“Beauty and the Beast” is a timeless tale that has been retold in various forms and genres over the years. From classic fairy tales to modern retellings, there are countless interpretations of this beloved story. As a fan of this enchanting tale, I have compiled a list of the top ten “Beauty and the Beast” retellings that I am eager to read in English.
1. “Beastly” by Alex Flinn
This modern retelling of “Beauty and the Beast” follows the story of Kyle, a handsome and wealthy teenager who is transformed into a beast after a cruel prank. To break the curse, he must find true love before his 21st birthday. With a contemporary setting and a fresh take on the classic tale, “Beastly” promises to be a captivating read.
2. “A Court of Thorns and Roses” by Sarah J. Maas
In this fantasy retelling of “Beauty and the Beast,” protagonist Feyre is a huntress who kills a wolf in the woods, only to discover that the wolf was actually a faerie. As punishment, she is taken to the faerie realm and forced to live with the mysterious and dangerous High Lord, Tamlin. Filled with romance, intrigue, and magic, “A Court of Thorns and Roses” is a must-read for fans of the genre.
3. “Cruel Beauty” by Rosamund Hodge
In this dark and twisted retelling of “Beauty and the Beast,” protagonist Nyx is betrothed to the powerful and enigmatic ruler of her kingdom, Ignifex. As she struggles to navigate the treacherous court and uncover the secrets of her new husband, Nyx must confront her own dark desires and confront the shadows that lurk in the palace. With a lush and Gothic atmosphere, “Cruel Beauty” is a haunting and unforgettable read.
4. “Heart’s Blood” by Juliet Marillier
Set in medieval Ireland, “Heart’s Blood” follows the story of Caitrin, a young scribe who seeks refuge in the mysterious fortress of Whistling Tor. There, she encounters Anluan, the brooding and scarred chieftain who hides a dark secret. As Caitrin unravels the mysteries of Whistling Tor and faces ancient curses, she discovers that love and redemption can bloom in the most unexpected places.
5. “Romancing the Dark in the City of Light” by Ann Jacobus
In this contemporary retelling of “Beauty and the Beast,” protagonist Summer is a troubled teenager who moves to Paris to live with her wealthy and eccentric father. As she navigates the unfamiliar city and confronts her own demons, Summer meets Théo, a charming and enigmatic artist with a dark past. As their relationship deepens, Summer must confront her fears and embrace her own inner beauty.
6. “Beauty” by Robin McKinley
A classic retelling of “Beauty and the Beast,” this novel follows the story of Beauty, a kind and courageous young woman who sacrifices her own freedom to save her father. As she learns to navigate the enchanted castle and the mysteries within, Beauty discovers that true beauty lies within the heart. With lyrical prose and a timeless message, “Beauty” is a beloved and timeless tale.
7. “Uprooted” by Naomi Novik
In this fantasy retelling of “Beauty and the Beast,” protagonist Agnieszka is a young woman with a gift for magic who is chosen to serve the powerful and enigmatic Dragon. As she learns to harness her powers and confront the dark forces that threaten her village, Agnieszka discovers that her fate is entwined with the Dragon’s in ways she could never have imagined. With rich world-building and compelling characters, “Uprooted” is a captivating and immersive read.
8. “Enchantment” by Orson Scott Card
In this unique retelling of “Beauty and the Beast,” protagonist Ivan is a modern-day scholar who travels to Russia to research his family history. There, he encounters Katerina, a mysterious woman with a troubled past and a powerful secret. As Ivan delves deeper into the mysteries of Katerina’s past and confronts the ancient forces that threaten them both, he must embrace his own inner strength and confront his own fears. With a blend of history, folklore, and magic, “Enchantment” is a thought-provoking and memorable read.
9. “Hunted” by Meagan Spooner
In this atmospheric retelling of “Beauty and the Beast,” protagonist Yeva is a skilled huntress who tracks a mysterious creature to the heart of the enchanted forest. There, she encounters the Beast, a cursed prince who hides a dark secret. As Yeva navigates the treacherous woods and confronts her own desires, she discovers that love and redemption can bloom in the most unexpected places. With lush prose and haunting imagery, “Hunted” is a mesmerizing and unforgettable tale.
10. “Rose Daughter” by Robin McKinley
Another enchanting retelling of “Beauty and the Beast” by the beloved author Robin McKinley, “Rose Daughter” follows the story of Beauty, a kind and compassionate young woman who sacrifices her own happiness to save her family. As she navigates the enchanted castle and confronts the dark forces that threaten her world, Beauty discovers that true love and inner beauty are the keys to breaking the curse. With evocative prose and a timeless message, “Rose Daughter” is a stunning and unforgettable read.
In conclusion, “Beauty and the Beast” is a tale that continues to captivate readers of all ages and backgrounds. With its timeless themes of love, redemption, and inner beauty, this beloved story has inspired countless retellings in various genres and styles. From contemporary settings to historical worlds, these top ten retellings offer fresh perspectives and imaginative twists on the classic tale. With their compelling characters, lush settings, and haunting themes, these retellings promise to enchant and delight readers who are eager to immerse themselves in the magical world of “Beauty and the Beast.”