internal struggles as well as externally dealing with the invalid assumptions made by others. It is truly sad to see how the town and its inhabitants use and abuse Dante when in essence he makes their existence possible, bettering their lives.
Beau and Dante complement each other beautifully. Where one is weak the other is strong. They see beyond the surface into the depth and soul of each other where building a relationship is strongest. They support each other and help others to understand the true men they are, breaking down misconceptions.
Seeing each man through the eyes of the other is absolutely beautiful.
If you have followed my reviews you know that I am a huge fan of Andrew Grey’s work. His characters are real and you are drawn into the world that he creates. Taming the Beast is no exception.
You will feel Beau and Dante’s joy, misery, pain, happiness, and love. You will share their tears and laughter.
It won’t take long for you to connect with them, cheering and encouraging them to believe in each other.
A copy of Taming the Beast was provided to Kimmers’ Erotic Book Banter, by RBTL Book Promotions, at no cost and with no expectations in return. We offer our fair and honest opinion on behalf of our readers.
http://bit.ly/2zRSUF9
Dante Bartholomew is known as the Beast of St. Giles. His scars are internal and he has closed himself off to the world. Because of his circumstances he believes himself to be the monster “beast” that most see him as. His history is all too familiar, born of prejudice and irrational fears. Once a vibrant and open man, tragedy shuts him down and he lets people believe what they want about him. Unbeknownst to most, Dante is an amazing, kind, giving man that just longs to love and be loved in return.
Beau Clarity is your average looking young man on the outside. However, under his clothing is the physical evidence of his past that fosters low self esteem issues for him. He runs the local mental health clinic focusing on supporting those impacted by substance abuse. Beau is one of the most generous and giving men you could meet. With his scars one would assume he would be the “beast” but that title is bestowed solely onto Dante.
These two men take an amazing journey. Together they break down each others walls of self doubt and fear, along the way finding beauty in each other.
Their progression is fraught with internal struggles as well as externally dealing with the invalid assumptions made by others. It is truly sad to see how the town and its inhabitants use and abuse Dante when in essence he makes their existence possible, bettering their lives.
Beau and Dante complement each other beautifully. Where one is weak the other is strong. They see beyond the surface into the depth and soul of each other where building a relationship is strongest. They support each other and help others to understand the true men they are, breaking down misconceptions.
Seeing each man through the eyes of the other is absolutely beautiful.
If you have followed my reviews you know that I am a huge fan of Andrew Grey’s work. His characters are real and you are drawn into the world that he creates. Taming the Beast is no exception.
You will feel Beau and Dante’s joy, misery, pain, happiness, and love. You will share their tears and laughter.
It won’t take long for you to connect with them, cheering and encouraging them to believe in each other.
A copy of Taming the Beast was provided to Kimmers’ Erotic Book Banter, by RBTL Book Promotions, at no cost and with no expectations in return. We offer our fair and honest opinion on behalf of our readers.
http://bit.ly/2zRSUF9
April 24, 2018
How did I missed writing this book's review, I have no idea.
Now I need to gather my (short) memory again, glad I'm finally read the second book, and remembered that I liked Dante and Beau's story.
I mean, Beau is so adorable and even 'the St.Giles beast' couldn't stand his charm and falling hard for him. Now, we know who rules the Bartholomew's household, huh?
This is a modern telling of one of my favorite fairy tales, Beauty and the Beast, and it was nice to revisit the story, but with more M in it.
I think Andrew Grey is good with this kind of story, since fairy tales need a hand of author who can write some sweet dreamy stories.
I enjoyed it, and if you're a lover of a fairy tales, you'll find this one interesting.
October 15, 2017
Full review available at: https://optimumm.blog/2017/10/13/revi...
I loved this modern-day retelling of the fairytale the Beauty and the Beast. Taming the beast by Andrew Grey is well written and nicely edited. The book had a nice flow and kept my mind active and engaged in the story. I love when a story energizes me instead of making me sleepy. I was definitely energized with this story and read well into the early morning before finally having to get some sleep so I wouldn’t be a total zombie the next morning. Sure there were times that I wanted to slap the beast of St. Giles, but there were times that he would do something that was sweet and kind and made me say awe.
I thought Dante Bartholomew made a perfect beast, and I liked that he didn’t have any disfigurements to make him be the default beast. He was beautiful on the outside, but the death of his wife and the resulting guilt led to him being reclusive and being the beast that the community expected. But the servants at Bartholomew Manson see the kind and caring side of Dante that the community doesn’t get to see. My favorite servant was Roberts and the cook Harriet. You could feel how much love and respect they had for their employer. When his lawyer badgers him into going to a fundraising event in addition to sending in a sizable contribution, he meets counselor Beau Clarity and the children he works with.
