As Old As Time by Liz Braswell is the third book in the Twisted Tales series, which reimagines classic Disney stories. This novel specifically retells the tale of Beauty and the Beast, introducing a significant twist: Belle’s mother, Rosalind, is revealed to be the enchantress who cursed the Beast.

Summary

The book is structured in three parts:

1. Backstory of Maurice and Rosalind: The first part explores the past, focusing on Belle’s father, Maurice, and his relationship with Rosalind in a kingdom that serves as a sanctuary for magical beings. Their love story unfolds amidst rising tensions against magic, setting the stage for the curse that will affect their daughter, Belle.
2. Belle’s Journey: The narrative shifts to Belle’s perspective as she discovers her father’s captivity in the Beast’s castle. Upon touching the enchanted rose, she experiences visions of her mother and learns about the curse’s origins. This revelation forces her to confront her family’s past and the complexities of her mother’s actions.
3. Quest for Redemption: As Belle navigates her feelings about the curse and her mother’s role in it, she embarks on a quest to find a way to break the curse, leading to an exploration of themes such as redemption, identity, and moral ambiguity. The story diverges from the original film after Belle touches the rose, introducing new challenges and character developments.

Themes and Characters

• Moral Complexity: The novel emphasizes that characters are not strictly good or evil. Rosalind, while a powerful enchantress, has motives that are explored but not entirely justifiable. This complexity adds depth to the narrative.
• Character Development: Belle is portrayed as strong and independent, with flaws that make her relatable. The Beast’s character is also developed more fully, showcasing his struggle between his human and monstrous sides.
• Social Issues: The story addresses themes of acceptance and the persecution of magical beings, reflecting broader societal issues.

Reception

The book has received mixed reviews. Critics appreciate the fresh take on a beloved story and the depth of character backstories, particularly Maurice and Rosalind. However, some readers found the pacing uneven, especially in the transition from the backstory to Belle’s journey. The ending is noted as open and somewhat unresolved, leaving readers with lingering questions about the characters’ futures. Overall, As Old As Time offers a rich and nuanced retelling of Beauty and the Beast, appealing to fans of the original story while providing new insights and explorations of its characters and themes.