Hooded

Post-Apocalyptic Fairy Tales #3

by Claire Kent

He might be a wolf in disguise.

Ever since the world fell apart a year ago, I've been doing whatever I can to survive, serving food at a trading post in the flooded hills of eastern Virginia and sometimes taking men to my room upstairs.

They have to pay, of course.

Cade stops by every few weeks. He's gruff and quiet and not looking for friends, but he always treats me okay. I don't mind having him as a customer. I actually start to like him, which is the last thing I expect in the hellish place the world has become. But Cade isn't the harmless loner he's been pretending to be, and his secrets could drag me into danger.

I thought he was just a regular guy, but all this time he's been hiding a wolf.

Genres: Romance, Post Apocalyptic, Novella, Dystopia, Survival, Retellings, Dark

164 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 10, 2026

About the author

Claire has been writing romance novels since she was twelve years old. After teaching English at the university level for several years, she started writing full-time under two different pen names. She lives in Virginia.

Her early books are sexy contemporary romances filled with heat and real emotion, but with the Hold series she transitioned to science fiction romance. Her current books are steamy post-apocalyptic romance set in the near future after a global catastrophe. They feature smart, resilient women trying to survive in a new chaotic world and falling in love with strong, gruff, taciturn men.

Claire also writes softer contemporary romances as Noelle Adams,

Reviews

[❥ KAT ❥ Kitty Kats Crazy About Books · Rating 3 out of 5]

📚 𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗖𝗢𝗣𝗬 📚

☀︎ ❥ ☀︎ HOODED ☀︎ ❥ ☀︎Is the third novel in the (Post-Apocalyptic fairy Tales ) series by author Claire Kent.

Will add more to my review in the morning

Once this beauty arrived in my inbox, I dived right in, I've loved this series from the get go but I have to say this one didn't hit me like the previous books did. Usually in the past I'd read these novels within a matter of hours, that wasn't the case with this one, it took me over a day. I just didn't feel that connection between these two.

-Transactional relationship.
-Dystopian romance.
-Loosely based fairytale retelling.
-Age gap

When the impact hit destroying the world as they knew it, life became unbearably harder for the survivors left in this new world. Twenty seven year old Jill used to be an account in the old world so solely for safety reasons and much needed protection she became a prostitute which entails three clients a week, and a small room to herself. The men pay the establishment's owner Nell who keeps a tight reign over her pub and the girls get paid in rations by the men they service.

Thirty six year old Cade is one of the semi regular men who sits in Jill's area, and observes, never speaking. Until he becomes one of Jill's clients, slowly deepening their transaction into one of fondness.

Also in the area the Militia have full control of the region but there's been some push back from 'The Silver Wolf' who fast became public enemy number one, this mysterious man has been alluding their traps and stealing their cache giving back to those who need it the most.

[AvidReader · Rating 3 out of 5]

A book that can be read in one sitting.
This was good and easy to read. I loved Jill- she was strong and amazing. Pete was another character I enjoyed.
Hats off to the author for connecting this book to the series. It was done wonderfully.

I didn’t give it more stars because Cade got on my nerves in the second half.
Happy to see Breanna, Cole and Del.
Epilogue was cute.
Can’t wait to read the next book.

Safety- heroine is a prostitute due to circumstances. And she does have client even after meeting and being intimate with Hero. No detailed scenes.

-Transactional relationship.
-Dystopian romance.
-Loosely based fairytale retelling.
-Matured characters.
-KU.

I received an advance review copy and I’m leaving this review voluntarily.

[iremucka · Rating 1 out of 5]

Hooded aka o eski halinden eser yok şimdi 😒

Claire Kent çok severim ama bu sefer olmamış. İlk kez kıyametin bu kadar kısa süre sonrasını anlatması ve ana karakter kızcağızın 27 yaşında olmasıyla dedim sanki güzel bişiler olacak şimdi ⛺️
Kızın mesleğinden de kaynaklı bi değişik okuma olacağı sanrısına kapıldım ama heyhat! Neyse ki 200 sayfa bile değildi de kurtulduk.

