What do you think?
Rate this book
An Amish Fairytale #1
Belle: An Amish Retelling of Beauty and the Beast
To most townsfolk, he's known simply as The Beast. Annabelle Beiler has little interest in gossip, but she's heard about Adam Herschberger's scars and his gruff, solitary ways. Though he sounds like a character from one of Belle's treasured books, the man is real and, it turns out, just as unreasonable as the rumors claim. When a buggy accident wipes out the last of her daed's money, forcing him to sell their farm, Adam buys it. Then he offers Belle a deal--marry him, and her family can keep their home. Everyone is shocked by Belle's decision, but she's determined to be a good fraa, cleaning Adam's rundown house and tending the overgrown garden. Breaking through her new husband's icy reserve will be another matter. Belle's courage and strength are abundant, but it will take true faith to guide Adam back to the heart of his Amish community--and to the loving marriage they both deserve. Contains mature themes.
1 pages, Audio CD
First published October 1, 2017
138 people are currently reading
1232 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Price
135 books647 followersECPA Christian Fiction Bestseller (June 2014, July 2014)
Amazon Top 100 Author for Books & eBooks (January 2016, September 2013, August 2013, May 2013, April 2013, February 2013, January 2013, December 2012)
-------------------------
The author of over 30 novels, Sarah Price publishes with Realms, an imprint of Charisma House and Waterfall, an imprint of Brilliance Audio.
Her book, An Empty Cup, was #3 on Amazon Top 100 eBooks in January 2016.
Follow her on social media:
Blog:http://www.sarahpriceauthor.com.
Facebook: http://facebook.com/fansofsarahprice.
Instagram: @SarahPriceAuthor
Twitter: @SarahPriceAuthr
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/SarahPrice
FAMILY HERITAGE
During the early 1700s, the Preiss family arrived in America aboard an old sailing vessel called the Patience. The family left Europe, escaping Catholic persecution for their Anabaptist beliefs. Sarah Price comes from a long line of devout Mennonites, including numerous church leaders and ministers throughout the years.
In 1969, Sarah Price was born in Pennsylvania and lived on the land of her ancestors, Johannes Preiss and "King Tammany", otherwise known as Tamanend, a chief of the Lenni Lenape nation in the Delaware Valley.
In the early 1970s, her family moved to Morristown, New Jersey where she still resides with her husband, two children, and assortment of animals.
Ms. Price has advanced degrees in Communication (MA), Marketing (MBA), and Educational Leadership (PhD).
Ms. Price was a former full-time college professor. After being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013, she now writes full-time.
Amazon Top 100 Author for Books & eBooks (January 2016, September 2013, August 2013, May 2013, April 2013, February 2013, January 2013, December 2012)
-------------------------
The author of over 30 novels, Sarah Price publishes with Realms, an imprint of Charisma House and Waterfall, an imprint of Brilliance Audio.
Her book, An Empty Cup, was #3 on Amazon Top 100 eBooks in January 2016.
Follow her on social media:
Blog:http://www.sarahpriceauthor.com.
Facebook: http://facebook.com/fansofsarahprice.
Instagram: @SarahPriceAuthor
Twitter: @SarahPriceAuthr
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/SarahPrice
FAMILY HERITAGE
During the early 1700s, the Preiss family arrived in America aboard an old sailing vessel called the Patience. The family left Europe, escaping Catholic persecution for their Anabaptist beliefs. Sarah Price comes from a long line of devout Mennonites, including numerous church leaders and ministers throughout the years.
In 1969, Sarah Price was born in Pennsylvania and lived on the land of her ancestors, Johannes Preiss and "King Tammany", otherwise known as Tamanend, a chief of the Lenni Lenape nation in the Delaware Valley.
In the early 1970s, her family moved to Morristown, New Jersey where she still resides with her husband, two children, and assortment of animals.
Ms. Price has advanced degrees in Communication (MA), Marketing (MBA), and Educational Leadership (PhD).
Ms. Price was a former full-time college professor. After being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013, she now writes full-time.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 175 reviews
November 16, 2017
I always have enjoyed reading Sarah Price's books. In this one,Belle: An Amish Retelling of Beauty and the Beast (An Amish Fairytale) as the title says it is a retelling of fairy tale Beauty and the Beast complete with the heroine's name being Belle,short for Anabelle . Her tinkering father is always inventing things to try to sell to support his family. After a buggy accident destroys his buggy and kills his horse he hasn't the money to support his family. The last of the family's money was put into trying to invent the perfect money making product but it got destroyed in the buggy accident. With the mortgage being months late on the farm where Belle,her father and 2 sisters live her father has no choice to sell the farm. Now this is where reclusive Adam Hershberger aka The Beast comes in. He is the one who is buying their farm and tells her if she will do something for him that her family will be able to stay at the farm. She agrees to marry him against her better judgement to help her family. He is quite rude and cold to her after the marriage and Belle really wonders what she has gotten herself into. Cleaning the house and preparing dinner she feels more like his hired help than a wife with the lack of respect and no manners or communication that he presents her with. The town's people call the reclusive man Beast behind his back because of his scars and mean temperedness. Is Belle able to break through his icy wall he has erected between them and make their marriage a happy one. I suggest you read this retelling of Beauty and the Beast and find out. I really enjoyed this and look forward to the next fairy tale retelling Sarah Price releases,a retelling of Cinderella.
Pub Date 31 Oct 2017
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for a review copy in exchange for my honest review.
Pub Date 31 Oct 2017
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for a review copy in exchange for my honest review.
November 20, 2017
True confession: I'm a tad shy of giddy over this new series. First off -- I adore fairy tale retellings -- I'm kind of compulsively crazy about them so I get butterflies in my tummy whenever I discover one in the Christian Fiction genre. But to add Amish into the mix? Be still my heart. It won't stop yoyoing around in an ecstatic frenzy because that combination is sweet perfection.
Love the seamless way Price has woven inspiration throughout the story. There are many stop-dead-in-your-tracks-and-ponder-that-thought moments. I love how both Belle and Adam grow as they dare to live their faith bravely. And it takes a lot of courage to banish past heartache and face the thoughtless cruelty of townsfolk who should definitely know better.
