Fantastic story and narration

Grace Draven can literally do no wrong in my reader's eyes considering this is third book by her that I've 5 starred. This was a twisty, sinister, magical, loose interpretation of Beauty and the Beast. I'll actually take this version over my favourite Disney film, so this is high praise.

Ballard is the beast, but not in the way you might envisage before dipping your toe into this book. The curse, the beast-incarnate is both sinister and attractive. There is clever mastery in Draven's ability to create supposed unattractive even revolting men and she then doesn't make them handsome to sort the ugliness out, she makes their character, the inside, something so compelling and desirable. Ballard did 'it' for me, it's that simple.

"Wife of my soul."

Lou was a funny woman, half-shrew, yet noble, full of integrity with fierce, fierce love. I came to admire her hugely. This book was peppered left and right with amazing side characters of differing importance, Ambrose, Gavin, Cinnia and more.

I feel like the magic in this book was a character in itself. It scared me in it's evil intent. It's use of nature and Ballard's body set a shivering context. The chapter beginning illustrations just enhanced everything, they were excellent.

I need to own this book in paperback. I will read it again. I think this author is most fabulous and I love her writing for her men, her humour, the bite of sarcasm and complex but inviting stories. All hail Draven!

Re-read by audio Oct 2019, such a excellent experience in audio with superb single POV narration. I loved it as much second time around.

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3 people found this helpful

Love it

The first book I read by Grace Draven was Radiance, how much I liked it, now I have read 3 books and this audio and I really liked it. Fantastic characters, humor and plot enough to keep you curious.



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Beautiful

I read this book a few years ago and loved it.
Grace Draven is an exceptional author her work is always original and extremely heartwarming.
A great performance from the narrator. She has that britsh accent which really makes the story more engaging.

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BRILLIANT!!

Grace Draven has become my new go to author!! This is an amazing book with strong characters. Yes you could say it’s a ‘beauty and the beast’ novel but it is an adult version all day long!!! All the characters were interesting and had great depth! Not a dull moment in the book!!! Off to buy another book belonging to this author! This book is seriously worth a credit or a purchase! Best book I have listened to In months!!! Well done!!

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