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Fairy Tales Reimagined #3
Beastly Secrets: A Beauty and the Beast Retelling
Belle finds true love but dark secrets threaten her chance at a happy ending.
Belle descends to a dungeon looking for a chemist she’s heard is being kept prisoner.
A chemist who knows how to make the cure she’s been eagerly looking for.
But that’s not all she finds…
Not only is the chemist wiped of his memories, but he’s also the rightful king of the White Rose kingdom––the king who was presumed dead by his brother five years ago.
Nathaniel, however, is nothing like his wicked brother.
He is intelligent, kind, sweet, and everything Belle has ever dreamed of in a man.
Except, she cannot fall in love with him.
Belle knows that as soon as his memories return, Nathaniel will need to leave to fight for his kingdom.
But she needs the cure, and the only way to get it is to help him get his memories back. It won’t be easy.
Not with such powerful foes after him, and a beast roaming around the forest devouring the villages.
It’s her only choice if she wants to be set free once and for all… Beastly Secrets is the thrilling third installment of the Fairytales Reimagined series. This heart-pounding wolf shifter romance is full of adventure, sizzling kisses, and suspense. Scroll up and one-click now! This interconnected series is best enjoyed when read in order.
Belle descends to a dungeon looking for a chemist she’s heard is being kept prisoner.
A chemist who knows how to make the cure she’s been eagerly looking for.
But that’s not all she finds…
Not only is the chemist wiped of his memories, but he’s also the rightful king of the White Rose kingdom––the king who was presumed dead by his brother five years ago.
Nathaniel, however, is nothing like his wicked brother.
He is intelligent, kind, sweet, and everything Belle has ever dreamed of in a man.
Except, she cannot fall in love with him.
Belle knows that as soon as his memories return, Nathaniel will need to leave to fight for his kingdom.
But she needs the cure, and the only way to get it is to help him get his memories back. It won’t be easy.
Not with such powerful foes after him, and a beast roaming around the forest devouring the villages.
It’s her only choice if she wants to be set free once and for all… Beastly Secrets is the thrilling third installment of the Fairytales Reimagined series. This heart-pounding wolf shifter romance is full of adventure, sizzling kisses, and suspense. Scroll up and one-click now! This interconnected series is best enjoyed when read in order.
290 pages, Paperback
Published July 16, 2021
306 people are currently reading
6704 people want to read
About the author
Laura Burton
75 books729 followersLaura writes sweet romance and fantasy with steamy kisses, thrilling suspense, and mystery.
A self-confessed Potterhead and Once Upon a Time fan.
Laura marries her love of 1990's romcoms with her obsession with Pretty Little Liars and writes fast-paced books written especially for readers who need an escape.
Laura Burton is a British author who lives in Wiltshire, England with her three wild sons, alpha-male husband, and positively loopy Poochon.
A self-confessed Potterhead and Once Upon a Time fan.
Laura marries her love of 1990's romcoms with her obsession with Pretty Little Liars and writes fast-paced books written especially for readers who need an escape.
Laura Burton is a British author who lives in Wiltshire, England with her three wild sons, alpha-male husband, and positively loopy Poochon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
January 6, 2023
This book was mediocre at best. Yes, there some good and interesting factors and the idea of re-writing Beauty and the Beast to make it so that Belle is also a ‘beast’ makes it somewhat interesting.
However, there are so many problems with this book. The plot is all over the place and just doesn’t make sense at times. We went from mermaid scales in Nate’s blood to Ursula and magic water to being reunited with his sister who thought he was dead for five years to turning into a wolf and running away like some weird Gacha oc? Like, make it make sense. There is no solid plot line or plan. It kinda feels like someone just smashed their head on the keyboard and this book popped out. They clearly had no solid plan or storyline and plotted random things at random points.
Second, the writing is extremely bland and boring. Sure, maybe a little sprinkle of magical words here and there but otherwise it is so bland. Especially when describing the setting or characters. Nothing drew me in or kept me entertained and wanting to keep reading. You could say I got bored of this book very quickly. It took me over 6 hours to finish because I could just NOT with the writing. And don’t get me started on the scenes where Belle and Nate were kissing and things got a little freaky. It felt like I was reading some Wattpad Fan-Fiction from 2016. And in her fathers abandoned house? Really? Would not recommend having sex there.
Third of all, not only is plot all over the place, but it makes ZERO sense. It’s kind of like:
“Oh okay so it’s beauty and the best except belle is also a beast but she can switch between human and wolf but she doesn’t want her powers so she kidnaps the so called ‘beast’ who’s some random guy called Nate who apparently is the best chemist ever and can cure her but he’s lost his memory because he’s been controlled be a prince who doesn’t even rule the country to kill people for literally no reason and has convinced his entire family that he’s dead?”
What kind of plot line is that? Sure maybe the idea of belle being a beast is fine and maybe a little more but all of that is just SO over the top and for what reason? Honestly ruined the book for me.
Seriously, unless you spend your entire life on Wattpad and want a physical version of a bad fan-fiction, here’s your book. Not impressed and most likely will not buy anymore books from this series.
