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Demon Beauty
A dark fairytale beauty and the beast retelling.Find solace in strange places. Fleeing a war, having lost everything, Rosalin finds herself in the forbidden forests of the west. A dark place where creatures and magic dwell. In the home of a monster, Rosalin finds refuge, but another war rages beyond her sight, and Rosalin finds herself in its midst. Her only hope is the demon lord and her own please note this book contains mature themes and content. Please use the 'look inside' feature to scan the QR code
123 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 30, 2018
5 people are currently reading
40 people want to read
About the author
Stefanie Simpson
24 books76 followersCoffee addled, twitter addicted, A disabled romance author based in the UK, Stefanie Simpson has written multiple contemporary romances as well as fantasy romance.
Most of her work contains angst, healing and conflict. Expect strong adult content and themes, language, explicit material, love and a HEA.
Most of her work contains angst, healing and conflict. Expect strong adult content and themes, language, explicit material, love and a HEA.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
June 20, 2025
I fucking loved this book. There was something really strange about the story and the way it was told, and it fit the mood perfectly. I hit chapter 3 just after bedtime and couldn't put the bloody thing down. Thank you, Stefanie Simpson, for my sleep deprivation today. It was totally worth it.
November 27, 2020
When I heard this was a retelling of beauty and the beast, I wasn't quite sure what to expect. Honestly, I'm not a fan of beauty and the beast retellings, but I AM a fan of Stefanie Simpson, so I had to explore. As I read the book, I was continually (and pleasantly) surprised, and by the end of it all, I was left with a deep sense of complete awe and comfort.
Simpson takes what we know of the traditional fairy tail and twists it, so hard one might think it would shatter, but instead it becomes a new creation, a beautiful kaleidoscope of trust and love. We are introduced to Rosalin, who is forced to bloody her hands in the name of survival. War rarely leaves any life untouched, and hers is no different. Yet, in her darkest hours, she somehow crosses into a protected darkness, one that welcomes her with understanding.
Make no mistake, the author takes the important themes from the original (honesty, loyalty, love, and trust) and weaves them into a unique, dark, and compelling story that will hold the reader prisoner, and in the end, make the reader fall deeply in love with the tale. I know this is one of my shorter reviews, but it's more because I honestly can't find the words to say how much I adored this read. I highly, highly recommend it.
Simpson takes what we know of the traditional fairy tail and twists it, so hard one might think it would shatter, but instead it becomes a new creation, a beautiful kaleidoscope of trust and love. We are introduced to Rosalin, who is forced to bloody her hands in the name of survival. War rarely leaves any life untouched, and hers is no different. Yet, in her darkest hours, she somehow crosses into a protected darkness, one that welcomes her with understanding.
Make no mistake, the author takes the important themes from the original (honesty, loyalty, love, and trust) and weaves them into a unique, dark, and compelling story that will hold the reader prisoner, and in the end, make the reader fall deeply in love with the tale. I know this is one of my shorter reviews, but it's more because I honestly can't find the words to say how much I adored this read. I highly, highly recommend it.
July 15, 2018
Fleeing the war that cost her everything, Rosalin takes refuge in the last place she expected, in the home of a monster. But in the forbidden forests of the west, where creatures and magic dwell, another war rages on, one that threatens to destroy everything Rosalin has rebuilt. Her only hope is a demon lord sworn to defend this realm from the growing evil, and her own indestructible will to protect the ones she loves.
This is how you do a Beauty and the Beast retelling, people.
A strong, emotionally complex heroine who retains her agency throughout the entire story. A brooding, tragic hero who treats the heroine with respect and compassion. This is not a story about a captive who grows to love her captor. It’s a story about two characters with tragic backgrounds finding solace in each other and healing together, a theme Simpson excels at.