While the author stays true to the Disney version of Beauty and the Beast, she has also created a unique romance -- Belle and Adam's love story is fresh and poignant, even funny in places. And she does an amazing job with the 'beastly' qualities Adam brings to the story. While Belle's gentle kindness coupled with a good dose of pluckiness keeps her 'beast' off kilter. So much fun to read -- and to pick out the fairy tale elements along the way.
This is the first book I've read by Sarah Price but it sure won't be the last. Especially since she's set up the next two books in the series so perfectly...at least, I think she has. Definitely a Cinderella retelling is coming out next -- there's a sweet peek of it at the end of Belle. But there's also another character, Sadie, who is a bit of a mystery and I'm thinking her story might just be a Snow White adaptation, but that's just my wild guess.
Love the seamless way Price has woven inspiration throughout the story. There are many stop-dead-in-your-tracks-and-ponder-that-thought moments. I love how both Belle and Adam grow as they dare to live their faith bravely. And it takes a lot of courage to banish past heartache and face the thoughtless cruelty of townsfolk who should definitely know better.
While the author stays true to the Disney version of Beauty and the Beast, she has also created a unique romance -- Belle and Adam's love story is fresh and poignant, even funny in places. And she does an amazing job with the 'beastly' qualities Adam brings to the story. While Belle's gentle kindness coupled with a good dose of pluckiness keeps her 'beast' off kilter. So much fun to read -- and to pick out the fairy tale elements along the way.
This is the first book I've read by Sarah Price but it sure won't be the last. Especially since she's set up the next two books in the series so perfectly...at least, I think she has. Definitely a Cinderella retelling is coming out next -- there's a sweet peek of it at the end of Belle. But there's also another character, Sadie, who is a bit of a mystery and I'm thinking her story might just be a Snow White adaptation, but that's just my wild guess.
April 21, 2024
3.5 Stars ✨
“ A joyful heart makes a cheerful face, but when the heart is sad, the spirit is broken. “
Not quite sure if I have ever read an Amish book before, I think this was my first. This caught my eye for free on audible- I enjoy a good retelling. It being Belle, with her love of books, was the icing on the cake. I was pleasantly surprised by this one. I think the author did a fantastic job retelling this from an Amish point of view. I wasn’t sure how it would work but she did it! Very heartwarming and sweet!
“ A joyful heart makes a cheerful face, but when the heart is sad, the spirit is broken. “
Not quite sure if I have ever read an Amish book before, I think this was my first. This caught my eye for free on audible- I enjoy a good retelling. It being Belle, with her love of books, was the icing on the cake. I was pleasantly surprised by this one. I think the author did a fantastic job retelling this from an Amish point of view. I wasn’t sure how it would work but she did it! Very heartwarming and sweet!
October 29, 2017
“Just one speck of dust can blind an eye.”
A rather fascinating story that explores the idea of love and marriage, duty and faith.
Belle's father has driven the family finances into dun territory with his investments in continual failed schemes. At last it seems his 'griller' invention might be a way to break through. Alas his bad luck or serious miscalculation continues. The family is left destitute.
Their property is bought by Adam Herschberger, the local recluse who has withdrawn from the Amish society due to people's responses to his scarred face. Many call him The Beast--as Belle notes, hardly the godly action of a faith community.
Belle goes to Adam to see if she can be his housekeeper in exchange for the family being able to continue to live in the house.
Instead Adam offers her marriage.
The story of Belle coming to the belief that God has called her to marry Adam, the many tribulations she must face as she tries all she can to make this marriage work are extraordinary.
A intricate look at relationships and the communities they are part of.
The look into Amish customs adds an extra level of interest.
Bible versus are scattered throughout the story, all having a relevant place consistent with the action, illuminating the moment.
A very special and appealing love story with a difference.
A NetGalley ARC
A rather fascinating story that explores the idea of love and marriage, duty and faith.
Belle's father has driven the family finances into dun territory with his investments in continual failed schemes. At last it seems his 'griller' invention might be a way to break through. Alas his bad luck or serious miscalculation continues. The family is left destitute.
Their property is bought by Adam Herschberger, the local recluse who has withdrawn from the Amish society due to people's responses to his scarred face. Many call him The Beast--as Belle notes, hardly the godly action of a faith community.
Belle goes to Adam to see if she can be his housekeeper in exchange for the family being able to continue to live in the house.
Instead Adam offers her marriage.
The story of Belle coming to the belief that God has called her to marry Adam, the many tribulations she must face as she tries all she can to make this marriage work are extraordinary.
A intricate look at relationships and the communities they are part of.
The look into Amish customs adds an extra level of interest.
Bible versus are scattered throughout the story, all having a relevant place consistent with the action, illuminating the moment.
A very special and appealing love story with a difference.
A NetGalley ARC
October 2, 2020
Sarah Prices’s Belle is a heart-warming story of overcoming obstacles to find peace and a place to belong. The story will captivate readers who love the Amish culture and enjoy spending time in the Plain community. Once you open the book, you won’t put it down until you’ve reached the last page.
October 4, 2021
Me in the first third of this book: Huh, this isn't as preachy as I expected. Like, it's there, but it's not as overt as I thought it would be.
Me in the second third: Okay, it's getting a little on the nose, but it's still fine. They are Amish, after all.
Me in the last third: ENOUGHHHHHH ENOUGHHHHHH I GET IT, THERE'S NO NEED TO BEAT ME OVER THE HEAD WITH THE MORAL! IT'S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, I KNOW WHAT I'M SUPPOSED TO GET OUT OF IT MORALLY. WHY ARE WE BRINGING JESUS INTO THIS? AAAAAAAAAAAA--
So let me start properly by saying that there is like. An entire extended universe to this series or something at work here because there are multiple characters from other fairytales and plot threads that are left hanging after this book ends, which is uh. Wild. I am 10,000% not planning on reading any of the others, but I think that people who enjoyed this first one will probably enjoy the rest. You are getting exactly what it says on the tin.
