In a literary landscape crowded with fairy tale retellings, Anbar Bermejo’s Beauty and the Beast: Monstruo stands out as a fresh, atmospheric blend of romance, mystery, and archaeological adventure.
Fresh from a string of high-stakes excavations, archaeologist Isabela De La Cruz is enjoying a rare moment of calm in her St. Louis office, until an unexpected twist in her search for a legendary artifact draws her into a passionate and dangerous affair. Her new companion, charming yet enigmatic, seems to carry secrets as old as the relics he studies. As hidden grudges surface and shadowy adversaries close in, Isabela finds herself entangled in a centuries-old curse, whispered legends, and a powerful antiquarian relic that refuses to remain buried.
From glittering cloistered gardens and candlelit chapels to the desert ruins of the American Southwest, Bermejo weaves a gripping narrative that reimagines the classic Beauty and the Beast tale with modern depth and historical resonance. The novel explores themes of obsession, legacy, cultural memory, and the thin line between miracle and curse.
Why Readers Will Love Monstruo
- A brilliant, fiercely independent heroine in Isabela De La Cruz
- Slow-burn romance charged with tension and forbidden attraction
- Richly atmospheric settings inspired by real locations, including Mission San Xavier del Bac
- A compelling mystery layered with archaeological intrigue and supernatural undertones
- An unforgettable twist on a beloved fairy tale
Bermejo, already praised for works such as El Príncipe Berberisco (“filled with sensuality, intrigue… and an explosive ending”) and other acclaimed titles, delivers exactly what fans crave: a story that is both emotionally resonant and relentlessly engaging.
This is romantic adventure at its finest—perfect for readers who enjoy the intellectual thrill of archaeological mysteries, the passion of a well-crafted love story, and the haunting beauty of desert landscapes steeped in history.
Verdict: Beauty and the Beast: Monstruo is a standout addition to the genre. Whether you’re a longtime fan of fairy tale retellings or new to Bermejo’s work, this novel deserves a place on your reading list.
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We highly recommend picking up a copy and diving into Isabela’s world. Leave a review on your favorite platform to help other readers discover this gem.
— The Editorial Team at Anbar Bermejo Books
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