What do you think?
Rate this book
The Beast and the Bethany #2
Revenge of the Beast
Lemony Snicket meets Roald Dahl in this “wickedly funny” (Kirkus Reviews), deliciously macabre, and highly illustrated sequel to The Beast and the Bethany in which Bethany and Ebenezer try to turn over a new leaf, only to have someone—or something—thwart them at every turn.
Once upon a very badly behaved time, 511-year-old Ebenezer kept a beast in his attic. He would feed the beast all manner of objects and creatures and in return the beast would vomit him up expensive presents. But then the Bethany arrived.
Now notorious prankster Bethany, along with her new feathery friend Claudette, is determined that she and Ebenezer are going to de-beast their lives and Do Good. But Bethany finds that being a former prankster makes it hard to get taken on for voluntary work. And Ebenezer secretly misses the beast’s vomity gifts. And neither of them is all that sure what “good people” do anyway.
Then there’s Claudette, who’s not been feeling herself recently. Has she eaten something that has disagreed with her?
Once upon a very badly behaved time, 511-year-old Ebenezer kept a beast in his attic. He would feed the beast all manner of objects and creatures and in return the beast would vomit him up expensive presents. But then the Bethany arrived.
Now notorious prankster Bethany, along with her new feathery friend Claudette, is determined that she and Ebenezer are going to de-beast their lives and Do Good. But Bethany finds that being a former prankster makes it hard to get taken on for voluntary work. And Ebenezer secretly misses the beast’s vomity gifts. And neither of them is all that sure what “good people” do anyway.
Then there’s Claudette, who’s not been feeling herself recently. Has she eaten something that has disagreed with her?
274 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2020
35 people are currently reading
311 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
February 10, 2022
Revenge of the Beast is the second book in the hilarious middle-grade series from author Jack Meggitt-Phillips – The Beast and the Bethany. I reviewed book one in September 2020 and found it enjoyable and very imaginative and couldn’t wait to read book two after the open ending.
In this second book, we are taken back to how Ebenezer came to meet the Beast and become its housemate, I suppose this is the right term as he certainly wasn’t the Beast’s owner. As well as continuing our journey with Ebenezer, Bethany, and Claudette the parrot who has eaten something that doesn’t agree with her!
The plot is as funny and bonkers as the first book. I loved the dual timeline and getting to know more about Ebenezer and his younger years, including the attention he craved from others and how the Beast facilitated his desires as well as used him for his own gain.
I also enjoyed how Bethany was trying to de-beast the house including everything it had ever vomited up for Ebenezer. She hasn’t lost any of her pig-headedness, stubbornness, or trickery but it is clear that she does care for Ebenezer.
The book is fast-paced, entertaining, and captivating from the beginning to the end. It made me laugh-out-loud on more than one occasion as well as feel a little sorry for Ebenezer, not something I thought I would feel after reading book one. Plus, a lot of concern for Claudette who is really struggling after what she did at the end of book one.
A delightful continuation that may actually be better than the first story. For middle-grade readers who love a spellbinding plot that they can giggle along to, this is the series to pick up.
In this second book, we are taken back to how Ebenezer came to meet the Beast and become its housemate, I suppose this is the right term as he certainly wasn’t the Beast’s owner. As well as continuing our journey with Ebenezer, Bethany, and Claudette the parrot who has eaten something that doesn’t agree with her!
The plot is as funny and bonkers as the first book. I loved the dual timeline and getting to know more about Ebenezer and his younger years, including the attention he craved from others and how the Beast facilitated his desires as well as used him for his own gain.
I also enjoyed how Bethany was trying to de-beast the house including everything it had ever vomited up for Ebenezer. She hasn’t lost any of her pig-headedness, stubbornness, or trickery but it is clear that she does care for Ebenezer.
The book is fast-paced, entertaining, and captivating from the beginning to the end. It made me laugh-out-loud on more than one occasion as well as feel a little sorry for Ebenezer, not something I thought I would feel after reading book one. Plus, a lot of concern for Claudette who is really struggling after what she did at the end of book one.
A delightful continuation that may actually be better than the first story. For middle-grade readers who love a spellbinding plot that they can giggle along to, this is the series to pick up.
January 5, 2022
This was another fun, quick, entertaining read. I have to say, Bethany did actually get on my nerves more in this one, for the first almost 1/3 of the book. There’s also a new girl in here a little that I wanted to strangle(not literally, calm down), along with everyone who let her act that way lol. I loved how the author went to the next level with the story, & added a whole new beastly mystery/adventure. Still full of super dark humor, & one of the most original & unique book ideas I’ve read. Quirky characters, a hungry evil beast, the sweetest most adorable Parrot, a 511 year old man, the orphan girl that came into his life & tore it apart like a hurricane & made it better, & a town full of the most original eccentric characters lol If you can’t COMPLETELY suspend your disbelief, then don’t read these lol The unbelievable & most outrageous IS the believable in these. So great. Some great messages in here, & some heartwarming parts admits all the darkness & humor as well. Being somewhat annoyed at some characters is the only reason I would say I probably liked the 1st book more I think, but I still enjoyed this 1 & had a great time. Can’t wait for the 3rd book. It was perfectly set up at the end, & has hooked & intrigued me already with the direction it will take. STUNNING cover & illustrations throughout by Isabelle Follath too!💜
February 1, 2022
With the beast gone (or not), Bethany's new job is to prepare Ebeneezer for his life after the Beast that have thoroughly owned his life. That includes doing away with anything that the Beast gave to Ebeneezer and getting him to do go things (maybe something to turn his karma around). But as soon as Bethany's plans are made, they goes up the flames. Ebeneezer is dealing with a problematic shirt of his own (yes, I did say shirt) and Claudette, the parrot seems to be losing her feathers and voice. Is this all the vanished beast doing?
I really loved how we got to see Ebeneezer as a boy and how the world has changed in the 511 years that he has been alive. And also how his need for friendship and acceptance led him to taking the beast in until it absolutely overtook his life! I have always said that ones most vulnerable time is childhood! The humour that I loved from the first book is still here and even better. We get to see snarky Bethany who is on a quest to prove she can Do Good and every attempt is just precious even when it is tarred by her past behaviour and the subtle lack of trust Ebeneezer had in her. It was fun to see them grow fond of each other, it was teeth-aching sweet and I loved every minute of it.
The artwork complimented the story and it was quite beautiful. The inner child in me was absolutely buzzing. The ending was so interesting and I cannot wait to see how these two characters progress in the coming books (Please let there be more books!)
Rating
I really loved how we got to see Ebeneezer as a boy and how the world has changed in the 511 years that he has been alive. And also how his need for friendship and acceptance led him to taking the beast in until it absolutely overtook his life! I have always said that ones most vulnerable time is childhood! The humour that I loved from the first book is still here and even better. We get to see snarky Bethany who is on a quest to prove she can Do Good and every attempt is just precious even when it is tarred by her past behaviour and the subtle lack of trust Ebeneezer had in her. It was fun to see them grow fond of each other, it was teeth-aching sweet and I loved every minute of it.
The artwork complimented the story and it was quite beautiful. The inner child in me was absolutely buzzing. The ending was so interesting and I cannot wait to see how these two characters progress in the coming books (Please let there be more books!)
Rating
February 5, 2022
★ ★ ★ 1/2 (rounded up)
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader.
---
WHAT'S REVENGE OF THE BEAST ABOUT?
At the end of The Beast and The Bethany, Bethany, Ebenezer, and Claudette (the Wintlorian purple-breasted parrot) were sure that The Beast was vanquished and they could start living their lives in a new direction.
They're de-Beasting their lives—getting rid of just about everything that The Beast magicked into existence for Ebenezer over the centuries—and they're devoting their energies to do-gooding. Bethany needs to make up to people for all her pranks, and Ebenezer has a lot of karmic debt to pay off (and Bethany's pushing him). He also is doing what he can to stay off the radar of the organization that's been chasing the Beast for more centuries than Ebenezer's been alive. That'll be easier to do without magic items laying around.
But as the title of this book suggests, they were wrong. The Beast isn't done yet, and he's out to get back at those three—and anyone else who happens to be in the general vicinity while he's at it.
Their do-gooding efforts stumble, the items they tried to divest themselves of start to behave strangely—and dangerously—for their new owners. No matter what they attempt to do, something goes wrong. It's time for some drastic measures.
COMPARATIVELY SPEAKING, ARE WE SURE THE BEAST IS THE WORST?
There are a handful of new characters introduced in this book, which helps in a few ways—it shows how much Bethany has changed Ebenezer's life by expanding his social world, and it adds a little flavor to the series. But there are three new characters* in particular I want to single out: The Cussocks. Mr. and Mrs. Cussock run the theater that plays a significant role in the novel and their daughter, Gloria. Gloria reminds me of the TV version of Nellie Oleson, without the redeeming characteristics. Nellie knew how she should act and just didn't care. I don't think Gloria knows how she should act, she's pure id. Once you get to know her parents, a bit, you start to see why. I'm not going to get into it, but just know that Gloria lives in the same orphanage that Bethany used to live in, because they just can't stand her (and have no problem letting everyone—including her—know that).
