A Beast in Paradise

A French bestseller and winner of the Le Monde Literary Prize. A “powerful, feverish” novel about a lineage of women possessed by their land (Femme Actuelle). Emilienne’s life is Paradise, her isolated farm at the end of a winding path. After the sudden death of her daughter and son-in-law, this is where she farms alone, with her courage and her land as her only resources, along with her two little grandchildren: Blanche and Gabriel. As seasons pass, Blanche grows older and develops an even stronger connection to her home and the generations of women who have guarded it, like her mother and grandmother before her. When she meets Alexandre, Blanche falls into a devastatingly deep love from which she can never recover. Alexandre, devoured by his ambition, wishes to move to the city to make a name for himself, while the passion Blanche dedicates to Paradise dominates her completely. Almost immediately, their differences become irreconcilable, tearing their worlds apart. Years later, when Alexandre shows up once again on her doorstep, ingratiating himself back into her life, Blanche believes that now she can finally be happy again. But all is not what it seems when there is a darkness lurking at every corner—and Blanche would do anything to protect Paradise. “Coulon’s new novel gives an enthralling voice to the rural world.” —La Croix “A harsh and combative novel which pays homage to the courage and persistence of women to stay alive and standing. Readers will emerge shattered and nourished with an undeniable and mysterious energy.” —Le Parisien “This sensual, bold novel will surprise and delight.” —Publishers Weekly “A quiet tale of love and vengeance.” —Kirkus Reviews