I am kind of sort of the audience for this since I'll read anything with "beauty and the beast" in the title but kind of sort of definitely not the audience for this since I'm the least Christian person I know and my knowledge of the Amish is very limited. Interestingly, the author frames things in a way that makes it seem like her target audience won't know anything about Amish people. That was good for me since certain traditions would have gone over my head otherwise.
My expectations were underwater going in so I was pleasantly surprised at how tolerable and even sometimes engaging this story could be. I enjoy domestic slice of life settings underpinned with unusual circumstances/tension, so I actually liked the relatively slow pace and the farm work and such that went on for a lot of the story. In my head I was thinking this would be a 3 star review for a good chunk of the book. It fell out of my good graces towards the end once Belle and Adam (yes, we went with the Disney names. Huh) had their arc resolved but the book still felt the need to have some grandstanding with a preacher stating the moral to the rest of the characters and us the audience in case it was too subtle. I was rolling my eyes and cranking the speed on my audiobook up to 3x by the time I reached the last 10% of the book.
I'm always leery of BATB retellings that go the "burn scar" route because of the implications of scarring, particularly burn scarring, being a "monstrous" trait. That's a) incorrect b) messed up. Sure, the narrative frames it as wrong to view it that way, but you're still stating it as if it's a logical conclusion to come to. I get that you don't want to make him into a monster for your cozy Amish retelling. Maybe ditch the BATB angle altogether, then. (That said, this took a page out of Phantom of the Opera, too, and had half of his face burned. Because of course it did.) It's not the first time I've seen it done and it won't be the last, but I think it's really yucky to use this trope. Towards the end of the book Belle repeatedly asserts she "doesn't see" the scarring anymore which I guess is just another way of saying she's used to it, for whatever that's worth.
Not that I was really rooting for them to be together by the end, anyway. Belle was SERIOUSLY not respectful of Adam's privacy and when he outright stated that he didn't want her to go in a certain room in the house, she immediately ignored him and set about breaking in to the place. I expected a West Wing-style fallout from this scene but... nope! She doesn't even really admit that she broke in there and messed with his stuff so she could learn things about his backstory that anyone with a brain cell and a half could have figured out without disrespecting his boundaries. Their relationship had shady foundations to begin with because, you know, BATB story, there's a shady deal involved into making this marriage, but this was towards the END of the book when they should have learned more about each other. Like, oh, I don't know, maybe at least try a little to get his approval before you go breaking in to a place he told you he really doesn't want you to go into.
There are one and a halfish fade to black sex scenes accompanied with the most vanilla lukewarm intimacy/drawn out build up to singular kisses. Just thought I'd mention that.
There is some padding in the form of relationship drama with her family and this incredibly one-note stand-in Gaston knockoff (his name is Gabriel and he only properly shows up for like twoish scenes), and a Cinderella friend character, but it's not really worth talking about.
What else, what else... gender roles were tiresome but admittedly not as rigid as I expected them to be, there's this one casual mention of a kid needing to get a beating, which was........... and a random explanation of how bidding on horses works.
I'm extremely shocked I had the patience to get to the end of this, but I think there was some sort of strange mystique about such a niche book even existing that kept me transfixed. Kudos to the author for catering to a very specific interest, I'm sure there are people who really want this highly specific thing who will like it a lot.
Me in the second third: Okay, it's getting a little on the nose, but it's still fine. They are Amish, after all.
Me in the last third: ENOUGHHHHHH ENOUGHHHHHH I GET IT, THERE'S NO NEED TO BEAT ME OVER THE HEAD WITH THE MORAL! IT'S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, I KNOW WHAT I'M SUPPOSED TO GET OUT OF IT MORALLY. WHY ARE WE BRINGING JESUS INTO THIS? AAAAAAAAAAAA--
So let me start properly by saying that there is like. An entire extended universe to this series or something at work here because there are multiple characters from other fairytales and plot threads that are left hanging after this book ends, which is uh. Wild. I am 10,000% not planning on reading any of the others, but I think that people who enjoyed this first one will probably enjoy the rest. You are getting exactly what it says on the tin.
I am kind of sort of the audience for this since I'll read anything with "beauty and the beast" in the title but kind of sort of definitely not the audience for this since I'm the least Christian person I know and my knowledge of the Amish is very limited. Interestingly, the author frames things in a way that makes it seem like her target audience won't know anything about Amish people. That was good for me since certain traditions would have gone over my head otherwise.
My expectations were underwater going in so I was pleasantly surprised at how tolerable and even sometimes engaging this story could be. I enjoy domestic slice of life settings underpinned with unusual circumstances/tension, so I actually liked the relatively slow pace and the farm work and such that went on for a lot of the story. In my head I was thinking this would be a 3 star review for a good chunk of the book. It fell out of my good graces towards the end once Belle and Adam (yes, we went with the Disney names. Huh) had their arc resolved but the book still felt the need to have some grandstanding with a preacher stating the moral to the rest of the characters and us the audience in case it was too subtle. I was rolling my eyes and cranking the speed on my audiobook up to 3x by the time I reached the last 10% of the book.
I'm always leery of BATB retellings that go the "burn scar" route because of the implications of scarring, particularly burn scarring, being a "monstrous" trait. That's a) incorrect b) messed up. Sure, the narrative frames it as wrong to view it that way, but you're still stating it as if it's a logical conclusion to come to. I get that you don't want to make him into a monster for your cozy Amish retelling. Maybe ditch the BATB angle altogether, then. (That said, this took a page out of Phantom of the Opera, too, and had half of his face burned. Because of course it did.) It's not the first time I've seen it done and it won't be the last, but I think it's really yucky to use this trope. Towards the end of the book Belle repeatedly asserts she "doesn't see" the scarring anymore which I guess is just another way of saying she's used to it, for whatever that's worth.