* I'm pretty sure they're new, they may have played minor roles in the first book. But I don't think so, and I'm too lazy to check..
It'd be easy in a book like this to make The Beast the epitome of all evil, and every human and animal nothing more than a potential victim. Bethany and Ebenezer have some restitution to do and need to reform, but they're trying. But as long as people like the Cussocks are around, the reader has to remember that people are capable of the same kind of evil as The Beast is. They don't have magic to help, and they don't get their sustenance from eating humans—which almost makes it worse, you could make a pragmatic argument for a lot of what The Beast does. But the Cussocks don't have that going for them.
(but to be clear, all four of them are truly reprehensible characters)
TRUE HORROR: THE FOOD
Sure, there's a magic being eating people, producing magical items, and inflicting all sorts of psychological damage; a possibly sociopathic little girl inflicting pain on her peers; and a centuries-old man wandering around in this book. But the true horror? The food designed by Bethany and others.
Bethany considers herself a sandwich artist. No, she'd probably be inclined to add the "e," she's a sandwich artiste. Some of the flavor combinations she comes up with would make me run start swallowing Bertie Bott's Every Flavour Beans by the handful without wondering/caring what flavors they'd be. They're fully at the intersection of incredibly imaginative and incredibly unappealing.
It's the kind of humor that an MG reader is practically guaranteed to enjoy.
ILLUSTRATIONS
I'm pretty sure neither of these books would be as successful without the contributions of Isabelle Follath. Her illustrations—sort of a mash-up of Eugene Yelchin, Quentin Blake, and Jules Feiffer—are attractive, eye-catching, and augment the text without being a distraction. I made more notes than usual about liking the artwork in this novel. Rather than further demonstrate how poorly I describe art, I'll just say that her stuff is great and leave it at that.
SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT REVENGE OF THE BEAST?
I know when I posted about The Beast and The Bethany, I was aware that it was the first of a series, but I have to tell you, I thought it made a great stand-alone book. So much so that I forgot there were more books to come, I got this one primarily out of curiosity about how Meggitt-Phillips would approach this, rather than a curiosity about the characters or story. I was satisfied with where the first book left things.
That said, if you're going to write an unnecessary sequel, this is the way you want to do it. Give some good backstory about the antagonist and one of the protagonists, and help the reader understand how they got started five centuries ago. Then while you're doing that, show how everything you thought happened at the end of the first book wasn't at all what was going on—so we need to read the sequel. It was really well-conceived in that way. But given the two that exist, we definitely need a third (which is, thankfully, on the way)
I think it's best if I think of this in two different ways, it's a creative way to tell this story, the morals are there for those who want to see them (again), but are easily ignored if that's what the reader prefers. The humor is a bit subtler this time out, but it's just as funny if you're looking for it. I was honestly surprised by a couple of plot developments, too. But...it just didn't work as well for me as its predecessor. Like I said with And Your Enemies Closer , a lot of that is likely just the way second novels in a trilogy strike me. But I don't think it's all of the reason why. I think it's probably a function of separating (for good and understandable reasons of plot) Ebenezer and Bethany for so much of the book. The series is stronger when they're together.
On the other hand, if I got this book when I was in Fifth Grade? I'd really dig it, and it would earn a spot in my Roald Dahl-Daniel M. Pinkwater-Norton Juster re-read cycle, right alongside The Beast and The Bethany, and I'd get it read at least four more times before the third volume is released. Since that guy is the one that Meggitt-Phillips is writing for, not the guy with four adult children—I figure that's good enough.
At least three of my four kids would've loved this when they were the right age (and it's possible that the fourth one would've, too)—and I'm willing to bet that whatever parents are reading this would find similar results in their homes. They should pick this up and see.
My thanks to The Write Reads for the invitation to participate in this tour and the materials they provided, via Netgalley and Farshore.
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader.
---
WHAT'S REVENGE OF THE BEAST ABOUT?
At the end of The Beast and The Bethany, Bethany, Ebenezer, and Claudette (the Wintlorian purple-breasted parrot) were sure that The Beast was vanquished and they could start living their lives in a new direction.
They're de-Beasting their lives—getting rid of just about everything that The Beast magicked into existence for Ebenezer over the centuries—and they're devoting their energies to do-gooding. Bethany needs to make up to people for all her pranks, and Ebenezer has a lot of karmic debt to pay off (and Bethany's pushing him). He also is doing what he can to stay off the radar of the organization that's been chasing the Beast for more centuries than Ebenezer's been alive. That'll be easier to do without magic items laying around.
But as the title of this book suggests, they were wrong. The Beast isn't done yet, and he's out to get back at those three—and anyone else who happens to be in the general vicinity while he's at it.
Their do-gooding efforts stumble, the items they tried to divest themselves of start to behave strangely—and dangerously—for their new owners. No matter what they attempt to do, something goes wrong. It's time for some drastic measures.
COMPARATIVELY SPEAKING, ARE WE SURE THE BEAST IS THE WORST?
There are a handful of new characters introduced in this book, which helps in a few ways—it shows how much Bethany has changed Ebenezer's life by expanding his social world, and it adds a little flavor to the series. But there are three new characters* in particular I want to single out: The Cussocks. Mr. and Mrs. Cussock run the theater that plays a significant role in the novel and their daughter, Gloria. Gloria reminds me of the TV version of Nellie Oleson, without the redeeming characteristics. Nellie knew how she should act and just didn't care. I don't think Gloria knows how she should act, she's pure id. Once you get to know her parents, a bit, you start to see why. I'm not going to get into it, but just know that Gloria lives in the same orphanage that Bethany used to live in, because they just can't stand her (and have no problem letting everyone—including her—know that).
* I'm pretty sure they're new, they may have played minor roles in the first book. But I don't think so, and I'm too lazy to check..
It'd be easy in a book like this to make The Beast the epitome of all evil, and every human and animal nothing more than a potential victim. Bethany and Ebenezer have some restitution to do and need to reform, but they're trying. But as long as people like the Cussocks are around, the reader has to remember that people are capable of the same kind of evil as The Beast is. They don't have magic to help, and they don't get their sustenance from eating humans—which almost makes it worse, you could make a pragmatic argument for a lot of what The Beast does. But the Cussocks don't have that going for them.
(but to be clear, all four of them are truly reprehensible characters)
TRUE HORROR: THE FOOD
Sure, there's a magic being eating people, producing magical items, and inflicting all sorts of psychological damage; a possibly sociopathic little girl inflicting pain on her peers; and a centuries-old man wandering around in this book. But the true horror? The food designed by Bethany and others.
Bethany considers herself a sandwich artist. No, she'd probably be inclined to add the "e," she's a sandwich artiste. Some of the flavor combinations she comes up with would make me run start swallowing Bertie Bott's Every Flavour Beans by the handful without wondering/caring what flavors they'd be. They're fully at the intersection of incredibly imaginative and incredibly unappealing.
It's the kind of humor that an MG reader is practically guaranteed to enjoy.
ILLUSTRATIONS
I'm pretty sure neither of these books would be as successful without the contributions of Isabelle Follath. Her illustrations—sort of a mash-up of Eugene Yelchin, Quentin Blake, and Jules Feiffer—are attractive, eye-catching, and augment the text without being a distraction. I made more notes than usual about liking the artwork in this novel. Rather than further demonstrate how poorly I describe art, I'll just say that her stuff is great and leave it at that.
SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT REVENGE OF THE BEAST?
I know when I posted about The Beast and The Bethany, I was aware that it was the first of a series, but I have to tell you, I thought it made a great stand-alone book. So much so that I forgot there were more books to come, I got this one primarily out of curiosity about how Meggitt-Phillips would approach this, rather than a curiosity about the characters or story. I was satisfied with where the first book left things.
That said, if you're going to write an unnecessary sequel, this is the way you want to do it. Give some good backstory about the antagonist and one of the protagonists, and help the reader understand how they got started five centuries ago. Then while you're doing that, show how everything you thought happened at the end of the first book wasn't at all what was going on—so we need to read the sequel. It was really well-conceived in that way. But given the two that exist, we definitely need a third (which is, thankfully, on the way)
I think it's best if I think of this in two different ways, it's a creative way to tell this story, the morals are there for those who want to see them (again), but are easily ignored if that's what the reader prefers. The humor is a bit subtler this time out, but it's just as funny if you're looking for it. I was honestly surprised by a couple of plot developments, too. But...it just didn't work as well for me as its predecessor. Like I said with And Your Enemies Closer , a lot of that is likely just the way second novels in a trilogy strike me. But I don't think it's all of the reason why. I think it's probably a function of separating (for good and understandable reasons of plot) Ebenezer and Bethany for so much of the book. The series is stronger when they're together.
