Summary: 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.
My Thoughts: A. C. Gaughen provides a unique, and very interesting, take on the story of Robin Hood. I have been a Robin Hood fan for as long as I can remember. From the Disney movie featuring foxes to the movie from the mid-’90s, I’ve taken in as much as I have been able to (and I still plan to see the more recent film starring Russel Crowe). While reading, I could pick out various elements that reminded me of various versions I’ve seen. It was kinda neat, especially since most of the book is actually quite original. No doubt it’s well-researched with bits taken from various legends out there, the execution of the story is fantastic.
This book gave me one phrase right off the bat: local color. Reminiscent of Mark Twain’s Huckleberry Finn, Scarlet is written the way she talks. Simple explanation: poor grammar that goes with the common folk of the story. Proper English is lacking, which is fine. It fits the story – especially as we’re told it from Scarlet’s perspective. Be warned, though, that it might take you a bit to get into the story. I found myself initially reading really slowly, because I often had to reread something to make sure I read it right. Once I got used to it, though, it was a fast, fun read.
I loved the author’s writing style, especially choice of descriptive phrases. They were unique but right on the mark. It’s refreshing and often made me smile.
Scarlet herself is a strong female character, but she definitely has he struggles. I do have to say, though, that she and Robin drove me nuts. Well, them plus John. (Oh, yes, a but of a love triangle.) Scarlet’s determination to keep her big secrets also grated against my nerves a little. I get not wanting to share painful things, but some of the things she didn’t share seemed to be simply because she didn’t want Robin to know. Still, I liked the story and was rooting for her – and for her and Robin.
I am wondering – maybe even hoping? – if there will be a sequel. The ending had lots of open ends, and left me wanting more. What happens next? Where are we headed? There has got to be more!
If you’re a fan of Robin Hood and you like strong female characters, I suggest you give Scarlet a read.
Source: Received through The {Teen} Book Scene for review. (Click the button below for more tour stops.)
Read It: Get your own copy HERE.
FTC Disclosure: All items reviewed were either obtained by me for my own enjoyment or sent (from the author, publisher, publicist, via tour sites, etc.) in exchange for an honest review. I receive no monetary compensation for my posts. All opinions expressed are my own.
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