Not that I was really rooting for them to be together by the end, anyway. Belle was SERIOUSLY not respectful of Adam's privacy and when he outright stated that he didn't want her to go in a certain room in the house, she immediately ignored him and set about breaking in to the place. I expected a West Wing-style fallout from this scene but... nope! She doesn't even really admit that she broke in there and messed with his stuff so she could learn things about his backstory that anyone with a brain cell and a half could have figured out without disrespecting his boundaries. Their relationship had shady foundations to begin with because, you know, BATB story, there's a shady deal involved into making this marriage, but this was towards the END of the book when they should have learned more about each other. Like, oh, I don't know, maybe at least try a little to get his approval before you go breaking in to a place he told you he really doesn't want you to go into.
There are one and a halfish fade to black sex scenes accompanied with the most vanilla lukewarm intimacy/drawn out build up to singular kisses. Just thought I'd mention that.
There is some padding in the form of relationship drama with her family and this incredibly one-note stand-in Gaston knockoff (his name is Gabriel and he only properly shows up for like twoish scenes), and a Cinderella friend character, but it's not really worth talking about.
What else, what else... gender roles were tiresome but admittedly not as rigid as I expected them to be, there's this one casual mention of a kid needing to get a beating, which was........... and a random explanation of how bidding on horses works.
I'm extremely shocked I had the patience to get to the end of this, but I think there was some sort of strange mystique about such a niche book even existing that kept me transfixed. Kudos to the author for catering to a very specific interest, I'm sure there are people who really want this highly specific thing who will like it a lot.
July 21, 2024
Belle: An Amish Retelling of Beauty and the Beast by Sarah Price
Amish Fairytale #1
255-page Kindle Ebook story pgs 7-249
Genre: Retellings, Amish Romance, Christian Fiction
Featuring: Spoiler Preview, Links, Motherless Girls, Cinderella Bestie, Inventor, German, Sisters, Farm, Recluse, Scar, Teasing, Gossip, Arranged Marriage, Marriage of Convenience Trope, Grumpy Sunshine Trope, Sex - Insinuated/Off-Camera, Prejudice, Church, Bible Verses, Teaser Chapter for Ella: An Amish Retelling of Cinderella
Rating as a movie: PG-13 for adult situations
Songs for the soundtrack: "Jesus Loves Me" “Das Loblieb”
Books and Authors mentioned: The Story of the Beauty and the Beast by Gabrielle-Suzanne de Villeneuve translation by James Planché, Cendrillon/Cinderella by Charles Perrault, Snow White by The Brothers Grimm
My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌻
My thoughts: 🔖Page 38 of 255 Chapter Four - I love it. I downloaded the rest of the series.
🔖73 Chapter Eight - The story is great. I like how Ella's story is already included without too many details, Sadie has been mentioned. Beauty and the Beast is one of my least favorite tales but I think this one may be better than the original, which hasn't been the case for most of the retellings of that story.
I loved this version. I especially like how it was 100% Belle's decision without any manipulation from her father or "the beast," it was even her idea to try to find a better solution after her dad had accepted the results of his actions. The bishop was a welcoming development as I dislike that so many stories in this genre ignore bad behavior. Even though there is no POV other than Belle's including Ella and Sadie gives you the beginnings of their stories, which I will be diving into immediately. I am excited to see how Linda behaves at home. This is my first Sarah Price book and I'm overjoyed to have discovered her. I have an Amish Fairytale and Amish Cookies Club series on my TBR but I already feel like I will be enjoying her entire catalog.
Recommend to others: Yes! This story is fantastic.
Amish Fairytale
1. Belle (2017)
2. Ella (2018)
3. Sadie (2018)
Amish Fairytale #1
255-page Kindle Ebook story pgs 7-249
Genre: Retellings, Amish Romance, Christian Fiction
Featuring: Spoiler Preview, Links, Motherless Girls, Cinderella Bestie, Inventor, German, Sisters, Farm, Recluse, Scar, Teasing, Gossip, Arranged Marriage, Marriage of Convenience Trope, Grumpy Sunshine Trope, Sex - Insinuated/Off-Camera, Prejudice, Church, Bible Verses, Teaser Chapter for Ella: An Amish Retelling of Cinderella
Rating as a movie: PG-13 for adult situations
Songs for the soundtrack: "Jesus Loves Me" “Das Loblieb”
Books and Authors mentioned: The Story of the Beauty and the Beast by Gabrielle-Suzanne de Villeneuve translation by James Planché, Cendrillon/Cinderella by Charles Perrault, Snow White by The Brothers Grimm
My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌻
My thoughts: 🔖Page 38 of 255 Chapter Four - I love it. I downloaded the rest of the series.
🔖73 Chapter Eight - The story is great. I like how Ella's story is already included without too many details, Sadie has been mentioned. Beauty and the Beast is one of my least favorite tales but I think this one may be better than the original, which hasn't been the case for most of the retellings of that story.
I loved this version. I especially like how it was 100% Belle's decision without any manipulation from her father or "the beast," it was even her idea to try to find a better solution after her dad had accepted the results of his actions. The bishop was a welcoming development as I dislike that so many stories in this genre ignore bad behavior. Even though there is no POV other than Belle's including Ella and Sadie gives you the beginnings of their stories, which I will be diving into immediately. I am excited to see how Linda behaves at home. This is my first Sarah Price book and I'm overjoyed to have discovered her. I have an Amish Fairytale and Amish Cookies Club series on my TBR but I already feel like I will be enjoying her entire catalog.
Recommend to others: Yes! This story is fantastic.
Amish Fairytale
1. Belle (2017)
2. Ella (2018)
3. Sadie (2018)
January 4, 2018
A delightful retelling of a classic story “Beauty and the Beast” and the author does it with an Amish twist.
Sarah Price helps us understand that people are fallen, and being a member of a religious community, does not guarantee that they all live their faith.
Surprises abound as Belle begins her journey to become Adam’s fraa, from her childhood home to her new married abode, and yes we get to see these through her eyes. You will soon be sweeping and cleaning before you can even move in, and then what, delightful, and yet serious at the same time.