Yahu kız bu hayattan kurtulmak istiyorum diye açık açık söylüyor, adam sen diğer türlü tehlikede olursun diyor?! Alo göktaşı düşmüş insanlık bitmiş sen aşık olduğun kadına muamele çektiriyorsun?!🥵 🥵 🥵

Ay yazarken iğrendim ÇÖP!🚮

[ChasxSabri🫧 · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was one of my most anticipated reads of the year, and I’m sad to say I was disappointed
There was no chemistry! The book in general was a nothing burger
And I love reading from this author but this one was so boring.
The more I think about it, this series is just not comparing to the rest of her work
Maybe I’ll read the next one in the series when it comes out, I don’t know 🤷🏾‍♀️

[britta ⋆˙⟡ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Short and sweet, but wish I felt the connection with the couple more. Likable FMC. For the first year after impact I’m surprised it wasn’t grittier and more atmospheric.

-transactional relationship
-KU
-post apocalyptic romance
-hidden identity

[Maria Avila · Rating 1 out of 5]

I keep expecting more but nothing…

The MMC gave me the ick after being too sacred to remove the fmc from a situation she didn’t want to be in anymore (the brothel). Even though he said he was scared to put her in a position to be hurt. She was already hurting from having to do a job she didn’t want to do.

I miss the old generation of Claire Kent’s book. The plot and writing style of her more recent book are too surface level imo. I will continue to read her book since her old ones are some of my favorites.

[Rose · Rating 3 out of 5]

This started off so good but then ya know what….. I think this man could have done more/tried more to improve her life like just a fucking notepad and some apples damn. But looking through the eyes of this as camp Claire Kent, couldn’t help but not rush to see the HEA. Lowkey love community too

[Amber (Amber Reads Romance) · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️.5

If you know me, you know I absolutely love the post-apocalyptic world Claire Kent has created with her Kindled series. I have been loving these fairytale retellings set in that world and I loved that this one was a Red Riding Hood one.

This takes place a year after impact, so we are seeing the beginning stages of the world falling apart. Jill works as server/sex worker at a pub where she gets safety in exchange for her services. She starts a transactional relationship with her broody, yet sweet regular Cade. She reserves her weekends for him, but she still has to service other men. Cade is keeping a big secret on who he really is and how his life is too dangerous for more.

I honestly appreciate the way Claire Kent writes transactional relationships. She does an excellent job of showing the natural progression of a connection that begins as a practical, physical arrangement and gradually develops into something much deeper emotionally. The relationship never feels rushed or forced.

I also loved how some familiar characters showed up from the Kindled series. I found myself hooked by all the side characters too. Love this world!

Thank you to Claire Kent for providing the ARC.

[hea booktubes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Same old same. But it’s good stuff so it’s still good.

[Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Hooded” by Claire Kent

4⭐/5⭐
3🌶/5🌶

“There are no fairy tales here. No dreams come true. There’s only life. Mostly cold and heartless but with a few small gifts granted along the way. Cade is one of those gifts for me.”

This is a pretty short little novella, set in the dystopian world of the Kindled series. I really enjoy all of the characters and stories Claire Kent has created, and “Hooded” was no exception. I actually ended up reading this book in one sitting, that’s how much of a quick read it is.

I appreciate how gritty this story is, even compared to the other, more ‘dark’ stories in this series. Jill is a sex worker who entertains two clients a week while also working as a waitress in a bar. Before Impact she was an accountant, but given the state of the world, she’s willing to do anything to survive and make it to the next day. Readers don’t get too much of a glimpse into her interactions with her clients, except for one: Cade. Cade is a quiet loner, and immediately there’s a pull between him and Jill.

I loved witnessing their relationship unfold, especially seeing Jill let down her walls with Cade. She’s quite closed off, but her intuition tells her Cade will treat her right. And oh my, he does. Cade is always looking out for Jill, making sure she’s ok and taken care of. The only qualm I had with the story was the Cade was a little *too* protective of Jill, to the point where he was giving up the potential of a relationship before it could truly begin. Jill was put in a difficult position because of Cade’s stubbornness, but thankfully everything worked out in a satisfying way.

Overall, a really nice addition to the extended Kindled series!

