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The GriMM Tales

Little Red Riding Hood

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Getting eaten by a wolf wasn't exactly what Red had in mind when he finally escaped the palace walls.

Abandoned as a babe and raised in The Queen's court, Red has always been an outsider, with his mismatched eyes and sharp tongue keeping most at arm's length. When he ventures towards the Dark Forest on an important quest to save his kingdom from the grips of a cruel famine, the last thing he needs is a massive grey wolf stalking him. A wolf who makes it clear that Red looks like a very tasty snack.

Wilhelm ‘Wim’ Hoffmann is dangerous, infuriating, and absolutely not to be trusted—no matter how his deep voice makes Red’s traitorous heart stutter. If only Wim wasn't devastatingly handsome, if only he didn’t cook up such sumptuous meals and use his superior body heat to keep Red warm at night… Then Red might remember that wolves aren't supposed to be trusted, especially ones with secrets as dark as the forest itself.

But Red knows better than to fall for a wild creature's charms... Right?

Surviving these treacherous woods—where slave traders and bandits lurk around every corner—will require more than just an uneasy alliance. As their bond deepens with each shared danger, Red begins to wonder if being devoured by a big bad wolf might not be so bad after all...


This GriMM Tales retelling features one red-cloaked menace and the wolf that sees through his armour, touch him and get eaten alive, a smidge of an age gap, a dash of primal play, a wolf who wants strokes, two bedrolls but let’s share one for warmth & a HEA.

Each book set in the GriMM fairytale world can be read as a standalone and contains its own Happily Ever After story. Though you’ll definitely want to read each one, as the tales are connected to each other in multiple magical ways.

371 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 4, 2025

309 people are currently reading
1630 people want to read

About the author

T.J. Rose

9 books310 followers
TJ Rose is steadily turning her wild imagination into alternate universes, one happily-ever-after at a time.

By day, she weaves action-packed queer romances packed with vivid worlds and characters who dance between sugar, spice, and pure chaos. By night, she's either plotting doomsday scenarios or binging horror movies—sometimes simultaneously.

When not writing or daydreaming, you'll find her wandering through the British wilderness, coffee in hand, sunlight optional but strongly preferred.


Visit her website www.tjrosebooks.com to join her mailing list to stay up-to-date!

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5 stars
467 (41%)
4 stars
442 (39%)
3 stars
175 (15%)
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34 (3%)
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13 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 410 reviews
Profile Image for Drusilla.
1,084 reviews441 followers
October 7, 2025
I liked it, but I didn't love it.
Hmm, I really loved the last quarter of the book, where I felt like I was in a fairy tale. Before that, it dragged on too much for me and I was a little bored.
BUT, maybe you should ignore my review. I'm giving it 4 stars even though I'd rather give it only 3. That's because I'm riding a super intense wave of depression and everything just sucks right now. So please don't look too closely. The book basically didn't stand a chance against my bad mood.
So, as I said, most of the story dragged on too much for me. I kept skipping sentences because I was falling asleep and just wanted to get on with it.
But it's a very well-written book, so it has nothing to do with the author's style and is probably just me.
I didn't like Red as a character at the beginning either, but he grew on me when I realized that there was a little more depth to him.
Since the initial situation between Red and Wim is not ideal and they had to slowly get closer to each other, it's actually understandable that their journey through the forest takes so long. So it actually fits, just not for me.
What really surprised me in a positive way was the primal sex scene. That finally woke me up, and it was definitely one of the best scenes of its kind that I've read so far.
And then the ending with Oma and the happy ever after were wonderful.

Wim’s thighs, thick as tree trunks, flexed as he moved. Red’s eyes followed the trail of dark hair down his stomach, lower and lower until—
Fuck, that was one large cock.
Wim was a towering bear of a man, so it wasn’t completely unexpected, but Red was certain it was at least slightly disproportionate, being so absolutely massive.
🤭🐾🤭

“I can smell you, Little Red,” Wim purred from the shadows, in the deep voice of his wolf form. “The fear rolling off your skin… and something else. Something sweeter. You’re leaking for me already, aren’t you?”
Red whimpered at the words, his cock straining in his briefs. His pulse thundered in his ears as he changed direction, diving between thick trunks.
😳🐾😳
Profile Image for Brooke.
861 reviews581 followers
August 18, 2025
⭐️ 4 stars ⭐️

“Oh wolf, what big paws you have!”
“All the better to pin you down with, sweetheart,” he snarled, his voice rough with promise.


What if Little Red Riding Hood fell in love with the wolf?
This was a fun retelling, with lots of cute wolf moments, banter, cuddles for warmth, and an interesting plot.