I thought Beau Clarity was a perfect beauty. But his beauty came from his heart and soul. Although he wouldn’t say that he’s classically beautiful in face or form, the way he cares for the community by offering his help through the community center with free substance abuse counseling and classes for the children of substance abuse families shows what a beautiful person he is. Although if you ask Dante, he’s beautiful on the outside as well as on the inside even with all of the scars on his chest left by a bear attack when he was a child. I really enjoyed how Beau and the child, Bobby, helped bring Dante out of his cold persona at the fundraising dinner and convinced him to come and volunteer at the community center.
I liked the interactions between Beau and Dante. The story has a slow burn romance to it, and it felt perfect for how closed off Dante was and how hard Beau had to work to bring Dante out of his shell and defrost his heart. But Dante has lots of guilt over his marriage to his best friend Allison and how it ended in tragedy, and until he learns to forgive himself, he won’t be ready to move on.
And I loved the end of the book, I had the biggest sappiest smile on my face, and my heart was full of happy thoughts.
So if you are looking for a modern-day retelling of the fairytale the Beauty and the Beast, then I would give this one a try. I know I thoroughly enjoyed it.
***The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book***
I loved this modern-day retelling of the fairytale the Beauty and the Beast. Taming the beast by Andrew Grey is well written and nicely edited. The book had a nice flow and kept my mind active and engaged in the story. I love when a story energizes me instead of making me sleepy. I was definitely energized with this story and read well into the early morning before finally having to get some sleep so I wouldn’t be a total zombie the next morning. Sure there were times that I wanted to slap the beast of St. Giles, but there were times that he would do something that was sweet and kind and made me say awe.
I thought Dante Bartholomew made a perfect beast, and I liked that he didn’t have any disfigurements to make him be the default beast. He was beautiful on the outside, but the death of his wife and the resulting guilt led to him being reclusive and being the beast that the community expected. But the servants at Bartholomew Manson see the kind and caring side of Dante that the community doesn’t get to see. My favorite servant was Roberts and the cook Harriet. You could feel how much love and respect they had for their employer. When his lawyer badgers him into going to a fundraising event in addition to sending in a sizable contribution, he meets counselor Beau Clarity and the children he works with.
I thought Beau Clarity was a perfect beauty. But his beauty came from his heart and soul. Although he wouldn’t say that he’s classically beautiful in face or form, the way he cares for the community by offering his help through the community center with free substance abuse counseling and classes for the children of substance abuse families shows what a beautiful person he is. Although if you ask Dante, he’s beautiful on the outside as well as on the inside even with all of the scars on his chest left by a bear attack when he was a child. I really enjoyed how Beau and the child, Bobby, helped bring Dante out of his cold persona at the fundraising dinner and convinced him to come and volunteer at the community center.
I liked the interactions between Beau and Dante. The story has a slow burn romance to it, and it felt perfect for how closed off Dante was and how hard Beau had to work to bring Dante out of his shell and defrost his heart. But Dante has lots of guilt over his marriage to his best friend Allison and how it ended in tragedy, and until he learns to forgive himself, he won’t be ready to move on.
And I loved the end of the book, I had the biggest sappiest smile on my face, and my heart was full of happy thoughts.
So if you are looking for a modern-day retelling of the fairytale the Beauty and the Beast, then I would give this one a try. I know I thoroughly enjoyed it.
***The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book***
November 7, 2017
✩ ✩ ✩ ✩ FOUR-STAR ✩ REVIEW ✩ ✩ ✩ ✩
> > Judging a Book by it's Cover < <
The cover is very busy and gives the eye many things to look at. Two bare-chested men stand closely, facing one another, while surrounded by flames. Lower down is a large... home? Font choices are strong. Synopsis sounds like it could be modeled after a Beauty and Beast-type fairy tale.
> > Looking Deeper < <
POV ~> Third-person
Guilt-ridden over his wife's death, Dante closed himself off from society. This fueled rumors and speculations, townsfolk began referring to him as "The Beast". His influence and power in the city did nothing to make them less fearful of him either. Beau was a recent transplant to town, taking over at the community center as the substance abuse counselor. He saw past Dante's facade, deeper than anyone's bothered to look. An event for the center brought them together, socially, but bonds beyond that were formed that night which neither expected. As they get closer, outside forces worked against them to bring them down.
