It’s 1789 and France is on the brink of revolution. Belle has finally broken the Enchantress’s curse, restoring the Beast to his human form and bringing life back to their castle in the province of Aveyon. But in Paris, the fires of change are burning, and it’s only a matter of time before the rebellion arrives on their doorstep.
Not so very long ago, Belle dreamed of leaving her provincial home for a life of adventure. But now she finds herself living in a palace, torn between her past as a commoner, and her future as royalty. While Belle grapples with her newfound position, there are those who would do anything to keep her from power.
When she stumbles across a magic mirror that holds a dire warning, Belle wants nothing more than to ignore the mysterious voice calling her to accept a crown she never desired. But violent factions of the revolution may already be lurking within her own castle, and doing nothing would endanger everything she holds dear. With the fate of her country, her love, and her life at stake, Belle must decide if she is ready to embrace her own strength--and the magic that ties her to so many female rulers before her--to become the queen she is meant to be.
Rebel Rose is the first in the Queen's Council series, an empowering fairy tale reimagining of the Disney Princesses-and the real history behind their stories-like you've never seen before.
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Rating: 3 Stars
My Review: "Rebel Rose" by Emma Theriault offers readers a fresh and imaginative retelling of the classic tale of "Beauty and the Beast," focusing on the story of Belle's early days at the palace and her journey to reclaim her agency and independence. The novel explores themes of duty, identity, and the power of love in a richly imagined historical setting.
Theriault's writing captures the enchanting atmosphere of the original story, with lush descriptions and evocative prose that transport readers to the opulent world of 18th-century France. The novel's exploration of Belle's character is intriguing, offering insights into her background, motivations, and relationships with other characters. The supporting cast, including familiar faces from the original tale and new additions, adds depth and complexity to the narrative.
However, while the premise is promising, the execution of the plot can be uneven at times. The pacing is slow in parts, with the story taking its time to build momentum and fully engage the reader. Some plot developments feel predictable or lack the emotional depth needed to resonate with readers. Additionally, certain aspects of the world-building, such as the magical elements introduced later in the story, may feel underdeveloped or tacked on.
The characterizations, while interesting, could also have been more fully realized. Belle's journey of self-discovery is compelling, but some of the supporting characters feel like caricatures rather than fully fleshed-out individuals. The romantic subplot, while sweet, lacks the depth and chemistry needed to truly captivate readers.
Despite these shortcomings, "Rebel Rose" is a decent addition to the world of "Beauty and the Beast" retellings. Emma Theriault's reimagining of Belle's story offers a fresh perspective on a beloved tale, with moments of charm and intrigue that will appeal to fans of historical fantasy. While it may not fully deliver on its potential, it's a solid read that showcases Theriault's talent as a storyteller.
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