Beast: A Tale of Love and Revenge

In this compelling reimagining of “Beauty and the Beast,” Jensen integrates a new plot thread in the form of a third protagonist into the familiar fairy tale…Haunting language and lush descriptions (“the petals are long-dead; they have lost their bright color and velvety texture and curled into crisp, dry cinders…”) engage the senses, making this a memorable, worthy addition to the canon of “Beauty and the Beast” retellings.—Publishers Weekly (starred review)A fresh retelling of “Beauty and the Beast” with an interesting and meaningful plot twist.—Kirkus ReviewsThough based on a tale as old as time, Jensen’s new interpretation will cause readers and fairy-tale lovers to see it with fresh eyes.—Booklist OnlineThe prose, characterization, and plot development serve the story well and could provide enjoyably lush escapism for a teen reader.—BayViewsThis beautifully written, fresh reimagining of “Beauty and the Beast” finds new depths in the familiar fairy tale, exploring the nature of ugliness, the lie of the handsome exterior, the hidden beauty of the Beast.—Buffalo NewsIn a different take on this classic tale, Lucie is also enchanted and becomes Lumiere, the candelabra…The plot twists enough to keep things interesting.—School Library Connection

Lisa Jensen is the author of the adult novels Alias Hook and The Witch from the Sea. She is a longtime film critic and columnist for the alternative weekly Good Times, and she runs an arts and entertainment blog. She lives in Santa Cruz, California.