King Everard and Queen Isabelle have no heir. Two children have no family. But what happens when Isa and Ever find out that these children might be the greatest threat the kingdom has seen in 500 years?
In this retelling of Hansel and Gretel, Henri and his little sister, Genny, find themselves abandoned in the forest when something dark beckons to them. Something sweet. And though Henri strives to use his special abilities to protect his sister, the call soon becomes too strong for even him to ignore.
Back at the Fortress, King Everard and Queen Isabelle are enjoying a reign of peace, but what should be a time of joy is marred by the pain of being childless. So when Isa and Ever find themselves in charge of two forsaken children with unusual abilities, and they are called to face an enemy with unexpected connections to Ever's past, they must trust the Fortress once again if they wish to hold onto their kingdom, the hope of parenthood, and ultimately, one another.
Beauty Beheld is the third book in The Becoming Beauty Trilogy and also the third book in the Classical Kingdom Collection, a series of clean fairy tales retold to help readers find the long lost world of magic and destiny. Buy Beauty Beheld today to rediscover the fairy tales that taught you to wonder as a child.
Brittany lives with her Prince Charming, their little fairy, and their tiny prince in a decently clean castle in whatever kingdom the Air Force has most recently placed them. When she's not writing, Brittany can be found chasing her kids around with a DSLR or belting it in the church choir. You can find more of her work at her website BrittanyFichterFiction.com.
Oh my goodness, this is my favorite book in the trilogy, hands down! I loved this book so much I’m not sure I can put it into words (despite being an author, lol) but I’ll try my best.
Ever and Isa have grown so much from Blinding Beauty and it was so amazing to watch them work together to fight this new threat and grow closer and closer throughout while also struggling so realistically both as individuals and as a married couple. I love their healthy relationship and it has really given me a good look at what a healthy, growing married relationship looks like, and I really appreciate and applaud the author for that. Not to mention I just adore Isa and Ever and will follow them anywhere, lol.
And Henri and Genny!!!! I love these kids! They feel so real (even though I’ve never been around young kids) and I ached for them and what they had to live and go through in their young lives but also was so, so happy for them when they met Isa and Ever. And Garin… *sobs* I can’t say much more without spoilers, but I’m both sad and happy with how things with him were handled and remembered in the end.
The fairy tale retelling elements of Hansel and Gretel were well done though I honestly wouldn’t have cared if they weren’t since I love this book so much. I wasn’t expecting the fae twist though it works really well with this fairy tale, not to mention I did NOT expect all the other twists and turns and shocks this book took. My poor babies… 😩😭
Also as a potential trigger warning, infertility is a huge part of the story and talked about a lot, but I thought the topic and grief around it was handled well with a lot of compassion and understanding.
My only complaint is it’s over! 😭😭😭 I’m so sad I’ve reached the end of Ever and Isa’s story and there’s no more I can dive into though I’m for sure continuing the Classical Kingdom series, and I hope they make appearances in those books. *fingers crossed* And while I’m sad it’s over I’m happy with the way things ended and will for sure reread and visit these characters again. Another glowing five stars!
‼️Content‼️
TRIGGER WARNING: infertility
Language: bastard; damnation; damning
Violence: fighting with weapons and magic (not detailed); injuries and blood (not detailed); hints that a character was tortured (they’re battered and weak); a mob attempts to kill a character; a woman plans to kill her own children; a woman slaps a character
Sexual: kissing (not detailed); infertility; one extremely vague hint of a husband and wife sleeping together (nothing is shown here or even stated outright); an unfaithful husband results in an illegitimate child; a character is accused of having children outside of marriage (this is false)
Drug/Alcohol: a character is poisoned with hemlock
Other: magic; good and bad magical abilities, objects, and powers; fae; a castle has magical powers granted to it by the Maker (God); death and grief; characters are thrown in a dungeon; children are intentionally abandoned by their parents three times; children are being kidnapped/going missing; illegitimate children
[Read as one of my 2023 Specific New Books to Read goal]
This is a beautifully written story of family love, packed with drama, magic, suspense, and action. The "Hansel and Gretel" characters are excellent additions to the series. My favorite of The Classical Kingdoms books so far! I don't want to write any spoilers, so . . . just be sure to read it for yourself! I recommend reading through the series from the beginning, but this story can stand on its own.
