The Merchant's Daughter

By Melanie Dickerson

Genre: Christian historical fiction

My rating: 4 1/2 stars

Summary: "An unthinkable danger. An unexpected choice.Annabel, once the daughter of a wealthy merchant, is trapped in indentured servitude to Lord Ranulf, a recluse who is rumored to be both terrifying and beastly. Her circumstances are made even worse by the proximity of Lord Ranulf's bailiff---a revolting man who has made unwelcome advances on Annabel in the past.Believing that life in a nunnery is the best way to escape the escalation of the bailiff's vile behavior and to preserve the faith that sustains her, Annabel is surprised to discover a sense of security and joy in her encounters with Lord Ranulf. As Annabel struggles to confront her feelings, she is involved in a situation that could place Ranulf in grave danger. Ranulf's future, and possibly his heart, may rest in her hands, and Annabel must decide whether to follow the plans she has cherished or the calling God has placed on her heart." (Summary from Goodreads.com)

I adore Melanie Dickerson.  I loved her first book, The Healer's Apprentice (based on Sleeping Beauty) and this classic retelling of Beauty and the Beast is no exception.  Dickerson masterfully creates characters, themes and a story that are beautiful, riveting, and just downright wonderful.

Although a retelling of Beauty and the Beast, there are enough twists and turns to keep you glued to the pages and wondering what exactly is going to these complex characters.  And Dickerson embeds Christian themes into this romance so skillfully it is as if this is the Beauty and the Beast story we were supposed to know growing up.

I also loved how Dickerson placed this story not in France, but in medieval England in the 1300s.  I felt like part of the times as I experienced the story with them.  And you remember from previous reviews that as a former Catholic I hate when Catholics aren't represented as Christians.  Although the priest in this story is lacking in love and mercy and Christian virtues, as are a few of the villagers who attend Mass, the main characters Annabel and Lord Ranuff are true examples of Christians seeking to understand God's character and word, regardless of denomination.  Well done, Dickerson!

Overall, I highly recommend, though I think I did enjoy her first book a little bit more.  If you haven't read Dickerson's YA novels, I think you're missing out!