Nobody had ever looked at Red like this. Like he was perfect exactly as he was. It was exhilarating. It was intoxicating.


I loved how caring and possessive Wim was with Red, how he made him feel cared for.
There was a nice balance between the romance and the action, which made this such an easy and pleasant reading experience.

Even without the retelling aspect, this was still a sweet and sexy shifter romance, and the little cameos of the other books in the series made me excited to try out the other ones as well. Just need to find out which one features the ‘Royal Shadow’, because I need me some of that.

“I knew it in my bones when I first caught your scent—you were meant to be mine.” Wim dropped his tone to a seductive purr. “And now I get to have you.”


Thank you TJ Rose for sending me a copy of this book!

CW and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Mild gore
- References to past suicidal thoughts
- MC w/ low self-esteem
- MC w/ heterochromia
- Age gap (32 vs 24)
- Size difference
- Brief primal play
- Spanking
- Biting
- Rimming
- Top/bottom
- Knotting
Profile Image for patrícia.
717 reviews147 followers
August 23, 2025
Oooohhh this was a *brilliant* start to the series—I’m already obsessed! Red and Wim completely stole my heart ❤️🐺.

“Oh wolf, what a big tail you have,”
“All the better to swat irritating little brats with, sweetheart.”

“Oh wolf, what big paws you have!”
“All the better to pin you down with, sweetheart.”

“Oh wolf, what big eyes you have!”
“All the better to see your beautiful face with, sweetheart.”

“Oh wolf, what a big tongue you have.”
“All the better to lick you with, sweetheart.”

“Oh wolf, what a big cock you have.”
“All the better to fuck you with, sweetheart.”


This retelling had everything: it was sweet and healing, tender and adoring, and then absolutely **blazing hot**. The worldbuilding was spot on, with tantalizing hints for the future books, but honestly… nothing tops the magic of Red and Wim.

Red is sassy, bratty, fierce yet vulnerable—and Wim, powerful, cursed, and hopelessly devoted, is the perfect match. Together they’re explosive, romantic, and impossible not to love.

T.J. Rose takes the classic *Little Red Riding Hood* and spins it into a stunning MM fantasy romance. Red, raised in the queen’s palace as an orphan, sets out to save his kingdom from famine—only to cross paths with Wim, the enthralling wolf shifter whose deep voice makes his traitorous heart stutter. The story brims with tension, primal play, “two bedrolls but let’s share one for warmth,” and builds to a deeply satisfying HEA.

Each book in *The GriMM Tales* series can be read as a standalone, but they’re interconnected in clever ways—so I already know the whole series is going to be addictive. If this is just the beginning… I *hope* it wrecks me, because I’m ALL IN for more. Also all the cover are so gorgeous… I’m dying over here! 🫶🫶🫶

Adorable. Heart-melting. Scorching hot.
Mine. Claim. Mark. Mate.🥰🔥


✨ *Little Red Riding Hood* releases on **September 4, 2025**.
✨ ARC kindly provided by the author.

“And… we will live in your cottage?”
Wim nodded through a pang of homesickness quickly replaced by images of Red kneeling by the fire, warming his hands while Wim cooked him the most delicious of meals.Red’s eyes widened. “Tell me about it.”
“Built it myself, from the ground up. Three good-sized rooms, and a proper thatched roof that keeps the cold out. There’s a large hearth in the main room—perfect for when you want to sprawl out on the rug with one of them adventure books you love so much. We could read them together.”
Red hiccuped a laugh.
“And there’s an enormous bed, all soft with feather pillows. Where I’ll take my time making love to you before holding you all night, safe in my arms.”

“The ethereal glow transformed Red’s pale skin, turning each freckle into a tiny star. His chest rose and fell with languid breaths, the necklace of milk teeth gleaming against his throat.
“Look at you, all laid out for me like this.” Wim stared in awe at Red in all his glory. “How did I ever think you were a tasty snack? You’re a whole fucking feast.”
Starting at Red’s navel, Wim dragged his tongue in one long, slow stroke up his torso, tasting salt and sweetness. Red arched beneath him with a soft gasp.
“Do it now,” Red breathed. “Make me yours.”
Profile Image for Kati *☆・゚.
1,312 reviews701 followers
December 12, 2025
3.75**** stars

No matter what games Wim was playing, Red would discover the truth.


Very entertaining, cute banter, sweet romance. The pace of the story was rather mid so I was surprised that in the very last part the plot was totally escalating but the conclusion to Wim’s secret and the mystery surrounding Red that was hinted at left me honestly a bit unsatisfied. Still a worthy read tho for fans of fairy tales and retellings. This one had quite a new take on the original with some twists.