This was a difficult one for me to get through, for some reason. I am normally able to read and enjoy Andrew Grey's work effortlessly. TAMING THE BEAST felt like a more laborious trek than an enjoyable journey. The characters were okay and while I enjoyed them as a couple, sometimes I was not fond of the individuals. Secondary cast was well-rounded. The plot was dynamic, but the flow felt a bit sluggish - a little less fluid than usual. There were several conflicts, internal and external. While the external conflicts were solved, no long-term outcomes were mentioned about those involved. The internal self-awareness moment was glossed over and rather anticlimactic. Predictability was low. The conclusion was solid and satisfying.
Overall, the story concept (loosely taken from a popular fairy tale) was enjoyable and I imagine other readers may like it better, but it just was not one of my favorites from this author.
.
Rating: [R] ~ Score: 4.05 ~ Stars: 4
==========================
⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I received a copy of this book from the Author/Publisher with the hope that I would voluntarily leave unbiased and unsolicited feedback. I was not asked, encouraged, or required to leave a review - nor was I compensated in any way. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising". ***** ⭐ ⭐
> > Judging a Book by it's Cover < <
The cover is very busy and gives the eye many things to look at. Two bare-chested men stand closely, facing one another, while surrounded by flames. Lower down is a large... home? Font choices are strong. Synopsis sounds like it could be modeled after a Beauty and Beast-type fairy tale.
> > Looking Deeper < <
POV ~> Third-person
Guilt-ridden over his wife's death, Dante closed himself off from society. This fueled rumors and speculations, townsfolk began referring to him as "The Beast". His influence and power in the city did nothing to make them less fearful of him either. Beau was a recent transplant to town, taking over at the community center as the substance abuse counselor. He saw past Dante's facade, deeper than anyone's bothered to look. An event for the center brought them together, socially, but bonds beyond that were formed that night which neither expected. As they get closer, outside forces worked against them to bring them down.
This was a difficult one for me to get through, for some reason. I am normally able to read and enjoy Andrew Grey's work effortlessly. TAMING THE BEAST felt like a more laborious trek than an enjoyable journey. The characters were okay and while I enjoyed them as a couple, sometimes I was not fond of the individuals. Secondary cast was well-rounded. The plot was dynamic, but the flow felt a bit sluggish - a little less fluid than usual. There were several conflicts, internal and external. While the external conflicts were solved, no long-term outcomes were mentioned about those involved. The internal self-awareness moment was glossed over and rather anticlimactic. Predictability was low. The conclusion was solid and satisfying.
Overall, the story concept (loosely taken from a popular fairy tale) was enjoyable and I imagine other readers may like it better, but it just was not one of my favorites from this author.
.
Rating: [R] ~ Score: 4.05 ~ Stars: 4
==========================
⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I received a copy of this book from the Author/Publisher with the hope that I would voluntarily leave unbiased and unsolicited feedback. I was not asked, encouraged, or required to leave a review - nor was I compensated in any way. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising". ***** ⭐ ⭐
October 12, 2017
This was an incredible read about learning to forgive. Not only forgiving others but most of all about learning to forgive ines self. It is a book about learning to live again. A book about learning to let go of guilt. A book about learning to accept the truth. And most of all a book about learning to love. Not just loving someone else but most importantly loving ones self.
Andrew Grey didsuch an amazing job on this book. It is a book that is full of all sorts of different emotions. Andrew had a way about him with being able to make the reader feel all the emotions he has going on in this book as if they are there with the characters to feel everything they are feeling.
Dante is known to his town as a beast. They believe the worst of him for things they know very little about of his past. They blame him for things that are made up about him because it is convenient to believe the worst of him. I truly believe they would blame him if there was a storm and each one would honestly believe he created it. Dante has lived most of his time behind closed doors since his wife Allison died. It was in some ways easier and in other ways harder for Dante by doing so.
Dante only ever ventures out when he has work out of town or when it is absolutely necessary for him to attend a function for something or another. Because of a function that he was required to attend, his life is about to change forever. Whether it be good or bad is still too be seen.
Beau knows that the moment that he lays eyes on Dante that he is different from all the gossip in town says about him. He is proved right by how he treats the children that have to attend the function. Beau is definitely interested in getting to know Dante better. The question is though is whether Dante will allow that to happen?
This was such an incredible read. I think that others will feel the same s I do about it. I cannot wait to see what Andrew Grey will come up with next.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
Andrew Grey didsuch an amazing job on this book. It is a book that is full of all sorts of different emotions. Andrew had a way about him with being able to make the reader feel all the emotions he has going on in this book as if they are there with the characters to feel everything they are feeling.
Dante is known to his town as a beast. They believe the worst of him for things they know very little about of his past. They blame him for things that are made up about him because it is convenient to believe the worst of him. I truly believe they would blame him if there was a storm and each one would honestly believe he created it. Dante has lived most of his time behind closed doors since his wife Allison died. It was in some ways easier and in other ways harder for Dante by doing so.