From the first to the last page it becomes a quick page-turner, and you will be captured in the retelling of this great tale, and then you will be teased into waiting for the next.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Kensington Books, and was not required to give a positive review.
Sarah Price helps us understand that people are fallen, and being a member of a religious community, does not guarantee that they all live their faith.
Surprises abound as Belle begins her journey to become Adam’s fraa, from her childhood home to her new married abode, and yes we get to see these through her eyes. You will soon be sweeping and cleaning before you can even move in, and then what, delightful, and yet serious at the same time.
From the first to the last page it becomes a quick page-turner, and you will be captured in the retelling of this great tale, and then you will be teased into waiting for the next.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Kensington Books, and was not required to give a positive review.
August 16, 2022
I loved the way the author wove the story of Beauty and the Beast into an Amish background. In this story, the "beast" is a young Amish man who has been horribly scarred in a fire. Due to his disfigurement, he is an outcast. He lives alone and is feared and made fun of by the people of the community. Anabelle is one of three daughters of the widowed farmer down the road. He may be a farmer, but he is not a successful one. His farm is rundown, his herd is practically nonexistent, and his two eldest daughters are lazy and allow Belle to do most of the work. Farmer Beiler prefers to tinker with machinery and attempt to invent things - things that tend to fail. Finally there comes a point when the farmer is forced to sell his farm in order to pay his debts. The "beast" offers to buy the farm and pay the farmer's debts. But Belle realizes that her family will be homeless when the farm is sold, so she bravely offers to trade her housekeeping skills to the beast, and in return he will allow her father and sisters to remain in the family home. But the beast doesn't want a housekeeper - he wants a wife! Can Belle see beyond the disfigurement and the wounded, hardened heart of her neighbor, and learn to love him?
November 5, 2024
What a great start to this series. I can’t wait to see if my library has the rest of them. I believe this is my first time reading this author. My mind had her mixed up with Sylvia Price maybe? I started this late at night and was only able to read a short time. But I made up for it today.
This is a senior center reading club book. We will be discussing it tomorrow.
Belle’s father is about to lose their family farm, when a storm kills his horse and ruins their buggy, he takes shelter at a nearby farm. As luck has it the farmer hears his tale of woe and offers to buy it. Belle is heartbroken to have to leave the only home they have lived in for most of her life. She goes to visit their neighbor with a strange proposal that would enable her father and sisters to stay on the farm.
I never would have imagined an Amish twist on a fairy tale, but here it is.
Library book, but I would love to own it.
This is a senior center reading club book. We will be discussing it tomorrow.
Belle’s father is about to lose their family farm, when a storm kills his horse and ruins their buggy, he takes shelter at a nearby farm. As luck has it the farmer hears his tale of woe and offers to buy it. Belle is heartbroken to have to leave the only home they have lived in for most of her life. She goes to visit their neighbor with a strange proposal that would enable her father and sisters to stay on the farm.
I never would have imagined an Amish twist on a fairy tale, but here it is.
Library book, but I would love to own it.
May 26, 2022
The Beauty and the Beast elements were great. It's a good retelling. As far as Amish romances go, this one had some steamier scenes (more closed-door than clean). The romance was (very slow) slow burn.
June 2, 2021
The public library overflows with Amish romances. I normally go past them but when I saw one that was a beauty and the beast theme I decided to give it a try. As I'm a sucker for BatB in all it's many formats.
The actual story with Belle and Adam was sweet, but I skimmed through pages and pages about daily life that I just didn't care about.
If chaste romance, heavy on God, cooking meals and washing things, is your jam then this probably a fine book for you.
I have personally filled my quota of heavy handed religiousness and kitchen scrubbing for quite some time.
It takes all types and I'm glad there are books out there for everyone.
The actual story with Belle and Adam was sweet, but I skimmed through pages and pages about daily life that I just didn't care about.
If chaste romance, heavy on God, cooking meals and washing things, is your jam then this probably a fine book for you.
I have personally filled my quota of heavy handed religiousness and kitchen scrubbing for quite some time.
It takes all types and I'm glad there are books out there for everyone.
October 18, 2017
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Wow!
What can I say?
Well, whatever I say it could not do this book justice.
Belle is a hardworker who dreams of falling in love...just not right now and definitely not to a man she barely knows. But faced with the decision of marrying Adam Herschberger or going homeless, marrying Adam doesn't seem like such a bad idea. But Adam's secret past and scarred face only tells Belle that there's more to him than meets the eye. But can she break through to him.
I simply loved, loved, LOVED this book. The characters were engaging and had me on the edge of my seat since the first page.
I read this in two settings. (It would have been one if I didn't need my beauty sleep) But I highly recommend this book. It is appropriate for all readers.
Wow!
What can I say?
Well, whatever I say it could not do this book justice.
Belle is a hardworker who dreams of falling in love...just not right now and definitely not to a man she barely knows. But faced with the decision of marrying Adam Herschberger or going homeless, marrying Adam doesn't seem like such a bad idea. But Adam's secret past and scarred face only tells Belle that there's more to him than meets the eye. But can she break through to him.
I simply loved, loved, LOVED this book. The characters were engaging and had me on the edge of my seat since the first page.
I read this in two settings. (It would have been one if I didn't need my beauty sleep) But I highly recommend this book. It is appropriate for all readers.
March 4, 2020
I especially liked the bishop's "speck in the eye" sermon. It has great relevance in today's world. I thought some of the book characters could be fleshed out more but that's also in keeping with the fairytale retelling.
March 12, 2018
I give inspirational romance a lot of crap, especially the Amish ones because they so often tend to be formulaic, boring, and preachy, but I will admit... I kinda dug this one! Honestly! When my friend told me there were Amish fairy tale spin offs I laughed. It sounded so dumb, bizarre even! So I went into this book expecting it to be awful, and admittedly I didn't fall in love with it right away, but once I got into the story, I was hooked. Belle lives with her father and two useless sisters. When they find out that they are going to lose the farm because their father hasn't been paying the mortgage all hope seems gone; they will be destitute and homeless. The town recluse, Adam, a man disfigured from a fire, buys up the farm and Belle tries to plead with him to save their home. He tells her the only way he'll let her family have the farm back is if she agrees to marry him and bear him a child. Against her better judgement she does, because she loves her family and wants the best for them. She knows nothing about this man, other than what her little Amish community has gossiped about him and his beast-like looks. Can they make this marriage work? Can she tame the beast and save her family? Cheesy, but super readable. I'll be reading the next in the series!