Haha, but holy moly, some of my friends on here would have a field day with this. With Red and Wim adventuring through the woods for days on end without there being any mentioning on page about bathing or washing up in a stream but getting down and dirty anyways. *lol

“I can’t…” Red flapped his hand wildly around Wim’s cock. “It’s too big!” he snapped angrily. “Why the fuck is it so big?!”

💀

But damn, they were also so fucking cute with each other.

“Get off me, you mangy mutt!” Red shrieked, hitting the wolf as hard as he could. Wim responded by flopping his entire weight onto Red, crushing him beneath thick grey fur, and proceeded to lick a wet stripe up his cheek. Red squirmed and cursed, but his protests were undermined by the laughter he couldn’t quite contain.




And for my own enjoyment (and yours) I’m also adding the quote of all quotes, the one everyone put into their reviews, because it’s awesome:

“Oh wolf, what a big tail you have,”
“All the better to swat irritating little brats with, sweetheart.”

“Oh wolf, what big paws you have!”
“All the better to pin you down with, sweetheart,”

“Oh wolf, what big eyes you have!”
“All the better to see your beautiful face with, sweetheart,”

“Oh wolf, what a big tongue you have.”
“All the better to lick you with, sweetheart,”

“Oh wolf,” Red whispered against Wim’s ear, […] “what a big cock you have.”
“All the better to fuck you with, sweetheart.”



There was all in all a lot happening and it was interesting that there are already quite a few cameos and introductions to characters of the upcoming books in the series and I’m very curious about many of them. Looking forward to it.

**************
The GriMM Tales multi-author series

Book 1 - Little Red Riding Hood - 3.75 stars
Book 2 - Zel - 4.25 stars
Book 3 - Hansel and Gerhardt
Book 4 - The Elves and the Shoemaker
Book 5 - Cinder - tbr
Book 6 - The Frog Prince - 3.25 stars
Book 7 - Rumpelstilzchen - 3.0 stars
Book 8 - Snow White and the Seven Little Miners


Profile Image for Drache.... (Angelika) .
1,545 reviews229 followers
September 29, 2025
3,5 stars.
Having attended (many decades ago) german kindergarten and school, you couldn't escape Grimms Märchen and Rotkäppchen (Little Red Riding Hood).

A few thoughts.

This story was fun, but also gruesome. Thankfully by now I know how to look out for myself, so I read through the body slashing descriptions with squinted eyes and did not read the two pages where the MCs fought gigant spiders in a dark forest (thankfully the author mentioned this in their CW).

I enjoyed the little details referring to the original fairy tale beyond the more obvious ones like "why do you have such a big.... cock?"

I loved the intimacy between Red and Wim, loved how Wim tried to protect Red, held him close at night to keep him warm, how possessive he was "they touch you, they die".

Red insisting again and again that Wim wasn't a monster, that Wim killing people because of the black magic he had been infected with wasn't his fault but the magic's fault, was a nice touch.

When Red and Wim at 93% stepped under a small waterfall in a hot spring I felt (no, not the sexual tension) the immense relief that they would wash themselves for the first time in weeks!

I would have preferred if the author hadn't forgotten, nearing the end, that Red had been on a very important quest, though.
Thankfully they at least didn't forget about Auntie Anne.

“Yes.” The word tumbled from Red’s lips before he even knew what he was saying. “Yes, yes, yes, Wim. A thousand times, yes. Please!” Red’s cheeks flushed as he caught himself. Here he was, practically throwing himself at Wim like some lovesick fool again. He straightened his spine, attempting to gather the shreds of his dignity. “I mean… that would be… acceptable, I suppose.”
Profile Image for ❥ Lina.
8 reviews
September 4, 2025
Oh. My. God. This book was freaking AMAZING!!!! 🤯🔥
I’d been dying to get my hands on it (i’m a total sucker for retellings 💕), so the second I grabbed the ebook I literally devoured it 📖✨. And wow… the chemistry between Red and Wim? Off the charts 😍. From page one I was hooked. Honestly, at some point I was like, “Please don’t end, please don’t end 🙏,” just so I could hang out with these two a little longer.

