This book gave me very much adult contemporary Beauty and the Beast vibes. Set in France - check, bad boy who's depicted as bit of a 'monster' - check, book loving girl who sees the good in people being romanced by a slightly self involved smarmy man - check. 

A book that book lovers will enjoy for Sarah's commitment to books. However there is a slight romanticism surrounding Maxime's violent tendencies, so this may not suit readers who are triggered by violent outbursts.