The Beast Within, A Tale of Beauty’s Prince by Serena Valentino

A review by Emma Streeton

A cursed prince sits alone in a secluded castle. Few have seen him, but those who claim they have say his hair is wild and nails are sharp – like a beast’s! But how did this prince, once jovial and beloved by the people, come to be a reclusive and bitter monster? And is it possible that he can ever find true love and break his curse?

This is the second title in the Dark Villains series that reworks the original tales examining how the iconic Disney villains turned bad. Beauty and the Beast is one of my favorite Disney stories which I have enjoyed countless times with my bookworms. Needless to say I was keen to give this next installment by Valentino a go.

I admit I was a little hesitant as for me the villain spot was always reserved for Gaston. Never viewing the Beast as the storyline’s bad guy, I worried Valentino would portray him from a less sensitive viewpoint than he perhaps deserved. The Beast Within promptly quashed my fears. Valentino’s incredible story telling quickly swept me away.

Transition

Valentino expertly reveals the Beast’s transition from the Prince he was and gradually weaves her story into the tale that we already know and love. I absolutely loved the back story she presents to the reader and I do not feel it takes anything away from the original, it only adds to it.

The verdict

If you enjoyed The Fairest of All, do not miss out on this one. It is a follow-up that does not disappoint. Serena Valentino put a magical twist on the story, with familiar characters and new ones too. As appears to be Valentino’s style, she provides the reader with an enchanting narrative, taking the original plot and creating a whole new and fresh story.

Wow. I already reviewed The Beast Within before I gave it to Emma. I’m really pleased she reviewed it anyway. Emma gives a completely different perspective! – Editor

Book details

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
ISBN10: 1474840817
ISBN13: 9781474840811
Imprint: Paper Rocket (Parragon), distributed by Scholastic Australia
Format: Paperback, 224 pages
Category: young adult, romance, For ages 12-17