Beauty is the second instalment in the Tales from the Kingdom series, a collection of dark fantasy romance books that feature new takes on classic fairytales. The story centres on a handsome prince setting out on his first quest, a cursed kingdom, and a beautiful sleeping girl. What begins is a classic tale of heroism and love, but not all is as it seems in the castle, and this fairytale soon takes a dark turn. I liked the twists on the original stories, but I do wish the book was longer as I managed to read it in one sitting. I would recommend Beauty to fans of the TV show Once Upon A Time who would be interested in a darker, more mature version.

*Thank you to the publisher for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review*

Wow. Having read the first book, I dived straight into this second book, which almost has shades of sleeping beauty but also shades of beauty and the beast. Done very differently. I'd highly recommend you read the first book magic before reading this as whilst not connected you can see some links starting to form between the two series.

This book is beautifully written and really does take everything you know about certain fairytales and turn them on their head. Almost like an adult version of. I don't want to give spoilers but there's a few spicy scenes in the book and also some shades of little red riding hood.

Such a delightful book and I read it really quickly! Now onto the next!

This series is my first from this author (after they were on my radar for a very long time) but definitely not my last! A very different take on the fairy tales we know so well, this time with a darker edge.

Beauty is the second in the Tales from the Kingdom series, this time focusing on Sleeping Beauty.

Again, incorporating elements from other well-known fairytales, it follows the handsome Prince on his quest to find a lost castle. Deep inside the castle, and deep in an external slumber only to be awakened by true loves kiss, is Beauty. The Prince is only too happy to oblige, but as there is more uncovered around the curse, he is soon wondering if it was the best thing to do!

This dark twist on these popular stories is so well done, with the characters that we all know and grew up with in more realistic roles. Can't wait to get stuck into the next one!

Thank you NetGalley and Orion Publishing Group for this eCopy to review

Beauty is the 2nd novel in Sarah Pinborough's Tales from the Kingdom series, dark retelling of classic fairy tales. This instalment focuses on Sleeping Beauty.

The story begins with a handsome prince who sets out on a quest to find a lost castle. His journey leads him to a city cursed into eternal slumber. Within this city lies a beautiful princess, trapped in a deep sleep, who can only be awakened by true love’s kiss. However, as the prince delves deeper into the mystery, he discovers that the curse is more complex than it seems, involving dark magic and hidden secrets.

The characters are wonderfully developed, each with their own motives and backstories that add depth to the tale. The prince is not just a charming hero; he has his own flaws and struggles, making him a relatable and compelling character. The princess, too, is more than just a damsel in distress. Her story is intertwined with elements of Beauty and the Beast, Red Riding Hood, and Rapunzel, adding layers of intrigue and complexity.

What I loved most about this book was the writing style. Pinborough’s prose is both beautiful and haunting, perfectly capturing the dark and magical atmosphere of the story. The pacing is excellent, with just the right balance of action, suspense, and romance. The plot twists kept me guessing, and the ending was both satisfying and thought-provoking.

Beauty is a must-read for anyone who enjoys fairy tale retellings with a dark twist. Pinborough has created a world that is both familiar and refreshingly new, making this book a standout in the genre.

This is the second book in the series and it is an sensational retelling of sleeping beauty.
Beauty is a amazing story with characters that have been so cleverly developed, it is great to read a disney retelling for adults each book in this series is thoroughly enjoyable.

I absolutely adore this series of reimagined fairy tales and Beauty is another success. Take everything you know about fairytales and think again. A beautiful, dark and compelling read.

The second book in the series and just as good as the first. Definitely not fairy tales for the children but excellent entertainment for the adults. Reading the next one immediately.

I gave really enjoyed this series of books.

I have found these are short reads but with the dark and lustful retelling of each tale they are just perfect for perfect late night reading.

They have an added humour and the difference between the Beauty and Beast are well told.

Not what I expected but oh so good...

Thank you, Netgalley, for my review copy of this book.
I read this book a while back but rereading it now, I got so much more out of it than I did then. It is darkly humourous, and, again, the characterisation was fabulous. Just a shame they are not longer.
It is a great book to escape into fantasy and fairy tales with a twist.

After Magic this is the second dark fairytale in the series Tales from the Kingdom and just like the first I just loved it!

A fantastic my dark retelling of the Sleeping Beauty fairy tale which blends elements of other fairy stories. The idea of beauty and the beast is woven darkly into this story with sex and blood lust prominent and the idea of true loves kiss having a scary outcome. Fantastic read- can’t wait to read the next one in the series!