Book Review: Tasting Red: A Spicy Red Riding Hood Retelling (The Lost Girls Book 1) by Holly Roberds
When I first stumbled upon Tasting Red by Holly Roberds, I was drawn in by the title alone. A spicy twist on the classic Little Red Riding Hood? Count me in! The idea of mixing fairy tales with contemporary motifs was too tempting to resist. With a recommendation from a trusted friend and rave reviews abounding, I dove in, and let me tell you—this book is a rollercoaster of emotions, magic, and sizzling intimacy.
From the outset, we meet Scarlett “Red,” a young woman who desperately wants to distance herself from her magical heritage and carve out a normal life. Having been expelled from the Fairy Fine Arts Academy, Red sees herself as more of an accountant than a magical prodigy. But chaos finds her—quite literally—when she discovers a dangerously handsome wolf shifter named Brexley in her grandmother’s bed. The tension between them crackles off the page, blending both danger and desire seamlessly. As Red grapples with being hunted and the pesky complications of her attraction to the brooding wolf, you can feel the stakes rise, drawing readers deeper into the story.
Roberds’ writing style is engaging and fluid, making it easy to become completely absorbed in the whirlwind of magic and emotion. The pacing is rapid-fire, keeping you on your toes with unexpected twists that elevate this retelling beyond mere nostalgia. One moment you’re sinking into romantic tension—complete with cheeky banter and “no touchy” rules—and the next, you’re thrust into action and peril.
What truly stands out are the multifaceted characters who populate this fairy-tale retelling. Brexley, the morally gray male lead, adds layers of complexity. The dynamics between him and Red evolve from immediate chemistry to a nuanced partnership fraught with trust issues and suspense. As one reviewer aptly put it, “The chemistry? Off the charts. The spice? Whew—hot enough to set the woods on fire.” That encapsulates the experience beautifully; the stakes feel high and the passion, primal.
The friendships among the "Lost Girls"—Red and her companions, who will each have their own tales unfolding in the series—create a lovely undertone of camaraderie and loyalty. I found myself cheering for their bonds, relishing in their witty exchanges. Roberds has a talent for crafting relatable characters who feel like friends, hurled into situations where they must rely on each other and themselves for survival.
As I turned the last pages, I felt both satisfied and eager for more. This book is a delightful escapade that would particularly resonate with fans of steamy paranormal romance, fairy-tale adaptations, and character-driven plots. If you’re seeking a whimsical yet intense ride filled with magic, friendship, and a whole lot of spice, Tasting Red is a must-read.
In a nutshell, my experience with Tasting Red was riveting and evocative. It made me laugh, swoon, and at times, gasp in surprise. Roberds’ take on this beloved tale is far from the innocent story I grew up with—it’s a wild and wonderful adventure, perfect for those ready to dive into a universe where fairy tales collide with the sharp edges of reality. Whether you’re a longtime lover of paranormal romance or new to the genre, I highly recommend giving this enchanting retelling a read. 🍂📚❤️
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