Helpful Score: 4
This was a beautifully written book, full of flowing prose and vivid descriptions. Unfortunately, the flowing prose and vivid descriptions kept me from easily following the plot. I was really looking forward to reading this book, because I love Robin McKinley, and I loved Beauty (written 20+ years ago). To be honest, though, I still like Beauty much more than this version. While I enjoyed reading this book, I don't think she gave enough interaction between Beauty and the Beast to make me believe that they fell in love. I miss the Beauty who is a bookworm and has a beloved horse. I miss the helpful "ghosts" and Gervain and Melinda and the other characters. I miss an ending that I can really understand. Hmmmmm, I think I'll go read Beauty again.
