4.3 (423 ratings)

Claimed by the Beast King: A dark gothic romantasy (Veil and Claw Book 1)

Name: Claimed by the Beast King: A dark gothic romantasy (Veil and Claw Book 1)
Rating: 4.3 (423 reviews)
Author: Alessa Thorn
ISBN: B0GGX8JKP7

by Alessa Thorn

shifters

About this book

Delphi lives on the razor’s edge of survival, masking her forbidden magic behind the humble guise of an apothecary. In a world where witches are hunted and shifters are feared, she dreams of nothing more than quiet freedom. However, her father’s desperate bargain shatters her fragile anonymity, trading her life to settle a debt with the most terrifying entity in the realm. She is delivered into the heart of the cursed Mistwood, becoming the unwilling captive of Tenebrys, the imprisoned Beast King.

Tenebrys is a creature of vengeance and raw, untamed power, clawing his way back from decades of isolation. Their meeting is a collision of shadows and sparks, igniting a dark romance that is as volatile as it is seductive. As they are forced into proximity within his crumbling, sentient château, the tension between them shifts from lethal animosity to an undeniable, fated-mate connection.

This atmospheric paranormal romance is a masterful, dark reimagining of a classic fairy tale. With its slow-burn intimacy, high-stakes forbidden love, and a morally grey alpha hero, it is the perfect escape for readers who enjoy gritty, gothic settings. Delphi must embrace her own latent power to survive, proving that even in a world built on blood, the most dangerous monsters are the ones we learn to love.

Publication Date: May 25, 2026
ASIN: B0GGX8JKP7

Reader Reviews

Queen

May 23, 2026

This book is a captivating read, especially for those who appreciate strong female protagonists. The main character is a perfect blend of fiery determination and warm compassion, making her journey both inspiring and relatable. The story cleverly weaves elements of “Beauty and the Beast” with a unique twist, alongside an engaging enemies-to-lovers trope. However, the standout feature is the female lead’s transformation into her own, supported by a powerful and nurturing male character. This...

Really Good, but…

February 12, 2026

I love Ms. Thorn’s work! She is one of my favorite authors. I have read most of her books. There has been a little romance that is more than vanilla but the one scene was somewhat offensive. Not fond of men who, instead of explaining the issue, force submission. Great plot! Fantastic villains! Great surprises! ) 3 people found this helpful

Claimed by the Beast King

March 16, 2026

A type of beauty and the beast remake. Much darker, more graphic, more sensual than the tame versions. Well done but I’d like some follow up for the supporting characters. )

good read

March 15, 2026

I enjoy this story although it kind of feels like an open ending like I guess I’m just not a fan of unanswered questions if it’s supposed to be a happily ever after I want all my questions answered. I don’t want to question what’s gonna happen with the future. All in all, it wasn’t a bad read I just did not like the end. ) 4 people found this helpful

All the goth fairytales vibes

February 11, 2026

Oh how I loved this book! Romping good fun with a decadent gothic castle, dark fairytale vibes, cool magic, feisty FMC and tall dark and dangerous mmc. Enemies to lovers, forced proximity, found family, a mysterious curse and a dastardly villain keep this plot moving right along. And did I mention the spice? Top notch. I really hope we get more in this universe because the court of the castle has so much freaking potential. )