The Musician and the MonsterA gothic Beauty and the Beast retelling

A poor musician struggling with grief. A reclusive noble afflicted with a terrible curse. An arrangement that could heal—or destroy—them both.

A deadly monster haunts the streets of Teneboure, and musician Ceridwen Kinsley narrowly escaped its vicious claws.

The horrific event leads to an unexpected visit from the reclusive and broody Lord Drystan Winterbourne. The mysterious noble arrives with an offer: play music for him in exchange for the money her family desperately needs to keep their home.

But there’s a troubling catch: Ceridwen must live with him in his eerie manor for the duration of their arrangement.

Desperate to keep those she loves off the monster-haunted streets, she reluctantly accepts. Despite their differences, the allure of Lord Winterbourne is a force Ceridwen cannot deny. Nor can he keep away from the beautiful young musician whose music heals his soul.

However, Drystan’s secluded manor is full of more secrets than Ceridwen ever imagined, and the monster isn’t the only enemy to fear. When deadly truths come to light, even true love may not be enough to save them from the encroaching darkness.

Beauty and the Beast meets The Phantom of the Opera in a Bridgerton-esque setting with magic. This gothic fantasy romance should appeal to fans of romantic and atmospheric retellings and fairy tales by authors such as Hannah Whitten, Tessonja Odette, and Stephanie Garber.

This story is complete and does NOT end on a cliffhanger.
Book 2 follows two supporting characters toward their happily ever after.