4.5 stars. It's a little rough to review this one, because it's a good story, but it was also rough to read on a personal level. I do appreciate the author's portrayal of infertility here (especially in portraying a couple who maintain an at-base good relationship through the stresses and strains of infertility and everything else).
This set of books has continued to get better as it goes, because this one was interesting from the beginning of the story, unlike the earlier books that took a bit to work up to being interesting.
Actual content concerns are minor, and are limited to discussion of infidelity, heavy implications of married people having physical intimacy, and some description of kissing (sometimes along with a hand running down a back, and such). There are also some heavier emotional subjects including child kidnapping, abuse, and abandonment, references to deaths, the infertility theme I already mentioned, and some descriptions of injuries and illnesses.
I am so excited to see the final installment of Isa and Ever’s journey! Beauty Beheld is the last book in The Becoming Beauty trilogy, but it is not the last book in the Classical Kingdoms series, thank goodness :) Beauty Beheld is a fairy tale retelling of Hansel and Gretal. This is my first retelling of Hansel and Gretal, it was really good. I have grown to love Ever and Isa as I have read about their journey and this book has just made me love then even more. Ever and Isa have overcome many hardships and they have learned how to lead their people well, but things are not as settled as it seems and they will have to band together to defeat an evil that hasn’t been seen in over a 100 years. Ever and Isa have been married for about four years, but they have not had the blessing of having a baby. Although they have no children, their love for each other is still strong. However, there is unrest in the kingdom of Destin and there are reports of children going missing. Ever and Isa immediately take off to care for their kingdom. They find a greater evil has made its way into their kingdom, and will try to take everything they hold dear. Ever and Isa have grown since the first book, but there are still things that they need to work through. Ever has built up walls to protect himself and even Isa has a hard time breaking through them. Isa is still learning how to deal with the realities that she still does not have a child. But things get even more complicated when they take in two children who may be one of the greatest threats the kingdom has seen in a long time. These children will either bring them closer together or tear them apart, because these children represent secrets that will lead to trouble. It was so fun to have new characters and to see Isa and Ever interacting together. I loved meeting Henri and Genny, they were so sweet. When I first read about Henri, he really reminded me of Ever. They both so wanted to be accepted and to prove that they were worth love. Henri was such a big brother, he tried so hard to protect Genny. Genny was cute, she was little so you don’t know her as much. But it was fun to see Ever and Isa soften up to the kids. Little kids have a way of wiggling themselves into your heart and Henri and Genny were no different. Henri and Genny have a past, however, and this will have a great effect on Ever, Isa and their kingdom. Ever will have to learn how to let go of the past and learn to let others in. Isa will have to learn to find peace in the Fortress and to trust Ever. In the final installment of the Becoming Beauty trilogy Ever and Isa fight for their kingdom yet again, but this time they will face their toughest fight yet. One who very well may destroy their kingdom and take everything they hold dear. I just have to say, Brittany has done it again. These characters have grabbed a hold of my heart and they just won’t let go. It was so hard to read about all that they had to grow through, but I knew that a book needs conflict. I would totally recommend this book! You need to read this book, especially if you have read Brittany’s other books.
It was captivating, just as it usually is, with the way the author spins all her magnificent tales. It's surprising to see how she always manages to reveal more insights about the main characters in each new story, just when you are sure you've known everything there was to know. I will miss some person(s). But I understand the why now. I wish more character and story development took place before the story had to end. I wish some things had gone on slightly differently. But overall, I must say I'm quite happy to have read this story.
The third and final installment of the Becoming Beauty trilogy (also the third Classical Kingdoms book, but not the final one) completely and utterly melted my heart. Y'all I don't even like Hansel and Gretel! Never have! But Henri and Genny touched my heart. They were so sweet and I can't wait to see more of this beautiful family in future stories!
