Beauty's Kingdom is the long-awaited sequel and fourth novel in the Sleeping Beauty series by Anne Rice, writing here as A.N. Roquelaure.
Told from the perspective of different characters and their pleasures, the real arc of the story is the creation of a peaceful kingdom with an enjoyable and suitable place for every single one of its citizens.
Of course, with sex slaves at the heart of their culture, things are going to get steamy, and trust me they do. Having said that, it's important to know that the sex and lovemaking that takes place on the page is always accompanied by mutual respect and love.
No-one is taken advantage of and nobody is hurt in Beauty's Kingdom and there are no dark elements to the story. It's simply an exploration of pleasure set in a fantasy world of sorts.
Beauty's Kingdom is an interesting and entertaining commentary on society, love and pleasure, and it was a joy to read. It's important to remember Anne Rice was writing erotica long before 50 Shades came along; oh, and this book is hot!
My rating = ***
Carpe Librum!
