Release Day Review: Taming the Beast by Andrew Grey (Giveaway)

Title: Taming the Beast
Author: Andrew Grey
Release Date: October 13, 2017
Category: Contemporary
Pages: 200

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The suspicious death of Dante Bartholomew’s wife changed him, especially in the eyes of the residents of St. Giles. They no longer see a successful businessman… only a monster they believe was involved. Dante’s horrific reputation eclipses the truth to the point that he sees no choice but to isolate himself and his heart.

The plan backfires when he meets counselor Beau Clarity and the children he works with. Beau and the kids see beyond the beastly reputation to the beautiful soul inside Dante, and Dante’s cold heart begins to thaw as they slip past his defenses. The warmth and hope Beau brings to Dante’s life help him see his entire existence—his trials and sorrows—in a brighter light.

But Dante’s secrets could rip happiness from their grasp… especially since someone isn’t above hurting those Dante has grown to love in order to bring him down.

5 Stars

Dante Bartholomew is a recluse. A successful business owner, he is looked on as a monster after the suspicious death of his wife 3 years prior. With his reputation overshadowing the truth Dante has no other option but to stay away from the town of St. Giles.

Beau Clarity works as a counselor and recognizes the signs of families that struggle with mental health and substance abuse. All signs that Dante exhibits. But Beau and the amazing children he counsels see the beauty and love inside Dante. Beau wants to help him break free of his past, but Dante has deeply guarded secrets and guilt that has crushed his spirit. Letting his secrets out may hurt others, but keeping them inside will destroy Dante's chance with Beau.

Dante is a beautifully broken man. I really feel his pain, heartache and eventually, his love come across. In order to heal and live again, Dante has to have a person that is strong enough to stand up to his anger and gentle enough to ease his guilt without judgment. Beau is the only type of person that can understand what Dante has been through and help him cope. His gentle love lifts Dante up and helps the whole town see the wonderful man inside.
I love the way Roberts, Harriet, bobby and all the children help Dante see himself differently. The overtures to Beauty and the Beast are there and yet this story stands on its own merits. I highly recommend this book!!

*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Dreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***

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