Another charming fairytale retold through an inspirational lens. I happened to win this book in a blog drawing, but I was planning on buying it regardless. After reading 'The Healer's Apprentice', a take on Sleeping Beauty, I was more than a little curious to see how the author would handle one of my favorite stories. (The author's nod to the Disney version of the tale didn't go unnoticed, but wasn't overdone either. ^_^) 
 I've lost count of how many versions of Beauty and the Beast I've indulged in...enough to know I prefer it when the beastliness is spun from a less magical and more relatable angle. This book is no exception. The Beast is scarred both physically and mentally, and the author is careful to offer his backstory in palatable increments. I actually found it a bit refreshing that cruelty and shallow vanity weren't at the center of his former self. 
 I felt conflicted about Annabel for the first half of the book, as she seemed almost painfully frail, innocent and short-sighted initially. But in reminding myself of the conditions of the 14th century, and the corresponding repression of women, I decided that she was sufficiently courageous in her own way. That conclusion progressed to certainty as her character continued to develop as much, if not more, than her counterpart. 
 The faith aspects were interwoven cleanly, as the reading of a Latin translation of the bible (the only kind available during this time period) is integral to this particular retelling. Rather than walloping the reader over the head with it, the inclusion is unforced and logical. There is no attempt to redeem or smooth over the religious dogma of a certain misogynistic cleric, and the abuse of the general populace's ignorance is acknowledged. 
 A historical like this really draws to the forefront of my mind how fortunate we are, in this day and age, to have such easy and free access to books...especially the Bible. But perhaps that access is too easy, as so few bother taking advantage of reading much of anything--let alone scripture. More's the pity. 
 But, I digress. 
 All in all, this is a lovely book to curl up with--one that teen girls and adults alike can enjoy. ^_^