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Scarlet
Thinking I was free was a mistake...
I have spent the last six years running, hiding, and thinking I would never be found.
Scarlet was the creation of pure evil, where everyone was numbered, tattooed, and categorized like animals for slaughter and assigned a place within the programme.
From infants we were trained, manipulated, and controlled into becoming highly trained assassins to protect the bad guys without knowing the truth.
In a world where relationships and friendships are tested, in a world where love blossoms and demands sacrifice, where pain is mental as well as physical and blood and destruction followed… I was the reason for the hunt .
In a world where the stars are the light that guides me within a life that starts to feel like a game of chess.
Where we have to risk it all to end the one thing that created us.
We had to ask our questions...
Who will end up on top?
Are we willing to pay the price to be free forever?
Then again, it wasn’t their choice to make…
It was mine .
Scarlet is book ONE in the Scarlet series. The book contains dark elements, romance, action and themes intended for a mature audience. Please consult the warning at the front of the book if you have any content sensitivity. Suitable for ages 18+
I have spent the last six years running, hiding, and thinking I would never be found.
Scarlet was the creation of pure evil, where everyone was numbered, tattooed, and categorized like animals for slaughter and assigned a place within the programme.
From infants we were trained, manipulated, and controlled into becoming highly trained assassins to protect the bad guys without knowing the truth.
In a world where relationships and friendships are tested, in a world where love blossoms and demands sacrifice, where pain is mental as well as physical and blood and destruction followed… I was the reason for the hunt .
In a world where the stars are the light that guides me within a life that starts to feel like a game of chess.
Where we have to risk it all to end the one thing that created us.
We had to ask our questions...
Who will end up on top?
Are we willing to pay the price to be free forever?
Then again, it wasn’t their choice to make…
It was mine .
Scarlet is book ONE in the Scarlet series. The book contains dark elements, romance, action and themes intended for a mature audience. Please consult the warning at the front of the book if you have any content sensitivity. Suitable for ages 18+
314 pages, Paperback
Published June 2, 2023
50 people are currently reading
536 people want to read
About the author
Kayleigh Hilton
2 books109 followersMy name is Kayleigh Hilton, and I am a self-published author from Preston, United Kingdom. When I am not busy creating the world of Scarlet or any future books that are brewing. You can find me working for the NHS and spending time with my family, friends and my parents three West-highland Terriers: Amelia, Lia, and Milo.
I am a strong supporter when it comes to Mental Health and Domestic Abuse, no matter if it's mental or physical, as I am a survivor myself. From early 2018- early 2022, I found myself in a relationship that I thought I deserved and kept telling myself everything he did was my fault. No matter what people kept telling me, I kept telling them it's not what it looks like, when it really was. In 2022, I finally realised I deserved better and didn't deserve to be a victim any longer and left that relationship. From there, I fell into a dark place mentally and later found the light with the help of my family, my friends and by writing Scarlet.
Within my writing journey, I plan to bring these topics up in my own creations, so people know they are not alone. A lot of the things I have felt within my own journey are expressed within the Scarlet world and the message I want to create is that there is always beauty hiding within the darkness. Without the pain and torment I went through, I don't think Scarlet would exist. Scarlet is my lifeline, my baby, my truth, conjured up to create an imaginative world that I want to share with you, the readers. It's a place where I want my voice to be heard and a place where anyone who has ever felt that way to know they aren't alone in this world and it's ok to not be ok.
With this platform, I do plan to try and help raise more awareness and hopefully a community where we can all be stronger together.
Please feel free to join me on my journey by following my socials and lets create a community where we can help each other.
I am a strong supporter when it comes to Mental Health and Domestic Abuse, no matter if it's mental or physical, as I am a survivor myself. From early 2018- early 2022, I found myself in a relationship that I thought I deserved and kept telling myself everything he did was my fault. No matter what people kept telling me, I kept telling them it's not what it looks like, when it really was. In 2022, I finally realised I deserved better and didn't deserve to be a victim any longer and left that relationship. From there, I fell into a dark place mentally and later found the light with the help of my family, my friends and by writing Scarlet.
Within my writing journey, I plan to bring these topics up in my own creations, so people know they are not alone. A lot of the things I have felt within my own journey are expressed within the Scarlet world and the message I want to create is that there is always beauty hiding within the darkness. Without the pain and torment I went through, I don't think Scarlet would exist. Scarlet is my lifeline, my baby, my truth, conjured up to create an imaginative world that I want to share with you, the readers. It's a place where I want my voice to be heard and a place where anyone who has ever felt that way to know they aren't alone in this world and it's ok to not be ok.
With this platform, I do plan to try and help raise more awareness and hopefully a community where we can all be stronger together.
Please feel free to join me on my journey by following my socials and lets create a community where we can help each other.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
March 22, 2024
I dnf this book after 102 pages I just couldn’t get through it, the descriptive dialogue took away from the plot of the book for me and the repetitive use of certain words was irritating I just couldn’t push through and finish wasn’t for me.
September 19, 2024
Okay so I was truely taken aback by this story, what I was expecting a nice little romance...what I actually got was an action packed and fast paced roller coaster of a plot with added romance and all the feels. You definitely need to keep your tissues handy for this one, but it will also have you smiling, laughing and on the edge of your seat.
This is my first book by Kayleigh Hilton and it won't be my last, there are some dark aspects so make sure you check the trigger warnings!
Kayleigh did an amazing job with the plot, I would of loved more background of the correctional facility. It brought back memories of a James Patterson book I read years ago. Now I'm waiting with baited breath for the next in the series.
It begins with a very slow burn between the MCs but it didn't detract from the story as I enjoyed getting to know them and the rest of their found family and loved the banter between them all.
Even if you're not a fan of slow burn the pace soon picks up as we get into main plot of the story.