Fichter is a master at her craft. I've said it before and I'll say it again, she nails her characters!!! Henri and Genny were our newest cast members, and they added a whole new element to this story. I really enjoyed reading bits from Henri's pov. His protectiveness over his sister, his weariness of strangers and new things, his broken little heart and lost innocence just spoke to me. I wanted to reach through the pages and give him the biggest bear hug there ever was. Sacha was a really cool character, too. I liked getting to see her world and the transitional realm. I hope we get more of that in other stories, too. Sacha was a puzzle, and I very much enjoyed seeing her layers unfold. Of course, our returning stellar cast are the real reason we showed up yet again. Fichter dove even deeper into Isa and Ever's hearts and drew out yet more. I love how fierce and tender they are, respectively. I love seeing how they interact with each other, with their people, and in dire situations like these. And we can't neglect Gigi and Garin, cause everyone knows Gigi is a force to be reckoned with and Garin's my favorite. Unforgettable characters! We even got a golden glimpse of my boy Launce! And, of course, the ever lovely Olivia. What a treat it is to see familiar faces! And, I must add, I mourned a loss in this story. It hurt so much I called my mom to ball to her after I'd spent half an hour crying! I won't spoil and say whom, but I will say it was so beautifully handled. I felt the loss, but I also felt the peace. A fitting end for a fitting soul.
Just as spellbinding as her characters, Fichter's plots are woven with care and a little bit of magic. Like I said, I've never been a fan of Hansel and Gretel. I never hated the story, but I've never liked it either. Entertwined with our star Beauty and her Beast, this retelling felt completely natural. Even more than that, I was wholeheartedly invested in the children. I liked how they weren't the only ones tied into the disappearing act or the candy house (and I thought the candy house itself was cleverly handled). Though they did follow the traditional Hansel and Gretel tale, Henri and Genny weren't the only kids either. I was drawn in by the pied piper-like mystery, but by the same token, I was really growing to like Henri and Genny. I invested in them pretty much right off the bat--cause Fichter doesn't pull punches. She hit hard from page one and I was down for the count! But I also appreciated how the story grew to be more. As Fichter does so well, she drew out the best of the fairy tale, kept it classy, and stirred in her own dose of something special. From beginning to end, I was thoroughly engaged in the plot.
We explored a bit of new setting as the world expanded just a little more for us. We got to see legends come forth and a tear in the very fabric of the world that led to a lot of problems. The Sorthileige element was intriguing and I felt like it built upon what we've seen in the previous two books. And I very much look forward to what else this world has in store in future stories!
Well-written, masterfully told tale. Found I think maybe two typos, but that was it. Clean romance, one foul word used (and I'd have said it too!) I think two times. Some mild violence, but very tactfully handled. There are deep themes threaded throughout where characters struggle with concieving, self-worth, belonging, doubt, abandonment, etc. There are some dark themes to consider, but I'd be perfectly comfortable handing this to a preteen. Fichter writes what's real. She isn't afraid to explore pain. And I love her for that. Brittany, I'd follow you to the blackest depths because I know how brightly you show off that light. It's worth it. Every time.
Ever and Isa are in a much better place now, but their kingdom is having issues with children going missing. This is my absolute favorite in the series, I've read it about twenty times and each time I love it a little bit more. Ever and Isa really want children, but the Maker hasn't blessed them with any. When they find the missing children, Isa gets instantly attached to two of them, a girl and a boy: Henri and Genny. The slow bonding of Henry and Ever is to die for, although honestly both of them are, too. The plot twist in this book is wonderful, and it keeps twisting, even after you think you know what's going on. The basic "bad guys" in this book are the fae with a really interesting take. Basically they exist on a different level than most living things and don't need most physical things. (Brittany Fichter explains it better). My one regret with that is that the fae aren't really ever mentioned again beyond this book, and neither are many other magical creatures (Mermaids aside). Myself, personally, I cry every time I get to the ending. I have reasons, though. First, the ending is perfect. Second, the book was perfect. Third, the book is over. This is one of those books that makes you wish you could have the first-time-magic over and over again.