The moody, almost Gothic, setting of the forgotten castle and its brooding inhabitant is wonderfully offset by the intense emotional bond between Rosalin and Crawt. Their relationship is equal parts uplifting and heartbreaking. The action scenes are extremely well-written, intense and inventive. The imagery and mythology are both haunting and beautiful.
I’m usually hesitant to read BATB retellings, but Simpson does not disappointed. Highly enjoyable and I would strongly recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of the genre.
This is how you do a Beauty and the Beast retelling, people.
A strong, emotionally complex heroine who retains her agency throughout the entire story. A brooding, tragic hero who treats the heroine with respect and compassion. This is not a story about a captive who grows to love her captor. It’s a story about two characters with tragic backgrounds finding solace in each other and healing together, a theme Simpson excels at.
The moody, almost Gothic, setting of the forgotten castle and its brooding inhabitant is wonderfully offset by the intense emotional bond between Rosalin and Crawt. Their relationship is equal parts uplifting and heartbreaking. The action scenes are extremely well-written, intense and inventive. The imagery and mythology are both haunting and beautiful.
I’m usually hesitant to read BATB retellings, but Simpson does not disappointed. Highly enjoyable and I would strongly recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of the genre.
December 14, 2020
I went into this knowing the basic premise of it being a Beauty and the Beast style tale, but I did not expect how it unfolded. Possible light spoilers.
Rosalin, a tough woman who can stand on her own and work a sword like an expert, flees war. She loses everything and hardens her heart in order to survive, but she never expects to meet a demon who ends up helping her, especially after she intrudes in his peaceful home. His presence in her life brings her many more challenges, but she can't stay away from him. The world is much more magical than Roslin realizes, and she becomes capable of harnessing that magic herself.
Rosalin is an amazing woman that was refreshing to see. She can fight and face soldiers head-on, and she knows how to survive without anyone else. She was never the damsel in distress, which had me falling in love with her even more. I don't want to give away too much, but it really is nice to see a woman save a man instead of the other way around.
The story as a whole had a very fairytale feel to it, as did the writing. It was different in a good way, and although Crawt's, her demon companion's, dialogue was a bit difficult to wrap my head around sometimes -- mostly when he was explaining his past -- it always became clearer as I read more.
Crawt, though. He was visually stunning and equally frightening, but he's kind. As much as I like my beasts scary, intimidating, and a bit cold, Crawt was a nice change from that. When he interacted with Fox and Crow, his animal companions, like he did, it warmed my heart. And they were a special part of this book, too. I was really happy with the ending they got, and we do get to see inside Crow and Fox's heads at least once, which was fun and confirmed that they truly were more than just pets.
Overall, with the intense action and the interesting take on demons, as well as having a strong leading female character and a softer beast, I really liked this story. It kept moving and didn't get caught up with any slow points, and as mentioned above, the fairytale feel came out in the writing as well. I'm really glad I got the opportunity to read it, and I already have another of Stefanie's books I plan on reading very soon.
Rosalin, a tough woman who can stand on her own and work a sword like an expert, flees war. She loses everything and hardens her heart in order to survive, but she never expects to meet a demon who ends up helping her, especially after she intrudes in his peaceful home. His presence in her life brings her many more challenges, but she can't stay away from him. The world is much more magical than Roslin realizes, and she becomes capable of harnessing that magic herself.
Rosalin is an amazing woman that was refreshing to see. She can fight and face soldiers head-on, and she knows how to survive without anyone else. She was never the damsel in distress, which had me falling in love with her even more. I don't want to give away too much, but it really is nice to see a woman save a man instead of the other way around.
The story as a whole had a very fairytale feel to it, as did the writing. It was different in a good way, and although Crawt's, her demon companion's, dialogue was a bit difficult to wrap my head around sometimes -- mostly when he was explaining his past -- it always became clearer as I read more.
