The Merchant's Daughter

The Merchant's Daughter

by Melanie Dickerson

Published by Zondervan

Published on November 29, 2011

Summary taken from Goodreads:

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.

Can I just gush about this story?  It was FANTASTIC!  The romance, the setting, the dark and mysterious (and a little beastly) hero.  This is a swoon-worthy book.  The Merchant's Daugher retells the story of Beauty and the Beast in a Medieval setting.  Annabel is the daughter of a family that is lazy and spoiled.  Annabel is taken to live at the manor house that is home to the lord of her area.  She is told to work for her family's debt.

I loved Annabel's character.  She is so incredibly likable.  I wanted to stand up and cheer everytime she and her "beast" became closer and wanted to scream everytime someone tried to hurt her.  The beast is dashing and valiant.  He has been hurt by his past, both physically and emotionally and believes that there are no second chances for love. 

I couldn't put this down!  I love Beauty and the Beast and this retelling did not disappoint.  I can't wait to pick up other books by this author.  She is a fantastic storyteller!