On the other hand, if I got this book when I was in Fifth Grade? I'd really dig it, and it would earn a spot in my Roald Dahl-Daniel M. Pinkwater-Norton Juster re-read cycle, right alongside The Beast and The Bethany, and I'd get it read at least four more times before the third volume is released. Since that guy is the one that Meggitt-Phillips is writing for, not the guy with four adult children—I figure that's good enough.
At least three of my four kids would've loved this when they were the right age (and it's possible that the fourth one would've, too)—and I'm willing to bet that whatever parents are reading this would find similar results in their homes. They should pick this up and see.
My thanks to The Write Reads for the invitation to participate in this tour and the materials they provided, via Netgalley and Farshore.
February 3, 2022
4.5 stars
The Beast and the Bethany was quite the adventure filled with a lot of laugh out loud moments. It's a quirky story, but so much fun. Add in some amazing illustrations and you have a really fun middle grade adventure. Revenge of the Beast is a sequel that continues right where the first book left off, so I definitely recommend reading that one first.
Revenge of the Beast didn't disappoint with the humor and laugh out loud moments and the illustrations. We're back with Bethany and Ebeneezer after Claudette ate the beast. They're trying to get rid of the last signs of the beast and wanting to be good, but that's easier said than done. I love that this book does focus on friendship and changing.
Bethany is a fun character. She's starting to realize she doesn't have to be bad or annoy others to get attention or what she wants. Being good can also be fun and rewarding. I liked that this book showed that trust has to be earned and after some of the pranks she pulled people had a harder time believing she was being honest. But people can change and Bethany definitely proves that.
My favorite part of this book was Ebeneezer's story. We got to see more of his childhood and how he started his life with the beast. Some of this story definitely pulled on my heartstrings and I do understand him a bit more. I also love the way he discovered that being good isn't so bad and his time with Bethany really was teaching him things.
The only aspect of this book I do want to mention as something that didn't sit completely well with me was the new character we were introduced to - Gloria. She's at the orphanage, because he parents don't like her. Gloria bullies the other kids and is portrayed as bad basically. In the end I don't feel like this side of the story was resolved. I could understand that this may be harder for some readers to see in a story like this.
If you're looking for a funny, quirky middle grade adventure with some amazing illustrations I definitely recommend Revenge of the Beast. The ending made it clear we can expect more of this story and I'm excited to see where the author takes us to next with this story.
The Beast and the Bethany was quite the adventure filled with a lot of laugh out loud moments. It's a quirky story, but so much fun. Add in some amazing illustrations and you have a really fun middle grade adventure. Revenge of the Beast is a sequel that continues right where the first book left off, so I definitely recommend reading that one first.
Revenge of the Beast didn't disappoint with the humor and laugh out loud moments and the illustrations. We're back with Bethany and Ebeneezer after Claudette ate the beast. They're trying to get rid of the last signs of the beast and wanting to be good, but that's easier said than done. I love that this book does focus on friendship and changing.
Bethany is a fun character. She's starting to realize she doesn't have to be bad or annoy others to get attention or what she wants. Being good can also be fun and rewarding. I liked that this book showed that trust has to be earned and after some of the pranks she pulled people had a harder time believing she was being honest. But people can change and Bethany definitely proves that.
My favorite part of this book was Ebeneezer's story. We got to see more of his childhood and how he started his life with the beast. Some of this story definitely pulled on my heartstrings and I do understand him a bit more. I also love the way he discovered that being good isn't so bad and his time with Bethany really was teaching him things.
The only aspect of this book I do want to mention as something that didn't sit completely well with me was the new character we were introduced to - Gloria. She's at the orphanage, because he parents don't like her. Gloria bullies the other kids and is portrayed as bad basically. In the end I don't feel like this side of the story was resolved. I could understand that this may be harder for some readers to see in a story like this.
If you're looking for a funny, quirky middle grade adventure with some amazing illustrations I definitely recommend Revenge of the Beast. The ending made it clear we can expect more of this story and I'm excited to see where the author takes us to next with this story.
February 7, 2022
This is the second book in ‘The Beast and the Bethany’ series. My children and I haven’t read the first one, but we quickly caught up with the characters and the events.
Ebenezer Tweezer is 511 years old. He lives with Bethany, who used to be an orphan, and a parrot called Claudette. Ebenezer had a Beast in his attic, but that’s a thing of the past. He is now Beast-free, and Bethany is adamant that they should ‘de-Beast’, or declutter, their house.
The Beast used to vomit out gifts for Ebenezer, and over the course of his long life he accumulated many items. He is not that keen on getting rid of everything, but Bethany can be very persistent. Their ‘de-Beasting’ is a success, however, soon the locals start complaining about the things they purchased. It appears that the items have a mind of their own…
Furthermore, Bethany and Ebenezer want to be good citizens, and this means ‘do-gooding’ or in other ways – being kind to others. The duo have no idea how to approach it though…
Soon, the pair discover that something is not right with Claudette. One minute she is her happy self, and the next her eyes go black and she turns mean. What does it all mean? And where is the Beast in amidst all of this?
You’ll have to read this book to find out. My children really enjoyed it and described it as ‘funny, adventurous, exciting, and mysterious’. My daughter rated it 4.5/5, and my son 8.7/10 (he likes to be different!). My daughter’s favourite character was Bethany as she liked her dry sense of humour. My son and I loved Mr Clinke, he was hilarious.
Ebenezer Tweezer is 511 years old. He lives with Bethany, who used to be an orphan, and a parrot called Claudette. Ebenezer had a Beast in his attic, but that’s a thing of the past. He is now Beast-free, and Bethany is adamant that they should ‘de-Beast’, or declutter, their house.
The Beast used to vomit out gifts for Ebenezer, and over the course of his long life he accumulated many items. He is not that keen on getting rid of everything, but Bethany can be very persistent. Their ‘de-Beasting’ is a success, however, soon the locals start complaining about the things they purchased. It appears that the items have a mind of their own…
Furthermore, Bethany and Ebenezer want to be good citizens, and this means ‘do-gooding’ or in other ways – being kind to others. The duo have no idea how to approach it though…
Soon, the pair discover that something is not right with Claudette. One minute she is her happy self, and the next her eyes go black and she turns mean. What does it all mean? And where is the Beast in amidst all of this?
You’ll have to read this book to find out. My children really enjoyed it and described it as ‘funny, adventurous, exciting, and mysterious’. My daughter rated it 4.5/5, and my son 8.7/10 (he likes to be different!). My daughter’s favourite character was Bethany as she liked her dry sense of humour. My son and I loved Mr Clinke, he was hilarious.
April 22, 2022
Hörbuch: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 18, 2021
Well, that was fun! I had a blast with it (though I suspected I would.)
RTC
***Listened to Audiobook borrowed from library via BorrowBox, but just received eProof gifted by UK publisher via NetGalley in exchange for honest review/reaction for future blog tour in early 2022 - please note a fuller review will be written and updated nearer the time of tour***
As you guys probably know if you followed me in 2020 (The Year That Must Not Be Named), you would know one of my fave reads was The Beast and the Bethany by Jack Meggitt-Phillips. It was just delightful with a deliciously dark edge of Roald Dahl to it. So, of course, I wanted to read/audiobook the sequel, The Revenge of the Beast. I am going to admit that when I did go into this, fearful that this wouldn’t be as fun as the first, but I dived in anyway.
Taking place a few weeks after The Beast and The Bethany, the youthful-looking 511 Ebenezer Tweezer is trying to come to terms of life without the Beast. But he has The Bethany, once notorious prankster, who is keeping him on his toes. She and her parrot friend, Claudette, are determined that she and Ebenezer must de-Beast their lives and do some do-gooding. But both are finding this trickier than they first thought: Ebenezer is missing the gifts that the Beast vomited, Bethany is finding that her prankster past is making it hard for her to do some good, and both aren’t exactly sure how to be good people.
Plus, there’s something off with Claudette. Even since she ate the Beast, she’s been … well, not herself.
Ok, you probably guess most of the plot of this middle-grade. But, you know what? I didn’t really mind – this was such fun! I audiobooked this in two days. Very rare for me to do blitz an audiobook is two days. But this was fun, silly with a slight bite to it.
I am intrigued to see where this is going to do (the final chapter gave a good hint of the direction, something that happened in the previous book and, normally, I hate this trick (if you read my review of the adult MM romance, Right as Raine, I loathe when this happens, but I did enjoy it in this series and not sure why), but I do hope the book doesn’t lose it selfishness. Both Bethany and Ebenezer, while wanting to be good people, can be awful: Bethany is quick to temper and can be cruel while Ebenezer is self-absorbed and quite materialist.