Crawt, though. He was visually stunning and equally frightening, but he's kind. As much as I like my beasts scary, intimidating, and a bit cold, Crawt was a nice change from that. When he interacted with Fox and Crow, his animal companions, like he did, it warmed my heart. And they were a special part of this book, too. I was really happy with the ending they got, and we do get to see inside Crow and Fox's heads at least once, which was fun and confirmed that they truly were more than just pets.
Overall, with the intense action and the interesting take on demons, as well as having a strong leading female character and a softer beast, I really liked this story. It kept moving and didn't get caught up with any slow points, and as mentioned above, the fairytale feel came out in the writing as well. I'm really glad I got the opportunity to read it, and I already have another of Stefanie's books I plan on reading very soon.
July 11, 2018
This book is SO DAMN GOOD. Normally I'm not into fantasy stories (I'm a contemporary romance fiend), but the overarching love story in this is incredibly compelling.
Rosalin is stuck in a war-torn world. Nearly everything she loves is destroyed. Survival is a struggle--and that's putting it lightly. When she encounters the demon Crawt, her entire world is turned upside down--and not in the way you might think. There's mystical elements, barbaric humans and non-humans, adorable enchanted forest creatures, and an incredibly moving romance that drives the two main characters to do incredible things, both heartbreaking and awe-inspiring.
Stefanie Simpson is such a gifted storyteller. You'll swoon and cry and cheer. Romance fans, you HAVE to read this unique, unputdownable romance!
Rosalin is stuck in a war-torn world. Nearly everything she loves is destroyed. Survival is a struggle--and that's putting it lightly. When she encounters the demon Crawt, her entire world is turned upside down--and not in the way you might think. There's mystical elements, barbaric humans and non-humans, adorable enchanted forest creatures, and an incredibly moving romance that drives the two main characters to do incredible things, both heartbreaking and awe-inspiring.
Stefanie Simpson is such a gifted storyteller. You'll swoon and cry and cheer. Romance fans, you HAVE to read this unique, unputdownable romance!
August 16, 2018
I enjoyed this story. I wasn't sure what I was getting myself into, but I was pleasantly surprised. Stefanie Simpson has a smooth way with her words and vivid imagery-I got quickly sucked into this story.
Rosalin is my favorite, with how loyal and fierce she is.
Rosalin is my favorite, with how loyal and fierce she is.
December 3, 2018
Loved this unique twist on B&B!
November 1, 2020
I've been looking forward to reading this since I bought it a while back because Beauty and the Beast is my favorite fairy tale and I love finding different interpretations/retellings. I'm excited to say that the story not only did not disappoint, it took the spot of my number one fairy tale retelling ever.
Our 'Beauty' in this story, Rosalin, finds herself trying to survive with her father in their war-torn world during the era of swords, shields, and horse-drawn carriages. After having lost the rest of her family to tragedy, she's become quite cynical and arguably absent of much emotion. However, when a chance meeting with a fox leads her to the enchanted albeit decrepit mansion of a demon lord, she is forever changed. For better or worse is for you to decide.
Now, that description of mine doesn't really do the story justice. This isn't an "Oh that's exactly the original (or most commonly known) version of the story, just with a demon instead of a beast." While the premise of her being basically alone in the world and venturing into the woods to find a magical palace whose head is a cursed being is the same, that's pretty much where the similarities end.
I don't like putting spoilers in reviews, so I'll just say this romance was heartfelt in a way that runs much deeper than the Beauty and the Beast we are all accustomed to. Add to that the intricate plot on the demon's side of the story and the grim suffering of Rosalin's adventure in our known world and you have a fantastically dark yet surprisingly sweet tale that even fairy tale haters can enjoy. Although I bought the ebook, I'll be buying the paperback in the near future because this is a novel I NEED on my shelf.
Our 'Beauty' in this story, Rosalin, finds herself trying to survive with her father in their war-torn world during the era of swords, shields, and horse-drawn carriages. After having lost the rest of her family to tragedy, she's become quite cynical and arguably absent of much emotion. However, when a chance meeting with a fox leads her to the enchanted albeit decrepit mansion of a demon lord, she is forever changed. For better or worse is for you to decide.
