To Love a Beast (Once Upon a Time in Texas, #1) by Karen Witemeyer

 

Beauty & the Beast in 1800's Texas.

Once known among New York's elite as the American Adonis, Everett Griffin now lives as a recluse in the wilds of Texas. The treachery of a former admirer left his face and his spirit riddled with scars, so he hides himself away, his only companions a trio of trusted servants and an oversized dog. Locals whisper of the beastly man who lives in the gloomy manor outside of town and his tendency to attack anyone who dares approach. Everett relishes his fearsome reputation and uses it as a shield to guard his privacy. Until a young woman as stubborn as she is beautiful infiltrates his sanctum and lays siege to his defenses.

When an injury to her father jeopardizes the family's book binding business, Callista Rosenfeld determines to fulfill the contract herself, and no insufferable client or woman-eating dog will deter her. Finding unlikely allies among Mr. Griffin's staff, Callista secures her position and sets to work transforming the manor's remarkable library. Her employer transforms as well, his ill-tempered growls subsiding to reveal a considerate, intellectual nature. Affection blooms as Callista and Everett discover hidden depths in each other, but the evil schemes of a vengeful hunter threaten to leave their love and their lives in tatters.

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About The Author

 For those who love to smile as they read, bestselling author Karen Witemeyer offers warmhearted historical romance with a flair for humor, feisty heroines, and swoon-worthy Texas heroes. Voted #1 Readers' Favorite Christian Historical Author in 2023 by Family Fiction Magazine, Karen is a multiple award-winning author and a firm believer in the power of happy endings. She is an avid cross-stitcher, tea drinker, and family board game player who makes her home in Abilene, TX with her heroic husband who vanquishes laundry dragons and dirty dish villains whenever she's on deadline. Learn more about Karen and her books at www.karenwitemeyer.com.

 

My Review

 I really enjoyed this quick read, a page turner from beginning to end. From high society in the 400 hundred to the working people in Texas.
The old say of "beauty is in the eye of the beholder" does come to mind, actually for both of the main characters.
Was surprised at the violence that happened in the beginning of this book, and the self loathing! Justice? We do find out what happens, and I loved the twists!
We are given a young woman who bravely goes to do a job that people expect men to do, she is helping her father, and arrives with huge trunks at her destination. Loved the greeting she received, at first, but also loved how the staff accepted and embraced her.
We are given danger, artistic talent, and a bit of sweet romance!
I received this book through Celebrate Lit, and was not required to give a positive review.