I have read many retellings of Beauty and the Beast, but this is the first time I've read a continuation of the story. Emma Theriault did an excellent job weaving fantasy and historical fiction to create this magical book. As you read, you become as conflicted as Belle in who to trust and what's the best decision. I can only imagine how difficult it would be to be in a leadership position and only knowing one other person within your new world. I liked how Theriault included many of the characters we know from the original story and incorporated the historical figures of King Louis and Marie Antoinette. Often times, I feel that books in a series don't have proper endings. That was not the case with Rebel Rose. Even though this is the first in a series, it's ending left me with enough closure that many other books lack. This was a quick and enjoyable read. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys fairytale retellings, fantasy and historical fiction.

If you loved the Disney story of Beauty and the Beast, this is a good tale about what happens after their happy ending. What do you do when you've fallen in love with and married your captor? This story introduces new characters, one of whom is a walking red flag (or maybe the whole red flag factory). Sadly, Belle overlooks so many red flags, you have to assume that she's colorblind. Very predictable, but Beauty and the Beast fans should like it.

"Cogsworth raised his brow. 'I do not think an agent of the revolution would pass Mrs. Potts's scrutiny nor meet her standards.'"

4.5 stars

I can't wait for November 2020 when everyone will be discussing this lovely new book! Author Emma Theriault did a magical job with this retelling. Theriault neatly weaves her own story into the "Beauty and the Beast" classic. The writing is eloquent, imaginative, gorgeous, and wholly impressive. The only reason I didn't give this book five stars is because I wish there would be a sequel and I wanted the book to be even longer! However, there is something to be said for an impressive standalone novel, those are pretty rare. Some of my favorite aspects of this novel was Belle and Adam's relationship, the worldbuilding of Aveyon, the incorporation of magic, the diverse characters, and the nods to the Disney classic.

Okay, I have to start with Belle and Adam's relationship. Their dynamic is GOALS! Theriault depicted the couple's relationship exactly as I imagined it would be post-curse. Belle and the Beast are my favorite Disney couple so I had high expectations. Theriault did not disappoint! Adam is so supportive and thoughtful, even when Belle and he don't agree on everything. They balance each other out so well! #couplegoals Also, I loved how Theriault handled worldbuilding in this novel. The castle and the village from the original Disney movie were explored more and in great depth. I could picture every little location clearly in my head. The background of the curse and how magic continued to be present in this novel was another wonderful part of the plot. The scenes between Belle and the enchantress were so intriguing! This book explored so many unexpected aspects of the original "Beauty and the Beast" tale.

The moments that made me emotional was whenever Belle or another character references their past. Belle and Adam deal with their mental health issues post-curse, Belle has a heart-to-heart talk with Mrs. Potts about how to be strong and even LeFou showing up in the last 100 pages was exciting. Speaking of LeFou, I love how his new story turns out; even better than I expected! One final thought: I respect the way Theriault included a diverse cast of characters in this story. One of the new characters we meet is black and gay and beautiful! In this case, the new character comes out and the other characters treat the situation like its no big deal. This was handled so well; their identity was acknowledged and then the character went back to their work and doing what they loved. There are several other new characters with a similar situation, and this was an added bonus to an already magnificent novel.

As an avid lover of Beauty and the Beast, I was super excited to read this book. It didn't disappoint!

This was such a creative, interesting concept! I love the idea of depicting Disney princesses in their real historical contexts. Belle is one of my favorite princesses from childhood and I like the idea that she would be bridging the gap between royalty and the people during the French revolution. At times, it could get a little weighed down with detailed conversations about the revolution/not a lot of action, but people interested in the history side will stay engaged. Overall, I enjoyed and would be excited to read more in this series!

This book was received as an ARC from Disney-Hyperion in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.

i am the biggest beauty and the beast fan and have read many adaptations of the story and versions of its sequel. The conflict, drama and struggle Belle went through while living with Prince Adam (Beast) and forcing to give up her commoner past living with her father in the village has been a problem that not even Belle can resolve. When the Castle is still invaded with people from the village, Belle has to make a choice even though she still wants more than this provincial life. i could not help but fall in love with this book from beginning to end. This was such a fun take on a classic tale and I know our teen book club will have a field day discussing this book.

We will consider adding this title to our YA collection at our library. This is why we give this book 5 stars.

I did not finish reading this book because it was too political and predictable. It has a similar plot and characters to So This is Love but without the charm. The Belle character did not fit the beloved persona so well known. Lastly, there was too much dialogue and not enough action or characterization.

Thanks for the arc.

This is such a good read and a great adaptation of what happens to Belle, the Beast (Prince Adam) and their people after she breaks the spell. I love how they interweave what is going on in France during 1789, since there is turmoil and the beginnings of the French Revolution and how it effects Belle, Adam and their people. Belle learning that even though she may still believe that she is a commoner, she is so much more and needs to take her place in the world in order to help Adam and her people thrive, survive and do better.
I really enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend it to anyone.

A very cleverly written book about the-after-the-happily-ever-after, Rebel Rose takes on the daunting task of keeping up the relationship between Belle and former Beast, now prince, Adam. Theriault examines their struggles truthfully and without judgment, so it's a pleasure to see them acknowledge the mental trauma of the curse, their change in power dynamics, and the ongoing French Revolution. That being said, the book isn't too heavy and Belle's determined optimism to make the world a better place lifts the book and gives it that Disney feeling even when dealing with serious topics. A strong start to a really interesting concept.

With detail and poise, we are transported to a fully-rendered fantasy world. I would gladly add this book to my reading list for young readers — and enjoyed it as an adult.