However, there are so many problems with this book. The plot is all over the place and just doesn’t make sense at times. We went from mermaid scales in Nate’s blood to Ursula and magic water to being reunited with his sister who thought he was dead for five years to turning into a wolf and running away like some weird Gacha oc? Like, make it make sense. There is no solid plot line or plan. It kinda feels like someone just smashed their head on the keyboard and this book popped out. They clearly had no solid plan or storyline and plotted random things at random points.
Second, the writing is extremely bland and boring. Sure, maybe a little sprinkle of magical words here and there but otherwise it is so bland. Especially when describing the setting or characters. Nothing drew me in or kept me entertained and wanting to keep reading. You could say I got bored of this book very quickly. It took me over 6 hours to finish because I could just NOT with the writing. And don’t get me started on the scenes where Belle and Nate were kissing and things got a little freaky. It felt like I was reading some Wattpad Fan-Fiction from 2016. And in her fathers abandoned house? Really? Would not recommend having sex there.
Third of all, not only is plot all over the place, but it makes ZERO sense. It’s kind of like:
“Oh okay so it’s beauty and the best except belle is also a beast but she can switch between human and wolf but she doesn’t want her powers so she kidnaps the so called ‘beast’ who’s some random guy called Nate who apparently is the best chemist ever and can cure her but he’s lost his memory because he’s been controlled be a prince who doesn’t even rule the country to kill people for literally no reason and has convinced his entire family that he’s dead?”
What kind of plot line is that? Sure maybe the idea of belle being a beast is fine and maybe a little more but all of that is just SO over the top and for what reason? Honestly ruined the book for me.
Seriously, unless you spend your entire life on Wattpad and want a physical version of a bad fan-fiction, here’s your book. Not impressed and most likely will not buy anymore books from this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 29, 2022
Y'all. I. Can't. Even. Right. Now! I give up! I'm just going to tell you... READ THIS SERIES! If you haven't already guessed with the way I'm devouring each book, it's fantastic! I think you will love it! And if you don't? Well... I don't think we can be friends anymore! Just kidding! (Maybe... 😉)
Beauty and the Beast is my all time favorite fairytale so there was no doubt in my mind that I would love Belle and Nathaniel's story. I absolutely adored these two! They're so selfless and loving it makes my heart smile. And their sizzling chemistry? Well. It's hot, hot, hot! Wowzers!
Just like the other books in the series, I was sucked in from the very beginning and I did no want to put it down. I was sneaking in reading time whenever I could find even a spare minute. Those twists and turns that I never see coming are still going strong. I'm quickly learning that I need to just sit down, buckle up, and just enjoy the ride!
Y'all. I don't know what I'm going to do with myself once I finish Snow's book. I already know I'm going to have one doozy of a book hangover when I'm done. This is one of those times where I have to remind myself that writing takes time and authors have lives outside of their work. I can't expect them to sit down and push through just for me. But y'all! I wish I could snap my fingers and make it happen! 😂
Ms. Burton and Ms. Cal have officially added themselves to my favorite authors list. I'm stoked to be able to check out some of their other books. I always love finding new to me authors and discovering they have lots of books already out in the world waiting for me to grab them up and dive right in! I cannot wait to see what adventure they're going to take us on next!
And we can't forget my casting. I am SO in love with these two! What do you think?
Beauty and the Beast is my all time favorite fairytale so there was no doubt in my mind that I would love Belle and Nathaniel's story. I absolutely adored these two! They're so selfless and loving it makes my heart smile. And their sizzling chemistry? Well. It's hot, hot, hot! Wowzers!
Just like the other books in the series, I was sucked in from the very beginning and I did no want to put it down. I was sneaking in reading time whenever I could find even a spare minute. Those twists and turns that I never see coming are still going strong. I'm quickly learning that I need to just sit down, buckle up, and just enjoy the ride!
Y'all. I don't know what I'm going to do with myself once I finish Snow's book. I already know I'm going to have one doozy of a book hangover when I'm done. This is one of those times where I have to remind myself that writing takes time and authors have lives outside of their work. I can't expect them to sit down and push through just for me. But y'all! I wish I could snap my fingers and make it happen! 😂
Ms. Burton and Ms. Cal have officially added themselves to my favorite authors list. I'm stoked to be able to check out some of their other books. I always love finding new to me authors and discovering they have lots of books already out in the world waiting for me to grab them up and dive right in! I cannot wait to see what adventure they're going to take us on next!
And we can't forget my casting. I am SO in love with these two! What do you think?
July 5, 2021
This is a take on the classic Beauty and the Beast with a twist. The author brings a cast of strong characters and weaves an intriguing story with a bit of the paranormal as well as some Greek Mythology. She paints her scenes perfectly and delivers a fantastic read filled with mystery and intrigue. Loved and recommend this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
June 14, 2024
Love the Laura Burton collection of Fairy Tales Reimagined. All of them are well written and a length that doesn't drag on. This is a mixture of iron mask, red riding hood, and beauty/Beast with a drizzle of random fairy tale/disney characters throughout. The author takes traditional stories and details while making them her own original story.
No Spice.
No Spice.
April 10, 2024
I’ve just come to accept that this series is going to read like subpar fanfiction with pretty lackluster romance. I love an interconnected world based on fairy tales though and I’m a committed completionist, so on to the next!
May 28, 2022
Oh.My.God !!!