January 10, 2023
3.5 stars
When I saw Belle: An Amish Retelling of Beauty and the Beast at the library, I immediately grabbed it and the next in the series. I didn't need to read the back. The creativity of mixing Amish with a fairy tale was enough to draw me in. I was not disappointed.
I thoroughly enjoyed Belle. I was surprised by the differences between the fairy tale and this story. I was also surprised that it was different from what I expected and didn't follow the direction I thought it would go. Belle is a beautiful portrayal of love and patience, and Adam showcases many "beastly" traits (I mean, how often can he grunt as a response 😂)!
Belle was my first book by Sarah Price, but it won't be my last! I look forward to reading the next two books in the series and feel that Sarah Price has done a great job setting the stage for them. And, in case you are curious...Cinderella is next 😉
When I saw Belle: An Amish Retelling of Beauty and the Beast at the library, I immediately grabbed it and the next in the series. I didn't need to read the back. The creativity of mixing Amish with a fairy tale was enough to draw me in. I was not disappointed.
I thoroughly enjoyed Belle. I was surprised by the differences between the fairy tale and this story. I was also surprised that it was different from what I expected and didn't follow the direction I thought it would go. Belle is a beautiful portrayal of love and patience, and Adam showcases many "beastly" traits (I mean, how often can he grunt as a response 😂)!
Belle was my first book by Sarah Price, but it won't be my last! I look forward to reading the next two books in the series and feel that Sarah Price has done a great job setting the stage for them. And, in case you are curious...Cinderella is next 😉
June 23, 2019
I just loved this book! The emotional writing is so awesome! I loved the MCs. It does a great job of retelling Beauty and the Beast set in an Amish setting. So glad I found this book and this author. Amy McFadden does an incredible job. I always know I’m in for a treat when she is the narrator. Happy reading/listening!
October 9, 2017
Honestly, all buggies look alike to me. I will have to take more notice the next time I'm in Lancaster.
Belle walked? Yikes.
Her sisters sound really selfish and childish.
I bet Adam lives in the stables.
Three hours at church?
She sure cries a lot.
This is a sad wedding. But I think she should give Adam a chance. He seems to be "interested" in her.
I am learning so much about Amish life.
He hasn't had anyone to talk to for years. I can understand why he finds her talking annoying.
Children learn by example, John.
A horse auction does sound like a fun date.
Ha, an Amish woman who knows how to pick a lock?
Oh, a twist. But how come no one else in the community knew that it was his grandparents' farm? It wasn't that long ago.
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Belle walked? Yikes.
Her sisters sound really selfish and childish.
I bet Adam lives in the stables.
Three hours at church?
She sure cries a lot.
This is a sad wedding. But I think she should give Adam a chance. He seems to be "interested" in her.
I am learning so much about Amish life.
He hasn't had anyone to talk to for years. I can understand why he finds her talking annoying.
Children learn by example, John.
A horse auction does sound like a fun date.
Ha, an Amish woman who knows how to pick a lock?
Oh, a twist. But how come no one else in the community knew that it was his grandparents' farm? It wasn't that long ago.
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 30, 2024
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars.
Yep, it’s fluff, but I enjoy fluff! And I like Amish romance (always clean). So, this re-telling of Beauty and the Beast Amish style was so cute to me.
Yep, it’s fluff, but I enjoy fluff! And I like Amish romance (always clean). So, this re-telling of Beauty and the Beast Amish style was so cute to me.
February 6, 2018
I like this book. It wasn't as dramatic as I had anticipated but it was a pleasant read. I will probably read the others in the series. It is good to cleanse the palate occasionally with a book that doesn't contain graphic sex and/or violence.
October 16, 2017
* I received a copy of this book via the Goodreads giveaway *
First of all, I knew next to nothing about the Amish. They live in a world which is so far removed from my surroundings. Unfortunately, the only things I did know about the Amish, (besides the obvious stereotypes) I learned from Weird Al’s parody of “Gangster’s Paradise” called “Amish Paradise.” *Facepalm of shame* I was delighted to learn a bit about the Amish community from this novel. While I am no expert to vouch for its authenticity, I did enjoy learning the Amish dialect scattered throughout the novel.
In the tightly knit community of Echo Falls, Annabelle Beiler (Belle) is contented with her life on the farm and reading romance novels. One day, a disaster strikes Belle’s family forcing her into bargaining with Adam, a disfigured recluse who is known as The Beast. Adam strikes a deal with Belle, marry him, and produce a son, and in return, Belle’s family will be able to keep their farm. But Adam is no prince in disguise. Once Belle agrees to marry him, she fears that she has made a mistake. Caught in a whirlwind from Adam’s bad temper, Belle tries to win his favour. But how could she melt the heart of a cold-hearted beast?
This was a pleasant retelling of the classic story of Beauty and the Beast… Amish style. In terms of romance, it was a slow-burning fire full of unquenchable passion, which is my type of romance novel. At first, I wasn’t sure how the elements of Beauty & the Beast would translate into an Amish setting. Somehow, it all came together nicely. The Amish aspect was an interesting touch. I felt as if I were transported into a different world both familiar and unfamiliar. Belle’s village reminded me a little of Avonlea in Anne of Green Gables where everyone is waiting to latch onto the newest branch of gossip.
I would recommend this novel to those who love Beauty and the Beast retellings.
Side note: I also ended up realizing that if I found myself suddenly in an Amish community, I would be basically useless.
