Scarlet: a book recommendation
5 out of 5 stars.
I opened this book, and after reading the dialect, I thought, “Huh…I’m not sure I’ll be able to read this…” Then, three pages later, I was so sucked into the story, I stopped noticing the dialect. All I saw was Scarlet’s VOICE–and let me tell you, she has one. A powerful, compelling, stubborn-as-hell voice that fits every impulsive, disgruntled course of action she chooses.
Many readers know the tale of Robin Hood, but they will be swept away by this new version full of action, secrets, and romance.
Posing as one of Robin Hood’s thieves to avoid the wrath of the evil Thief Taker Lord Gisbourne, Scarlet has kept her identity secret from all of Nottinghamshire. Only the Hood and his band know the truth: the agile thief posing as a whip of a boy is actually a fearless young woman with a secret past. Helping the people of Nottingham outwit the corrupt Sheriff of Nottingham could cost Scarlet her life as Gisbourne closes in. It’s only her fierce loyalty to Robin—whose quick smiles and sharp temper have the rare power to unsettle her—that keeps Scarlet going and makes this fight worth dying for.
To be honest, impulsive MCs are pretty common (erm…my own…::coughcough::), but Scarlet is easily the most convincing impulsive MC I’ve ever seen. She’s short-tempered, but only because she’s got some pretty big demons haunting her past. She’s emotional and deeply moved to help those in need, and best of all, she’s 100% kickbutt. I mean, the girl THROWS KNIVES! O_O
Honestly, though, the highlight of this story was the romance. I was just so, so, sooooo torn between John Little and Robin. I won’t tell you which boy she chooses, but I will say that I was utterly, utterly satisfied with her choice. And every scene she spends with that boy had my heart pounding and my lips grinning.
So, if you’re in the mood for Robin-Hood-adventure, swoon-worthy romance, or a tough-as-nails heroine, then be sure to pick up A.C. Gaughen’s Scarlet.
OH, and if you’re interested in winning a copy (along with some Scarlet-themed swag!) be sure to enter the giveaway here.
You tell me: Have you read Scarlet? Or do you have fave Robin Hood? (I’m all about the Disney fox, myself.)
Meredith
February 12, 2012 @ 5:30 pm
I’ve been wanting to read this ever since it first popped up on my radar screen a few months ago. Glad to hear it’s good!
Susan Dennard
February 16, 2012 @ 12:31 am
I really liked it! I just thought Scarlet (and Robin–swooooon) were amazingly well-drawn!
Adriana
February 12, 2012 @ 5:52 pm
This sounds AMAZING. I love the tales of Robin Hood (especially how little was known about him/if he really existed… Kind of like King Arthur). Also, LOOK at that cover, it’s just too pretty lol <3 I'll be sure to pick this one up, I'm ready for some well-written romance in my life lol
Thanks, Sooz!
Susan Dennard
February 16, 2012 @ 12:32 am
Isn’t that cover stunning? SO eye-catching!!
Lori M Lee
February 12, 2012 @ 7:47 pm
Is it weird that I thought the Disney fox was swoon-worthy? lol
This book sounds awesome, and I’ve had my eye on it for a while. Will definitely need to pick it up.
Susan Dennard
February 16, 2012 @ 12:32 am
Oh, I adore the Disney fox. He was quite possibly my first “celebrity” crush as a kid. He’s just so roguish and tough and…::sigh::
Emy Shin
February 12, 2012 @ 10:56 pm
This sounds so awesome. I’ve been looking out for this — and will need to read it soon.
Susan Dennard
February 16, 2012 @ 12:32 am
Definitely! And let me know what you think!! 😀
jessicabookworm
February 13, 2012 @ 1:36 pm
I enjoy the disney fox but for me it has to be Kevin Costner in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves…cheesey I know but I love it! This sounds like a fun read will have to make a note of it.
Susan Dennard
February 16, 2012 @ 12:33 am
You know what’s terrible? I HAVEN’T SEEN PRINCE OF THIEVES!!! It’s totally gonna get bumped up on my TBW list. 😉
Book Sake
February 13, 2012 @ 11:37 pm
I felt the same way in the beginning and then quickly loved it! I had the egalley version, so I’d love to have a copy to hold and love and reread!
– Jessica @ Book Sake
Susan Dennard
February 16, 2012 @ 12:34 am
The dialogue is a bit disconcerting at first…and then after a few pages, I didn’t notice it at ALL anymore.
So glad you liked it too!! 😀