Rachel Kovaciny has released another novel in the Once upon a Western series! It's a completely reimagined take on Beauty & The Beast, and it utelizes all the required tropes but has enough depth and character to stand on it's own as well.
Marta doesn't want to believe the rumors that Mr. Wendell profited from another's tragedy to gain his wealth. Although his face bears terrible scars, she sees past them to his kind and generous heart. Still, she wonders why he never leaves his big house high in the Colorado mountains. Does he hide himself away because of his disfigured face, or because he has a guilty conscience?
My Rock and Refuge is a sweet and poignant take on Beauty & the Beast. It flips some of the more tired and well-used tropes and turns what is usually somewhat of a toxic relationship into an applaudable romance. There's a certain maturity to the characters, that I haven’t seen in other adaptations.
Marta is a delight. A sweet but strong character, who is determined to stand on her own. Her love of baking and unbreakable spirit won me over immediately. I like how her being an immigrant and unable to read is handled, and how it also afforded her traits that are usually attributed to the beast role. An interesting subversion I wasn’t expecting. I love the dynamic it created.
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| I was commissioned to do the character art. Hope you like them!! |
Arthur is far less abrasive and off-putting than the usual takes I’ve seen. He’s guarded and standoffish, but by all accounts, a gentleman if not a misunderstood one. His quiet nature is a good match to Marta’s exuberant one. I also like how they bond through the isolation they both feel due to their different situations.
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but despite that, I enjoyed this story immensely. The characters are so vibrant and their chemistry leaps off the page. If you're looking for a clean, well-written romance, this is the one.
It’s super cozy as well, it has all the trappings of a Ghibli film. Will have you craving fresh bread and apple pie. I recommended baking before you read.
Giveaway
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You can enter the giveaway here
If your not eligable for the giveaway there's also goodies if you buy the book at any point this month.
