A Tale of Beauty and Beast by Melanie Cellier is a delightful twist on the classic fairy tale with a modern and unique spin. In this retelling, we follow the story of Isabelle, a young woman who finds herself in a situation similar to that of the original Beauty and the Beast.

Isabelle is a bookish and independent-minded young woman who is known for her beauty, but also for her intelligence and quick wit. When her father is captured by a mysterious Beast, she bravely offers herself as a prisoner in his place. However, instead of finding herself in a dreary castle, she discovers a luxurious and enchanting palace filled with magical creatures.

As she spends more time in the palace, Isabelle begins to uncover the secrets of the Beast and the curse that plagues him. She soon realizes that there is much more to the Beast than meets the eye and that his rough exterior hides a kind and noble heart. As their relationship deepens, Isabelle must confront her own fears and insecurities in order to break the curse and find true love.

Melanie Cellier does a fantastic job of breathing new life into this classic tale, creating a rich and immersive world that is both familiar and fresh. The characters are well-developed and engaging, with Isabelle serving as a strong and relatable protagonist. The romance between Isabelle and the Beast is beautifully written, with moments of tension, humor, and genuine emotion.

One of the highlights of A Tale of Beauty and Beast is the way that Cellier explores themes of inner beauty and true love. The book challenges traditional notions of beauty and encourages readers to look beyond appearances and see the goodness within. The story also emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and inner strength, as Isabelle learns to embrace her own worth and value.

Overall, A Tale of Beauty and Beast is a charming and enchanting retelling of a beloved fairy tale. With its engaging characters, well-crafted plot, and themes of love and self-acceptance, this book is sure to captivate readers of all ages. Fans of fairy tale retellings and romance will not want to miss this delightful and heartfelt story.