First of all, I knew next to nothing about the Amish. They live in a world which is so far removed from my surroundings. Unfortunately, the only things I did know about the Amish, (besides the obvious stereotypes) I learned from Weird Al’s parody of “Gangster’s Paradise” called “Amish Paradise.” *Facepalm of shame* I was delighted to learn a bit about the Amish community from this novel. While I am no expert to vouch for its authenticity, I did enjoy learning the Amish dialect scattered throughout the novel.
In the tightly knit community of Echo Falls, Annabelle Beiler (Belle) is contented with her life on the farm and reading romance novels. One day, a disaster strikes Belle’s family forcing her into bargaining with Adam, a disfigured recluse who is known as The Beast. Adam strikes a deal with Belle, marry him, and produce a son, and in return, Belle’s family will be able to keep their farm. But Adam is no prince in disguise. Once Belle agrees to marry him, she fears that she has made a mistake. Caught in a whirlwind from Adam’s bad temper, Belle tries to win his favour. But how could she melt the heart of a cold-hearted beast?
This was a pleasant retelling of the classic story of Beauty and the Beast… Amish style. In terms of romance, it was a slow-burning fire full of unquenchable passion, which is my type of romance novel. At first, I wasn’t sure how the elements of Beauty & the Beast would translate into an Amish setting. Somehow, it all came together nicely. The Amish aspect was an interesting touch. I felt as if I were transported into a different world both familiar and unfamiliar. Belle’s village reminded me a little of Avonlea in Anne of Green Gables where everyone is waiting to latch onto the newest branch of gossip.
I would recommend this novel to those who love Beauty and the Beast retellings.
Side note: I also ended up realizing that if I found myself suddenly in an Amish community, I would be basically useless.
September 28, 2023
Wasn't expecting much from this "inspirational" retelling of B&B and for the first few chapters it did seem to sink to the level of those expectations. But then we meet Adam, our fire-scarred Beast and things picked up. Yes, there was a lot of "God stuff" but in this simple Amish setting it fit more quietly and not like a continuous moral mallet to the brain. The emotional back and forth between Belle and Adam felt realistic and beautiful. My only complaint was the frequent tossing in of Penn Deutsch words in italic which felt jarring and unnecessary- maybe it was the way they were set off in italic that felt too in-your-face. There was enough Amish-ness without that.
Glad I bought this for my B&B collection as it was a moving retelling that managed to include most of the traditional B&B tropes pretty well. Also enjoyed having Belle put Adam's long neglected family house in order. I do love me a bit of 'rehabbing' adventure.
Glad I bought this for my B&B collection as it was a moving retelling that managed to include most of the traditional B&B tropes pretty well. Also enjoyed having Belle put Adam's long neglected family house in order. I do love me a bit of 'rehabbing' adventure.
October 16, 2017
"Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review"
A nice, sweet clean read set in an Amish community. The pace is slow, really slow, yet I found the story enjoyable, although quite predictable and preachy sometimes.
The scarred grumpy hero – sometimes too grumpy, throwing tantrums – is an added bonus. His hidden kindness is also quite intriguing and appealing. Belle is just the right woman to heal him and make him open up.
Although I enjoyed the depiction of the Amish lifestyle, I found the community’s meanness and lack of compassion for Adam a bit too basic to be true (and totally unchristian, of course).
I'm grateful to the publisher, Kensington Books/Zebra, and NetGalley for providing a free copy.
A nice, sweet clean read set in an Amish community. The pace is slow, really slow, yet I found the story enjoyable, although quite predictable and preachy sometimes.
The scarred grumpy hero – sometimes too grumpy, throwing tantrums – is an added bonus. His hidden kindness is also quite intriguing and appealing. Belle is just the right woman to heal him and make him open up.
Although I enjoyed the depiction of the Amish lifestyle, I found the community’s meanness and lack of compassion for Adam a bit too basic to be true (and totally unchristian, of course).
I'm grateful to the publisher, Kensington Books/Zebra, and NetGalley for providing a free copy.
March 22, 2018
Alright
It's an alright romance story, however I wouldn't recommend buying it for the price that it is right now. There are other romance novels for $3 that are just as good as this one. Out of the top of my head, I would recommend those who like this story to read Beauty and the scarred Duke, the only difference is that this story has a more religious tone. It was very slow in the beginning of the story and it didn't seem to feel like there was a climax at all. The male character of this book had acted one certain way until about three quarters into it. I could see the potential of this book: maybe if the point of view wasn't always on Belle but also with Adam, that way we can feel what he was feeling instead of having it confessed to us.
It's an alright romance story, however I wouldn't recommend buying it for the price that it is right now. There are other romance novels for $3 that are just as good as this one. Out of the top of my head, I would recommend those who like this story to read Beauty and the scarred Duke, the only difference is that this story has a more religious tone. It was very slow in the beginning of the story and it didn't seem to feel like there was a climax at all. The male character of this book had acted one certain way until about three quarters into it. I could see the potential of this book: maybe if the point of view wasn't always on Belle but also with Adam, that way we can feel what he was feeling instead of having it confessed to us.
April 1, 2021
This was my first time reading Amish fiction (well, listening, I was able to check out the audio book on OverDrive!) and I really enjoyed it! I've already looked to see if I can get Sadie and Ella, the other fairy tale retellings by Sarah Price, but they're not on audio yet. (I have a toddler, there's no reading a physical book right now, but I may get the books anyway because I was really drawn into the world that Price created! Total win and definitely going to check out more of Price's books.
January 14, 2024
This was a light read. I’m not usually into Amish fiction, but this one seemed less cult-ish. I didn’t agree with how Scripture was always interpreted, but it wasn’t anything doctrinally wrong.
The storyline intrigued me and I thought it was a very creative Beauty and the Beast retelling. The way Belle handled things annoyed me a little, but I did appreciate the story and will probably read the others when I’m in the mood for more light reading.
The storyline intrigued me and I thought it was a very creative Beauty and the Beast retelling. The way Belle handled things annoyed me a little, but I did appreciate the story and will probably read the others when I’m in the mood for more light reading.
September 13, 2024
3.5 a sweet story with a good message for all of us.
