Daring You To Read is a weekly feature here on Tynga’s Reviews where we dare you to read some of our favorite older releases (at least 6 months old). All the books/series we choose to feature are titles we adored and think you should give them a shot! We think it’s a super awesome way to discover that special book who might have slipped off your radar!
You’ve already read the book? Let’s us know what you thought!
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I'll be the first to admit that I absolutely adore anything and everything about retelling's. They fascinate me, they bring me back to my childhood, and they almost always guarantee you a good story. Because of this, I freaked out when I heard that there was a Robin Hood retelling floating around. I was lucky enough to be sent a copy to read by the amazing Gina Rosati when she found out that I hadn't read it yet, and since then SCARLET has been announced that it will turn into a trilogy rather than be a stand-alone like it was originally supposed to be. To put it simply, my excitement for the sequel is through the roof.
What I really enjoyed about this retelling was the fact that I was able to encounter one of the most strongest and determined heroines I've ever come across. Aside from swearing up a storm, Scarlet is loyal, kind, tough, and willing to do anything to achieve something that she believes in. She's not only respectable, she's the true definition of heroic. Known as Will Scarlet since her identity as a female can't be revealed, she's known for her kindness by taking from the rich and giving to the poor. Her and her three boys make up the Hood, and the characterization in this novel is what makes it so amazing.
I also want to touch upon one other aspect of the novel and that is the romance. Now, if you've followed my reviews even the tiniest bit, it should be increasingly obvious that I am a sucker for romance. I love love, so it's really rare for me to truly love a book that didn't have many romantic aspects in it. So, to say that this is one of my favorite books ever is a big deal. Is there romance in it? Yes, there's an undertow of romance and you can easily tell what's going on in Scarlet's mind when it comes to the amazingly broody and perfect Robin, but it's not up front. There is no declaration of love, there is no kissing, there is nothing but thoughts and innocent flirtations. And, man, do I want a kiss with those two because it's so perfect. I'm telling you, book two now!
So, I pretty much recommend this book to just about anyone. It's a fast, quick, super enjoyable read. Gaughen's writing clearly captures the poor routes of the characters while allowing us to vividly picture a world that will easily hold us captive. You can't go wrong with SCARLET.
About Scarlet:
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.
Purchase: Amazon | Book Depository
Do you think you can take this week's dare?
So glad you picked this book! Scarlet was one of my favorite reads of 2012 and the author just recently announced two more books which I'm thrilled about. I love the twists she threw into the book. And I totally agree with you about that kiss!
ReplyDeleteI think Robin Hood is one of the few tales I haven't read.
ReplyDeleteRivie @ Bookshelf