I LOVED this book. People you have to read the series !! Really its so capturing . Truth be told book 3 was much more fun to read than the previous story of Red riding hood.
I was so eager to know how nathaniel would turn out to be the beast, and before having my doubts confirmed I was hoping thats how it'd turn out to be . There is surely a classic beauty and the beast theme in the book but with a twist that made it way much better than the original. The only thing I wished to see and felt missing in the story is Mrs.Pott and chip, cogsworth and lumiere. They would have added alot of fun to the story, but nevertheless the story was just fine even without them . The wild red rose in the glass dome was even incorporated in the book.
As usual the epilogue was so gripping left me eager for the fourth installment of the series, the retelling of snow white's tale and in which Rumplestilskin seems to appear in it.
ONCE UPON A TIME fans, this is a MUST-READ series !! You would all really enjoy. ♡
I LOVED this book. People you have to read the series !! Really its so capturing . Truth be told book 3 was much more fun to read than the previous story of Red riding hood.
I was so eager to know how nathaniel would turn out to be the beast, and before having my doubts confirmed I was hoping thats how it'd turn out to be . There is surely a classic beauty and the beast theme in the book but with a twist that made it way much better than the original. The only thing I wished to see and felt missing in the story is Mrs.Pott and chip, cogsworth and lumiere. They would have added alot of fun to the story, but nevertheless the story was just fine even without them . The wild red rose in the glass dome was even incorporated in the book.
As usual the epilogue was so gripping left me eager for the fourth installment of the series, the retelling of snow white's tale and in which Rumplestilskin seems to appear in it.
ONCE UPON A TIME fans, this is a MUST-READ series !! You would all really enjoy. ♡
March 26, 2023
Beauty and the Beast meets The Man in the Iron Mask!!!
I actually enjoyed this story. All the stories in this series are connected so its best to read them in order. I liked that this story also had many other fairy tale characters that help shape this story.
Mermaids, Wolves and Beasts...what more does this story need??
I actually enjoyed this story. All the stories in this series are connected so its best to read them in order. I liked that this story also had many other fairy tale characters that help shape this story.
Mermaids, Wolves and Beasts...what more does this story need??
September 27, 2021
this was interesting. it was a new twist, had interesting characters, but kept to the original theme of beauty and the beast. I loved the relationship and work they both do to get things to a good place.
November 3, 2025
Loved this! This is the 3rd book in the series and it’s definitely recommended that they are read in order. The classic tale had a twist (or reimagined) version that made this a page turner. Belle is a strong and kind character and the way the fairy tale characters relationships intertwine is very interesting. The epilogue sets up the next book very well and makes you eager to read the next book right away.
April 6, 2022
Sometimes… you just need to cut your loses.
2 stars ⭐️⭐️
2 stars ⭐️⭐️
December 20, 2024
Was really confused by this book. The plot was literally everywhere. There’s an introduction to many side characters but they don’t really go anywhere??
The writing is honestly just bad, reminds me of fanfiction that I used to read at 2 am, but not in a good way.
Also confused by plot holes, drinking the water was supposed to cure Nathaniel from all ailments and didn’t. Using the flower to grant Belle’s wish was supposed to have a negative consequence. That may be in the next book but if you’re gonna have that information in THIS book that directly relates to THIS retelling then include it in the same book. Especially because I’ve read that these stories can be stand alones, which is how I intended to read them but I’m seeing that maybe that makes it so you miss information from previous books, or they’re just that poorly written that the information is omitted entirely??
Not to mention they never go into details, how Nathan exactly became a wolf (injection I think?? I thought Belle had a bite mark and that’s how she was a wolf?? Who bit her?? Was her brother also bit because he was an Alfa??).
So many questions about how the wolves are created in this book. Also unsure why Belle’s identity as a wolf seems so all over the place between different characters.
I’m kinda bummed. I bought the entire series on TikTok shop and it feels like I may have wasted money on this.
The writing is honestly just bad, reminds me of fanfiction that I used to read at 2 am, but not in a good way.
Also confused by plot holes, drinking the water was supposed to cure Nathaniel from all ailments and didn’t. Using the flower to grant Belle’s wish was supposed to have a negative consequence. That may be in the next book but if you’re gonna have that information in THIS book that directly relates to THIS retelling then include it in the same book. Especially because I’ve read that these stories can be stand alones, which is how I intended to read them but I’m seeing that maybe that makes it so you miss information from previous books, or they’re just that poorly written that the information is omitted entirely??
Not to mention they never go into details, how Nathan exactly became a wolf (injection I think?? I thought Belle had a bite mark and that’s how she was a wolf?? Who bit her?? Was her brother also bit because he was an Alfa??).
So many questions about how the wolves are created in this book. Also unsure why Belle’s identity as a wolf seems so all over the place between different characters.
I’m kinda bummed. I bought the entire series on TikTok shop and it feels like I may have wasted money on this.
