Book Review: Rebel Rose (The Queen's Council #1) by Emma Theriault

Firstly, the incorporation of France's history in this story is excellent. Making this a fairytale one could actually believe in. It's educational and the author clearly did a lot of research. This stands out to me, as a few of the books I've read lately seem to have the authors watching a 45min documentary and then thinking themselves experts in a particular era/environment/culture. So definite kudos to that.

Secondly, this is not a retelling, but a continuation or sequel to Beauty and the Beast. But I feel like the author just couldn't fully connect with the original story as much as I would have wanted. The characters are quite different, somewhat lacking, like ghosts of their original selves. This is disappointing and honestly destroyed the story for me. I'm going to have to give this book 2 stars. Saved by the wonderful incorporation of history.

Happily ever after is only the beginning as Belle takes on the responsibility of becoming queen and learns to balance duty, love, and sacrifice, all while navigating dark political intrigue—and a touch of magic. It’s 1789 and France is on the brink of revolution. Belle has finally broken the Enchantress’s curse, restoring the Beast to his human form and bringing life back to their castle in the province of Aveyon. But in Paris, the fires of change are burning, and it’s only a matter of time before the rebellion arrives on their doorstep. Not so very long ago, Belle dreamed of leaving her provincial home for a life of adventure. But now she finds herself living in a palace, torn between her past as a commoner, and her future as royalty. While Belle grapples with her newfound position, there are those who would do anything to keep her from power. When she stumbles across a magic mirror that holds a dire warning, Belle wants nothing more than to ignore the mysterious voice calling her to accept a crown she never desired. But violent factions of the revolution may already be lurking within her own castle, and doing nothing would endanger everything she holds dear. With the fate of her country, her love, and her life at stake, Belle must decide if she is ready to embrace her own strength--and the magic that ties her to so many female rulers before her--to become the queen she is meant to be. Rebel Rose is the first in the Queen's Council series, an empowering fairytale reimagining of the Disney Princesses-and the real history behind their stories-like you've never seen before.

Thank you Scholastic Australia for sending me a copy of this book in return for my independant and honest review.