Of Beast and Beauty

Stacey Jay

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'Of Beast and Beauty' by Stacey Jay is a unique retelling of Beauty and the Beast set in a dystopian world where two conflicting groups, the Smooth Skins and the Monstrous, struggle to coexist on a planet with a curse that could either unite or destroy them. The story follows Princess Isra, a blind queen, and Gem, a Monstrous boy, as they navigate their complex relationship amidst secrets, lies, and societal divides. The book combines elements of science fiction and fantasy, with a mix of romance, folklore, and world-building that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

The narrative of 'Of Beast and Beauty' alternates between beautiful writing that delves into wondrous legends and plain storytelling that focuses on the evolving relationship between Isra and Gem. Readers are taken on a journey filled with plot twists, character development, and a blend of magical and dystopian elements that create a captivating and original retelling of a classic fairy tale. Stacey Jay's writing style immerses readers in a world where nothing is as it seems, exploring themes of prejudice, sacrifice, and the complexities of love in a visually rich and emotionally engaging manner.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed with distinct motivations; the main leads undergo significant growth while facing personal and societal challenges.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is lyrical and immersive, enhancing the emotional depth of the story while developing a vividly described world.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot combines elements of fairy tales and science fiction, featuring a curse that binds opposing groups and highlights the themes of love overcoming prejudice and societal divides.

Setting:

The setting alternates between prosperous domed cities and a harsh desert, enriched with magical elements that drive the plot.

Pacing:

The pacing varies, starting slowly before picking up significantly, especially in the latter half of the book.

THE city is beautiful tonight. I can tell by the smells drifting through Needle’s open window—the last of the autumn flowers clinging to their stalks, their perfume crisper and cleaner than the summer...

Notes:

The book combines elements of fairy tales, science fiction, fantasy, and romance.

It features a unique world where humans arrived on another planet and split into two groups: the Smooth Skins and the Monstrous.

The cursed world created by The Pure Heart and The Dark Heart represents a struggle between good and evil forces.

The protagonist, Isra, is a blind princess facing the expectation of becoming a sacrifice to save her city.

Gem, a Monstrous warrior, is captured and forced to help Isra but eventually grows to care for her, complicating their relationship.

The story emphasizes themes of prejudice, sacrifice, and the power of love to break curses.

Much of the conflict arises from the divisions and misconceptions between the Smooth Skins and the Monstrous.

Stacey Jay's writing is noted for its beautiful and lyrical prose, engaging readers emotionally throughout the story.

The book is described as having strong character development, particularly for the main characters, Gem and Isra.

There is a significant focus on world-building, with detailed cultures and histories for both the Smooth Skins and the Monstrous.

The narrative alternates between the perspectives of Isra and Gem, providing an in-depth exploration of their thoughts and feelings.

The romance is portrayed as slow-building and realistic rather than superficial, with genuine emotional stakes involved.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

The book includes themes of sacrifice, prejudice, and emotional trauma, which may be sensitive for some readers.

Has Romance?

The romance between the main characters is a central element, filled with emotional depth and development.

implied steam level

From The Publisher:

What if Beauty became the Beast? Discover a new angle on the classic fairytale in this fantasy retelling that's perfect for anyone who can't get enough of Beauty and the Beast.

In the city of Yuan, the blind Princess Isra is raised to be a human sacrifice. Her death will ensure her city's vitality.

In the desert, a mutant beast named Gem fights to save his people, known as the Monstrous, from starvation.

Neither dreams that, together, they can return balance to their worlds.

When Gem is captured for trying to steal Yuan's enchanted roses, he becomes a prisoner of the city. Isra enlists his help, and soon begins to care for him-and to question everything she has been brought up to believe. . . .

"Engrossing tale . . . [an] intense love story." -Kirkus Reviews

"The bones of the classic Beauty and the Beast story are all here, imaginatively fleshed out with tropes from science fiction, fantasy, and even political drama." -The Bulletin, Recommended

"Jay's characters are well-realized . . . [the] setup is intriguing and her writing assured." -Publishers Weekly

"Revelations and plot twists keep the action flowing and romance growing. . . . A satisfying read for fans of romantic fantasy." -School Library Journal

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Of Beast and Beauty?

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About the Author:

STACEY JAY is the author of the popular Juliet Immortal and Romeo Redeemed and several other books for young adults. She lives in California with her family.

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