March 20, 2022
1.5 star. The idea itself is not bad. I missed the first two books but not sure ever gonna do it. Anyways it was still understandable and agiain the b&b idea here wasnt bad. I liked the shifter vibe. However the execution was not at all to my liking. It had difgiculties to catch and keep my attention even it has many things ongoing. The discussions were lacking any intrigue in it and found some strange part. Eg when Belle is running after to catch the beast why does she stop chatting with an old friend and about nothing?! Then with Nate she is in a market than goes to the next and there only he thinks about life is going on?! So it has potenial but did not really made me want to continue (even felt sometimes just to stop and DNF)
May 1, 2025
2.5 ⭐
I am a person that loves Beauty and the Beast retellings. It was my favorite story as a kid, and has always held a special place in my heart. With that being said, I did not enjoy this book at all. I really had to push myself to finish it.
I felt like the writing was clunky and everything was rushed. The romance was rushed, there was no world building at all. The story was rushed, the back story of what happened to Nathaniel was super rushed. Through this whole book the big question is, what happened to you, and the the answer is less than two pages of explanation? Was not a fan of that.
I thought that the idea was a good one, but it was not executed well at all, in my opinion.
I am a person that loves Beauty and the Beast retellings. It was my favorite story as a kid, and has always held a special place in my heart. With that being said, I did not enjoy this book at all. I really had to push myself to finish it.
I felt like the writing was clunky and everything was rushed. The romance was rushed, there was no world building at all. The story was rushed, the back story of what happened to Nathaniel was super rushed. Through this whole book the big question is, what happened to you, and the the answer is less than two pages of explanation? Was not a fan of that.
I thought that the idea was a good one, but it was not executed well at all, in my opinion.
December 20, 2021
Save Your Time and Skip This One
Had a hard time finishing this book, due to boredom . Writing was okay, just that the story was not only hard to follow, but also goofy. Spend your precious reading time elsewhere.
Had a hard time finishing this book, due to boredom . Writing was okay, just that the story was not only hard to follow, but also goofy. Spend your precious reading time elsewhere.
March 28, 2025
Literalmente devorei este livro já que é pequeno e a história é gira mas confesso que, ao chegar ao terceiro livro desta saga, começo a sentir que estes livros estão a repetir-se um pouco. As autoras entregam mais uma vez um conto de fadas reimaginado com elementos criativos, mas alguns aspectos já não me impactaram tanto como os volumes anteriores.
A melhor parte deste livro, sem dúvida, é o romance entre a Belle e o Nathaniel. Gostei do mistério envolvido na identidade dele e de como as suas memórias perdidas foram sendo reveladas ao longo da história. O facto de ele ser o rei desaparecido trouxe um plot interessante, principalmente quando percebemos que a Belle precisa de decidir entre ajudá-lo a recuperar o trono ou mantê-lo ao seu lado. O romance entre os dois foi bem construído, mas, talvez por já termos visto esse tipo de relacionamento “proibido” nos outros livros da série, não me surpreendeu tanto como deveria.
Outro ponto que me agradou foi outros personagens terem aparecido, como o Robin Hood e a Red Hood. Essas participações ajudam a expandir o universo da saga e dão mais profundidade ao livro, além de criarem conexões que provavelmente serão importantes nos próximos livros. No entanto, a presença deles também fez com que, em alguns momentos, o romance parecesse perder o foco. Eu queria mais tempo dedicado ao conflito principal em vez de tantos conflitos paralelos.
A ambientação continua excelente, com descrições e um toque sombrio que combina bem com ó retelling de A Bela e o Monstro. Gostei especialmente da forma como o castelo do Príncipe John foi retratado, os segredos, a sensação constante de perigo... esses detalhes ajudaram a manter a minha atenção, mesmo quando a história desacelerava.
O fim foi okay, mas previsível. O Nathaniel finalmente enfrenta o ladrão do trono, a Belle encontra uma maneira de lidar com a sua maldição, e os dois acabam juntos. É um final bonito, mas senti que faltou um impacto maior, talvez um último plot twist inesperado ou uma consequência mais significativa para as escolhas dos personagens.
No geral, gostei deste livro, mas a premissa da série já está a cansar-me. Ainda vale a pena para quem gosta de contos de fadas reimaginados, mas, pessoalmente, espero que os próximos livros tragam algo realmente novo para voltar a ficar fascinado por esta saga.
A melhor parte deste livro, sem dúvida, é o romance entre a Belle e o Nathaniel. Gostei do mistério envolvido na identidade dele e de como as suas memórias perdidas foram sendo reveladas ao longo da história. O facto de ele ser o rei desaparecido trouxe um plot interessante, principalmente quando percebemos que a Belle precisa de decidir entre ajudá-lo a recuperar o trono ou mantê-lo ao seu lado. O romance entre os dois foi bem construído, mas, talvez por já termos visto esse tipo de relacionamento “proibido” nos outros livros da série, não me surpreendeu tanto como deveria.
Outro ponto que me agradou foi outros personagens terem aparecido, como o Robin Hood e a Red Hood. Essas participações ajudam a expandir o universo da saga e dão mais profundidade ao livro, além de criarem conexões que provavelmente serão importantes nos próximos livros. No entanto, a presença deles também fez com que, em alguns momentos, o romance parecesse perder o foco. Eu queria mais tempo dedicado ao conflito principal em vez de tantos conflitos paralelos.
A ambientação continua excelente, com descrições e um toque sombrio que combina bem com ó retelling de A Bela e o Monstro. Gostei especialmente da forma como o castelo do Príncipe John foi retratado, os segredos, a sensação constante de perigo... esses detalhes ajudaram a manter a minha atenção, mesmo quando a história desacelerava.