Dante only ever ventures out when he has work out of town or when it is absolutely necessary for him to attend a function for something or another. Because of a function that he was required to attend, his life is about to change forever. Whether it be good or bad is still too be seen.
Beau knows that the moment that he lays eyes on Dante that he is different from all the gossip in town says about him. He is proved right by how he treats the children that have to attend the function. Beau is definitely interested in getting to know Dante better. The question is though is whether Dante will allow that to happen?
This was such an incredible read. I think that others will feel the same s I do about it. I cannot wait to see what Andrew Grey will come up with next.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
October 9, 2017
Dante lives a lonely, somewhat secluded life. He's a brute of man that probably murdered his wife, a monster. Or is he? That's the thing about rumors and myth, they wind up taking on a life of their own. If this man is such a monster, why would the small, devoted group of people that surround him do anything for him?
Beau lives for the kids at the center he runs. He's kind, generous and gives of himself expecting nothing in return. Scars of the past run deep though, and much like Dante, he has trouble trusting his heart to another. These two men have far more in common than they know, which is both a blessing and a curse.
I absolutely love old school fairy tales and disney movies, my favorite disney move being Beauty and the Beast! I really enjoy when an Author can take one of those classic fairy tales and shape it, mold it and make it their own. Which is exactly what Grey has done with this gem. There's just enough elements of the original story to engage your mind, but then there's the differences, something you thought went here that winds up there. Add to that Grey's own unique spin on the story and you'll be so intrigued you won't be able to put this book down. I, in fact, have now read it twice.
Beau lives for the kids at the center he runs. He's kind, generous and gives of himself expecting nothing in return. Scars of the past run deep though, and much like Dante, he has trouble trusting his heart to another. These two men have far more in common than they know, which is both a blessing and a curse.
I absolutely love old school fairy tales and disney movies, my favorite disney move being Beauty and the Beast! I really enjoy when an Author can take one of those classic fairy tales and shape it, mold it and make it their own. Which is exactly what Grey has done with this gem. There's just enough elements of the original story to engage your mind, but then there's the differences, something you thought went here that winds up there. Add to that Grey's own unique spin on the story and you'll be so intrigued you won't be able to put this book down. I, in fact, have now read it twice.
December 17, 2017
I read this in September and didn't realize I'd skipped doing the review so all the details escape me right now, but I do know that one of the few things I enjoy more than a sweet romance is one based on a fairy tale. And this story is both. It's based on Beauty and the Beast—my personal favorite.
Andrew Grey takes the original tale and takes it to the modern world, complete with a character named Beau, instead of Belle, and Dante, whose nickname around town is The Beast. Of course, the sweet Beau sees beyond Dante's appearance to the man beneath and the two eventually express their love. A happy ending? Of course!
Andrew Grey takes the original tale and takes it to the modern world, complete with a character named Beau, instead of Belle, and Dante, whose nickname around town is The Beast. Of course, the sweet Beau sees beyond Dante's appearance to the man beneath and the two eventually express their love. A happy ending? Of course!
June 12, 2020
The "beast" thing was way overdone. It was kind of repetitive. Also, who can actually make someone go to a function they don't want to go to? I mean, Dante is a grown man and his attorney was all up in his business? No thanks!
November 29, 2017
Dante Bartholomew is a wealthy man who owns the major employer in St. Giles. He inherited the porcelain business from his father. Dante has many secrets, one of which is so serious it causes him to be alone, misunderstood, and feared despite his generosity to the town.
Beau Clarity is a counselor who runs a center that is meant to care for people who have mental and emotional problems. When Beau and Dante meet at a fundraiser there aren’t instant sparks but there is some attraction. Beau also has secrets, one in particular that is more of an embarrassment than anything else. Both men have to reveal their secrets to each other and the people who care about them before they can begin to heal and open up.
Because of these secrets these two gay men are isolated from a relationship that could bring both of them joy, and also vulnerable to building hate among some of the people in town. This hate could become fatal if left to fester. Before everything is revealed, police, lawyers, a few close friends, and a fire take place to nearly ruin everything the men have built. The secondary characters are absolutely critical to the story and beautifully developed.
This is a wonderful story that shows that everyone deserves a fairy tale ending. Absolutely delightful and mesmerizing. You won’t be able to put it down.
Beau Clarity is a counselor who runs a center that is meant to care for people who have mental and emotional problems. When Beau and Dante meet at a fundraiser there aren’t instant sparks but there is some attraction. Beau also has secrets, one in particular that is more of an embarrassment than anything else. Both men have to reveal their secrets to each other and the people who care about them before they can begin to heal and open up.