Loved the final installment to the series. Really shows how Ever and Isa have grown after the second installment, and how they have each other's backs and how Ever has learned to trust Isa's abilities and let her go.
The childlessness and ___'s death are devastating, but the story is about moving on, finding new life and adapting. Also shows how hypocritical one's idols can be (Ever's father), and yet how one must look beyond WHAT someone is and focus on WHO they choose to be. Henri and Genni may have a questionable background, but they are innocent. Simiarly, Ever may have opened up to Isa, but he must learn to let go of his troubles and let her share his grief in order to grow. Launce's growth was also remarkable and it was nice to see all three fairy tales culminate in a wonderful finish.
The plot is beautifully crafted to continue the deeper meaning of the trials in life as Ever and Isa end up with all they can want, while also having learned what they need to in order to grow into what Nature has given them.
Again, a clean read with a lot to learn from but no direct references to a religion that would make it preachy. Definitely recommended!
🌷Christian allegory 🌷Found family 🌷Good vs Evil 🌷Narnia inspired world-building 🌷True love 🌷High stakes
SPEECHLESS!! Utterly speechless! I don’t know where to begin…but I will try to summarize all of my thoughts together to form a coherent review.
Absolutely loved this book! What a great end for the trilogy! I was curious to see how Mrs. Fitcher would end Ever and Isa’s story and she did not disappoint! The Fortress, a metaphor for God, was so touching and how everyone relates to it in the book was so realistic. We often think that God has to work a certain way and if He doesn’t, then He doesn’t love us. But, as this book states through the difficult journey of love, family, and marriage, God ALWAYS works out all circumstances for His servants. I love how Isa and Ever grow into better people as their story continues. It reminds you of how in Narnia, Peter, Susan, Edmond, and Lucy all leave when they have developed into the people they were born to be. Truly an inspiring book full of heart-wrenching emotions and the message that everyone often learns more/becomes more in adversity than in prosperity.
Before you read my review, know this. You better be ready to cry long and hard. Seriously. I cried a lot. Don't be scared, though! They are the good kind of tears.
Mrs. Fichter has once again captured my heart with her deep characters, enchanting plot, and profound messages. As usual, she has amazed me with her characters! Isa, Ever, Henri, Garin, and Genny settled deeper in my heart. The captivating plot had me sobbing into the darkness as I stayed up waaay later than I should be awake...but, that's when you KNOW it's a good book.
The way the characters struggle with trusting the Maker and His plan hit home. It is so real and relatable, and that adds an indescribable layer to an already amazing story.
An astonishing Christian fairy tale. While Ever and Isa are ferreting out an evil in their lands, they become foster parents to Henri and Genny. As the evil grows, they must put their faith and trust in the Fortress and the Maker.
There are many challenges in this tale. However, it ultimately comes to an exhilarating conclusion. I look forward to reading more of the author's works.
Ya know, I thought the original Hansel And Gretel was a bit sinister but I think this witch and her minions have that tale completely beaten! I was impressed, though, by the fact that the author was able to pack so much story into such a simple fairytale. I was totally immersed in the story all of the way through and pretty much spent my day living out epic battle scenes even as I appeared to be ever so mildly sitting on the couch with my Kindle in hand...
I loved this book. The author does a wonderful job of making the characters relatable. The story line is well thought out and draws the reader in. My favorite part is that these books are encouraging. I love it when I come away from a book not just loving the characters and story line, but also having learned, or been reminded of a life lesson.
Another great fairy tale retelling. When it comes to Hansel and Gretel story, I knew the basic story. I am sure it was hard to include all of the elements of that story: the kids, breadcrumbs, witch and the house made of candy. But the author did a great job. And everyone was able to get a happy ending.
I have loved following these characters through each of these fairy tales. Brittany has done an excellent job of moving from one story to the next while weaving the characters into each tale - I love the connections! So great! And the next one in the series is my FAVORITE!
Oh how I hated to see this series come full circle. It was so bittersweet. I feel like I've found long lost family only to loose them again. This series is a must read for any one looking for a great fantasy romance adventure.