This was such a killer start to the GriMM Tales series 🌙, and now I’m counting down the days for the next ones to drop ⏳. I’m especially hyped for my fave fairytale retelling: Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs—except in this version they’re miners. How cool is that?! ⚒️❄️

P.S. Can’t wait to see what happens with the Queen 👑. Ugh, she was the absolute WORST 😤.
Profile Image for Jessie (thatchickwithabook).
989 reviews16 followers
August 13, 2025
Well, this was just fantastical. I love the blend of worlds and creatures, witches and enchantments. Red and Wim match each other so well, and I found each of their predicaments so fascinating. I also loved the hints at the other books in this shared world: Hansel is mentioned, and a Snow White reference.

There were times in this book where I just wanted Wim to finally explain what was going on with him, and once he did, it felt like one twist after the other. I was honestly astounded at all the little things that started clicking together to make everything make sense.

TJ is fast becoming one of my favourite authors. There’s always so much description and world building in their books and I’m always waiting for the next release.

Thank you TJ Rose for the ARC. This review is honest and voluntary.
Profile Image for Mal.
564 reviews47 followers
August 30, 2025
4.5⭐️Omg Wim! Wim is just incredibly swoony, I have such a crush on the cursed wolf I cannot even say! Whenever he says “sweetheart” you’ll find me in a puddle on the floor. And he loves, LOVES baiting Red hehehehe. Red is very easy to rile up, little spitfire that he is.

TJ Rose introduces us to an incredible world full of fairytaleesque characters, intricate gripping lore(that’s perfectly introduced) and an absolutely mesmerising dynamic between Red and Wim and they stumble their way to an HEA. I was blown away by the adventure of it all as the sweetness and also the lol moments.

This is a brilliant start to a series that I’m so excited about, we get glimpses into so many if the other stories and it’s fun to guess what’s coming up next.

I love TJ’s writing and this book is fantastic and you should definitely read it if you love fantasy with a hint of medieval but modern cheeky prose. Read it if you love opposites attract, size difference, mates, magic and mayhem!
Profile Image for Kassu.
891 reviews22 followers
August 22, 2025
3.5⭐

I enjoy fairytales and I'm always up for some retellings. This book includes some ideas, themes and distinct scenes from Little Red Riding Hood, but it's very far from a faithful retelling. Which is not a bad thing. I enjoyed the playful scenes derived from the original fairytale, and the almost endless forest setting. There were definitely good moments.

But it's a lenghty book and some trimming should be done. Even if it is a long journey - a quest really - and the boys need some bonding time, enough is enough. At least a few of the dozen side quests could have been scrapped completely, as well as some of the Red's woe-is-me-circles. The two first chapters from Wim's POV also seemed unnecessary, but I did enjoy his rare chapters towards the end.

The writing is not bad at all, but especially the middle part is just bloated and I started to lose my focus. The pacing picks up towards the end, the conclusion almost too fast. And luckily the short epilogue was not completely unnecessary. (Yes, it's sad that this is an actual plus, but so many epiloques are just bad.) With some edits I might have found this book quite delicious.

There's quite a lot of gore, which is very suitable for Grimm tales, to be honest. But why is there a kissing scene right after the wolf mutilated people? It was stated that there are literally chunks of human flesh between his teeth. I was reading in trepidation when things started to get romantic from there, hoping they'd have a little toothpaste interlude before the kissing begins. Or maybe at least try to chew on some leaves, please. But even without preparation it ended up being magically lovely kiss without the "taste of death".

All in all, considering that they're just roaming around in the forest and having some bloody fights, and there aren't really mentions of washing up, I might not be eager to put my mouth on these men. But Wim's a wolf, so I'm sure he finds all kinds of grime exciting. And I didn't really mind it on behalf of Red either. Fairytale sex magic is fine.

I liked the book and I'm happy I received an ARC, my thanks to the author. I picked up several nods towards the other books in the series and I am eager to read the rest.
Profile Image for Andrew Smith-Mebust.
80 reviews3 followers
August 23, 2025
“Hook your finger with mine and repeat after me;
“By the moon’s silver light…
And the forest’s ancient might…
I swear to help Wim find his cure,
or may wolves chase me day and night!””

I have always been enamored with fairytales, so when an MM retelling of not just one but a series of eight novels was announced, I immediately signed up for the ARC’s.

I was excited but didn’t have any expectations going in, but I have to say, BRAVO to TJ ROSE! 👏👏👏

Not only did they craft a beautiful retelling of LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD, but they put their unique signature and style into the story. I was so impressed with how well this was done. They had the hardest job out of all the authors in this series, because this sets the tone for the entire series and that is no easy task. They did a wonderful job building this world, and I believe I caught all the bread crumbs they left about the other stories to come. This can be read as a stand alone, but if you stick around I believe it will be well worth your invested time.

LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD, actually fits the mold of MM ROMANCE really well… we get enemies to lovers/IDIOTS to lovers (my favorite), bratty MC, alpha shifter, knotting, pinning, and a few other surprises I won’t ruin… I mean this book really has it all.

The lasts 1/3 of the book especially took my breath away. It was filled with so many twists and turns, I about broke my neck 🤣 I didn’t see them coming, so kudos!

This is a solid 4.5/5 stars
⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️✨

My only complaint is that there are ::SPOILER ALERT:: giant spiders… and as someone who has arachnophobia I wish it was mentioned in the trigger warnings. It’s literally a page and a half, but here’s a warning to those who need it!

Can’t wait to read the next entry in the series.

Thank you again to TJ Rose and their team for the ARC. ♥️🐺🌕🪵🪾🧙🏻‍♀️
Profile Image for Megan (feral hearts club).
387 reviews32 followers
September 3, 2025
This book was an absolute blast to read! I’m already a huge fan of TJ Rose, so it’s no shock that I adored this one. Red’s sassy, bratty charm totally won me over… he’s officially earned a spot on my list of favorite fictional characters. Every chapter had me either swooning, cracking up, or wiping away tears. It’s one of those rare reads you wish could go on forever. And that ending? Whew.
Profile Image for Jo⁷.
118 reviews144 followers
September 15, 2025
The first 70% was solid 3-star material for me, but then all of those rushed plot twists happened. They were so ridiculous and out of nowhere that I quickly lost interest and just skimmed the rest.
Profile Image for Juno  ʕ •ᴥ•ʔゝ☆.
316 reviews10 followers
January 29, 2026
[4.5 estrellas 🌟]. OKAY, LISTEN. Es como leer un cuento de hadas, pero spicy de a ratos y gay.

Tiene una trama entretenida porque siempre pasan cosas. Los personajes me gustaron mucho y pfff SU QUÍMICA ME TENÍA LOCA. DIOS SANTO.

La pasé súper bien.

¿Y saben cuándo más me la pasé bien? Con la historia extra del final donde acabo de leer mi primer cuarteto. FUEGO EN LA CUCAAAAA.

IMPRESIONANTE.
Profile Image for Kit (kit.reads.romance).
163 reviews21 followers
August 17, 2025
This book was SO good! The tenderness between the two MCs as their feelings grew? Stunning. The atmosphere? Slightly creepy in the best way. The banter? Excellent.

I loved Wim and Red's romance so much. My poor Red has low self esteem and struggles to believe anyone could ever want him, but Wim's intensity, acceptance and gentleness are everything he needs to break through Red's prickly walls and reach the affection starved, loving man beneath.

The spice is brilliant, full of praise, sweetness and fun. Also spanking. And primal chasing. You will melt at their chemistry!

The adventures along the way in this road trip through the forest are entertaining and sometimes edge of your seat stuff. But the real enjoyment is just watching these two snarky characters fall in a love so deep they'd do anything for each other. I just adored them together and ate this up.

Maybe the real treasure is the slightly ridiculous wolf we found along the way.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Nikki.
339 reviews37 followers
August 19, 2025
This was incredible. SO funny, well written, sexy as hell. All around a very fun read with a great plot and even greater romance. I don’t know how the rest of the series will top this first book for me. It was really great.

I love a good balance between plot, spice, romance, and humor. This book nailed it all for me. Genuinely what a blast.

Red and his bratty behavior and tiny mouth will live on forever in my brain.
Profile Image for DeniReadsMostlyMM.
397 reviews45 followers
September 5, 2025
***ARC Review***

This is my honest and voluntary review.

I thoroughly enjoyed this retelling of the classic Little Red Riding Hood fairytale. Rose weaves a beautiful and engaging story that will keep you engrossed from the very first chapter until the epilogue. I really appreciate how she makes this story feel original, despite it being based on popular lore. I like that it’s also an age gap romance. I love the pacing, action, and dialogue in this book.