Because of these secrets these two gay men are isolated from a relationship that could bring both of them joy, and also vulnerable to building hate among some of the people in town. This hate could become fatal if left to fester. Before everything is revealed, police, lawyers, a few close friends, and a fire take place to nearly ruin everything the men have built. The secondary characters are absolutely critical to the story and beautifully developed.
This is a wonderful story that shows that everyone deserves a fairy tale ending. Absolutely delightful and mesmerizing. You won’t be able to put it down.
October 6, 2017
I really loved this story. Each book by this author gets better and better. The emotions that are written are felt deeply. There's secrets and stories that are perfectly executed by Andrew Grey. I wasn't annoyed trying to figure out what happened with these characters and that's a testiment to the author's experience.
Beau Clarity is a saving grace in this book. I loved the normal element to him. He isn't gorgeous, he is imperfect and just an average guy with a crooked nose, thin physique, literally the type of person people can relate to. But, he has amazing eyes and a heart of gold. He see's something in the Beast of St. Giles and he saves him.
Dante Bartholomew is, for lack of a better name, the Beast of St. Giles. A huge mystery surrounds him and the town is a cesspool of rumors and judgment. It didn't take me long to see that Dante isn't this monster they've made him out to be. He's actually an amazing man and yearns for love.
In a lot of ways the Beast is this town and what they've become. I felt like they took advantage of so much and just refused to understand Dante. If it wasn't for Beau I don't know anyone would see the kindness and love that pulsated through his veins.
This is a story that will surround you. From plot to character. You will not be able to run from the tears that are sure to fall and you will embrace both of these men and the lives they've lived.
I very much recommend this book.
Beau Clarity is a saving grace in this book. I loved the normal element to him. He isn't gorgeous, he is imperfect and just an average guy with a crooked nose, thin physique, literally the type of person people can relate to. But, he has amazing eyes and a heart of gold. He see's something in the Beast of St. Giles and he saves him.
Dante Bartholomew is, for lack of a better name, the Beast of St. Giles. A huge mystery surrounds him and the town is a cesspool of rumors and judgment. It didn't take me long to see that Dante isn't this monster they've made him out to be. He's actually an amazing man and yearns for love.
In a lot of ways the Beast is this town and what they've become. I felt like they took advantage of so much and just refused to understand Dante. If it wasn't for Beau I don't know anyone would see the kindness and love that pulsated through his veins.
This is a story that will surround you. From plot to character. You will not be able to run from the tears that are sure to fall and you will embrace both of these men and the lives they've lived.
I very much recommend this book.
August 22, 2019
I've read similar plots like this and I must say I loved "Taming the Beast". The two main character's were perfectly matched. Dante Bartholomew's fearsome persona definitely earn his title "The Beast" and Beau Clarity persona was so charming he took Dante by surprise.
The towns people loved to point accusing fingers and seprate rumors about Dante that they didn't know all the facts to. But Dante didn't help by shutting himself away in his masion on the hill refusing to go out and meet the public since his wife's death. Well along with his surly behavior.
Beau saw through Dante's pain and guilt the man carried, and caught a glimpse of the soft-hearted part of the "Beast" that no one else had seen. Beau was able to make a crack in the walls Dante cemented around his heart, not allowing anyone in.
The book is beautifully written as Andrew Grey tangles Dante's feeling and confusion he felt about Beau, and in turn Beau having Dante accept Beau's own hidden secret that made for a strong bond between the two.
Dante and Beau go through anguish on their way for happiness that could have broken them apart if it wasn't for their strong feelings for each other. These frightening times that came had their final ending and with that Dante and Beau found their HEA.
The towns people loved to point accusing fingers and seprate rumors about Dante that they didn't know all the facts to. But Dante didn't help by shutting himself away in his masion on the hill refusing to go out and meet the public since his wife's death. Well along with his surly behavior.
Beau saw through Dante's pain and guilt the man carried, and caught a glimpse of the soft-hearted part of the "Beast" that no one else had seen. Beau was able to make a crack in the walls Dante cemented around his heart, not allowing anyone in.
The book is beautifully written as Andrew Grey tangles Dante's feeling and confusion he felt about Beau, and in turn Beau having Dante accept Beau's own hidden secret that made for a strong bond between the two.
Dante and Beau go through anguish on their way for happiness that could have broken them apart if it wasn't for their strong feelings for each other. These frightening times that came had their final ending and with that Dante and Beau found their HEA.