O fim foi okay, mas previsível. O Nathaniel finalmente enfrenta o ladrão do trono, a Belle encontra uma maneira de lidar com a sua maldição, e os dois acabam juntos. É um final bonito, mas senti que faltou um impacto maior, talvez um último plot twist inesperado ou uma consequência mais significativa para as escolhas dos personagens.
No geral, gostei deste livro, mas a premissa da série já está a cansar-me. Ainda vale a pena para quem gosta de contos de fadas reimaginados, mas, pessoalmente, espero que os próximos livros tragam algo realmente novo para voltar a ficar fascinado por esta saga.
March 16, 2023
The inner artwork chapter headers are really pretty. I’ve read one book by this author duo before and wanted to try this one too for a possible comp for my work in progress. There’s two points of view, Belle and Nathaniel and both are in third person narrative.
The first chapter was a whirlwind and I felt like I was missing important info from other books in the series so I’m unsure if it can be read as a complete standalone. So much happened in just a few pages and it was hard to feel grounded within the tornado.
So Belle is a shifter and apparently can also talk to this beast monster telepathically? I definitely needed to read this series in order then.
Halfway through the two are growing more of a bond during their adventures together. It doesn’t feel as much of a Beauty and the Beast retelling but more like a collaboration of a bunch of fairytales entwined.
Oooh “The wild red rose essence is believed to be poisonous to wolves.” I wish we knew this earlier, it’d make things more interesting. Sometimes I feel like bombs are just dropped on me out of left field.
The huge scene in chapter 15 was pretty good near the end, but the climatic moments in general was a bit messy with so many plots and characters stories to implement and tie up. There were so many things happening that it took a lot of focus while things jumped around so abruptly. I wanted a bit more emotional bang which is hard to do in a short book like this. It almost feels like a novella. I wonder what the criteria is for that.
The ending seemed like a happily ever after for two sets of characters which felt a little forced since there wasn’t much focus on one of the pairs.
Overall, it seemed like a LOT was trying to be fit in a low amount of pages. It’s highly ambitious to weave together so many stories. I felt the strengths were action scenes and fast paced which gives it potential for a great feel-good movie. It seemed to lack the depth I’m used to in fantasy romance but I still enjoyed this easy, sweet retelling and would recommend it to others.
The first chapter was a whirlwind and I felt like I was missing important info from other books in the series so I’m unsure if it can be read as a complete standalone. So much happened in just a few pages and it was hard to feel grounded within the tornado.
So Belle is a shifter and apparently can also talk to this beast monster telepathically? I definitely needed to read this series in order then.
Halfway through the two are growing more of a bond during their adventures together. It doesn’t feel as much of a Beauty and the Beast retelling but more like a collaboration of a bunch of fairytales entwined.
Oooh “The wild red rose essence is believed to be poisonous to wolves.” I wish we knew this earlier, it’d make things more interesting. Sometimes I feel like bombs are just dropped on me out of left field.
The huge scene in chapter 15 was pretty good near the end, but the climatic moments in general was a bit messy with so many plots and characters stories to implement and tie up. There were so many things happening that it took a lot of focus while things jumped around so abruptly. I wanted a bit more emotional bang which is hard to do in a short book like this. It almost feels like a novella. I wonder what the criteria is for that.
The ending seemed like a happily ever after for two sets of characters which felt a little forced since there wasn’t much focus on one of the pairs.
Overall, it seemed like a LOT was trying to be fit in a low amount of pages. It’s highly ambitious to weave together so many stories. I felt the strengths were action scenes and fast paced which gives it potential for a great feel-good movie. It seemed to lack the depth I’m used to in fantasy romance but I still enjoyed this easy, sweet retelling and would recommend it to others.
June 14, 2022
It's been some time since I read the first two books in this series, but ever since then I was really looking forward to reading the third and the fourth, especially because we already had quite some build up towards these two books. As always there were some other books coming in between and it took me a little bit longer to finally pick this book up, but this morning, especially because I had limited time today, was the perfect moment.
A lot of fairytale retellings are interconnected individual tales. These books are clearly not. Although every book has its own stars and main characters, all the arcs start in certain books and continue in others. I love how interwoven all those fairytales are, how those fairytale characters are connected to each other and how some are friends or not. I love guessing who is gonna be which character in which upcoming story and I hope the authors are far from done with this world.
Although Beauty and the Beast has never been my favorite fairytale, I quite loved this version of the tale. The backbone of the original story was still there. We had an important flower, a library, a beauty, a beast, a prince, we even had a hunter wanting to kill the beast. And yet this story felt like a completely new and fresh tale. Partly because of all the connections with the other tales and characters, but also because the authors truly twist some elements around in the best way.
Where in the previous book the tale of Robin Hood and Marian at times seemed more important than the tale of Little Red Riding Hood and her Wolf, they were a little more in the background in this one, even though their story was clearly continuing. I was glad about that, because these Beauty and her Prince were quite interesting and had quite some history and things to work out together and watching them figuring everything out was quite exciting!