[TJ ☾ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25

claire kent always adds a certain amount of realism to her post-apolyptic books; everyone smells bad, she doesn't ignore gender roles, etc. so i know it's realistic that a prostitute heroine would be well, prostituting, but it did bother me that she was fucking loads of men until 80% into the book, and the hero was allowing it. likeee he could've found her somewhere else to live, even if it wasn't with him. other than that, i liked this one, especially the final twist with the town

[AbbieReads3 · Rating 4 out of 5]

My favourite in the series so far! I loved Jill and sometimes it’s down to a women to save the day!! I also loved grumpy Cade and his big secret! It was emotional that they couldn’t be together for so long but what a happy ending they got! I know these are only meant to be short books but I wish they were longer!!

[Jane Gingersnaps · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved it just wanted more and longer!

[Anne in VA · Rating 2 out of 5]

Meh...

[Danielle · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️4.5⭐️

I was so lucky to receive an ARC of this one. Thank you to Claire Kent’s team.

If there is one thing Claire Kent is going to give us, it is a badass FMC and Jill is no exception.

Jill is a sex worker. Cade is one of her customers. Their relationship begins as transactional but in this post Impact world, intimacy and trust aren’t simple anymore and this story shows how the small shifts between two people’s actions and feelings are important.

I love this world so much and I especially loved that Hooded takes us closer to the immediate aftermath of the Impact. The skies are still thick with ash. Flooding is still happening. Everything feels unstable and dangerous because the new world has not yet settled into the version we see in the later books, five, ten, even forty years down the line.

There is something fascinating about watching people figure out how to survive while the rules are still being written.

And listen, I could not stop grinning when Jill knocked on the big bad militia’s door in her pigtails carrying a basket. The Little Red Riding Hood imagery was just chef’s kiss perfect. It was playful and clever without ever making the danger feel less real.

Jill is practical and completely capable of taking care of herself, but she is never written as emotionally unavailable.

Cade is guarded and intimidating, exactly the kind of dangerous man this post Impact world creates and watching the relationship between them slowly become something neither of them expected was great.

Hooded gave me everything I want from Claire Kent. A harsh post apocalyptic world, a competent strong heroine, a dangerous but loving man and their romance built on pragmatism and trust.

[Sabrina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tropes:
Post-apocalyptic
Transactional relationship
Sex worker/Client
Hidden Identity
Age gap (10 years, FMC 27yo & MMC 37yo)
Fairy tale inspired (loosely)

I really enjoyed this book and literally read it in one sitting. It flowed really well and easily. I’m an avid Claire Kent reader and really enjoy her post-apocalyptic books and this fits in well in her universe. She mentions a couple of characters from previous books in the Kindled universe (but this is many years before those books).

I’m not a huge fan of sex worker/client books but Claire Kent makes it work really well. I highly recommend you read Escorted because it has similar vibes.

The thing that I found interesting in this book versus the other post-apocalyptic books she has written but it felt like it was sort of not of its time. It felt almost like a medieval story of this inn with its waitresses and the men they served. I understand how it works within the universe but the feel of it felt quite self contained and not quite connected that much to the outside world where in the other books it felt much more devastated and cut throat.

The relationship between Jill and Cade was really lovely. And I really, really loved the yearning that came first from Cade but then later on from Jill. I was quite annoyed with Cade for his reasons for them not to be able to be together because it also meant she was tied to the inn longer. It was weird how he kept his work and his relationship with her so separate. Because at the end of the day it doesn’t really matter (as we see in the book).

I would recommend this book if you enjoy yearning, good sex scenes, a grittier romance (it’s not unicorns and roses), and some interesting drama.

Thank you to the author for gifting me an advanced copy of this book! All opinions are my own.

[Jody Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the earliest-set post Impact book in the Kindled universe. It's been 18 months, and Jill is working as a server at the Pub, and servers are obligated to take three clients a week for post closing time activities, Nell the manager gets their fee, they get tips from the clients. In return "I have my own small room, reasonable rations, and as much protection as any other woman in the area." This kind of transaction is ubiquitous in the Kindled world, and honestly sounds like Jill has the best arrangement possible under the circumstances. We've seen plenty of transactional relationships (like Homestead and less safe transactions as a way of surviving (Breanna in Sanctuary and flat out [professional] work, like Devotion. Anyway, Nell runs interference, there's some modicum of choice between the men who have paid extra, and Jill, a woman who was alone in the world even before Impact, has a found family at the Pub. Heads up that this is Jill's job, and she continues doing it (off page but referenced) for most of the book.

