I really loved reading more about Maurice and the life before Belle. It was what kept me intrigued in the book when it was quoting scenes from the movie. Those weren’t my favorite scenes because I felt the author was being hidden behind the Disney movie and her writing style and story was so much MORE. About halfway through- it mostly stops quoting the moving and it gives a broader picture. You get to see personalities come forward and I enjoy the truly dark aspects that she added. The murder, the betrayal, and the burden left to the next generation is something I think makes this story stand apart from the movie. It also answers questions like the painting and why it isn’t of an 11 year old and why chip is still five years old.

Overall, I think this author did a good job and I’m interested in reading more by her. She has a great writing style and I’m curious to see something original from her.