October 16, 2017
3 Fairy Tale-land Stars
You know I love me some Andrew Grey – I read every single book… but among Grey’s books, there are distinct “types.” And this one falls into the quickly written and not so awesome bucket. Taming the Beast is basically a spin-off of Beauty and the Beast with two guys, money, and a town controlled by the “beast.” There’s definitely some nuggets of interest there, but overall, the story felt really shiny and fairy-tale like… And yes, I get the whole “learning to forgive” theme… it just wasn’t enough for the shiny to wear-off. I wasn’t a huge fan, but it seems like I’m in the minority here.
We meet the Beast (Dante), as he’s a recluse in his mansion, where he wields the city of St. Giles with his money… and people are scared of him because of the suspicious circumstances of his wife’s death. But no one will cross him because hello, purse strings. On his first outing, he attends a gala to support Beau’s work and, bang – they are a match.
Beau gets under Dante’s skin and stands up to him – something no one else would do. And Dante is intrigued and ready to move forward (very reluctantly). The backstory of Dante’s wife’s death is constant throughout – and holds the story together even when it’s not the main storyline. But it just felt… contrite. Maybe I just don’t believe that Dante could pull the strings for an entire city in Maryland (I can’t quite remember the exact location – but it was the East Coast)… the characters felt plastic, lacking real depth at times, and then they would snap into depth at other times. The people in the town felt like stereotypes – which is not typical Grey work.
Overall, it’s a quick read – and if you like the beauty and beast premise, it could be a nice read for you. I just didn’t connect with much of the story – and it lacked the things I love most about Grey’s work.
Review Copy of Taming the Beast provided by Dreamspinner Press for an honest review.
Reviewed by Mel from Alpha Book Club
You know I love me some Andrew Grey – I read every single book… but among Grey’s books, there are distinct “types.” And this one falls into the quickly written and not so awesome bucket. Taming the Beast is basically a spin-off of Beauty and the Beast with two guys, money, and a town controlled by the “beast.” There’s definitely some nuggets of interest there, but overall, the story felt really shiny and fairy-tale like… And yes, I get the whole “learning to forgive” theme… it just wasn’t enough for the shiny to wear-off. I wasn’t a huge fan, but it seems like I’m in the minority here.
We meet the Beast (Dante), as he’s a recluse in his mansion, where he wields the city of St. Giles with his money… and people are scared of him because of the suspicious circumstances of his wife’s death. But no one will cross him because hello, purse strings. On his first outing, he attends a gala to support Beau’s work and, bang – they are a match.
Beau gets under Dante’s skin and stands up to him – something no one else would do. And Dante is intrigued and ready to move forward (very reluctantly). The backstory of Dante’s wife’s death is constant throughout – and holds the story together even when it’s not the main storyline. But it just felt… contrite. Maybe I just don’t believe that Dante could pull the strings for an entire city in Maryland (I can’t quite remember the exact location – but it was the East Coast)… the characters felt plastic, lacking real depth at times, and then they would snap into depth at other times. The people in the town felt like stereotypes – which is not typical Grey work.
Overall, it’s a quick read – and if you like the beauty and beast premise, it could be a nice read for you. I just didn’t connect with much of the story – and it lacked the things I love most about Grey’s work.
Review Copy of Taming the Beast provided by Dreamspinner Press for an honest review.
Reviewed by Mel from Alpha Book Club
November 1, 2017
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
I’m going to start off with a huge amount of praise for Andrew Grey. He’s an auto buy for me. I love his books and I love him as a person. When I saw this book was available, I jumped on it and I was in no way disappointed. In fact, my only real complaint about the book is I would have liked for it to have been longer because I loved it so much.
I’ve always been a fan of Beauty and the Beast type stories, and even though Dante is not physically ugly, he has closed off his heart and become hardened thanks to his father’s manipulation and the death of his wife. Of course, it doesn’t help that the whole town thinks he killed her. Being private and reclusive, he refuses to tell the truth about what happened and makes himself a prisoner in his own home.
Enter Beau. Beau is a lovely man who tries to see the best in everyone, and there is no way he can be convinced Dante did what he’s been accused of. He’s even able to convince Dante to come and volunteer at the community center…with children, no less. He’s the perfect foil for Dante. He’s sweet, trusting, and he wants nothing but to help people and save the world.
Read Kenna’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
I’m going to start off with a huge amount of praise for Andrew Grey. He’s an auto buy for me. I love his books and I love him as a person. When I saw this book was available, I jumped on it and I was in no way disappointed. In fact, my only real complaint about the book is I would have liked for it to have been longer because I loved it so much.