RTC
***Listened to Audiobook borrowed from library via BorrowBox, but just received eProof gifted by UK publisher via NetGalley in exchange for honest review/reaction for future blog tour in early 2022 - please note a fuller review will be written and updated nearer the time of tour***
As you guys probably know if you followed me in 2020 (The Year That Must Not Be Named), you would know one of my fave reads was The Beast and the Bethany by Jack Meggitt-Phillips. It was just delightful with a deliciously dark edge of Roald Dahl to it. So, of course, I wanted to read/audiobook the sequel, The Revenge of the Beast. I am going to admit that when I did go into this, fearful that this wouldn’t be as fun as the first, but I dived in anyway.
Taking place a few weeks after The Beast and The Bethany, the youthful-looking 511 Ebenezer Tweezer is trying to come to terms of life without the Beast. But he has The Bethany, once notorious prankster, who is keeping him on his toes. She and her parrot friend, Claudette, are determined that she and Ebenezer must de-Beast their lives and do some do-gooding. But both are finding this trickier than they first thought: Ebenezer is missing the gifts that the Beast vomited, Bethany is finding that her prankster past is making it hard for her to do some good, and both aren’t exactly sure how to be good people.
Plus, there’s something off with Claudette. Even since she ate the Beast, she’s been … well, not herself.
Ok, you probably guess most of the plot of this middle-grade. But, you know what? I didn’t really mind – this was such fun! I audiobooked this in two days. Very rare for me to do blitz an audiobook is two days. But this was fun, silly with a slight bite to it.
I am intrigued to see where this is going to do (the final chapter gave a good hint of the direction, something that happened in the previous book and, normally, I hate this trick (if you read my review of the adult MM romance, Right as Raine, I loathe when this happens, but I did enjoy it in this series and not sure why), but I do hope the book doesn’t lose it selfishness. Both Bethany and Ebenezer, while wanting to be good people, can be awful: Bethany is quick to temper and can be cruel while Ebenezer is self-absorbed and quite materialist.
August 7, 2022
Much like the first book - maybe too much?? - this was decent enough but not exceptional or overly memorable. I had hoped for a lot more smart-assed commentary and dark beastliness, but this went in a less unsavory direction (more savory? hmm, makes it sound like food...). Great for MG peeps who loved the first book, maybe less enjoyable for adults. Maybe. If you're a feel-good type, or like heart-warming - as in "emotionally uplifting", not "tasty muscle that goes well with scallions and a robust red" - this is probably a good read for you. I prefer my beasts with a lot more bite! Ha!
October 15, 2021
I started off a little confused and quickly reviewed The Beast and The Bethany (the first book in the series) so I understood better what was going on. Old Ebenezer is 511 years old and has a beast that keeps him from aging and vomits up presents for him. Bethany is the child Ebenezer got from the orphanage to feed to the beast but in the end couldn't do it. In this adventure we first get the story of Ebenezer meeting the beast and secondly the reformed prankster Bethany trying to de-beast themselves. They want to learn to live normally and do good. But it isn't easy. This is dark humor with jokes about melting people, eating children and rare birds. But it is fun and clever. It is nicely illustrated with black and white drawings adding to the story. I think 4th graders up through middle school would enjoy this book and series.
Read
February 11, 2022Delightfully wicked, The Beast and the Bethany: Revenge of the Beast had me roaring with laughter (as opposed to the Beast, who was possibly simply roaring for the fun of it), and happily devouring every word.
My favorite duo of not-quite-good-guys is back in this sequel to The Beast and the Bethany, and everything seems to be hunky dory. Or is it? Okay, so neither Bethany nor Ebenezer have any idea how to be do-gooders, there’s a fancy shirt that seems to have a mind of its own, and Claudette the bird is acting oddly…but those are all normal everyday difficulties that people deal with all the time. Right?
The author is back in fine form with this fantastic book, continuing the hijinks that follow Bethany and Ebenezer, while at the same time sneaking in themes of friendship and making good choices (it’s done so slyly that I promise your children won’t notice, parents). At the same time, it is incredibly entertaining. I found myself laughing aloud at parts.
New characters are introduced, and the reader is treated to a more complete look at old ones. While our three main characters are all wonderful, Ebenezer continues to be my favorite. In Revenge of the Beast, a little more is shown about his past and how the Beast came to be involved in his life. Ebenezer struggles with his newfound less-selfish outlook and watching him grow and develop as he deals with change is a joy.
As with book one, Revenge of the Beast would best be enjoyed by older children (and adults!), although it would be a fun read-aloud for younger kids who like a slightly macabre twist to their books. Think Roald Dahl and you’ve got the general idea.
Plan to run away from the Beast, but toward your favorite bookstore to pick this book up! Better yet, go ahead and pre-order it: I guarantee you’ll love it.
My favorite duo of not-quite-good-guys is back in this sequel to The Beast and the Bethany, and everything seems to be hunky dory. Or is it? Okay, so neither Bethany nor Ebenezer have any idea how to be do-gooders, there’s a fancy shirt that seems to have a mind of its own, and Claudette the bird is acting oddly…but those are all normal everyday difficulties that people deal with all the time. Right?
The author is back in fine form with this fantastic book, continuing the hijinks that follow Bethany and Ebenezer, while at the same time sneaking in themes of friendship and making good choices (it’s done so slyly that I promise your children won’t notice, parents). At the same time, it is incredibly entertaining. I found myself laughing aloud at parts.
New characters are introduced, and the reader is treated to a more complete look at old ones. While our three main characters are all wonderful, Ebenezer continues to be my favorite. In Revenge of the Beast, a little more is shown about his past and how the Beast came to be involved in his life. Ebenezer struggles with his newfound less-selfish outlook and watching him grow and develop as he deals with change is a joy.
As with book one, Revenge of the Beast would best be enjoyed by older children (and adults!), although it would be a fun read-aloud for younger kids who like a slightly macabre twist to their books. Think Roald Dahl and you’ve got the general idea.
Plan to run away from the Beast, but toward your favorite bookstore to pick this book up! Better yet, go ahead and pre-order it: I guarantee you’ll love it.
January 31, 2022
The first page had me chuckling already, and it only gets better and better! I love that we find out so much about Ebeneezer’s past, and how he met the beast. There is so much depth to Ebeneezer’s childhood story which I absolutely loved, and we finally understand why he is the way he is – scared of ageing and without many (or any) friends (other than Bethany). I loved the transformation he has gone through since the first book. There could be the most amazing story in the world in a book, but if the characters aren’t deep and multi-faceted and to root for I probably won’t like it very much. There was no such worry here.
Bethany still is an amazing character. I loved the way she wants to become a better person, and while she offers volunteering work in several places she still tells people to ‘Bog off!’ (amongst other, a little less than kind things). The fact that Bethany wants to change while still staying true to herself was hilarious and special – I really like her!
While I’m still so sad that Patrick is gone (he was one of my favourite characters in book 1), I love how his cousin Claudette took his place. She is a great singer (that talent seems to run in the family) and otherwise very lovely, supportive, and kind. And what then happened to her… Well, let me just say I got VERY scared for her wellbeing… and even her LIFE!!!
While I guessed some of the things would turn out the way they did, Jack managed to add twists and turns to the book no one could see coming. I loved to see the tables turned in this story (in so many ways!) and couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. At the same time, I wanted it to last for ever!
On top of Jack’s incredible writing skills, I have to give a shoutout to the amazingly talented illustrator Isabelle Follath, who once again brought Ebenezeer, Bethany, Claudette & co to life.
If you have read the first instalment of The Beast and the Bethany, you HAVE to read this one too – it is absolutely mandatory! If you haven’t read any book by Jack yet, what are you waiting for? The beast would never forgive you if you skipped this series (and that might very well end deadly!!!) – and I might not either! It’s just too good to pass.
5 stars from me!
For my full review check out my blog:
https://theartsyreader.com/thewritere...
Bethany still is an amazing character. I loved the way she wants to become a better person, and while she offers volunteering work in several places she still tells people to ‘Bog off!’ (amongst other, a little less than kind things). The fact that Bethany wants to change while still staying true to herself was hilarious and special – I really like her!
While I’m still so sad that Patrick is gone (he was one of my favourite characters in book 1), I love how his cousin Claudette took his place. She is a great singer (that talent seems to run in the family) and otherwise very lovely, supportive, and kind. And what then happened to her… Well, let me just say I got VERY scared for her wellbeing… and even her LIFE!!!
While I guessed some of the things would turn out the way they did, Jack managed to add twists and turns to the book no one could see coming. I loved to see the tables turned in this story (in so many ways!) and couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. At the same time, I wanted it to last for ever!
On top of Jack’s incredible writing skills, I have to give a shoutout to the amazingly talented illustrator Isabelle Follath, who once again brought Ebenezeer, Bethany, Claudette & co to life.
If you have read the first instalment of The Beast and the Bethany, you HAVE to read this one too – it is absolutely mandatory! If you haven’t read any book by Jack yet, what are you waiting for? The beast would never forgive you if you skipped this series (and that might very well end deadly!!!) – and I might not either! It’s just too good to pass.
