4.5 stars!! Great world-building, fantastic characters, a dangerous beast, and the Princess' hand at stake all make for a great adventure...Ms. Higgins does it again! 
 What is it about how Wendy Higgins writes her characters that makes me fall under their spells every time? Maybe it's that she makes sure they're strong, smart and steadfast. These characters, no matter their history, background, or struggles, are able to be generous and caring and true. I was in awe of their ability to stay faithful to what was expected of them in such a difficult situation but was also glad to see their ability to maintain their humor and kindness. So, as you may have guessed by now, I loved all the characters in this story...the brave and sassy Princess Aerity, the strong and swoony Paxton (he's yummy and I think I'll keep him!), their feisty siblings, Vixie and Tiern, and the rest of the family, and, of course, the crazy band of hunters who come out to kill the beast. I loved that there were secondary stories that, as a reader, I cared about. The feelings in those stories were just as important to me as the main focus of Aerity, Pax and the beast. 
 I hadn't read the Grimm Brothers' tale before starting this book so I wasn't sure what to expect beyond the synopsis but I was so pleased to see such a multi-layered story filled with adventure and romance. And, speaking of romance, it was a slow burn. Paxton really didn't care for marriage and only wanted to kill the beast to protect others and help his family. Aerity wanted to marry for love - not because someone wins her hand in a contest. So neither could have imagined that they'd find a connection (and one of them was slow on the uptake...coughPaxcough) but, once they realized it, the fires burned strong. Now, I really could have used some more smooching because I love kissing as much as I love love. I know why I didn't get it, but I'm hoping book 2 will be full of smooches!! 
 The bottom line is that this is more than a story of killing a beast and winning a princess' hand...this is story of opening yourself up to others, sharing secrets and being brave, living up to the responsibilities set before you, and taking the risk of exposing your heart. I can't wait to see how this story ends...but until I have the second book in my hands, my heart will hold strong to one truth...Pax and Aerity belong together!! 
 I would absolutely recommend this book! This is a great beginning to an epic fantasy! These characters will get under your skin and into your heart, and this first installment will definitely leave you wanting more!!