This story is full of witty remarks and sass. I am here for all of it. Red and Wim are on a mission to the Dark Forest that intertwines more than they originally thought. Red is trying to end a famine. Wim is trying to break a curse. The push-pull dynamic between the MCs is addictive. Red and Wim have immense chemistry, despite some insecurities that Red possesses. It’s even better once they experience an emotional bond. There are twists, turns, and revelations in this tale that will keep you on your toes. There are moments of heartache in this story. Wim and Red’s HEA is both hard earned and heartwarming. There’s a lot that transpires before it happens, but it makes it they much more satisfying in the end. You should definitely give this book a read!
Profile Image for what_emmareadnext.
185 reviews8 followers
August 22, 2025
I loved this spin on the Grimm tale of Red Riding Hood!! The world built in this book is fascinating and I really enjoyed the way elements from the original tale are included in this.
Red is the palace archer. Sent by the queen to kill the evil witch with a golden arrow and stop the famine. At least that’s what he believes. His queen is a cruel one, he has been treated cruelly his entire life and made to feel less by everyone. He longs to succeed in his mission and win the favour of the Queen.
As he travels towards the Dark Forest, Red meets a wolf shifter- Wim- and they strike a reluctant deal to travel together towards a similar destination. However what is Wim not telling Red?
I lived the chemistry between Red and Wim! The way he calls him “sweetheart” is perfect.
5 star read! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
17 reviews2 followers
August 21, 2025
I absolutely love fairytale retellings, and this one was no exception! I loved reading about the world and seeing small glimpses of characters that will appear in later books. Red and Wim easily stole my heart. I definitely didn’t expect the twist at the end and it had me tearing up. Could not recommend this more! What a fantastic start to the GriMM Tales! I am so honored I was given a ARC of this before its release.
Profile Image for Annette✨.
185 reviews2 followers
August 19, 2025
⭐️ 4,5 stars ⭐️

Once upon a time, in a kingdom where shadows danced beneath ancient trees, a young man named Red ventured through the forest.


After some pretty pitch black books, I honestly needed something lighthearted with all the good feelings. What better way for a fairytale retelling? What if Little Red Riding Hood was actually a sassy twink? Add that he falls in love with the big bad wolf.

Red + Wim = ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
After being send on an important quest, Red finds himself walking through forest with his trusted red cloak and bow on his way to the Black Forest. There he meets the half feral wolf named Wim. Desperate to break his feral curse, the both of them agree to become companions till they reach their destination.

“By the way, loved your wolf howl back there, sweetheart. Sounded real… delicate.” “Oh, stop.” Red yanked his hood lower, grateful for the darkness hiding his burning cheeks.


Those two are absolutely adorable, i’m not kidding. Wim calls him “sweetheart” to get under his skin (at the beginning lol) and Red calls him a “Mangy mutt” while stomping his foot. Through out the whole story, I was giggling and squealing like a schoolgirl. This was exactly what I needed to lighten up my mood. There are some nice plot twists and alot of sassiness. And don’t forget the spice is spicing 🌶️

“Oh wolf, what big paws you have!” “All the better to pin you down with, sweetheart,” he snarled, his voice rough with promise.


The only thing I would have liked to see was maybe a bit more closure with the queen.
So if you love a spicy grimm retelling where Little Red falls in love with the Wolf, I highly recommend this one!
Thank you TJ Rose for providing me with an eARC. This is my honest review.

TROPES
❤️ Grimm Fairytale
🐺 Wolf Shifter
❤️ Bratty red cloaked twink
🐺 Touch him and d!e (or get eaten)
❤️ a grand quest
🐺 Primal play
Profile Image for Xanthe.
2,542 reviews47 followers
September 4, 2025
**4.5**
What a fantastic start to this new MM Grimm fairytales series!
Red and Wim make for quite the duo on their adventure quest, starting off more as enemies, what with Wim trying to eat Red, before becoming reluctant (on Red's part) travelling companions on their way to the Dark Forest.
Red's quest will apparently save the kingdom from famine, as told to him by the Queen, a terrible human and hated by almost everyone in the realm. Wim is looking for what will save him from the beast inside eventually taking over forever. He's already had to leave his pack as he loses all humanity when it takes over but, miraculously, Red seems to be able to call him back to himself.
It's entertaining to read these two men together. Red is all bravado about being chosen for the quest and making it to the dark forest, when in reality he was already struggling before Wim came across him. Wim is struggling in a mental way, afraid of losing himself, but with Red, he finds something that he needs to protect and keep safe. However, there is also a secret that he cannot reveal, which keeps that little bit of distance between them, regardless of how close they grow. The banter between them is hilarious, and the heat that grows between them is intense. Wim has quite the way with words and touch that are perfect for Red, especially after the way he's been treated at the castle. Left on the doorstep as a baby in his mother's red cloak, he's known nothing of family except the cook who took over his care and became Auntie Annie. His self image is so low with no confidence in himself but Wil is determined to change that, regardless of how their quest turns out.
It's an emotional ride for the two men. An adventure that is not without its highs or its lows. No one is a fan of an ambush, after all. I cannot wait to read the downfall of the Queen, what a horrible person she is for how she's treated Red, and there are a couple of characters mentioned that I am looking forward to reading their stories.
A highly recommended read!!
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
Profile Image for Kim Reads.
256 reviews36 followers
August 31, 2025
This book was one of my highlights this month for sure, an absolute thrilling and wonderfully written story 💖

I was so excited when I got the opportunity to read this book, since I'm a huge fan of Grimm's stories since I was a kid. Make them MM? I'm definetly sat 🥰

This is a retelling, so while there are similiarities to the original, there are a lot of differences too.

