Wow. Wow. Wow.
This retelling of Beauty and the Beast was fabulous. Perhaps one of my favourite stories of 2024 so far! Rachel Fordham brought the classic tale to life in 1903 Iowa, through Sadie West and Otis Taylor’s tale.
Sadie is working hard to help her family keep their farm after an accident renders her father unable to walk. But her life is difficult and what little money she has, she sends home, sacrificing her own comforts. She finds shelter in an abandoned factory, with only a curious dog for a friend.
Otis Taylor reluctantly returns home after he learns of his inheritance, but is chased by the past as he steps foot back in his childhood home. Scarred from treatments for an ailment as a child, he avoids stepping out in public and covers his face from prying eyes.
Emotions run deep in this story, tugging at the reader’s heartstrings with every turn of the page. Self-sacrifices, grand gestures, and heartwarming moments pepper the pages of this turn-of-the-century story.
Readers will fall in love with Otis Taylor – seeing past his physical scars – as he learns to trust and love someone who cares deeply for him in return.
The faith aspect of the story sticks to brief mentions of faith, but still, hope is woven through the text.
Yeah. This was a fantastic read. One I’ll read again.
I received an ecopy from the publisher through Net Galley. All opinions expressed are my own. ( )

A charming, tender historical romance set in the Gilded Age. The citizens of Monticello, Iowa anticipate the return of a mysterious bachelor whose family fortunes helped build the town. A small town girl whose father is ill brings unexpected joy to the recluse.

This delightful story has characters who tug on your heart strings and brings hope that none of us are lost causes. I liked how Sadie seemed to find a bright side to her difficult situation, seeks to help Otis come out of his shell and see how God still had a purpose for him.
The author does a good job bringing real facts from history and spins them into a lovely story. Reminiscent of a Beauty and the Beast type plot, yet with unique twists.
Enjoyable reading, with a satisfying ending. Should be fine for teens and up. 4.5 stars

(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.) ( )