A lot of fairytale retellings are interconnected individual tales. These books are clearly not. Although every book has its own stars and main characters, all the arcs start in certain books and continue in others. I love how interwoven all those fairytales are, how those fairytale characters are connected to each other and how some are friends or not. I love guessing who is gonna be which character in which upcoming story and I hope the authors are far from done with this world.
Although Beauty and the Beast has never been my favorite fairytale, I quite loved this version of the tale. The backbone of the original story was still there. We had an important flower, a library, a beauty, a beast, a prince, we even had a hunter wanting to kill the beast. And yet this story felt like a completely new and fresh tale. Partly because of all the connections with the other tales and characters, but also because the authors truly twist some elements around in the best way.
Where in the previous book the tale of Robin Hood and Marian at times seemed more important than the tale of Little Red Riding Hood and her Wolf, they were a little more in the background in this one, even though their story was clearly continuing. I was glad about that, because these Beauty and her Prince were quite interesting and had quite some history and things to work out together and watching them figuring everything out was quite exciting!
July 7, 2021
Another Look at Beauty and the Beast . . .
Seeing the imagination take a classic fairy tale and twist it around for a new and different reimagining is an art in itself! Almost all readers have been exposed to the original fairy tale through childhood readings (over and over) or through Disney on TV. So we have the basics of the story, but here the author gives us something just a bit different, a new way of looking at it, and adds touches of other stories and some shifter elements. The feel of the familiar with the new shifts in focus make for a delightful tale!
Belle is sneaking into the dungeon at Prince John’s wedding ball, on a search for a chemist being imprisoned who might be able to provide a cure for her curse. But she finds so much more when her chemist turns out to be Nathaniel, the rightful king of the White Rose kingdom who had been reported as missing and presumed dead by his evil brother five years ago. His memories have also been wiped. And her adventure is about to begin.
The characters are well portrayed and the story line holds the reader’s complete attention. The relationship that slowly develops between Belle and Nathaniel will provide that deep sigh of satisfaction when two wonderful people begin to be drawn together. Grab your copy and see if Nathaniel can escape the prison to restore order to his kingdom and if Belle can get the “cure” she is searching for. Do they have a future together – or perhaps it will be cut short if they cannot each regain the freedom they seek?
Seeing the imagination take a classic fairy tale and twist it around for a new and different reimagining is an art in itself! Almost all readers have been exposed to the original fairy tale through childhood readings (over and over) or through Disney on TV. So we have the basics of the story, but here the author gives us something just a bit different, a new way of looking at it, and adds touches of other stories and some shifter elements. The feel of the familiar with the new shifts in focus make for a delightful tale!
Belle is sneaking into the dungeon at Prince John’s wedding ball, on a search for a chemist being imprisoned who might be able to provide a cure for her curse. But she finds so much more when her chemist turns out to be Nathaniel, the rightful king of the White Rose kingdom who had been reported as missing and presumed dead by his evil brother five years ago. His memories have also been wiped. And her adventure is about to begin.
The characters are well portrayed and the story line holds the reader’s complete attention. The relationship that slowly develops between Belle and Nathaniel will provide that deep sigh of satisfaction when two wonderful people begin to be drawn together. Grab your copy and see if Nathaniel can escape the prison to restore order to his kingdom and if Belle can get the “cure” she is searching for. Do they have a future together – or perhaps it will be cut short if they cannot each regain the freedom they seek?
January 7, 2024
Not sure if these are spoilers, more just my thoughts!
I thought this was a good book with a big twist with beauty and the beast. I just feel like there was TOO much going on and too many characters to follow. The great thing about the previous books is that they stayed consistent with introducing enough people to get them to the next story. This time they introduced people for the next two stories which I think kinda killed the adventure of it all.
We never knew what happened with Nathaniel’s blood and the sea which. Also the theory was that he would stop being controlled by drinking the water, yet he was still being controlled by the mermaid stone. So that was an inconsistency I didn’t like. I also didn’t like how the random owl came in and was after the flower, what was the purpose? So that snow could wish the death of her sister? Not only that but why was snow not more happy to know George is not dead?!
I think the belle and Nathaniel story line was well done. But how many people was Nathaniel?!:
1- the chemist/Dr Jekell
2-the beast
3-the man in the iron mask
Just felt like there was too much going on here. Hopefully we will see how belle and Nathaniel go through life now that they are together and married!
I thought this was a good book with a big twist with beauty and the beast. I just feel like there was TOO much going on and too many characters to follow. The great thing about the previous books is that they stayed consistent with introducing enough people to get them to the next story. This time they introduced people for the next two stories which I think kinda killed the adventure of it all.
We never knew what happened with Nathaniel’s blood and the sea which. Also the theory was that he would stop being controlled by drinking the water, yet he was still being controlled by the mermaid stone. So that was an inconsistency I didn’t like. I also didn’t like how the random owl came in and was after the flower, what was the purpose? So that snow could wish the death of her sister? Not only that but why was snow not more happy to know George is not dead?!