I’ve always been a fan of Beauty and the Beast type stories, and even though Dante is not physically ugly, he has closed off his heart and become hardened thanks to his father’s manipulation and the death of his wife. Of course, it doesn’t help that the whole town thinks he killed her. Being private and reclusive, he refuses to tell the truth about what happened and makes himself a prisoner in his own home.
Enter Beau. Beau is a lovely man who tries to see the best in everyone, and there is no way he can be convinced Dante did what he’s been accused of. He’s even able to convince Dante to come and volunteer at the community center…with children, no less. He’s the perfect foil for Dante. He’s sweet, trusting, and he wants nothing but to help people and save the world.
Read Kenna’s review in its entirety here.
November 27, 2018
Honestly I don't know how to review this. I always enjoy Andrew's works, but this one was bordering on a miss for me. In the end the redeeming factor was the characters were strong enough, like how Andrew always does them that I upped it to 3 stars.
This was a loose retelling of Beauty and the Beast, with MM elements. It tells the story of Dante the so-called town 'Beast' and Beau whom enters his life. Aside from the two mains harkening to those of the classic fairy tale, some elements were changed. Beau has scars on his body, making him an imperfect beauty, and Dante became beastly of his consequences. The two characters had a chemistry that only Andrew can induce in writing, just like most of leads he had written before. And I enjoyed getting to know them and to follow their history and ups and downs.
Plot wise, to say the very least, felt sloppy to me at times, and at others, a tad simplistic and somewhat incredulous. Even though I get that it is a fairy tale retelling, and this indeed reads like a modern fairy tale, but I still wished that it would at least feel a little more grounded. Including the elements of substance abuse and mental issues were great, and his understanding and research on the matters was impressive to say the least, but the parts that didn't hit the mark somewhat diminished his efforts.
This was a loose retelling of Beauty and the Beast, with MM elements. It tells the story of Dante the so-called town 'Beast' and Beau whom enters his life. Aside from the two mains harkening to those of the classic fairy tale, some elements were changed. Beau has scars on his body, making him an imperfect beauty, and Dante became beastly of his consequences. The two characters had a chemistry that only Andrew can induce in writing, just like most of leads he had written before. And I enjoyed getting to know them and to follow their history and ups and downs.
Plot wise, to say the very least, felt sloppy to me at times, and at others, a tad simplistic and somewhat incredulous. Even though I get that it is a fairy tale retelling, and this indeed reads like a modern fairy tale, but I still wished that it would at least feel a little more grounded. Including the elements of substance abuse and mental issues were great, and his understanding and research on the matters was impressive to say the least, but the parts that didn't hit the mark somewhat diminished his efforts.
April 23, 2018
The town keeps their distance from Dante calling him them beast. Rumors and Myths abound about the death of his wife, all painting him as a monster and using his power to get out of her murder.But if he is all evil why is his staff so devoted?
Beau a smaller, milder, kindhearted man, that runs the local mental counseling and community center, sees through the facade Dante has hidden behind. But can the beauty tame the beast?
Oh My! The romance-aholic took hold of me on this one. The little girl in me still loves the old classics and any chance to read a new take I am like gimme gimme! Andrew Grey spun his usual magic and created two fabulous characters ( and several more because Dante's servant Roberts melted my heart as well as the housekeeper and many others. But I could just imagine the big, brooding Dante and the smaller sweeter Beau! Though opposite,(another thing I like) they went together like a moth to a flame!. Beau wasn't without his scars as well.
SO if you like retold fairy tales, opposites attract, a fabulous romance and some hot man-love I highly highly recommend this.
Now add in Jack Wesley's wonderful narration and make it even better. now you can listen while you work and make a menial task go so much faster!
Beau a smaller, milder, kindhearted man, that runs the local mental counseling and community center, sees through the facade Dante has hidden behind. But can the beauty tame the beast?
Oh My! The romance-aholic took hold of me on this one. The little girl in me still loves the old classics and any chance to read a new take I am like gimme gimme! Andrew Grey spun his usual magic and created two fabulous characters ( and several more because Dante's servant Roberts melted my heart as well as the housekeeper and many others. But I could just imagine the big, brooding Dante and the smaller sweeter Beau! Though opposite,(another thing I like) they went together like a moth to a flame!. Beau wasn't without his scars as well.
SO if you like retold fairy tales, opposites attract, a fabulous romance and some hot man-love I highly highly recommend this.
Now add in Jack Wesley's wonderful narration and make it even better. now you can listen while you work and make a menial task go so much faster!
October 13, 2017
I love Beauty & Beast stories. I just devour everyone I can find.
This just didn't work for me, and I think it comes down to the fact that I didn't like Beau all that much. I found him to be too pushy, like chill you two literally just started dating. In the end, when he was snooping around Dante's house he had the gall to be offended at being called out. Like HELLO, the man just barred his soul to you and you decide to snoop through his house like you have a God-given right.