I found Kayleigh's writing style quite beautiful, flowery and almost poetic compared to my usual reads and a contrast to the darkness in the book.
I did find a couple of phrases overused, but this is my only complaint and I am looking forward to seeing what happens next especially after that ending!!!
This is my first book by Kayleigh Hilton and it won't be my last, there are some dark aspects so make sure you check the trigger warnings!
Kayleigh did an amazing job with the plot, I would of loved more background of the correctional facility. It brought back memories of a James Patterson book I read years ago. Now I'm waiting with baited breath for the next in the series.
It begins with a very slow burn between the MCs but it didn't detract from the story as I enjoyed getting to know them and the rest of their found family and loved the banter between them all.
Even if you're not a fan of slow burn the pace soon picks up as we get into main plot of the story.
I found Kayleigh's writing style quite beautiful, flowery and almost poetic compared to my usual reads and a contrast to the darkness in the book.
I did find a couple of phrases overused, but this is my only complaint and I am looking forward to seeing what happens next especially after that ending!!!
March 18, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I laughed & I cried…then I laughed & cried some more
Scarlet is a program set up by a man, Hugo, who had no business leading anything….he took in kids that parents didn’t want….instead of having an abortion or giving your baby up for adoption give them to me & I’ll give them a better life…uh no you didn’t….these babies eventually turn into adults that have been through more in their lives than one person should….
Adeline is the favorite…treated like a princess but princesses can be nosey sometimes….her nosiness showed her what was really happening behind closed door & she gathered as many as she could & was out of there….
6 years on the run, always looking over your shoulder, isn’t much of a life but the group that ran with Adeline (Sebastian, Jack, Amelie, Arthur, Malcom & Jessie) formed a little family….always there to watch over & protect each other….sometimes sacrificing themselves to save one another
Just when you think everything is going to be alright the story takes a turn…twice I got my feelings hurt & my jaw dropped…oh & that cliffhanger 😳I need to get my hands on the next book because I have got to see what happens next with this group & the few they picked up along the way
If you are looking for a mystery thriller with found family & a slow burn age gap love story give Scarlet a read…the current age range of the group is 18 to mid 30’s….there is a bit of an age gap between the love interests but they are closer to age appropriate
I laughed & I cried…then I laughed & cried some more
Scarlet is a program set up by a man, Hugo, who had no business leading anything….he took in kids that parents didn’t want….instead of having an abortion or giving your baby up for adoption give them to me & I’ll give them a better life…uh no you didn’t….these babies eventually turn into adults that have been through more in their lives than one person should….
Adeline is the favorite…treated like a princess but princesses can be nosey sometimes….her nosiness showed her what was really happening behind closed door & she gathered as many as she could & was out of there….
6 years on the run, always looking over your shoulder, isn’t much of a life but the group that ran with Adeline (Sebastian, Jack, Amelie, Arthur, Malcom & Jessie) formed a little family….always there to watch over & protect each other….sometimes sacrificing themselves to save one another
Just when you think everything is going to be alright the story takes a turn…twice I got my feelings hurt & my jaw dropped…oh & that cliffhanger 😳I need to get my hands on the next book because I have got to see what happens next with this group & the few they picked up along the way
If you are looking for a mystery thriller with found family & a slow burn age gap love story give Scarlet a read…the current age range of the group is 18 to mid 30’s….there is a bit of an age gap between the love interests but they are closer to age appropriate
October 2, 2024
"𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒅𝒆𝒆𝒑𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒆 𝒇𝒂𝒍𝒍, 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒆𝒂𝒌𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒆 𝒇𝒆𝒆𝒍, 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒊𝒕"
May 27, 2023
I received an Advanced Reader's Copy for a voluntary, honest review.
"With some love stories, love demands a sacrifice and with that, I happily pay the price"
Scarlet is a program created and operated by a greedy and violent man named Hugo. Using orphans he adopts to supply his special ops with soldiers, their indoctrination and life are not easy. Filled with violence, grooming, pitting each of them against each other to create an environment of eggshells. For fear, or beaten submission/loyalty from those children as they grow up, they remain loyal to Hugo and his corruption, carrying out all his violent plans. That is until our main group of characters escapes. Six years of being out of the program, we are introduced to Adeline, Sebastian, Amelie, Jack, Arthur, Malcom, Hannah, Luke, and Jesse. The successful runaway group of Scarlet happens to contain Hugo's most prized possession and once lap dog, Adeline and his second most favorite lapdog Sebastian.
If you have been keeping up with my reviews you know I try my best to leave out spoilers!
TWs: Age difference love trope, correction facility (where Hugo carries out the heinous treatment and grooming of his ops, mental health themes including and not limited to PTSD, themes of sexual assault, emotional manipulation, rape, torture methods, murder, suicide, death, gore. A full list of TW are included in the novel - please read the entire page.
Genre - 5/5
This is a dark literary thriller/action with romance. The only thing pure and happy in this novel is the relationships. Kayleigh Hilton has created the harshest environment and the most despicable antagonist in Scarlet and Hugo. There is no such thing a calm, the whole novel is tense and fast pace, filled with constant ups and downs - there really are calms before storms and each storm, things get worse. Really a gem for the genre and if you like spy/special ops type of theme in your action thriller novels, you will like Scarlet. Also, be prepared to cry. To address the romance portions - Jack and Amelie are quick burns as we meet them while they are already openly dating and in love ( they are such a cute couple!) The slow burn is between Adeline and Sebastian, we know there is something there, but it takes them (him) a bit to address and confess it. The spice level is a 1. Do not expect anything spicy. The only in your face spice is the flirtation and make out/groping scenes and the closed door sex.