5 stars from me!
For my full review check out my blog:
https://theartsyreader.com/thewritere...
February 2, 2022
I read The Beast And The Bethany last year and devoured it (excuse the pun) so I was delighted to return the world of Ebenezer and Bethany In Revenge Of The Beast.
Ebenezer is 511 years old and once kept a Beast in his attic. Ebenezer would feed him an assortment of things in return for expensive gifts that the Beast would vomit up.
Then the Bethany showed up along with her feathered friend Claudette the parrot and the pranks began, lots of pranks and not always the light hearted kind.
Now it's time to literally do good and de- Beast once and for all.
Bethany takes it up on herself to get rid of the items the Beast gifted Ebenzer and help him adapt to a new better life, But a yard sale goes horribly wrong, people are suspicious of her ways, not surprising after the pranks she used to play on the people in her neighbourhood.
What is it good people do anyway? How are they supposed to change their ways? And has the Beast truly gone for good?
Another deeply entertaining book I loved Revenge Of The Beast just as much as the first in the series. There's a heap of dark humour and dastardly deeds and it's nice to see some new characters. I rarely find books funny although Jack Meggit - Phillip's writing style is full of warmth whilst also being hilarious. I loved the illustrations and felt they really added an extra dimension to the story. I can't wait for this series to continue and I know there's lots more in store for Ebenzer and Bethany. You're guaranteed to have a fun time reading these books and I love the originality of them. I would highly recommend for people who enjoy middle grade! My little girl loves them as much as I do!
Ebenezer is 511 years old and once kept a Beast in his attic. Ebenezer would feed him an assortment of things in return for expensive gifts that the Beast would vomit up.
Then the Bethany showed up along with her feathered friend Claudette the parrot and the pranks began, lots of pranks and not always the light hearted kind.
Now it's time to literally do good and de- Beast once and for all.
Bethany takes it up on herself to get rid of the items the Beast gifted Ebenzer and help him adapt to a new better life, But a yard sale goes horribly wrong, people are suspicious of her ways, not surprising after the pranks she used to play on the people in her neighbourhood.
What is it good people do anyway? How are they supposed to change their ways? And has the Beast truly gone for good?
Another deeply entertaining book I loved Revenge Of The Beast just as much as the first in the series. There's a heap of dark humour and dastardly deeds and it's nice to see some new characters. I rarely find books funny although Jack Meggit - Phillip's writing style is full of warmth whilst also being hilarious. I loved the illustrations and felt they really added an extra dimension to the story. I can't wait for this series to continue and I know there's lots more in store for Ebenzer and Bethany. You're guaranteed to have a fun time reading these books and I love the originality of them. I would highly recommend for people who enjoy middle grade! My little girl loves them as much as I do!
February 8, 2022
Reuniting with Bethany and Ebeneezer was wonderful, especially seeing how much their partnership has evolved from the first book. They were mischievous throughout the book even if they were trying to change their ways and become do-gooders, something that seems to not necessarily go to plan. What was fun was the fact that we got to learn more about Ebeneezer's past and how he first met the Beast. Claudette was great fun as a character and I loved the fact that she could talk and sing! The other characters were also fun and well written and just completed the book for me.
The plot was also fun and engaging and just a brilliant carry-on from the first book, even if once again it ended on a cliffhanger that made me desperate for the next book already. This book was filled with all sorts of hilarious hijinks that Bethany and Ebeneezer got up to on their mission to de-beast their lives and how the Beast slowly derailed their plans to enact his own one, to claim his revenge on Bethany. The illustrations throughout the book helped to bring the story alive and I loved seeing all of the characters as I imagined them in my own head!
The writing was witty and had me laughing out loud! It was such a fun read that is perfect for readers of all ages. Whether you are older and looking for a fun-filled book to keep you entertained or a mischievous kid looking to turn things around just like Bethany. I am so excited for the next book in the series!
I was sent a copy of this book as part of a blog tour in exchange for an honest review.
The plot was also fun and engaging and just a brilliant carry-on from the first book, even if once again it ended on a cliffhanger that made me desperate for the next book already. This book was filled with all sorts of hilarious hijinks that Bethany and Ebeneezer got up to on their mission to de-beast their lives and how the Beast slowly derailed their plans to enact his own one, to claim his revenge on Bethany. The illustrations throughout the book helped to bring the story alive and I loved seeing all of the characters as I imagined them in my own head!
The writing was witty and had me laughing out loud! It was such a fun read that is perfect for readers of all ages. Whether you are older and looking for a fun-filled book to keep you entertained or a mischievous kid looking to turn things around just like Bethany. I am so excited for the next book in the series!
I was sent a copy of this book as part of a blog tour in exchange for an honest review.
January 31, 2022
4.5 stars! Loved it!
For those who don’t know, the first book in this series was one of my favourite books of 2021. I’d been meaning to pick up the second book and this blog tour was the perfect excuse.
It is so great to be back with Bethany and Ebenezer, they are such a great duo, they always manage to make me laugh.
The writing in this book pulled me in just as quickly as the first one. It draws you in and keeps hooked until the very last page. Jack is such a brilliant author and I love this series.
I was really satisfied with the ending and I cannot wait to see what these characters and the beast get up to in book 3. The characters, atmosphere, mystery, uniqueness and of course, Claudette (the adorable parrot) are just a few reasons to pick up this series. Your next fun and unique book to pick up should be this one but beware of the beast!
Highly recommend!
For those who don’t know, the first book in this series was one of my favourite books of 2021. I’d been meaning to pick up the second book and this blog tour was the perfect excuse.
It is so great to be back with Bethany and Ebenezer, they are such a great duo, they always manage to make me laugh.
The writing in this book pulled me in just as quickly as the first one. It draws you in and keeps hooked until the very last page. Jack is such a brilliant author and I love this series.
I was really satisfied with the ending and I cannot wait to see what these characters and the beast get up to in book 3. The characters, atmosphere, mystery, uniqueness and of course, Claudette (the adorable parrot) are just a few reasons to pick up this series. Your next fun and unique book to pick up should be this one but beware of the beast!
Highly recommend!
February 13, 2022
"There was fear in their eyes, and that fear looked awfully like respect."
The Beast and the Bethany: Revenge of the Beast is the second book in The Beast and the Bethany book series by Jack Meggitt-Philips.
Revenge of the Beast opens with a flashback to Ebenezer Tweezer's life and when he first met the beast. The chapters alternate between the past and the present, where Bethany lives with Ebenezer in his 15-story house.
In the present, Bethany is on a mission to "de-beast" the house, her life, and Ebenezer's from all things beast-related. And it's going swimmingly!
"Why do we need to de-beast?" Ebenezer asked. "Claudette killed the beast, I'd say that's pretty thorough de-beasting already."
But things aren't what they seem. While Bethany is busy trying to get rid of all reminders of the beast, the beast is secretly alive and plotting his revenge.
And what a revenge it is!
"Throw me at the one with the unpleasant face, if you want to have some fun."
Like the first book, Revenge of the Beast is filled with laugh-out-loud speech and events.
"I bought [these paintings] myself. If we got rid of them we wouldn't be de-beasting, we'd be de-Ebenezering!"
In addition to the old cast, we meet many new characters, all integral to the book's progress and to the characters' development.
Revenge of the Beast sees a lot of growth for the pompous, selfish, 500-year-old Ebenezer. There's also development for Bethany but since she's young (11-ish?), we see her become easily influenced by others and ignore her instincts.
There were moments where I was laughing, others when I wanted to hug Bethany, and then there were moment where I was "Noooooo" and "Focus, Bethany!"
If you're reading Revenge of the Beast, you'll likely be talking to yourself so make sure no one is in the room with you or they'll think you're crazy. And if they see the book you're reading, they'll probably get a confirmation of that craziness.
Overall, Revenge of the Beast is a 5-star must-read children's book.
Note: I received a free copy of The Beast and the Bethany: Revenge of the Beast as part of a blog tour via The Write Reads Blog Tours. This has not, in any way, affected my review.
Note: Can't wait for book 3 in the series.
The Beast and the Bethany: Revenge of the Beast is the second book in The Beast and the Bethany book series by Jack Meggitt-Philips.
Revenge of the Beast opens with a flashback to Ebenezer Tweezer's life and when he first met the beast. The chapters alternate between the past and the present, where Bethany lives with Ebenezer in his 15-story house.
In the present, Bethany is on a mission to "de-beast" the house, her life, and Ebenezer's from all things beast-related. And it's going swimmingly!
"Why do we need to de-beast?" Ebenezer asked. "Claudette killed the beast, I'd say that's pretty thorough de-beasting already."
But things aren't what they seem. While Bethany is busy trying to get rid of all reminders of the beast, the beast is secretly alive and plotting his revenge.
And what a revenge it is!
"Throw me at the one with the unpleasant face, if you want to have some fun."
