BEAUTY TEMPTS THE BEAST

The last unmatched Trewlove finally finds his true love.

Benedict Trewlove, known as Beast, didn’t intend to become the owner of a brothel, but now he refuses to leave it until all the women under his care have found other employment. When he meets Althea Stanwick, his immediate thought is that she doesn’t belong here in Whitechapel serving drinks in a tavern; she’s too posh and refined. Three months ago, Althea was cast out from society when it was uncovered that her father, a duke, was a traitor to the crown. When Beast proposes Althea become a tutor to the ladies at his brothel, she agrees under the condition that he in turn teaches her to be a seductress. Becoming a courtesan will allow her to return to society on her own terms and give her protection and some freedom. Although the attraction between Beast and Althea is instantaneous, it’s when friendship blossoms that Althea questions her chosen path and instead desires a future with him. There’s struggle and there’s steam, but the core of this story is human goodness and familial love. This is especially on display during an endearing, abundantly sweet Trewlove family Christmas. However, though the brothel ladies are charming, Beast's whole notion of changing them sometimes comes across as holier-than-thou, which doesn’t jibe with the story’s otherwise lovely overarching theme of everyone's inherent right to be loved and respected, regardless of class or situation.

This Sins for All Seasons series finale is full of heart.