Now, that description of mine doesn't really do the story justice. This isn't an "Oh that's exactly the original (or most commonly known) version of the story, just with a demon instead of a beast." While the premise of her being basically alone in the world and venturing into the woods to find a magical palace whose head is a cursed being is the same, that's pretty much where the similarities end.
I don't like putting spoilers in reviews, so I'll just say this romance was heartfelt in a way that runs much deeper than the Beauty and the Beast we are all accustomed to. Add to that the intricate plot on the demon's side of the story and the grim suffering of Rosalin's adventure in our known world and you have a fantastically dark yet surprisingly sweet tale that even fairy tale haters can enjoy. Although I bought the ebook, I'll be buying the paperback in the near future because this is a novel I NEED on my shelf.
dnf
August 29, 2023DNF at 57%
Welp. This is the strangest Beauty and the Beast (with a dash of Persephone-Hades) retelling I’ve ever read. Fox and Crow, the non-verbal animals, are the best part by far. I’m not enjoying a couple of the plot choices at all so I’m going to stop here. I’ve had such a mixed experience with this author and I’m unfortunately starting to think the first book I enjoyed by her was a fluke. The writing style just might not be for me.
Content notes: blood magic, laceration, abuse of power/corrupt military commander , war, murder, hunting, death of father, past death of mother and siblings, dubious consent (MMC did not explain sex was a part of the ritual before starting), on page sex, alcohol, mentions of rape (not MCs)
Welp. This is the strangest Beauty and the Beast (with a dash of Persephone-Hades) retelling I’ve ever read. Fox and Crow, the non-verbal animals, are the best part by far. I’m not enjoying a couple of the plot choices at all so I’m going to stop here. I’ve had such a mixed experience with this author and I’m unfortunately starting to think the first book I enjoyed by her was a fluke. The writing style just might not be for me.
Content notes: blood magic, laceration, abuse of power/corrupt military commander , war, murder, hunting, death of father, past death of mother and siblings, dubious consent (MMC did not explain sex was a part of the ritual before starting), on page sex, alcohol, mentions of rape (not MCs)
October 21, 2018
This was a harrowing and at times sorrow filled twisted fairy tale/love story. Rosalin's situation and back story are just heartbreaking. I loved Crawt. There's all this beautiful, fairy tale style and dark fantasy going on....all so fictional. But I really couldn't help but note how relevant the depiction of the horrors of war was. Displaced people, grief, needing to switch off emotions and reactions just to survive. This has a lot for paranormal romance lovers. Beautiful language usage throughout. Gorgeous to read.
October 14, 2018
A tale as old as time
I’m a beauty and the beast fan(atic) admittedly and I enjoyed this different variation of the tale as old as time. I enjoyed a lot of the action and the love that developed. Definitely worth the buy for me and my B&tB love
I’m a beauty and the beast fan(atic) admittedly and I enjoyed this different variation of the tale as old as time. I enjoyed a lot of the action and the love that developed. Definitely worth the buy for me and my B&tB love
September 15, 2022
If you are looking for *vibes* from your romance books, this book is it. I loved it. I'll pick up practically any beauty and the beast retelling, and they often don't live up to my very specific expectations, but this one did. I also love the subtle ways that Simpson explores gender identity.
October 27, 2018
Stefanie Simpson is such a gifted story teller. You'll swoon and cry and cheer. Romance fans, you HAVE to read this unique, unputdownable romance!
Great fast short read.
Great fast short read.
April 16, 2020
A wonderful blend of fantasy, romance, and adventure. I really enjoyed this book, a unique love story that kept me immersed in a beautiful fantasy world.
August 19, 2022
Even after watching Beauty and the Beast thousands of times this just was an exquisite twist on a fairytale told by thousands
February 24, 2025
I was confused almost the entire time but I liked the parts I understood😭
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews