This was my first time reading this author, and I absolutely loved her Beauty and the Beast retelling. I’m already planning to check out more of her work. This story is a clean, closed-door romantic fantasy, no spice, no language, which I really appreciated.

I read this one in tandem with the Kindle Unlimited ebook and the audiobook from my Libby library app. The narrators did a wonderful job bringing the characters to life and keeping me engaged throughout. I especially appreciated the audiobook because there were quite a few unfamiliar words I might’ve stumbled over in print, so listening definitely helped with pronunciation and immersion.

The atmosphere in this story was beautifully crafted. I felt transported into a snowy, fairy-tale world, walking through the woods beside Yeva. The Russian folklore influence added a rich, mysterious layer to the story, something I haven’t encountered before in a fairytale retelling, and it made the setting feel both magical and haunting.

One of the most unique elements was the portrayal of the Beast. In this version, he shifts between man and beast, creating a hybrid form I haven’t seen in other retellings. That added an eerie, primal feel to his character. He doesn’t speak much, but his inner thoughts and motivations are powerfully conveyed. Yeva, on the other hand, is independent, brave, and deeply devoted to her family. I loved her strength and vulnerability, and the balance of her fierce determination with her compassion.

This is a slow-burn story in every sense. The beginning is especially slow, and at times, I grew a little impatient waiting for the plot to gain momentum. But once it did, I was completely swept up. The slow pacing actually worked in its favor by the end; it allowed for a deeper emotional payoff and a more meaningful journey.

The romance is subtle and restrained, but emotionally impactful. There’s not a lot of dialogue, but the descriptive writing and introspective narration more than made up for it. The castle-in-the-woods setting, the enchantment, and the introspective tone all came together to create something deeply atmospheric and moving.

What truly pushed this to a five-star read for me was the underlying message. This isn’t a light or fluffy Disney version of the tale. It’s thoughtful, immersive, and filled with deeper themes that stayed with me long after I finished. Some moments genuinely resonated and made me reflect. And that’s the kind of story I love most.

Highly recommend this beautifully written, richly atmospheric retelling, especially if you’re a fan of slow-burn fantasy with emotional depth and a fresh take on a classic favorite.