The Beast Keepers tells the story of Jonathan St. Roche, a young veterinarian who takes a job in rural Ohio and discovers that his new patients include mythological creatures hiding in plain sight. The book follows Jonathan as he learns to care for flying monkeys, unicorns, gryphons, and even a pregnant Pegasus, all while untangling his own past and falling into a quiet, hopeful romance. The story blends warm small-town life with danger, mystery, and a deep sense of wonder as Jonathan faces ethical choices and moments of real heartbreak, including an emotional situation with a basilisk.

I loved the way the author mixed everyday farm routines with bizarre surprises. One moment I was listening to a farmer brag about his border collies, and the next, there was a Pegasus unfurling honey-scented wings that glowed in the sun. The writing has this gentle rhythm to it. It pulls you into the fields and barns without feeling forced. Sometimes the book drifts into long conversations, but I liked that. It made the place feel authentic. Even when a scene turned tense, like when the team hunted the dangerous basilisk in the woods, there was still this grounded sense of companionship and purpose.

I also grew surprisingly attached to the characters. Jonathan’s mix of idealism and exhaustion felt honest. His reactions made sense. He stumbled, tried again, cared too much, and sometimes cried when he had to do the hard thing for the right reason. I liked DeeDee too. Their story is gentle and sweet, and the moment they finally kissed made me grin because it felt earned and warm and a little awkward in the best way. What surprised me most was how the book handled the mythical creatures. They are wondrous, but they are not props. They have needs, instincts, dangers, and sometimes tragic flaws. The book treats them with respect, and that gave the story emotional weight that stayed with me.

When I finished the last page, I felt good, and a bit wistful, and honestly kind of sad to leave the world behind. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves gentle fantasy with real emotional stakes, especially readers who enjoy animal stories, cozy rural settings, and small-town friendships. It is also a great pick for people who want fantasy that feels new but still comforting.

Pages: 323 | ASIN : B0CBQKPVZY