Like the first book, Revenge of the Beast is filled with laugh-out-loud speech and events.
"I bought [these paintings] myself. If we got rid of them we wouldn't be de-beasting, we'd be de-Ebenezering!"
In addition to the old cast, we meet many new characters, all integral to the book's progress and to the characters' development.
Revenge of the Beast sees a lot of growth for the pompous, selfish, 500-year-old Ebenezer. There's also development for Bethany but since she's young (11-ish?), we see her become easily influenced by others and ignore her instincts.
There were moments where I was laughing, others when I wanted to hug Bethany, and then there were moment where I was "Noooooo" and "Focus, Bethany!"
If you're reading Revenge of the Beast, you'll likely be talking to yourself so make sure no one is in the room with you or they'll think you're crazy. And if they see the book you're reading, they'll probably get a confirmation of that craziness.
Overall, Revenge of the Beast is a 5-star must-read children's book.
Note: I received a free copy of The Beast and the Bethany: Revenge of the Beast as part of a blog tour via The Write Reads Blog Tours. This has not, in any way, affected my review.
Note: Can't wait for book 3 in the series.
September 29, 2021
REVENGE OF THE BEAST continues this quirky UKMG series about greedy beasts, an 512-year-old man, and the girl he accidentally brought into his life. It's the sort of bizarre humour you just roll with as the extra-ordinary is treated as ordinary - and the ordinary is never quite as simple as you think.
The focus of this book is a little more evenly spread between Ebenezer and Bethany. Ebenezer is still the main character, struggling to put his old life behind him and fit into this new Bethany-ed reality. He does have 500+ years of thinking to shift, after all. I really liked how the exploration of guilt continued in this book - but rather than guilt over doing something bad, the guilt of not being able to let go of the past.
Bethany is a close second in narrative importance, and there are chapters where we follow her adventures without him. It was nice to spend more time with her, and really see what's going on inside her now she's trying to put her disruptive days behind her. Unfortunately, the beast has other plans. . .
Having previously read the first book as an ARC (compiled before the illustrations were complete), it was so nice to experience this book (and a re-read of the first) with all the illustrations. The typify the quirk, slightly off kilter version of England (and in Ebenezer's case, upper class England) perfectly. It's little things like the wallpaper or clothing that really help to sell
The final chapter contains quite the promise about what will happen in the next book, which could flip the perception of the beast around and bring in some fun gadgets.
The focus of this book is a little more evenly spread between Ebenezer and Bethany. Ebenezer is still the main character, struggling to put his old life behind him and fit into this new Bethany-ed reality. He does have 500+ years of thinking to shift, after all. I really liked how the exploration of guilt continued in this book - but rather than guilt over doing something bad, the guilt of not being able to let go of the past.
Bethany is a close second in narrative importance, and there are chapters where we follow her adventures without him. It was nice to spend more time with her, and really see what's going on inside her now she's trying to put her disruptive days behind her. Unfortunately, the beast has other plans. . .
Having previously read the first book as an ARC (compiled before the illustrations were complete), it was so nice to experience this book (and a re-read of the first) with all the illustrations. The typify the quirk, slightly off kilter version of England (and in Ebenezer's case, upper class England) perfectly. It's little things like the wallpaper or clothing that really help to sell
The final chapter contains quite the promise about what will happen in the next book, which could flip the perception of the beast around and bring in some fun gadgets.
October 30, 2022
Uh oh, is the Beast back???
At first it seems that Bethany is worse than ever, but then she and Ebenezer decide to attempt some do-gooding to change everyone's opinion of them. However, Ebenezer is distracted and worried about the mysterious Division, who were after him and the Beast many, many years ago. On top of all this, it looks like Bethany might actually have met someone worse than her, Gloria is the new terror of the orphanage. And what's going on with poor Claudette? She's not quite acting her usual sweet self.
There are loads of laugh-out-loud funny sections, particularly when Ebenezer and Bethany try to learn how to be good. As you can imagine, it does not quite go to plan. The story of how Ebenezer met the Beast, back when he was actually just a young, innocent boy, finally gets revealed. You've got to feel sorry for Ebenezer, who can blame him for turning out as he did with the Beast's influence all those hundreds of years. Just like in book one, there are plenty of wonderful illustrations throughout the book, just watch out for the slime!
At first it seems that Bethany is worse than ever, but then she and Ebenezer decide to attempt some do-gooding to change everyone's opinion of them. However, Ebenezer is distracted and worried about the mysterious Division, who were after him and the Beast many, many years ago. On top of all this, it looks like Bethany might actually have met someone worse than her, Gloria is the new terror of the orphanage. And what's going on with poor Claudette? She's not quite acting her usual sweet self.
There are loads of laugh-out-loud funny sections, particularly when Ebenezer and Bethany try to learn how to be good. As you can imagine, it does not quite go to plan. The story of how Ebenezer met the Beast, back when he was actually just a young, innocent boy, finally gets revealed. You've got to feel sorry for Ebenezer, who can blame him for turning out as he did with the Beast's influence all those hundreds of years. Just like in book one, there are plenty of wonderful illustrations throughout the book, just watch out for the slime!
September 16, 2021
Ebenezer Tweezer thought ridding himself of the Beast would be the worst of his troubles. Without having to serve it all matter of ghastly things, it seemed relaxation was at the top of the list for his new page, only Bethany has wildly different plans. The former prankster wants to change their lives for the better starting with a purge of all things Beastly from their home. Though he reluctantly agrees, Ebenezer finds it hard to let go of the objects and he suspects they might not want to part from him either. The quest to become Do-Gooders is going to be tough, but luckily Claudette the parrot is in town preparing for her concert in memory of her late cousin and her kindness will lead them down the right path. Except she hasn't been feeling too well lately, not after eating something beastly...
Once again Jack Meggitt-Phillips voice captured my interest immediately. The opening passages filled with such perfect wit and humour set the scene with some backstory for dear old Ebenezer. Having read the epilogue of the first book I had some idea of what might happen with Claudette but was still pleasantly surprised with how it unveiled. Our leads experiences with moving on, whether wanting to but receiving pushback from others or holding on to the past, brought new depth and growth to their story. Both Bethany and Ebenezer are wickedly fun characters that are a thrill to see interact and try to be good, if not always successfully or enthusiastically. It was a joy to see the intent played out. Though hinted at throughout, the end did seem a bit strange from the rest but has not only set up the idea for a third volume but opened up the possibility of a wider world. Overall I still quite enjoyed the Revenge of the Beast. Looking forward to see where it leads!
With all the heart of Despicable Me and paranormal activity of Ghostbusters, the latest The Beast and the Bethany novel is a treat to readers who enjoy a little darkness and fright when it comes to reforming their act.
Thank you to Aladdin for an advanced copy to review.
Once again Jack Meggitt-Phillips voice captured my interest immediately. The opening passages filled with such perfect wit and humour set the scene with some backstory for dear old Ebenezer. Having read the epilogue of the first book I had some idea of what might happen with Claudette but was still pleasantly surprised with how it unveiled. Our leads experiences with moving on, whether wanting to but receiving pushback from others or holding on to the past, brought new depth and growth to their story. Both Bethany and Ebenezer are wickedly fun characters that are a thrill to see interact and try to be good, if not always successfully or enthusiastically. It was a joy to see the intent played out. Though hinted at throughout, the end did seem a bit strange from the rest but has not only set up the idea for a third volume but opened up the possibility of a wider world. Overall I still quite enjoyed the Revenge of the Beast. Looking forward to see where it leads!
With all the heart of Despicable Me and paranormal activity of Ghostbusters, the latest The Beast and the Bethany novel is a treat to readers who enjoy a little darkness and fright when it comes to reforming their act.
Thank you to Aladdin for an advanced copy to review.
February 14, 2023
ENGLISH VERSION BELOW
-----------------------------
Ich hätte diese Bücher als Kind geliebt, und liebe sie auch als Erwachsene. Der zweite Teil hat mir noch eine Spur besser gefallen als der erste. Ich kannte die Figuren schon und konnte schon erahnen, wie furchtbar alles wird. Gerade wenn die weibliche Form von Bart Simpson, nur schlimmer, versucht Gutes zu tun. Vor allem wenn zeitgleich das Biest mitwirkt. Zudem finde ich es schön zu sehen, wie Ebenezer und Bethany immer mehr zu einer Familie zusammenwachsen.
Ich bin gespannt auf den finalen Teil, denn das Biest ist noch nicht besiegt.
-----------------------------
-----------------------------
I would have loved these books as a child, and love them as an adult too. I liked the second part even more than the first. I already knew the characters and could guess how awful everything would be. Especially when the female form of Bart Simpson, only worse, tries to do good. Especially when the Beast is involved at the same time. I also like to see how Ebenezer and Bethany grow together more and more into a family.
I'm looking forward to the final part, because the Beast has not been defeated yet.