WRC 2024- retold fairy tale
WRC 2024- retold fairy tale
April 24, 2018
At first I was a little worried that this was going to be a retelling of the Disney version of Beauty and the Beast because a lot of character names seem to be derived from the Disney films (like naming the Beast character Adam, the semi-official Disney Beast-Prince's name), and Belle's father is an inventor that the town considers to be eccentric. However, that turns out to just be minor details, and the story does have elements of the original fairy tale as well. Belle has two lazy sisters, and the Beast asks his nightly question at dinner (though in this case since they're already married the question is "Do you love me?").
Belle is a dutiful Amish girl living in the small town of Echo Creek. Her father has made some very poor decisions with money and the family is nearly destitute. When an accident forces him to sell their farm or lose everything, Belle goes to the reclusive bachelor buyer, Adam, to plead with him to let her keep house for him in exchange for her father and sisters to at least continue to live in their home. Instead, she is told that if she marries Adam, who was disfigured in a tragic accident, and gives him a son, then he will sign the farm back over to her father. Belle is at first horrified at the idea of marrying someone she's never even seen (Adam hides in the shadows as much as possible), but in desperation she agrees, knowing that if her family is forced to move they will not have enough money to start over.
Thus begins the marriage of Beauty and the Beast. Belle, expecting rough treatment thanks to Adam's gruff manner, is surprised when her new husband seems to be avoiding her instead, and despite his initial demand for a son has not insisted on consummating the marriage. She becomes determined to unravel the mystery that he constitutes, and in the process is sadly enlightened about faults in her little Amish community that she had been only marginally aware of before. Belle never loses her faith, and eventually they all discover that God can indeed be trusted to work for the good of all.
There is obvious setup for at least two further fairy tale retellings in this community (Cinderella and Snow White), and I thought I detected more. So we'll see what else the author might have up her sleeve for the future of Echo Creek.
Belle is a dutiful Amish girl living in the small town of Echo Creek. Her father has made some very poor decisions with money and the family is nearly destitute. When an accident forces him to sell their farm or lose everything, Belle goes to the reclusive bachelor buyer, Adam, to plead with him to let her keep house for him in exchange for her father and sisters to at least continue to live in their home. Instead, she is told that if she marries Adam, who was disfigured in a tragic accident, and gives him a son, then he will sign the farm back over to her father. Belle is at first horrified at the idea of marrying someone she's never even seen (Adam hides in the shadows as much as possible), but in desperation she agrees, knowing that if her family is forced to move they will not have enough money to start over.
Thus begins the marriage of Beauty and the Beast. Belle, expecting rough treatment thanks to Adam's gruff manner, is surprised when her new husband seems to be avoiding her instead, and despite his initial demand for a son has not insisted on consummating the marriage. She becomes determined to unravel the mystery that he constitutes, and in the process is sadly enlightened about faults in her little Amish community that she had been only marginally aware of before. Belle never loses her faith, and eventually they all discover that God can indeed be trusted to work for the good of all.
There is obvious setup for at least two further fairy tale retellings in this community (Cinderella and Snow White), and I thought I detected more. So we'll see what else the author might have up her sleeve for the future of Echo Creek.
January 31, 2019
"Belle" is a sweet retelling of Beauty and the Beast that removes some of the sketchier parts of the fairytale and adds an Amish setting. Belle is one of three daughters to a father who owns a farm but does not really have the capability or interest in working it well. Her father is an inventor, working on a new type of stove. When he goes to sell it, he returns without the horse and buggy, revealing that he is out of money and thus has sold the farm to Adam Herschberger.
Adam is a recluse and generally treated poorly by the other folks in the Amish community. He has scars on his face and arms that lead people to call him a beast. Belle has always thought this was unfair. When she realizes her family will have no place to go, she approaches Adam to see if she can strike a bargain. She offers to work as a housekeeper for him in exchange for her family being able to stay on their farm. Adam is not in want of a housekeeper, but rather, he needs a wife to produce an heir. He offers in exchange for her hand in marriage to allow her family to keep the farm, provided it will eventually go to their own male heir.
Belle is willing to make the bargain and agrees to marry Adam. However, she is not sure about her decision, not really knowing the man beneath the gruff exterior. As they marry and Belle tries to be a good wife, she must work even harder to learn about the man beneath the exterior. While somewhat slow moving, the romance that buds is slow and nicely paced. Belle takes the time to get to know Adam, and he respects her space. As they slowly get to know each other, Belle realizes he has a huge heart, and she falls in love with the person he is.
Overall, I thought it was a great retelling and takes out the feeling of the Stockholm Syndrome that often exists with Beauty and the Beast retellings. I liked both Belle and Adam, and it was a nice (clean) romance that tells of misunderstandings and the value of learning about someone before making judgments.
Please note that I received a copy through a goodreads giveaway. All opinions are my own.
Adam is a recluse and generally treated poorly by the other folks in the Amish community. He has scars on his face and arms that lead people to call him a beast. Belle has always thought this was unfair. When she realizes her family will have no place to go, she approaches Adam to see if she can strike a bargain. She offers to work as a housekeeper for him in exchange for her family being able to stay on their farm. Adam is not in want of a housekeeper, but rather, he needs a wife to produce an heir. He offers in exchange for her hand in marriage to allow her family to keep the farm, provided it will eventually go to their own male heir.
Belle is willing to make the bargain and agrees to marry Adam. However, she is not sure about her decision, not really knowing the man beneath the gruff exterior. As they marry and Belle tries to be a good wife, she must work even harder to learn about the man beneath the exterior. While somewhat slow moving, the romance that buds is slow and nicely paced. Belle takes the time to get to know Adam, and he respects her space. As they slowly get to know each other, Belle realizes he has a huge heart, and she falls in love with the person he is.
Overall, I thought it was a great retelling and takes out the feeling of the Stockholm Syndrome that often exists with Beauty and the Beast retellings. I liked both Belle and Adam, and it was a nice (clean) romance that tells of misunderstandings and the value of learning about someone before making judgments.
Please note that I received a copy through a goodreads giveaway. All opinions are my own.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 175 reviews