The whole Beast thing was weird for me. I get small-town rumors, as I live in a small town, so that was fine. It was the temper that Dante in all honesty rare let fly that didn't seem like a problem to me. It was fairly normal things to get mad over and he always had a good reason, so I had a hard time understanding some of Beau's criticism.
I wish I had of liked it.
This just didn't work for me, and I think it comes down to the fact that I didn't like Beau all that much. I found him to be too pushy, like chill you two literally just started dating. In the end, when he was snooping around Dante's house he had the gall to be offended at being called out. Like HELLO, the man just barred his soul to you and you decide to snoop through his house like you have a God-given right.
The whole Beast thing was weird for me. I get small-town rumors, as I live in a small town, so that was fine. It was the temper that Dante in all honesty rare let fly that didn't seem like a problem to me. It was fairly normal things to get mad over and he always had a good reason, so I had a hard time understanding some of Beau's criticism.
I wish I had of liked it.
April 30, 2018
An interesting, contemporary take on 'Beauty and the Beast', this is the story of two lonely men who need to work through their own pasts, other people’s preconceptions, and more than one obstacle before they can have the relationship they both need. Dante is “the Beast”, a name he thinks he deserves due to his inner ugliness, rooted in guilt and his ruthless way of doing business. Beau is a newcomer to the village, a counselor who is not exactly handsome, but he is open-minded and ready to give Dante a chance.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
September 8, 2018
I don't think I liked this modern Beauty and the Beast retelling all that much. Some magic was missing for me. Maybe it was over-simplified and too simply resolved.
I still love the author's writings and on look-out for his books, just these series don't resonate with me.
I still love the author's writings and on look-out for his books, just these series don't resonate with me.
October 22, 2017
I love Andrew Grey’s books but this one is to much “Beauty and the Beast” ,but that may have been what he had in mind all along.....not my favorite .
October 25, 2017
3.75 stars
October 25, 2017
Hoopla
December 16, 2017
Enjoyable read, as expected from Andrew Grey. A little mystery, some suspense, two very different protagonists who, although like pieces of a puzzle, fit well together.
January 24, 2019
A beautiful finish to a beautiful Dimension.... Really I love the book
February 25, 2019
This was a fast read. An interesting twist on the beauty and the beast. I liked it. The end was a bit abrupt but still fitting.
September 24, 2023
Nobody Does It Better
This is a romance and plot--along with two completely unique characters--that few, if any, could pull off other than Andrew Grey.
In creating the Beast, Dante Bartholomew, Grey has handed us one of the more conflicted MCs in all his books. By introducing Dante, and us, to Beau Clarity, who has hidden issues and conflicts of his own, Grey has created a spin on the standard beauty-and-the-beast plot line that is beautifully written and perfectly paced.
Both Dante and Beau could have devolved into stereotypes without Grey's steady, and very realistic, hand. He gives Beau the strength of his experience as a counselor to smack Dante around with a dose or two of reality. (It is sort of a "Snap out of it!" approach displayed by Cher in "Moonstruck," but more gentle).
The way Dante's demons come to the fore and how Beau and he are forced to deal with them are wrapped in a cocoon of sweet supporting characters, including a couple of children that enchant Dante when everyone expects him to be a cold beast. There are also one or two nasty people along the way who are complicating their lives, but they are plot foils.
But in the end we have another triumph by an author who always grabs you on the first page and won't let you go until you are quite done with what he wants to tell you. Bravo, once again!
This is a romance and plot--along with two completely unique characters--that few, if any, could pull off other than Andrew Grey.
In creating the Beast, Dante Bartholomew, Grey has handed us one of the more conflicted MCs in all his books. By introducing Dante, and us, to Beau Clarity, who has hidden issues and conflicts of his own, Grey has created a spin on the standard beauty-and-the-beast plot line that is beautifully written and perfectly paced.
Both Dante and Beau could have devolved into stereotypes without Grey's steady, and very realistic, hand. He gives Beau the strength of his experience as a counselor to smack Dante around with a dose or two of reality. (It is sort of a "Snap out of it!" approach displayed by Cher in "Moonstruck," but more gentle).
The way Dante's demons come to the fore and how Beau and he are forced to deal with them are wrapped in a cocoon of sweet supporting characters, including a couple of children that enchant Dante when everyone expects him to be a cold beast. There are also one or two nasty people along the way who are complicating their lives, but they are plot foils.
But in the end we have another triumph by an author who always grabs you on the first page and won't let you go until you are quite done with what he wants to tell you. Bravo, once again!
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