-----------------------------
Ich hätte diese Bücher als Kind geliebt, und liebe sie auch als Erwachsene. Der zweite Teil hat mir noch eine Spur besser gefallen als der erste. Ich kannte die Figuren schon und konnte schon erahnen, wie furchtbar alles wird. Gerade wenn die weibliche Form von Bart Simpson, nur schlimmer, versucht Gutes zu tun. Vor allem wenn zeitgleich das Biest mitwirkt. Zudem finde ich es schön zu sehen, wie Ebenezer und Bethany immer mehr zu einer Familie zusammenwachsen.
Ich bin gespannt auf den finalen Teil, denn das Biest ist noch nicht besiegt.
-----------------------------
-----------------------------
I would have loved these books as a child, and love them as an adult too. I liked the second part even more than the first. I already knew the characters and could guess how awful everything would be. Especially when the female form of Bart Simpson, only worse, tries to do good. Especially when the Beast is involved at the same time. I also like to see how Ebenezer and Bethany grow together more and more into a family.
I'm looking forward to the final part, because the Beast has not been defeated yet.
February 6, 2022
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
When I picked up this sequel to The Beast and the Bethany (read my review here!), I was anticipating some laughs and gruesomeness. And, thankfully, I was not disappointed! This book was just as funny and strange as the first!
The story picks up right where we left off after book one. Which means, if you haven’t read book one, you might want to skip this review. Here thar (may) be spoilers! Ebenezer and Bethany are adjusting to life beast-free and have decided that the best way to move on is to become do-gooders. Change is hard, however, especially when it seems some force is trying to thwart them at every turn. Thankfully, they have their new friend, Claudette the parrot, to help them on their journey. But Claudette has been acting strange ever since she had an unconventional snack…
This book packed all the same irreverent humor, beastly hijinks, and beautiful moments of friendship that the first novel had and more! The aspect I will always love the most about these books is the humor. I genuinely laughed out loud quite a few times while reading. I will say it took me a little longer to settle into this book, though I’m unsure why that was the case. Perhaps because it had been so long since I read The Beast and the Bethany and you’re kind of thrown in like the events of that story happened just yesterday. But, once I settled in for the ride, I had a great time!
Bethany and Ebenezer continue to be compelling characters and I loved watching how their friendship is tested and grows throughout the novel. It was especially interesting to see how Ebenezer, who was with the beast for so long, adjusts to the de-beasting of his life. This story has a lot to say about friendship and change and I think it does a great job of saying it through the lives of our main characters.
I do want to bring something up that I’ve noticed in a couple of reviews. This is in regards to a new character named Gloria, the new orphanage bully. Gloria has been left at the local orphanage by her parents, who are still very much alive, simply because they don’t like her. A fact which is reiterated several times throughout the book and which is never really addressed at the end. When I was reading, I have to be honest and say that those parts didn’t phase me. After reading some reviews, however, I can see how potentially damaging this could be to someone who has dealt with or is currently dealing with the rejection of a parent or parental figure. So, though it didn’t affect me personally, I did want to mention it because I can see how potentially triggering that could be, especially for readers in the target age group.
Final thoughts: Overall, I had just as much fun with this book as I did with the first one in the series! The humor was on point, the beastly bits were perfectly grim, and I loved watching Ebenezer and Bethany’s friendship grow. I felt a little lost at the beginning, but swiftly found myself settling back into this world of evil gifts and do-gooding. I thought this was an enjoyable tale that had some important insights on friendship. I’m certainly eager to pick up the next book in the series!
When I picked up this sequel to The Beast and the Bethany (read my review here!), I was anticipating some laughs and gruesomeness. And, thankfully, I was not disappointed! This book was just as funny and strange as the first!
The story picks up right where we left off after book one. Which means, if you haven’t read book one, you might want to skip this review. Here thar (may) be spoilers! Ebenezer and Bethany are adjusting to life beast-free and have decided that the best way to move on is to become do-gooders. Change is hard, however, especially when it seems some force is trying to thwart them at every turn. Thankfully, they have their new friend, Claudette the parrot, to help them on their journey. But Claudette has been acting strange ever since she had an unconventional snack…
This book packed all the same irreverent humor, beastly hijinks, and beautiful moments of friendship that the first novel had and more! The aspect I will always love the most about these books is the humor. I genuinely laughed out loud quite a few times while reading. I will say it took me a little longer to settle into this book, though I’m unsure why that was the case. Perhaps because it had been so long since I read The Beast and the Bethany and you’re kind of thrown in like the events of that story happened just yesterday. But, once I settled in for the ride, I had a great time!
Bethany and Ebenezer continue to be compelling characters and I loved watching how their friendship is tested and grows throughout the novel. It was especially interesting to see how Ebenezer, who was with the beast for so long, adjusts to the de-beasting of his life. This story has a lot to say about friendship and change and I think it does a great job of saying it through the lives of our main characters.
I do want to bring something up that I’ve noticed in a couple of reviews. This is in regards to a new character named Gloria, the new orphanage bully. Gloria has been left at the local orphanage by her parents, who are still very much alive, simply because they don’t like her. A fact which is reiterated several times throughout the book and which is never really addressed at the end. When I was reading, I have to be honest and say that those parts didn’t phase me. After reading some reviews, however, I can see how potentially damaging this could be to someone who has dealt with or is currently dealing with the rejection of a parent or parental figure. So, though it didn’t affect me personally, I did want to mention it because I can see how potentially triggering that could be, especially for readers in the target age group.
Final thoughts: Overall, I had just as much fun with this book as I did with the first one in the series! The humor was on point, the beastly bits were perfectly grim, and I loved watching Ebenezer and Bethany’s friendship grow. I felt a little lost at the beginning, but swiftly found myself settling back into this world of evil gifts and do-gooding. I thought this was an enjoyable tale that had some important insights on friendship. I’m certainly eager to pick up the next book in the series!
March 16, 2022
Overraskende positiv til denne oppfølgeren. Skjønte jo tidlig hva som kom til å skje, men underholdende likevel og Bettina er <3
June 5, 2022
I love this Juvenile series. The characters are different and unique. I hope there will be another one in this series. I love the artwork as well of the characters.
December 26, 2024
The first half of the book was very slow. But about halfway, the story finally picked up, and kept me reading!
January 11, 2025
Necesito el tercero!!! Amo a los protagonistas, este tuvo ese algo pequeñito que le faltó al primero, lo amé 😍😍
February 11, 2022
First of all, I was somewhat surprised at their being a second book, to start creating a series and then I got excited for Middlegrade readers because the first was so good (so great in fact that it is tipped to be made into a film by a major film company).
This sequel reunites readers with Ebenezer and Bethany and it doesn't disappoint at all and is rich in story and has lots of humour, especially the sarcastic wit that readers got to know in the first book.
Ebenezer isn't your average person, in fact he is far, far from average and so far away from any average age. He is 511 years old. The book leads children on an entertaining story, full of humour and like Roald Dahl, it gives readers a whole gambit of emotions and a terrific plot. Ebenezer wants to de-beast as it were and become a better person.
Bethany wants to become a "Do-Gooder", but she first has to work out what that actually means. This in-turn has humorous consequences as she grapples with this concept and her inner-self wanting to still cause havoc and be the prankster.
There is also a shirt that seems to become a character with a mind of its own and Claudette the Bird acting very strangely.
There are also a few new characters to enchant children as they find out more about Ebenezer and Bethany's lives, from what they have lived to their present.
Expertly weaved through this are other themes about how people sometimes treat others and it will keep children engaged to see if Ebenezer and Bethany can really change and become better people, like they want to be.
This sequel reunites readers with Ebenezer and Bethany and it doesn't disappoint at all and is rich in story and has lots of humour, especially the sarcastic wit that readers got to know in the first book.
Ebenezer isn't your average person, in fact he is far, far from average and so far away from any average age. He is 511 years old. The book leads children on an entertaining story, full of humour and like Roald Dahl, it gives readers a whole gambit of emotions and a terrific plot. Ebenezer wants to de-beast as it were and become a better person.
Bethany wants to become a "Do-Gooder", but she first has to work out what that actually means. This in-turn has humorous consequences as she grapples with this concept and her inner-self wanting to still cause havoc and be the prankster.
There is also a shirt that seems to become a character with a mind of its own and Claudette the Bird acting very strangely.
There are also a few new characters to enchant children as they find out more about Ebenezer and Bethany's lives, from what they have lived to their present.
Expertly weaved through this are other themes about how people sometimes treat others and it will keep children engaged to see if Ebenezer and Bethany can really change and become better people, like they want to be.
February 23, 2022
3.5 stars. Full review on my blog here.
For a list of warnings, tropes, and representation for this book, check out its page on BookTriggerWarnings.com.
Revenge of the Beast takes up shortly after the events of The Beast and the Bethany and follows Ebenezer and Bethany has they struggle with figuring out what it means to be Good. Not only that, but also have to deal with the fact that their friend Claudette has begun acting strange and a new bully has shown up to take Bethany’s old role at the Orphanage.