Ms. Fichter weaves her stories with hints of the Brothers Grimm; infusing well-known tales with deeper meaning and greater possibilities. I'm impressed!
Somehow, with each book I read I love this series more and more! 'Beauty Beheld' is a very unique version of Hansel and Gretel and a beautiful, well-written story!
Wow! We finally get to learn more about Garrett and see a more human side to him. Henri and Genny are wonderful additions to the narrative. I love seeing Isa blossom into the Queen she was always meant to be. Everard has also grown more. By the end, I found myself wanting to learn more of what’s going to happen. Thank goodness the Fortiers make a lot of cameos in the rest of the series, and it sounds like book 12 will be in Henri’s PoV again. Can’t wait!
Weird, so weird. But still very good. I liked this one better than the last one. Loved the kids, hated and loved the resolution. Overall I thought it was extremely clever and I’m happy with this one.
Notable Content (full trilogy): These books are advertised as clean, but they do push my line for that label, personally, with the cursing, mature references, and handsy kissing. Full notes (not really spoilers):
Grammar Note: One missing comma (85% through box set, page 618).
I wish the fairy tale this was a retelling of was woven throughout the book; like with the second, I only saw connections to it in the first part. It's possible that I'm just blind, but the connections were, at least, not obvious.
I love the themes, but again, like the last book, I felt it was too miraculous; the ending almost won me over with how sweet it was, but my feelings still stand.
I was confused a bit at times; perhaps it would have been better if a couple of characters (ex. Eloy) were introduced previously for more coherency.
With the negatives discussed, that still leaves quite a bit that was good. The characters were endearing and interesting; the prose itself was good; the pacing was good; the plot was interesting; the world was obviously very well-built and carefully laid out. So there's quite a few things that I found lacking, but I think that it's still a worthwhile read. It pains me a bit to leave so much negativity, but I have to be fully honest.
Beauty Beheld was a truly beautiful and touching retelling of Hansel and Gretel. I loved how it explored the theme of how people find identity, find belonging, and react to rejection. Ever and Isa are back. They have learned many lessons and really come into their own. They are stronger, more capable, more trusting, and more in love than ever. Ever gets to mentor a boy who is a lot like him and may potentially threaten the kingdom. Isa learns more about how to use truth to love people well. The kingdom is threatened, epic powers are revealed, hearts are touched, tears are shed, and love and faith prevail. This would be an enjoyable read for those who enjoy a good fairy tale retelling, strong character growth, Christian themes, creative gifts/powers, kingdom-level stakes, clean-moving romance (even among married couples), adoption themes, and adventure.
I love how Ever and Isa's relationship has developed in their four years of marriage. In the second book, they were still newlyweds and had a lot of miscommunications and unhappiness and most of that is gone in this one. I also love how Isa's powers have advanced, she uses them often in this book and it's so fun. This story is a fun retelling of Hansel and Gretel and has several twists and turns in it. It's an intense story with action, fairy tale elements, sweet romance, the importance of family. You won't regret reading this series especially if you love fairy tales and clean romance. * I received an advanced copy for free for an honest review. ( This book is worth buying , it's one I'd reread and enjoy over and over again.)
I have read all three books in this series and found all of them to be very enjoyable. Ms Fichter finds a way to retell classic stories in a new and fresh way. She tackles complicated issues with poise and grace much like the main female character in the series. It is a well thought out plot with a story appropriate for all ages.
Brittany Fichter has written some entertaining retellings of some of my favorite fairy tales, including one seldom done (The Princess on the Glass Hill). The stories are clean, and emphasize the values of family, faith, forgiveness, integrity, courage, compassion and wisdom. If you love fairy tales, happy endings, and clean love stories, I would recommend giving her a read.
My favorite of the trilogy by far and I attribute that to the strength of Ever and Isa's relationship. After four years of marriage they are still in love and stronger and more united than ever. I appreciated that the conflict of the story was outside of their marriage. Also the introduction of Henri and Genny felt perfect and I was so happy for Ever and Isa.