Little Beauty - A must read for fans of folklore and fairytales

Little Beauty by Mark Jonathan Runte is a captivating, magical fairytale mashup that reimagines classic archetypes. The narrative both honors and subverts these timeless stories, making it feels both fresh and familiar.

 

At its core, this is a story about love’s power to overcome adversity and bring redemption. Themes of loyalty, compassion, and belief shine through as characters rise above prejudice and societal expectations. The idea that goodness can prevail, even in the darkest times, is a central message, offering hope and inspiration throughout. The story also subtly weaves in a Christian message of "belief," emphasizing the strength of faith in overcoming challenges.

BookHookup review: Little Beauty

Runte’s storytelling is inventive and captivating, with fresh twists that keep the reader engaged. Unlike traditional fairytales, where villains like wicked stepmothers or evil witches are the main threats, Little Beauty reimagines the "wolf" character, transforming it into a compassionate and humble figure, adding unexpected depth to the narrative.

The characters are richly developed as Little Beauty revamps classic fairytale archetypes. Jehanne, the heroine, starts as a shy, self-contained young woman living in wolf form, under the cruelty of her sisters. Her transformation into a brave, loving figure is both moving and empowering, challenging the "damsel in distress" trope.

The hero, Perrin, likewise cursed and burdened by emotional baggage, adds layers of complexity to their compelling relationship. His flaws and struggles redefine the traditional "perfect prince." Mentors, helpers, and sidekicks play unique roles, adding further depth to the story while maintaining the essence of classic fairytales.

Together, their journey is one of healing, faith, and mutual growth. The narrative promotes values like charity, family loyalty, bravery, and the belief that goodness is its own reward. It reinforces the idea that love, faith, and inner beauty are more powerful than any curse or societal expectation.

This unique, refreshing story is a must-read for fans of folklore and fairytales. Little Beauty offers a new take on familiar tales, with depth, heart, and magic. Highly recommended for those who enjoy stories of redemption and transformative love. I’m happy to give it 5 out of 5 stars.

Desulti Review: A Journey of Empowerment and Intrigue

Ross Hightower and Deb Heim have crafted a world that feels both vast and intimately personal, skillfully interwoven with themes of history, politics, art, and the stark contrasts of wealth and power. At the heart of this world is Tove, whose face bears a brutal scar—a constant reminder of the Vollen Empire’s tyranny. A chance encounter with Brie, a Desulti assassin, awakens a hunger in Tove to rise above the limitations of her past and prove herself. When Brie offers her a chance to join the secretive order of women known as the Desulti, Tove believes she’s found an opportunity for empowerment. Yet, as she becomes further entangled in the order, she begins to question whether she is truly in control of her fate or merely a pawn in a dangerous scheme that could end her life and destroy the Alle'oss rebellion.

Tove’s emotional growth is the heartbeat of the story, lending it a depth and resonance that lingers. At the beginning, her spirit bears the invisible scars of abuse, leaving her vulnerable and cautious. But beneath her fragility lies a quiet defiance, a spark of strength waiting to emerge. As the journey unfolds, she reclaims her voice and confidence, transforming from a shattered woman into one who learns to fight for herself. The challenges and conflicts she faces force her to confront her flaws, broaden her perspective, and make difficult decisions. Through these hardships and moments of self-discovery, Tove unearths a steady, quiet determination—a strength that, once hidden, now refuses to be ignored. This inner resilience allows her to weather any storm, rising from the ashes of her past and embracing the force she was always meant to become.

 

 BookHookup Review: Desulti

While the world-building can initially feel overwhelming, it eventually unfolds into a richly textured landscape that draws the reader deeper into the story. The layers of political intrigue, personal ambition, and shifting allegiances create a constantly evolving narrative, keeping the reader engaged and guessing what will come next. As Tove grows, so too does the world around her, intertwining her personal evolution with the shifting tides of a complex society on the brink of change.

Although there are moments where the complexity of the world-building, multiple plot threads, and large cast of characters might feel overwhelming, the emotional and character-driven core of the story—especially Tove’s transformation—keeps the reader engaged. This is a story that thrives on depth and growth, making it a rewarding read, even with its intricate layers.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.

 

As BookHookup, I am a longtime book reviewer. I received a free review copy of this book from Black Phoenix Book Tours and have not received compensation for reviewing or recommending it. Some links in this post are affiliate links. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to amazon.com and affiliate sites