Red got a special task given by the Queen of their land. A very dangerous task at that to say the least. Wim (Wilhelm) is a shapeshifter, a man able to turn into a wolf.

Red is such a sassy creature, I definitely can see why Wim is drawn to him very early on 🤭

This book truly had everything. A dangerous journey, adventures, twists and turns and a very unique love story between a sassy but vulnerable man and another, half wolf guy who is slightly lost in his own way.

Loved everything about it ❣️
Profile Image for Leah.
314 reviews10 followers
September 5, 2025
I really really wanted to like this. I think I am always chasing that high of That Time I Got Drunk and Saved a Demon but alas this was not it 😭

There was moments I really enjoyed. The writing style is really solid (maybe I will check out the authors other books) and the smut was pretty good but it was truly overwhelm by ideas of plot and character building.

First off the beginning did what I really don't enjoy and gave no build up of story or feelings. You are thrown directly in but then because of that context feels like a rushed affair and without knowing who Red was I didn't feel connected to the character at all.

Thus, leading to the greater problem of Red was just way too insecure for me and overall inconsistent. It was exhausting and there was no change throughout the novel (very little growth) and every other chapter felt like he thought Wim would leave him. This for some might be what they want but for me it was exhausting, especially when one reads to escape their own anxieties.

This book has an issue where it pulls solutions and explanations right out of thin air. The answer is always there just not told to us. Like suddenly wildlings have healing saliva! This continues right up to the final twist and left me really underwhelmed because nothing felt earned.

I just have to include the quote that kind of broke me. Sigh, we got to leave off on the scent descriptions people it is too much:
Red prepared himself to taste the blood of the men Wim had killed within his mouth.
But there wasn't a single hint of death.
Instead, he tasted the wildness of the forest on Wim's hot tongue-the earthy musk of damp soil, the crisp tang of pine needles.

Dirt and pine needles is not what a mouth should taste like.

Thank you to the author for the ARC.
Profile Image for Janet Jaramillo.
269 reviews3 followers
September 3, 2025
Little Red Ridding Hood is part of the GriMM Tales retelling as MM beautiful stories!

We meet Red who is trusted to find a solution to the famine outside the palace walls. Red meets/runs into the wolf aka Wims! This books is so cute and full of twits and turns! Red and Wims are on a journey!

I also wanna say I was cracking up at internal conversations especially Red, he’s such a slutty boy (and I mean it with love) him saying Hansel was delicious lol

Can we also discuss the Jacob warming Bella vibe when sexy Wims Kept Red warm —- swoon

You’re gonna be holding your breathe on the ending! It’s excellent sweet and you’re gonna cry, but enjoy the HEA!
Profile Image for Delaney Mann.
225 reviews1 follower
August 25, 2025
I loved this — such a fun adventure.

It had great pacing (action ⚔️ & romance ❤️ were well balanced), creative characters (like 🐺 wolf shifters), fairytale retelling(ish) nods 🏰 , and a fun-to-explore world 🌍.

…Ok enough emojis.

Go into it expecting a good time and you’ll love it.

I think this whole series will be a blast — I loved the cameos from other fairytales, teasing the other books.

There were a few moments where I wanted to smack Red for his repetitive self-loathing soundtrack, or got whiplash from some of the scenes and how the action unfolded (especially toward the end) but those are minor things, and I would absolutely recommend this if you want to read something different or get immersed in a new world.

Tons of (gory) fun.

Thank you for the ARC!
Profile Image for Freya.
475 reviews116 followers
probably-not-for-me
November 26, 2025
Note to self: not feeling it, this is either single pov or it has very little pov of the wolf.
Profile Image for TeeReads.
624 reviews23 followers
August 30, 2025
4.75 stars