I think the belle and Nathaniel story line was well done. But how many people was Nathaniel?!:
1- the chemist/Dr Jekell
2-the beast
3-the man in the iron mask
Just felt like there was too much going on here. Hopefully we will see how belle and Nathaniel go through life now that they are together and married!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 1, 2022
Absolutely lovely retelling of Beauty & the Beast!!! This is book 3 in the series and the books just get better and better! It was a little more predictable in this book than the others, but amazing nonetheless. Amazing character development and the way the authors describe the Chanted Kingdom make you feel like you are actually there. I love Belle & the Beasts love the most from the romantic relationships that have taken place in the retellings. It is so pure, and full of understanding. As with the other books, there is a lot of character mingling between Red Riding Hood, Robin Hood, Snow White, Elsa, and even Cinderella makes an appearance! I love how the authors explained the Beasts story a little at a time throughout the book so you weren't over whelmed and it kept you wanting to know more! Belle once thought that the intruder ruined her life by telling her what "her book" entailed, because it was completely wrong. Belle didn't fall in love with the beast, she WAS a beast (a wolf). At the end of this book, Belle realized "her book" was actually correct, the beauty did fall in love with the beast! Cannot wait to read book 4!
June 28, 2021
I have always been a fan of Beauty and the Beast. I am such a Disney baby, growing up watching all those fairytales come to life.
This book though, while it definitely has similarities to the film, gave the tale new character which drew me in more. I couldn't put the book down because each role, whether the lead or the supporting characters, all had an intriguing personally you want to know more about. Laura has reenvisioned the fairy tale worlds to coincide with each other and make a whole new universe to go around. Props too for adding in some Greek Mythology, which I love. Wouldn't mind having more of that entwine with the other stories too.
It all sums down to a fairy tale that gives you a happy ending. But also builds up the lives and stories of all the other players. And because of this, it makes you want to keep reading and finding out about their lives. You become invested in the outcome of each character. The mystery and the intrigue is something that keeps you glued to your book from start to finish!
This book though, while it definitely has similarities to the film, gave the tale new character which drew me in more. I couldn't put the book down because each role, whether the lead or the supporting characters, all had an intriguing personally you want to know more about. Laura has reenvisioned the fairy tale worlds to coincide with each other and make a whole new universe to go around. Props too for adding in some Greek Mythology, which I love. Wouldn't mind having more of that entwine with the other stories too.
It all sums down to a fairy tale that gives you a happy ending. But also builds up the lives and stories of all the other players. And because of this, it makes you want to keep reading and finding out about their lives. You become invested in the outcome of each character. The mystery and the intrigue is something that keeps you glued to your book from start to finish!
March 2, 2024
1.5 ✨
Well, that's 2 hours of my life I won't get back. To be honest, I think that part of the problem here is I started this series with the third book and I have feeling it might be useful to be introduced and get to know some of these characters before you get to this point in the series. Because if not, it's a fucking mess. So many characters, the plot was very hard to follow, there's a lot of magical elements and the characters I recognize in retellings have different names (looking at you Ursula). And to top it all off, there was the tiniest bit of spice. Like, the main characters kiss and that's about it. All in all, kind of disappointing and I don't think I'll go out of my way to read any other parts of the series even though the concepts seems really interesting -- I just don't think this execution is for me, specifically.
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Well, that's 2 hours of my life I won't get back. To be honest, I think that part of the problem here is I started this series with the third book and I have feeling it might be useful to be introduced and get to know some of these characters before you get to this point in the series. Because if not, it's a fucking mess. So many characters, the plot was very hard to follow, there's a lot of magical elements and the characters I recognize in retellings have different names (looking at you Ursula). And to top it all off, there was the tiniest bit of spice. Like, the main characters kiss and that's about it. All in all, kind of disappointing and I don't think I'll go out of my way to read any other parts of the series even though the concepts seems really interesting -- I just don't think this execution is for me, specifically.
—
✍🏽 Follow me on Goodreads for more reviews like this!
📚 Instagram: @whataprilreads
🐝 Keep tabs on me here, so you know when I start a new project! https://linktr.ee/whataprilreads
July 8, 2021
The world that Laura is creating in this series is simply amazing! I don’t think I’ve read a better fairy tale retelling. The stories are connected enough that you definitely want to read them in order, but the stories are so good you will want to read them all anyway!
This book mostly focuses on the Beauty and the Beast retelling with a wolf shifter twist. Nathaniel is a prince and Belle is a wolf shifter. They are working together to find a cure for her and along the way they discover many secrets about each other and about other people in their world.
I don’t want to give anything away from the story, so I will just say that you should definitely read it. It’s SO GOOD!! The “ending” for Nathaniel and Belle is wonderful but the story is far from over. We are left with a sort of cliffhanger involving Snow White and the other characters. I can’t wait to see what happens next in this series!
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book mostly focuses on the Beauty and the Beast retelling with a wolf shifter twist. Nathaniel is a prince and Belle is a wolf shifter. They are working together to find a cure for her and along the way they discover many secrets about each other and about other people in their world.
I don’t want to give anything away from the story, so I will just say that you should definitely read it. It’s SO GOOD!! The “ending” for Nathaniel and Belle is wonderful but the story is far from over. We are left with a sort of cliffhanger involving Snow White and the other characters. I can’t wait to see what happens next in this series!
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 24, 2021
Loved this new book-
This story really clicked with me and surprisingly not because of Beauty and the Beast. The characters just seemed to come off the page as I was reading one gripping chapter after another. There were several mentions and characters wrapped into this storyline from other "fairy tales" that just enhanced this book. An example that added a special charm to me was an "iron mask". I loved that movie and the use of a mask is very well placed and appropriate in the way the two authors penned this story. I think that their writing is just getting better with each of these new books. A very well written and engaging story with lots of twists, turns and yes, surprises! You won't know how it ends until you finish the last chapter! Well done retelling ladies.
