A review by lovinglyread
The Beast of Beswick by Amalie Howard

hopeful lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

There was something so fresh about this book, which may seem contradictory since it’s a Beauty and the Beast retelling. I think it was mostly because of Astrid’s character, how she balanced being a “gently bred lady” with being a fierce feminist and stubborn as heck. She acknowledges that she’s fit to be a duchess, with her upbringing and general disposition, but also shows herself to capable of handling herself in a variety of situations and challenges. Often in HRs we get one or the other. I thought the duke’s character was a little one-sided - we get it, he’s beastly and scarred - but I did like his growth throughout the novel. The steam was a little higher than I typically expect from historical romances but in the best way, it was really well done. The ending was corny, but that’s easily forgiven after all the characters went through to get to their HEA. 
 
Amalie Howard has a new fan in me after this novel. I plan to start the sequel ASAP! It was set up well in this novel.
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