This was such an amazing adventure. I loved this unique take on the classic tale of Red Riding Hood. And it's queer?! Even better. Red is a super interesting character and such a sweet MC. Wim, while actually being a shifter, definitely gives off all of the wolfy vibes. Their dynamic is unexpected, but somehow works perfectly. The story is a bit on the darker side, but the romance is oh so sweet. And, of course, there's a little spice in the forest, so that's fun. My only struggles were that the mystery felt a tad predictable to me, and a couple parts of the story dragged a bit (like it could have been AT LEAST 25 pages shorter). All in all, I really loved this, and I'm super intrigued by the other stories set in this universe.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Read With Yora.
146 reviews15 followers
August 16, 2025
First I would like to thank the author for sending me an advanced reading copy.🌹
I have quite enjoyed this edition of little red ridding hood.😍
it's not your typical Grimm fairy tale , it puts extra to the hot 😉
The characters were well written , the action well leave you breathless , the sacrifice will break your heart and open your eyes for what true love is
I hated the queen and what she did to Red self esteem😢 , she is the most vile person ever 😈, and the author succeeded in making me the reader hate the evil queen from the bottom of my heart 🤬
red is sooo cute and adorable , even he is the kind of character that you want to take and protect him from the horrible word 🫂
Wim is the perfect character for red , protective , caring and doesn't care for anything but red and the people who loves.🐺
Toby is sooooooo cute , he the kind of kid I want for myself.🥰
The plot twist in the end was very good , I didn't see it coming , will not all of it , but it still was epic🔥
I can't wait for the rest of the tales to read 😍
Super excited for the next one🔥🔥
Profile Image for Belinda Smith.
556 reviews21 followers
August 16, 2025
Okay… I was not prepared for how much I adored this book. 🥺❤️ Little Red Riding Hood (The GriMM Tales) by T.J. Rose completely swept me away and I devoured it (pun intended 😉) in one sitting.

From the very first page, Red’s voice hooked me. Abandoned as a babe, raised in the Queen’s court, sharp-tongued and mismatched-eyed, he had always been the outsider. Setting off on a dangerous quest through the Dark Forest to save his famine-stricken kingdom, the last thing he expected was a massive grey wolf stalking him… and making it very clear Red looked like a tasty snack. 🐺🔥 Enter Wilhelm “Wim” Hoffmann—the big, not-so-bad wolf with a devastatingly handsome face, a dangerous reputation, and a protective streak that made my heart melt.

And ohhh the way Wim treated Red. 🥹 Every moment he validated him, made him feel seen and treasured, turned me into a giggling mess. Their banter, the teasing nicknames, the way “sweetheart” shifted from sarcastic to soft and affectionate—I was gone. Completely feral for them both. 🫠

This wasn’t just spice (though wow 👀🔥) but a story full of heart. The world was dark and dangerous—slave traders, bandits, treacherous magic—and yet between the tension and danger, there were tender meals shared, one bedroll for warmth, whispered secrets, and stolen touches that made me swoon. The balance of hurt/comfort, laugh-out-loud humor (seriously, Red’s “three squirrels in a mansuit” internal monologue had me cackling 🤣🌰), and deep emotion was beautifully done.

💫 Tropes you’ll find in here:
🐺 Enemies-to-lovers
🛏️ Only one bed (two bedrolls… but sharing is better 👀)
🩹 Hurt/comfort
❤️‍🔥 Fated mates vibes
🌲 Dangerous quest / forced proximity
🐾 Big, protective wolf x snarky, chaotic Red
🥵 Age gap + primal play touches
✨ Found family hints (and teases of more tales to come!)

What I loved most was how this wasn’t just a retelling—it was its own magical, twisted, emotional adventure. The story teased other fairytales and characters in ways that made me so excited for what’s next in the GriMM Tales world. And that ending? Soft, tender, and absolutely perfect. 💕

T.J. Rose gave us a tale that was dark, funny, emotional, and so sexy, and I loved every single second of it. Thank you so much to the author for the ARC—I’m already desperate for the next one. 🥰📚
Profile Image for June.
198 reviews
September 1, 2025
"Kiss me first so I can pretend this is more than what it is. Let me live in a fleeting fantasy, where we’re real lovers, not just two broken souls seeking comfort in the wild."

If the idea of a queer retelling of Little Red Riding Hood and other fairytales in an interconnected universe sounds like fun to you, this book will deliver. It's fun, it's spicy, it's got shifters (and monster🐔) and a few plot twists. I think a lot of readers will love this!

I sort of think this book reads a bit differently than TJ Rose's other novels, but it very clearly embraces its origins, so the more fairytale-like style makes sense on a line level. Rose manages to write beautiful lines anyway (just look at that quote on the top 💜).

I think a project on the scale of GriMM has to balance between each book's plot and the overarching story (and strict deadlines, of course). So far it's entertaining but I'm curious to see how the greater story pans out before I really make up my mind. I'm intrigued so far.


Thank you to TJ Rose and the rest of the GriMM authors for trusting me with an ARC!
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