I received an ARC copy from the authors, but this is my voluntary and honest review. VICKI FROM WYOMING
This story really clicked with me and surprisingly not because of Beauty and the Beast. The characters just seemed to come off the page as I was reading one gripping chapter after another. There were several mentions and characters wrapped into this storyline from other "fairy tales" that just enhanced this book. An example that added a special charm to me was an "iron mask". I loved that movie and the use of a mask is very well placed and appropriate in the way the two authors penned this story. I think that their writing is just getting better with each of these new books. A very well written and engaging story with lots of twists, turns and yes, surprises! You won't know how it ends until you finish the last chapter! Well done retelling ladies.
I received an ARC copy from the authors, but this is my voluntary and honest review. VICKI FROM WYOMING
June 29, 2021
Something different!
I have not read the other books in the series. There is definately a story thread through these books, but I was able to piece together the plot pretty well regardless.
The book is inspired by the Beauty and the Beast with plenty of other fairy-stories and mythology mixed in plus the added paranormal element of wolf shifters too. Nothing in the story is exactly as you would expect as-per the fairytale which I thought made it an even better read than some other, more traditional retellings.
The two main characters seemed well-suited. And the secondary characters were all interesting in their own right. I would like to go back and read the first books in the series to find out more about those characters now.
I would class this as a clean romance. There were no descriptive love scenes.
I received an ARC in return for my honest opinion.
I have not read the other books in the series. There is definately a story thread through these books, but I was able to piece together the plot pretty well regardless.
The book is inspired by the Beauty and the Beast with plenty of other fairy-stories and mythology mixed in plus the added paranormal element of wolf shifters too. Nothing in the story is exactly as you would expect as-per the fairytale which I thought made it an even better read than some other, more traditional retellings.
The two main characters seemed well-suited. And the secondary characters were all interesting in their own right. I would like to go back and read the first books in the series to find out more about those characters now.
I would class this as a clean romance. There were no descriptive love scenes.
I received an ARC in return for my honest opinion.
November 28, 2023
Oh my goodness. I think this was my favorite book so far. I love beauty and the beast so I love the spin on it. I love how Belle wanted to sacrifice what she wanted in order to save Nathaniel. Their chemistry was undeniable. I love Belle’s and Nathaniel’s relationship as well. You could tell they cared for each other. I just can’t get over how amazing this story is. I still love how all the characters are still together even if the book only focuses on this one couple. I just loved this book and can’t really say more because it would spoil the book. I give this book a 5/5. I love this series and I have a feeling the rest of the books are going to be amazing and can’t wait to keep reading this series.
July 6, 2021
I really enjoyed reading Beastly Secrets: A Beauty and the Beast Retelling (Fairytales Reimagined Book 3) by Laura Burton and Jessie Cal because it was such a great retelling of the story Beauty and the Beast. I loved the story and the suspense and the romance in this retelling. I honestly didn't know what was going to happen and it kept me on the edge of my seat. I liked the romance between Belle and Nathaniel. It was slow and subtle, but it was there. I would highly recommend reading this story. I received a free book and am voluntarily choosing to leave this review. What a different way to look at the fairy tale of Beauty and the Beast.
August 14, 2021
I've read several books written by Laura Burton; she is becoming one of my favorite authors. I can’t wait to read more of her books.
This is the third book in the Fairytales Reimagined Series; the story is better if read in order. Belle is searching for the chemist that can cure her; she’s heard he is being held prisoner in a dungeon; when she finds him not only is he being held he is also the King of White Rose Kingdom, Nataniel; he has been presumed dead for five years and has lost all his memories.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the third book in the Fairytales Reimagined Series; the story is better if read in order. Belle is searching for the chemist that can cure her; she’s heard he is being held prisoner in a dungeon; when she finds him not only is he being held he is also the King of White Rose Kingdom, Nataniel; he has been presumed dead for five years and has lost all his memories.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
March 19, 2023
Found this author on TikTok, and I couldn’t have been happier!
This is my first read by her and I really enjoyed it! I love Disney twisted tales, and by far I believe hers are the best! (Although I might be a little biased because I’ve only read this one from her so far)
This time Belle is the Beast, and she’s looking for a cure. There’s a wolf terrorizing the city, all the more reason to find the cure.
I love that it’s intertwined with other “fairytales”. I read this as a stand alone book, because I didn’t know it was a series. I’d like to think that it’s perfect either way!
I really enjoyed it and now I’m getting ready to start Above the Sea by her!
This is my first read by her and I really enjoyed it! I love Disney twisted tales, and by far I believe hers are the best! (Although I might be a little biased because I’ve only read this one from her so far)
This time Belle is the Beast, and she’s looking for a cure. There’s a wolf terrorizing the city, all the more reason to find the cure.
I love that it’s intertwined with other “fairytales”. I read this as a stand alone book, because I didn’t know it was a series. I’d like to think that it’s perfect either way!
I really enjoyed it and now I’m getting ready to start Above the Sea by her!
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