Characters - 5/5
I laughed, cried, hated/despised/loathed, loved, lived, and died with these characters. Hilton really pulls on your emotions with her characters' personalities and circumstances. My favorite early novel characters are Jack and Amelie. Adeline took me a couple of chapters to warm up to before eventually liking her. You can definitely tell she is the most sheltered and immature one of the group which isn't a good thing in some aspects. However, it isn't good that kids have to grow up too fast and with as much hostility and anguish as these characters did. My next favorites immediately were Hannah and Luke, followed by Lorna ( a character introduced much later) and Arthur. Sebastian took me a little bit longer for me to like and you might too. That being said though, there was a reason and setup to why that is the case. He is slower to open up and thus the slowest to get to know. But, I never have book boyfriends and he is 100% my first. I now see why people have book bfs and Sebastian from Scarlet is now my first ever introduction to having one.
Plot/Themes - 5/5
I loved the plot despite it being heart wrenching because Hilton blended in such difficult themes with found family, love at first sight, and soulmates. I am super glad I read this. It was coherent and felt natural in its progression of the plot and story. I love novels involving special ops and breaking free/disavowing of the private militant program. but, please read the TWs/themes, I listed most of them but not all.
Pacing - 5/5
The pacing in the novel was an even, fast pacing which suits the genre of thriller/action. You weren't left waiting too long for the next bit of action and the action was evened out with he memories and love/family/friends scenes in the book. She took her time where it matters and throws you into the fray with intense speeds to deliver a punch.
Prose - 4.5/5
There was a specific phrase that the author relied on a little too frequently but besides that, it was near perfect. Please note, if you are American, the tenses is used a tad differently in UK English. They are not typos or grammatically incorrect, it is just a regional difference. I loved her writing and hope to see a bit more variations of the repeated phrase in the sequel.
Overall - 4.9 round to 5/5
I had severe book hangover from this novel. I cried so much during the book even in the happy parts. So I laughed and then cried happy and sad tears. I await the sequel (and hopefully a prequel) with bated breath. I highly recommend this author and this novel.
"With some love stories, love demands a sacrifice and with that, I happily pay the price"
Scarlet is a program created and operated by a greedy and violent man named Hugo. Using orphans he adopts to supply his special ops with soldiers, their indoctrination and life are not easy. Filled with violence, grooming, pitting each of them against each other to create an environment of eggshells. For fear, or beaten submission/loyalty from those children as they grow up, they remain loyal to Hugo and his corruption, carrying out all his violent plans. That is until our main group of characters escapes. Six years of being out of the program, we are introduced to Adeline, Sebastian, Amelie, Jack, Arthur, Malcom, Hannah, Luke, and Jesse. The successful runaway group of Scarlet happens to contain Hugo's most prized possession and once lap dog, Adeline and his second most favorite lapdog Sebastian.
If you have been keeping up with my reviews you know I try my best to leave out spoilers!
TWs: Age difference love trope, correction facility (where Hugo carries out the heinous treatment and grooming of his ops, mental health themes including and not limited to PTSD, themes of sexual assault, emotional manipulation, rape, torture methods, murder, suicide, death, gore. A full list of TW are included in the novel - please read the entire page.
Genre - 5/5
This is a dark literary thriller/action with romance. The only thing pure and happy in this novel is the relationships. Kayleigh Hilton has created the harshest environment and the most despicable antagonist in Scarlet and Hugo. There is no such thing a calm, the whole novel is tense and fast pace, filled with constant ups and downs - there really are calms before storms and each storm, things get worse. Really a gem for the genre and if you like spy/special ops type of theme in your action thriller novels, you will like Scarlet. Also, be prepared to cry. To address the romance portions - Jack and Amelie are quick burns as we meet them while they are already openly dating and in love ( they are such a cute couple!) The slow burn is between Adeline and Sebastian, we know there is something there, but it takes them (him) a bit to address and confess it. The spice level is a 1. Do not expect anything spicy. The only in your face spice is the flirtation and make out/groping scenes and the closed door sex.
Characters - 5/5
I laughed, cried, hated/despised/loathed, loved, lived, and died with these characters. Hilton really pulls on your emotions with her characters' personalities and circumstances. My favorite early novel characters are Jack and Amelie. Adeline took me a couple of chapters to warm up to before eventually liking her. You can definitely tell she is the most sheltered and immature one of the group which isn't a good thing in some aspects. However, it isn't good that kids have to grow up too fast and with as much hostility and anguish as these characters did. My next favorites immediately were Hannah and Luke, followed by Lorna ( a character introduced much later) and Arthur. Sebastian took me a little bit longer for me to like and you might too. That being said though, there was a reason and setup to why that is the case. He is slower to open up and thus the slowest to get to know. But, I never have book boyfriends and he is 100% my first. I now see why people have book bfs and Sebastian from Scarlet is now my first ever introduction to having one.
Plot/Themes - 5/5
I loved the plot despite it being heart wrenching because Hilton blended in such difficult themes with found family, love at first sight, and soulmates. I am super glad I read this. It was coherent and felt natural in its progression of the plot and story. I love novels involving special ops and breaking free/disavowing of the private militant program. but, please read the TWs/themes, I listed most of them but not all.
Pacing - 5/5
The pacing in the novel was an even, fast pacing which suits the genre of thriller/action. You weren't left waiting too long for the next bit of action and the action was evened out with he memories and love/family/friends scenes in the book. She took her time where it matters and throws you into the fray with intense speeds to deliver a punch.
Prose - 4.5/5
There was a specific phrase that the author relied on a little too frequently but besides that, it was near perfect. Please note, if you are American, the tenses is used a tad differently in UK English. They are not typos or grammatically incorrect, it is just a regional difference. I loved her writing and hope to see a bit more variations of the repeated phrase in the sequel.
Overall - 4.9 round to 5/5
I had severe book hangover from this novel. I cried so much during the book even in the happy parts. So I laughed and then cried happy and sad tears. I await the sequel (and hopefully a prequel) with bated breath. I highly recommend this author and this novel.
August 30, 2024
*Arc Review* 4.5 🌟 This book had me on edge the whole time! Adelaide on the run and constantly looking over her shoulder! Twists and turns and emotions going all over the place!! I loved the found family aspect! The cliffhanger was a doozy and I can't wait for the next book!! As always please check your triggers!!
July 17, 2023
"𝒜 𝑔𝓁𝑜𝓌 𝓈𝓉𝒾𝒸𝓀 𝒽𝒶𝓈 𝓉𝑜 𝒷𝓇𝑒𝒶𝓀 𝒾𝓃 𝑜𝓇𝒹𝑒𝓇 𝒻𝑜𝓇 𝒾𝓉 𝓉𝑜 𝑔𝓁𝑜𝓌, 𝒷𝓊𝓉 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝑔𝓁𝑜𝓌 𝒹𝑜𝑒𝓈𝓃'𝓉 𝓁𝒶𝓈𝓉 𝒻𝑜𝓇𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓇.”
Wow wow wow this book was amazinnggggg! From start to finish, I was obsessed with this book and if I wasn’t so busy I would’ve finished it in one day! The storyline and the characters were written perfectly to the point it had me on edge the whole time! It’s got everything you ever wanted and at the beginning has trigger warnings. Which for me gave me the rough idea of how the book was going to plan out.
I love Adi as a character! She is definitely my type of girllllll and what she did at the end pulled at my heart strings 🥺🥺 everyone should 1000% read this book! The falling in love storyline had me drawn in from the moment I saw her and Sebastian’s name! But why did he remember her when it was too late now that had me wanting to bawl my eyes out.
And guess what there’s going to be a book 2!!! Which I cannot wait for and neeeddd to read asap.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 16, 2023
Are you looking for a new thriller type book to immerse your self into? Then look no further.
I’m currently in my era where I want to read books that keep me on the edge of my seat and Scarlet really did the that for me. A mix between romance, thriller and action I deffo recommend having the tissues ready!
Kayleigh really carved out this plot, I was pleasantly surprised by the intricate and fast paced adventure you embark on with these characters, I truly felt at times like I was in this world with the MCs.
This book is littered with amazing tropes such as found family, soulmates and slow burn. I really loved how Kayleigh mixed romance into this book with out taking away the darkness/ tension she created.
For my first book by this author I was not only wowed but taken aback, I can’t wait to read the next book!
I’m currently in my era where I want to read books that keep me on the edge of my seat and Scarlet really did the that for me. A mix between romance, thriller and action I deffo recommend having the tissues ready!
Kayleigh really carved out this plot, I was pleasantly surprised by the intricate and fast paced adventure you embark on with these characters, I truly felt at times like I was in this world with the MCs.
This book is littered with amazing tropes such as found family, soulmates and slow burn. I really loved how Kayleigh mixed romance into this book with out taking away the darkness/ tension she created.
For my first book by this author I was not only wowed but taken aback, I can’t wait to read the next book!
May 18, 2023
Kayleigh has beautifully created an emotionally captivating romance and action story from Adelaide’s POV, with her found and bonded family. The characters’ bond is beautiful and painful, and though it is primarily Adi’s POV you get a small glimpse from Sebastian and Amelie also. I hope to see some from the others too and maybe even a dark insight to Hugo.
Adelaide is deeply tormented and suffering from her past but has a beautiful and poetic outlook on life and I hope in her developing story she finds the strength she has hidden within and rises like a Phoenix!
I’m looking forward to seeing more from Kayleigh and where her world of Scarlet ends up!
Thank you Kayleigh for this ARC read ❤️
Adelaide is deeply tormented and suffering from her past but has a beautiful and poetic outlook on life and I hope in her developing story she finds the strength she has hidden within and rises like a Phoenix!
I’m looking forward to seeing more from Kayleigh and where her world of Scarlet ends up!
Thank you Kayleigh for this ARC read ❤️
May 5, 2023
Oh my gosh this book had my emotions all over the damn place lol😅 your definitely gonna need a box of tissues for this one 🤧
This book was so well written everything just flowed.. and oh my gosh do the characters in this book capture your heart!! I truly love them all!! I grew attached to every single one them especially Sebastian, Adeline, Amelie, & Larna!! Haha oh my gosh larna is something else & I just love her wittyness😅🤣
Aahhh that ending tho just oh my gosh I can’t wait till book 2 comes out to see what happens next!! ♥️🖤
This book was so well written everything just flowed.. and oh my gosh do the characters in this book capture your heart!! I truly love them all!! I grew attached to every single one them especially Sebastian, Adeline, Amelie, & Larna!! Haha oh my gosh larna is something else & I just love her wittyness😅🤣
Aahhh that ending tho just oh my gosh I can’t wait till book 2 comes out to see what happens next!! ♥️🖤
May 29, 2023
Omg I was not expecting that ending 🤯
This book was a perfect mixture of action, darkness, found family, and slow burn. It literally was like reading an action movie, every single part was playing in my head as if on screen, and I was living for it.
Every character had such an important role in the story, and I loved the world that was created.
The ending had me wanting so much more, and I cannot wait for the next book!
Thank you Kayleigh Hilton for a direct copy of this ARC in exchange for an honest review 😊
This book was a perfect mixture of action, darkness, found family, and slow burn. It literally was like reading an action movie, every single part was playing in my head as if on screen, and I was living for it.
Every character had such an important role in the story, and I loved the world that was created.
The ending had me wanting so much more, and I cannot wait for the next book!
Thank you Kayleigh Hilton for a direct copy of this ARC in exchange for an honest review 😊
May 7, 2023
Wonderfully dark and intense with characters that have you running the whole gauntlet of emotions. All the characters are brought to life so perfectly I could visualise each one like the cast of a movie. Highly recommend this read.
May 5, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book is a little bit of a slow burn to start with, however as this is also the first book of a series this is to be expected. The author has done a good job starting a saga with this book with plenty of descriptions of characters and places.
Within the first chapter I found a line that resonated with me "Throughout the years, Books have become my comfort because of the endless possibilities and mysteries they have." This resonates with me so much as I have recently gotten back into reading which I have found has helped my mental health a lot.
The idea behind this story is very intriguing and grows, I feel that the Author needs to be more confident in her writing and not doubt herself. As other reviews have mentioned there is repetition within the book and this is something that I am sure the Author will be working on upon full release of the book, as this is an ARC copy I do not judge harshly on any grammatical errors as these can be rectified and I imagine will be by the author in editing.
This book is a little bit of a slow burn to start with, however as this is also the first book of a series this is to be expected. The author has done a good job starting a saga with this book with plenty of descriptions of characters and places.
Within the first chapter I found a line that resonated with me "Throughout the years, Books have become my comfort because of the endless possibilities and mysteries they have." This resonates with me so much as I have recently gotten back into reading which I have found has helped my mental health a lot.
The idea behind this story is very intriguing and grows, I feel that the Author needs to be more confident in her writing and not doubt herself. As other reviews have mentioned there is repetition within the book and this is something that I am sure the Author will be working on upon full release of the book, as this is an ARC copy I do not judge harshly on any grammatical errors as these can be rectified and I imagine will be by the author in editing.
August 7, 2024
Wow..
This book wasn't originally on my radar however, I'm glad I came across Kayleigh and her books. My heart still is currently racing and the tears have not dried up yet. I recommend having a box of tissues next to you while reading this book. I do wish I knew more about the program, Scarlet. Maybe in the future I will get to know more. I'm left with so many questions that I just need to have answers to.
This book wasn't originally on my radar however, I'm glad I came across Kayleigh and her books. My heart still is currently racing and the tears have not dried up yet. I recommend having a box of tissues next to you while reading this book. I do wish I knew more about the program, Scarlet. Maybe in the future I will get to know more. I'm left with so many questions that I just need to have answers to.
June 25, 2024
I loved this book!! I laughed and I cried reading this Hugo who shouldn’t be in charge of anything ended up taking in kids whose parents didn’t want them. He put these kids through it man! I’m glad that Adaline finally got some of them out of there and during the years on the run just when you thought it was alright it wasn’t. Some troupes Mystery thriller Age gap found family slow burn
June 28, 2024
I really enjoyed this book and I’m so happy I got the opportunity to read it. Once I started reading it was so hard to stop. I found this book very easy to read and I really enjoyed the slow burn between the main characters and the great relationships between the family. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book!!
August 7, 2024
So so BEAUTIFUL! Love the writing style and the found family connection between all of these characters. I also loved the main characters Adeline and Sebastian😭😍
August 15, 2024
3.75 ⭐️
A YA/NA closed door romance with dark themes - check your trigger warnings
Espionage, action, adventure, suspenseful & thrilling.
A YA/NA closed door romance with dark themes - check your trigger warnings
Espionage, action, adventure, suspenseful & thrilling.
August 8, 2023
Scarlet is a fantastic read. From page one it hooks you in and leaves you flipping pages to find out more. Kayleigh does a fantastic job of world and character building. I can't wait for book 2.
April 5, 2024
I enjoyed this book, it was fast-paced and had me hooked from page 1. I loved the concept of the Scarlet program and the background of all the characters, it was so heartbreaking but so interesting to read. I liked the found family aspect and how they were all so close and were willing to do anything for each other, I think Kayleigh wrote that really well. I liked the characters, even if some of them were slightly annoying but you can see why they are that way. I loved the talk of mental health as a lot of books don’t really talk about it too much but it was discussed in such a heartwarming way within this book. I’m definitely planning to read the next book to see how these characters’ stories unfold.
July 21, 2023
This is one I was so excited to read as soon as I received it - and I read it so quickly!
The story itself follows Adeline and her friends on the run from Scarlet - it’s packed with adventure, action, with a little bit of a romance for good measure - the best combination.
I found the plot hooked me and I was excited to keep reading and find out what happens next! The ending was unexpected and I’m so intrigued as to how it plays out later in the series!
The only thing that stopped this being a 5 star read for me was I found that some elements were a little wordy - I’m not really sure how to explain it other than saying I thought that there were some bits that almost too much was said and could have been condensed. While this is not a deal breaker, it was just my honest opinion while reading - constructive criticism only please and thank you. While this didn’t take away from the plot at all, it was the only criticism I could find! Overall, a truly good book!
On the whole, I really enjoyed the book and I’m so so looking forward for the series to continue to find out what happens next!
The story itself follows Adeline and her friends on the run from Scarlet - it’s packed with adventure, action, with a little bit of a romance for good measure - the best combination.
I found the plot hooked me and I was excited to keep reading and find out what happens next! The ending was unexpected and I’m so intrigued as to how it plays out later in the series!
The only thing that stopped this being a 5 star read for me was I found that some elements were a little wordy - I’m not really sure how to explain it other than saying I thought that there were some bits that almost too much was said and could have been condensed. While this is not a deal breaker, it was just my honest opinion while reading - constructive criticism only please and thank you. While this didn’t take away from the plot at all, it was the only criticism I could find! Overall, a truly good book!
On the whole, I really enjoyed the book and I’m so so looking forward for the series to continue to find out what happens next!
July 10, 2024
Scarlet
Dedication
“To all the people who have never felt good enough. You are worthy. <3” (side note this dedication made me want to cry 😭💜)
Blurb
Thinking I was free was a mistake... I have spent the last six years running, hiding, and thinking I would never be found. Scarlet was the creation of pure evil, where everyone was numbered, tattooed, and categorized like animals for slaughter and assigned a place within the programme. From infants we were trained, manipulated, and controlled into becoming highly trained assassins to protect the bad guys without knowing the truth. In a world where relationships and friendships are tested, in a world where love blossoms and demands sacrifice, where pain is mental as well as physical and blood and destruction followed... I was the reason for the hunt. In a world where the stars are the light that guides me within a life that starts to feel like a game of chess. Where we have to risk it all to end the one thing that created us. We had to ask our questions... Who will end up on top? Are we willing to pay the price to be free forever? Then again, it wasn't their choice to make... It was mine .
4.5 / 5 ⭐️
First off I want to say that I read the digital version of this book and I loved it so much I’ll be buying a physical copy. Anyways now onto the review! This is a short and simple spoiler free review.
Kayleigh you sent me through every emotion reading this book and I’m just at a loss for words really. It was a rollercoaster of emotions. I’ve been reading a lot of Romantasy and Fantasy lately and this was such a breath of fresh air to read. If I had the time I would have read this in one day. And the vibes of this book were IMMACULATE. I’m absolutely obsessed.
Character Development ✅
Plot ✅
World Building ✅
Will make you feel every single emotion ✅
I loved this writing and it has me beyond excited for any future releases that Kayleigh will have in the future! 💜 Also I’d like to add that seeing this in the book “The antidote to my depression was this book. it picked me up from my weakest moments and made me whole. The deeper we fall, the weaker we feel, the stronger we come out of it. <3” it really touched my heart. As someone who has struggled with depression their whole life this makes my heart feel full. 💜
🚨 Please make sure to check the trigger warnings before reading! Your mental health comes first! 🚨
Tropes
🥀 Found Family
🖤 Correction Facility
🥀 Soulmates
🖤 Slow Burn
🥀 Assasins
🖤 Dual POV
🥀 Age Gap
🖤 Mental Health
Dedication
“To all the people who have never felt good enough. You are worthy. <3” (side note this dedication made me want to cry 😭💜)
Blurb
Thinking I was free was a mistake... I have spent the last six years running, hiding, and thinking I would never be found. Scarlet was the creation of pure evil, where everyone was numbered, tattooed, and categorized like animals for slaughter and assigned a place within the programme. From infants we were trained, manipulated, and controlled into becoming highly trained assassins to protect the bad guys without knowing the truth. In a world where relationships and friendships are tested, in a world where love blossoms and demands sacrifice, where pain is mental as well as physical and blood and destruction followed... I was the reason for the hunt. In a world where the stars are the light that guides me within a life that starts to feel like a game of chess. Where we have to risk it all to end the one thing that created us. We had to ask our questions... Who will end up on top? Are we willing to pay the price to be free forever? Then again, it wasn't their choice to make... It was mine .
4.5 / 5 ⭐️
First off I want to say that I read the digital version of this book and I loved it so much I’ll be buying a physical copy. Anyways now onto the review! This is a short and simple spoiler free review.
Kayleigh you sent me through every emotion reading this book and I’m just at a loss for words really. It was a rollercoaster of emotions. I’ve been reading a lot of Romantasy and Fantasy lately and this was such a breath of fresh air to read. If I had the time I would have read this in one day. And the vibes of this book were IMMACULATE. I’m absolutely obsessed.
Character Development ✅
Plot ✅
World Building ✅
Will make you feel every single emotion ✅
I loved this writing and it has me beyond excited for any future releases that Kayleigh will have in the future! 💜 Also I’d like to add that seeing this in the book “The antidote to my depression was this book. it picked me up from my weakest moments and made me whole. The deeper we fall, the weaker we feel, the stronger we come out of it. <3” it really touched my heart. As someone who has struggled with depression their whole life this makes my heart feel full. 💜
🚨 Please make sure to check the trigger warnings before reading! Your mental health comes first! 🚨
Tropes
🥀 Found Family
🖤 Correction Facility
🥀 Soulmates
🖤 Slow Burn
🥀 Assasins
🖤 Dual POV
🥀 Age Gap
🖤 Mental Health
July 8, 2023
This book was so much more than I expected. The plot is interesting and the romance is weaved throughout the story. I couldn’t wait to see what was going to happened in this slow burn relationship. The antagonist is a thing of true evil that I wanted all the worst things to happen to.
The found family is really where this books shines. The relationship of all the survivors of the ‘programme’ is truly special. Overall the world that the author creates is one of deception, heartache, and most importantly, romantic AND platonic love.
I want to thank the author for the privilege of receiving an ARC of this novel.
The found family is really where this books shines. The relationship of all the survivors of the ‘programme’ is truly special. Overall the world that the author creates is one of deception, heartache, and most importantly, romantic AND platonic love.
I want to thank the author for the privilege of receiving an ARC of this novel.
July 4, 2023
Wow, this book was incredible! I absolutely LOVED this book, it wasn’t my normal go to book but now it’s got me wanting more of this!!
I loved the whole dark romance, violence, thriller, action theme going on, it was honestly amazing!!
I don’t know how to express my love for this book without giving away spoilers arghhh!😅
Honestly you NEED to read this book, the characters are amazing and you just fall in love with each and everyone of them!
I can’t wait for book 2 to come out, I need it now🤣
Kayleigh has written this book in such an amazing way, that has you gripped and not wanting to put it down! I finished this book in 3 days and could have easily finished it in 2 but I needed sleep unfortunately🤣 I highly recommend adding this to your TBR piles, it is so worth it!🫶🏼
I loved the whole dark romance, violence, thriller, action theme going on, it was honestly amazing!!
I don’t know how to express my love for this book without giving away spoilers arghhh!😅
Honestly you NEED to read this book, the characters are amazing and you just fall in love with each and everyone of them!
I can’t wait for book 2 to come out, I need it now🤣
Kayleigh has written this book in such an amazing way, that has you gripped and not wanting to put it down! I finished this book in 3 days and could have easily finished it in 2 but I needed sleep unfortunately🤣 I highly recommend adding this to your TBR piles, it is so worth it!🫶🏼
June 1, 2023
If you are looking for a book that has action, heartbreak, romance, betrayal, and found family, this is the one!
This is a new author for me and I gotta say she blew me away with this book. This literally put me on a roller coaster of emotions. This book shattered my heart but I was left wanting more. I just know I need book 2!
This novel is very detailed which I love. I also love that we got other characters POV. I easily fell in love with Adeline, Sebastian, Amelie, Jack, and the rest of the gang. This found family is what made the book. They had each other backs to literally the ends of the earth. It is slow burn which I love because the build up is so worth it!
These survivors are on the run from Hugo and his program, Scarlet which literally raised these individuals to be highly trained assassins, and there’s no way in hell that they are going back without a fight. Hugo will do anything to get back Adeline, who’s his favorite, right by his side where she rightfully belongs. This one man who raised her, her father figure, turned her world upside down when she found out the secrets he was hiding. You are put on this crazy ride and you will not be ready for what happens because I sure was not.
I highly recommend to give this author a chance! It’s an amazing book! Thank you for the ARC & I’m so happy to be apart of your debut release!
This is a new author for me and I gotta say she blew me away with this book. This literally put me on a roller coaster of emotions. This book shattered my heart but I was left wanting more. I just know I need book 2!
This novel is very detailed which I love. I also love that we got other characters POV. I easily fell in love with Adeline, Sebastian, Amelie, Jack, and the rest of the gang. This found family is what made the book. They had each other backs to literally the ends of the earth. It is slow burn which I love because the build up is so worth it!
These survivors are on the run from Hugo and his program, Scarlet which literally raised these individuals to be highly trained assassins, and there’s no way in hell that they are going back without a fight. Hugo will do anything to get back Adeline, who’s his favorite, right by his side where she rightfully belongs. This one man who raised her, her father figure, turned her world upside down when she found out the secrets he was hiding. You are put on this crazy ride and you will not be ready for what happens because I sure was not.
I highly recommend to give this author a chance! It’s an amazing book! Thank you for the ARC & I’m so happy to be apart of your debut release!
June 1, 2023
4.5☆
This book will take you on a roller coaster of emotions. Be prepared and have your tissues or stress ball handy.
Scarlet starts off with us following a group of adults who have escaped a program called Scarlet. It is a program run to take unfortunate kids and teach them skills to become assassins with many skills. The catch is.. they are being taught by the bad guys. The group we follow includes Adeline, Sebastian, Amelie, Jack, Jessie, Arthur, and Malcom, but the POV is mostly through Adeline or Sebastian. Each person in the group has a specific skill set that assures their survival in hiding from the program. But as always, there are problems to arise, and you can't be truly free if the program is still running.
We follow our characters throughout their journeys and trials with much action, losses, and triumphs, but also through self-discovery, love, and friendship. The chemistry between a few of the characters is heartwarming but also heartbreaking with the decisions that may have to be made. Bring your tissues. You may need them as you are reading. I'm patiently waiting to see what happens in the next book after that last plot twist. There are many tough subjects and situations addressed in this novel. Please be aware and read the content warnings.
This book will take you on a roller coaster of emotions. Be prepared and have your tissues or stress ball handy.
Scarlet starts off with us following a group of adults who have escaped a program called Scarlet. It is a program run to take unfortunate kids and teach them skills to become assassins with many skills. The catch is.. they are being taught by the bad guys. The group we follow includes Adeline, Sebastian, Amelie, Jack, Jessie, Arthur, and Malcom, but the POV is mostly through Adeline or Sebastian. Each person in the group has a specific skill set that assures their survival in hiding from the program. But as always, there are problems to arise, and you can't be truly free if the program is still running.
We follow our characters throughout their journeys and trials with much action, losses, and triumphs, but also through self-discovery, love, and friendship. The chemistry between a few of the characters is heartwarming but also heartbreaking with the decisions that may have to be made. Bring your tissues. You may need them as you are reading. I'm patiently waiting to see what happens in the next book after that last plot twist. There are many tough subjects and situations addressed in this novel. Please be aware and read the content warnings.
May 21, 2023
✨✨✨✨ ARC REVIEW ✨✨✨✨
(few spoilers can possibly be in this review)
I really liked this book. As dark as I love, with a thriller mood and mystery! Adeline is a very interesting character and through all the book, we want to know more about her, her past and her story.
The other characters were amazing too. I fell in love with Larna, who reminded me of Sibby from Satan’s Affair ! A crazy girl, without filter ! 😆 She’s a woman with so much independence, I LOVE THAT ENERGY 💖
Sebastian 🥰🥰 Oh what a man ! I usually am not found of age gap, but this one was sooooo great! Their relationship seems so strong and is really beautiful. I love how their story went!
THE END OF THE BOOOOOK ?????!
I wasn’t prepared for this ! Honestly, this was one of the best plot twist I read ! Until the last page, I was certain this could not happen, it wasn’t possible. But here it is. And to be honest, I think it was the best way to end this book and start a new story with book 2.
I can’t wait for you all to read Scarlet and be speechless by how amazing it is !!! Kayleigh did such a great job and her writing is soooo smooth and easy, even for me who’s french and not perfectly fluent with english !
(few spoilers can possibly be in this review)
I really liked this book. As dark as I love, with a thriller mood and mystery! Adeline is a very interesting character and through all the book, we want to know more about her, her past and her story.
The other characters were amazing too. I fell in love with Larna, who reminded me of Sibby from Satan’s Affair ! A crazy girl, without filter ! 😆 She’s a woman with so much independence, I LOVE THAT ENERGY 💖
Sebastian 🥰🥰 Oh what a man ! I usually am not found of age gap, but this one was sooooo great! Their relationship seems so strong and is really beautiful. I love how their story went!
THE END OF THE BOOOOOK ?????!
I wasn’t prepared for this ! Honestly, this was one of the best plot twist I read ! Until the last page, I was certain this could not happen, it wasn’t possible. But here it is. And to be honest, I think it was the best way to end this book and start a new story with book 2.
I can’t wait for you all to read Scarlet and be speechless by how amazing it is !!! Kayleigh did such a great job and her writing is soooo smooth and easy, even for me who’s french and not perfectly fluent with english !
May 27, 2023
Scarlet, Kayleigh Hilton
Arc Review!
🌟☕️🌠🕯️🗡️📃🖤
If you’re looking for a new indie dystopian thriller with some romance and found family, this book is for you!
This whole book was 1 huge surprise. Despite reading the blurb, I don’t think I was fully prepared for this story. Yes this book was dark (check trigger warnings) but there was also a beauty and lightness between the pages.
This book was VERY addictive and fast paced. It’s something you’ll start and not want to put down until you’re finished. I loved how the storyline developed, and we had scenes from the present and the past. I also loved how it seems like you know everything, but there’s so much more to Scarlet than meets the eye.
The character and their stories were my favorite part of the book. The story is the definition of found family and it’ll pull on your heartstrings. We mainly get two characters point of view, but I loved when we got to see others.
Did I sob? Um yes like 3 times. Did I smile so hard my cheeks hurt? Also Yes. Did i literally gasp out loud multiple times. Of course, but that’s what made the book so good.
Out June 2nd!! 🖤🖤
🌟🌟🌟🌟.5/5 this is definitely the start to something great!
Arc Review!
🌟☕️🌠🕯️🗡️📃🖤
If you’re looking for a new indie dystopian thriller with some romance and found family, this book is for you!
This whole book was 1 huge surprise. Despite reading the blurb, I don’t think I was fully prepared for this story. Yes this book was dark (check trigger warnings) but there was also a beauty and lightness between the pages.
This book was VERY addictive and fast paced. It’s something you’ll start and not want to put down until you’re finished. I loved how the storyline developed, and we had scenes from the present and the past. I also loved how it seems like you know everything, but there’s so much more to Scarlet than meets the eye.
The character and their stories were my favorite part of the book. The story is the definition of found family and it’ll pull on your heartstrings. We mainly get two characters point of view, but I loved when we got to see others.
Did I sob? Um yes like 3 times. Did I smile so hard my cheeks hurt? Also Yes. Did i literally gasp out loud multiple times. Of course, but that’s what made the book so good.
Out June 2nd!! 🖤🖤
🌟🌟🌟🌟.5/5 this is definitely the start to something great!
June 18, 2023
I am ready for more!
I think many agree that the ending shook us a little…or a lot.
I was provided an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review from the author (who has been an absolute angel when communicating back and forth 😇).
Any book that has a FMC in this genre, has my ears peeking up…and this FMC has been one of my favorite journeys to follow. Think all of your favorite parts of a dark mysterious read, meets a romantic action life or death feeling story. It completely captivated me in and you can feel the bonds strengthening with the characters as the plot develops. Definitely has its set of TWs (violence, death, suicide, murder, assault, sexual assault), while still making things not feel too heavy and needing to step away.
I think I finished this in two nights of post working 9-5 reading because once it sucked me in, I did not care about how many extra shots of espresso I needed the next morning. Worth it.
For a debut work, I am very much looking forward to future readings from Kayleigh! 🖤
I think many agree that the ending shook us a little…or a lot.
I was provided an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review from the author (who has been an absolute angel when communicating back and forth 😇).
Any book that has a FMC in this genre, has my ears peeking up…and this FMC has been one of my favorite journeys to follow. Think all of your favorite parts of a dark mysterious read, meets a romantic action life or death feeling story. It completely captivated me in and you can feel the bonds strengthening with the characters as the plot develops. Definitely has its set of TWs (violence, death, suicide, murder, assault, sexual assault), while still making things not feel too heavy and needing to step away.
I think I finished this in two nights of post working 9-5 reading because once it sucked me in, I did not care about how many extra shots of espresso I needed the next morning. Worth it.
For a debut work, I am very much looking forward to future readings from Kayleigh! 🖤
May 13, 2024
Scarlet, a book that hooked me from the start and sent me on a roller-coaster of emotions.
Set in a world with an organisation in the baby buying industry, who train their young into assassins, and fronted by a strong, resilient FMC in Adeline who you will grow to adore, especially for her love and care for her friends, for whom she will do anything.
Sebastian; whom Adeline's heart belongs to, Amelie; her best friend and Jack; Amelie's boyfriend, all have their own personal struggles, conveyed beautifully with the use of flashbacks throughout the book, which highlight the trauma these characters have suffered and strive to overcome. These flashbacks were handled expertly and with much care and attention to the subject matter, but still may be a trigger to some.
It takes a lot for me to cry at books but this was definitely one that got me, the whole third act/ending had me sobbing. I'm very much looking forward to the next instalment, seeing how these characters develop further and what emotional turmoil is in store.
Set in a world with an organisation in the baby buying industry, who train their young into assassins, and fronted by a strong, resilient FMC in Adeline who you will grow to adore, especially for her love and care for her friends, for whom she will do anything.
Sebastian; whom Adeline's heart belongs to, Amelie; her best friend and Jack; Amelie's boyfriend, all have their own personal struggles, conveyed beautifully with the use of flashbacks throughout the book, which highlight the trauma these characters have suffered and strive to overcome. These flashbacks were handled expertly and with much care and attention to the subject matter, but still may be a trigger to some.
It takes a lot for me to cry at books but this was definitely one that got me, the whole third act/ending had me sobbing. I'm very much looking forward to the next instalment, seeing how these characters develop further and what emotional turmoil is in store.
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