The plot of this book was very solid, and as usual, Jack Meggitt-Phillips provided plenty of laughs along the way. As I was reading, I could definitely picture a younger version of me reading this book and thoroughly enjoying it. I was a huge fan of A Series of Unfortunate Events when I was in middle school, and this book definitely gives off those same vibes. The ending leaves off with a bit of a cliffhanger, so you can bet that basically everyone on this tour is excited to read the next installment!
On that note, however, I do want to provide a bit of a warning in regards to the material (much like I would for A Series of Unfortunate Events), particularly when it comes to the character of Gloria. Gloria is the new bully at the orphanage and her entire storyline is pretty darn tragic. Not only does she physically and emotionally bully the kids (and adults!) to an alarming rate, but she also has absolutely horrible parents. In fact, her backstory is that her parents abandoned her at the orphanage because they just didn’t like her. Her parents are even featured multiple times in the book, continuously reiterating their hatred for their daughter to the public. As an adult, this storyline was particularly troubling to read, but I could only imagine how damaging this might be for a kid who has parental abandonment/neglect issues. I would probably recommend giving this book a bit of a skim before giving it to a child, just to be safe.
All in all, Revenge of the Beast was another fun read from Meggitt-Phillips and a great addition to The Beast and the Bethany franchise.
Thank you to TheWriteReads and NetGalley for providing me with a complimentary eARC in exchange for an honest review.
For a list of warnings, tropes, and representation for this book, check out its page on BookTriggerWarnings.com.
Revenge of the Beast takes up shortly after the events of The Beast and the Bethany and follows Ebenezer and Bethany has they struggle with figuring out what it means to be Good. Not only that, but also have to deal with the fact that their friend Claudette has begun acting strange and a new bully has shown up to take Bethany’s old role at the Orphanage.
The plot of this book was very solid, and as usual, Jack Meggitt-Phillips provided plenty of laughs along the way. As I was reading, I could definitely picture a younger version of me reading this book and thoroughly enjoying it. I was a huge fan of A Series of Unfortunate Events when I was in middle school, and this book definitely gives off those same vibes. The ending leaves off with a bit of a cliffhanger, so you can bet that basically everyone on this tour is excited to read the next installment!
On that note, however, I do want to provide a bit of a warning in regards to the material (much like I would for A Series of Unfortunate Events), particularly when it comes to the character of Gloria. Gloria is the new bully at the orphanage and her entire storyline is pretty darn tragic. Not only does she physically and emotionally bully the kids (and adults!) to an alarming rate, but she also has absolutely horrible parents. In fact, her backstory is that her parents abandoned her at the orphanage because they just didn’t like her. Her parents are even featured multiple times in the book, continuously reiterating their hatred for their daughter to the public. As an adult, this storyline was particularly troubling to read, but I could only imagine how damaging this might be for a kid who has parental abandonment/neglect issues. I would probably recommend giving this book a bit of a skim before giving it to a child, just to be safe.
All in all, Revenge of the Beast was another fun read from Meggitt-Phillips and a great addition to The Beast and the Bethany franchise.
Thank you to TheWriteReads and NetGalley for providing me with a complimentary eARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 1, 2022
What’s it about (in a nutshell):
Revenge of the Beast (The Beast and the Bethany #2) by Jack Meggitt-Phillips is a creatively quirky story about an orphan, an immortal man, and a man-eating beast. In Revenge of the Beast, Bethany and Ebenezer are trying to start fresh now that the Beast is out of their lives. But changing minds is not as easy as they think it will be.
What I Enjoyed:
I enjoyed getting to know Ebenezer better. The look back at his life is fascinating. It provides the necessary layers that his character needed to be fully developed. I found it much easier to understand his connection to Bethany and willingness to conquer the Beast for her because of his story.
I have a real soft spot for Bethany, even when she is particularly frustrating and ingratiating. I admire her desire to do good just for the sake of the community, and I feel her frustration over people not letting go of her prankster past. She is no longer the angry little girl lashing out at anyone and everyone. She has found her place with Ebenezer, and she wants to share with everyone how that has impacted her.
The character-driven story is fast-paced, with plenty of suspense to spur it on. It is told through third-person narration and exudes the quirky charm inherent in the author’s sense of humor. The artwork is delightful and reflects the story perfectly.
Characters:
Bethany was developed well in the first book, and in Book 2, we learn a great deal more about Ebenezer. His past story is shared, and when added to his current reactions to the Beast, work together to create a well-developed, intriguing, sympathetic, and problematic character. I loved the complexity of this character.
Reminds Me Of:
The publisher compares this story to Lemony Snicket and Roald Dahl, and I can definitely see similarities. The dark, quirky humor is in keeping with both authors’ stories.
What I Wish:
My only wish is that this story entertains the middle-grade reader and gives them something to think about as they follow Bethany’s struggles in life made much worse by that dreaded Beast.
To Read or Not to Read:
The Beast and the Bethany series is perfect for even the youngest middle-grade readers.
Revenge of the Beast (The Beast and the Bethany #2) by Jack Meggitt-Phillips is a creatively quirky story about an orphan, an immortal man, and a man-eating beast. In Revenge of the Beast, Bethany and Ebenezer are trying to start fresh now that the Beast is out of their lives. But changing minds is not as easy as they think it will be.
What I Enjoyed:
I enjoyed getting to know Ebenezer better. The look back at his life is fascinating. It provides the necessary layers that his character needed to be fully developed. I found it much easier to understand his connection to Bethany and willingness to conquer the Beast for her because of his story.
I have a real soft spot for Bethany, even when she is particularly frustrating and ingratiating. I admire her desire to do good just for the sake of the community, and I feel her frustration over people not letting go of her prankster past. She is no longer the angry little girl lashing out at anyone and everyone. She has found her place with Ebenezer, and she wants to share with everyone how that has impacted her.
The character-driven story is fast-paced, with plenty of suspense to spur it on. It is told through third-person narration and exudes the quirky charm inherent in the author’s sense of humor. The artwork is delightful and reflects the story perfectly.
Characters:
Bethany was developed well in the first book, and in Book 2, we learn a great deal more about Ebenezer. His past story is shared, and when added to his current reactions to the Beast, work together to create a well-developed, intriguing, sympathetic, and problematic character. I loved the complexity of this character.
Reminds Me Of:
The publisher compares this story to Lemony Snicket and Roald Dahl, and I can definitely see similarities. The dark, quirky humor is in keeping with both authors’ stories.
What I Wish:
My only wish is that this story entertains the middle-grade reader and gives them something to think about as they follow Bethany’s struggles in life made much worse by that dreaded Beast.
To Read or Not to Read:
The Beast and the Bethany series is perfect for even the youngest middle-grade readers.
February 9, 2022
I had serious doubts that book two Revenge of the Beast would match my love of book one. I should have known Jack Meggitt-Phillips wouldn’t let me down. Revenge of the Beast lived up to all my expectations.
Bethany is determined to become a “Do-Gooder” if she only knew what that meant. She has a difficult time with the concept as her favorite things in life are pranking people, causing havoc, and shouting “Bog Off.”
511-year-old- Ebeneezer has serious issues with de-beasting and becoming a better person. He is going to miss all his beastly gifts.
In this tale, the beast is back to exact revenge on all who have wronged him. Along the way we are entertained with witty sarcasm, fantastic scenarios, and a fascinating world pulled from the author’s incredible mind. How absolutely gushing of me! I hope this doesn’t turn the beast’s attention on me!
The author weaves a few darker themes throughout the story. I was saddened knowing the way people can ill-treat their children, friends, and acquaintances. But I gained hope by the end of the tale that do-gooders can prevail. If you are reading this book with middle-graders, it provides many opportunities for conversation.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the illustrations created by Sabelle Follath. They positively bring the story to life.
I can not wait to read the next book, The Mind of the Beast coming later in 2022.
Bethany is determined to become a “Do-Gooder” if she only knew what that meant. She has a difficult time with the concept as her favorite things in life are pranking people, causing havoc, and shouting “Bog Off.”
511-year-old- Ebeneezer has serious issues with de-beasting and becoming a better person. He is going to miss all his beastly gifts.
In this tale, the beast is back to exact revenge on all who have wronged him. Along the way we are entertained with witty sarcasm, fantastic scenarios, and a fascinating world pulled from the author’s incredible mind. How absolutely gushing of me! I hope this doesn’t turn the beast’s attention on me!
The author weaves a few darker themes throughout the story. I was saddened knowing the way people can ill-treat their children, friends, and acquaintances. But I gained hope by the end of the tale that do-gooders can prevail. If you are reading this book with middle-graders, it provides many opportunities for conversation.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the illustrations created by Sabelle Follath. They positively bring the story to life.
I can not wait to read the next book, The Mind of the Beast coming later in 2022.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews