Beastly Beauty By Jennifer Donnelly

Jennifer Donnelly presents a gender-swapped retelling of Beauty and the Beast in "Beastly," challenging notions of beauty, power, and love. Arabella defies society's expectations, her fiery spirit clashing with the conventional roles assigned to women. When a failed attempt to suppress her emotions results in a curse, Arabella finds herself trapped in a castle with her loved ones.

Years pass, and Arabella resigns herself to the curse, blaming herself for their plight. The only hope lies in breaking the curse with the love of a boy who sees her true self. Enter Beau, a thief seeking escape but thrust into the castle's mysterious atmosphere.

The captive servants believe Beau is the key to breaking the curse, but he remains wary, haunted by the castle's eerie presence and his skepticism toward love. Arabella and Beau must confront their inner demons and learn to trust each other's wounded hearts if they are to break free from the curse.

Donnelly crafts a dreamy and sublimely written tale that challenges stereotypes and celebrates individuality. Arabella's journey is one of self-discovery and resilience, while Beau learns to see beyond illusions and embrace vulnerability. Together, they navigate the complexities of love and forgiveness, confronting the prisons they've constructed for themselves.

"Beastly" explores themes of identity, acceptance, and the transformative power of love. Donnelly's revolutionary retelling offers a fresh perspective on a timeless tale, inviting readers to reconsider what it truly means to follow one's heart and embrace one's true self. 📚❤️