I think this is my favorite book of the year. I’m sorry to say nothing will compare. The end.

If this book isn’t on your radar – it is now!

Where do I even start? First thing is the audiobook is phenomenal. Moira Quirk is one of my newest favorite narrators. Coincidentally, this is not the first book that I’m rating highly based on her narration either. Her voice and delivery is just perfect for the whimsical fantasy world created by the author. She brought these characters to life, from Lyssa’s tough exterior and potty mouth, to Aldaric’s gentlemanly frilly nature, it was wonderful. Highly recommend this story on audio just for the laughs!!

Lyssa Carnifex AKA The Butcher, a faerie killing bounty hunter and blacksmith. I fell for Lyssa right in the first chapter. We got straight to the point! She is sassy, strong, stubborn, cunning, yet deep down just looking for her own slice of family. After the Beast of Buxton Fields killed her brother, swearing a blood oath to avenge his death. It took her thirteen years to finally track down the beast, but it comes with some stipulations.

Enter Alderic stage left.

Alderic Casimir de Laurent – you stole my heart. This character is so lovable, from his choice of fashion and a large caring heart. The quick banter and sarcastic jokes between him and Lyssa were a-plenty! Their friendship warms my soul. It’s like a love story with a found family theme. Cozy to the max, truly magical what the author created with this relationship. It just makes me all giddy and happy.

Brandy 🐶 Lyssa’s bullmastiff companion stole every scene and he deserves all the snackies and cuddles forever and ever.

Additional side characters round out the found family vibes. Nadia, a young apprentice for Ragnhild, a witch and Lyssa’s sort of mentor. The dialogue between the three ladies really had me kicking my feet. Nadia was giving Lyssa a run for her money with the clap backs!

Now to the fairytale story (Not me realizing this was a ‘retelling’ totally at the end 🤪). I completely agree with The Witcher and T. Kingfisher comparisons, but it’s so leveled up and standing on its own creativity. The world building is quite simple but still very clever. There’s not a whole lot, if any, info dumping. It’s a very organic and effortless magic system that will appeal to many cozy fantasy fans. Do not be fooled because this is certainly not boring, with action scenes, mystery, a curse (or two) and Lyssa’s punch-happy shenanigans. There is great tension in the plot and real stakes showing growth for Lyssa, and steady pacing throughout the book.

Ten stars, I love this book so much!

Thank you to Macmillan Audio for the free audiobook.

Title: Kill the Beast
Author: Serra Swift
Genre: Cozy Fantasy, Retellings
Rating: 5/5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