**There may be a spoiler or two in this review** 
 I've got to be honest: I've given up on most romance novels, mostly because they're become trite and boring lately. At least for me. When I was asked by the author if I would read and review the book, I was a little hesitant. One, because I absolutely ADORE Beauty and the Beast. Two, I was worried it would just be another "meh" sort of romance. I tentatively accepted the review request, finished the book I was currently reading, and dove in, hoping for the best. Boy, am I glad I did. 
 Beauty of the Beast is a retelling (obviously) of the Beauty and the Beast story. It's a slow-burn romance that will make you race through the pages, quivering in sensual delight, as you wait anxiously to see if Isabelle and Adam, the two main characters, can find their happily ever after. 
 The story starts off in a pretty unexpected way. It's a bit dark, and it sort of sets the tone for a little later on. There's also a scene in the book that involves sexual assault, so just know that this book is not a happy Disney-esque story. It's harsh and unrelenting, but there is also a glimmer of hope. Trust me; it's definitely well worth a read. 
 Character-wise, I really liked Isabelle. She was a little passive in the beginning, even though she tries not to be. She's very protective of her ill father, but at the same time, doesn't do much to keep her evil step-sisters from bothering him constantly. It isn't until she makes a bold decision that her character starts to develop a backbone. And when she meets Adam, she turns into a very aggressive woman, but not aggressive in a bad way. She just knows what she wants, and she refuses to back down. 
 Adam is a strange one. He's a reclusive man who only has a dog as a companion. he does have a friend who visits from time-to-time, but even he isn't seen much until later on in the story. When Adam and Isabelle meet, Adam is a bit cruel. Over time, though, his cold heart starts to thaw. 
 On the other end of the spectrum, you have characters you will absolutely abhor. Like Isabelle's fiance, his father, and Isabelle's step-sisters. They're all awful people, but her step-sisters are the least awful of them all. 
 Plot-wise, the story moves along at a nice pace without dragging or becoming boring. It's a slow build sort of story, and the romance isn't some insta-love, which has become the norm in romance novels nowadays. It's a sizzling slow-burn that has a lot of intensity, a lot of tension, and a release that, once it happens, leaves you an oozing puddle of happy goo. I was practically melting in my seat when I finished the book. 
 As a hopeless romantic myself, this is the type of love story I love to read. Not only did Beauty of the Beast exceed my expectations, it did justice to the story it was based on. It had an amazing plot, fantastic characters who were fully developed and had flaws, and a romance that scorched my very soul. Loved it! 
 I highly recommend Beauty of the Beast to fans of fairy tales, unique retellings, and romance novels that will leave you breathless. 4.5 stars from me!