She has a regular (bar) customer who she kind of nudges into becoming a client. Cade quickly becomes a steady regular, and soon it's "But Cade doesn't really feel like work to me." Kent is unmatched at using intimate scenes to further character and relational development, and we see the incremental easing and increased intimacy, the "that's my girl. You're my girl. You're my girl." Nell knows, she *knows* Cade is a client, and "the customers are the ones who use us. They're the ones who walk out the door afterwards. We're the ones who will still be here after they're gone." This continues for months, increased intimacy, an event that leads to an understandings of real feelings, and the ultimate boundary of kissing.

There's always the fulcrum of a relationship between client and professional, one that starts as "a transaction. You get a [fork], the house gets paid, and I get a tip. I know it's not like that now, but the transition is kind of...fuzzy." Cade feels he can't offer more to Jill because of his dangerous line of work, and she might understand it, but it puts them in a dead end. They both have feelings. She states multiple times to him that she's doing this job because she doesn't have options, and that she would like to stop doing it. It could be as easy as the offer to "be my woman for real" as other clients offer to servers, and Cade won't say it.

This is an unusual book and relationship dynamic (even apart from the transactional nature) because nearly all the time the characters are together on page is during intimacy. There's no other shared tasks or goals for them, which is why the "he rescues her, she recuses him right back" (fittingly, a Pretty Woman movie reference) scenes make such a level-jump in their relationship dynamics. In one, Jill sees his universe for the first time, and gets confirmation of his feelings from outside sources, and in the other Kent brings in their shared community to validate their relationship, to remove the masks and impediments to their being together.

I liked the phone-booth aspect of the book. Kent is an author who takes the challenge of writing relationship building with professionals and really does it well. I have often said in my reviews that she writes on hard mode sometimes, picks a dynamic that should in no way work, and gets to the HEA. A running theme through all the books in the Kindled universe is community and what we owe to those around us. Here Cade's urge to protect others keeps him from claiming his own happiness, but it isn't a binary choice. The HEA comes for them all in the end.

This is a short book that packs a lot of punch, with emotional connection and universe building and side characters I'd like to see more of. There are a few Easter eggs for characters and settings we're familiar with. One of the really fun aspects of these new works set in the Kindled universe, but in different series is the skipping around in time, and seeing these characters and settings before or after their own books. Five stars I liked it as a romance, as another piece of the universe puzzle, and as a craft choice.

Thank you to the author for the arc.

[Brandi Clark · Rating 4 out of 5]

Romance Reader Report Card

❤️ Chemistry: 4.5/5

🔥 Tension: 4/5

🌶️ Spice: 3.5/5

😭 Emotional Impact: 4/5

👨 Book Boyfriend Status: Very Good (Protective Survival Edition)

📚 Reread Worthy? Yes

Tropes

* Post-Apocalyptic Romance
* Slow Burn
* Sex Worker FMC
* Protective Hero
* Robin Hood Vigilante
* Found Family
* Survival Romance
* “I Can’t Keep You Safe If You’re With Me”
* Acts of Service
* Fairy Tale Retelling (Little Red Riding Hood… with a healthy dose of Robin Hood)

⸻

What I Loved

Claire Kent continues to do what she does best: make the apocalypse feel completely believable.

One of my favorite parts of this book is Jill herself. She’s a sex worker because that’s the most practical way for her to survive after society collapses—not because the story wants to shame or “redeem” her. She doesn’t hate herself for it. She isn’t portrayed as damaged or dirty. It’s simply work, and everyone around her largely treats it that way.

That realism carries through the entire novel.

Then Cade enters the picture.

He’s kind, respectful, and quietly protective without trying to “save” Jill from herself. Their relationship grows naturally through friendship before either of them admits what they’re feeling.

I also loved that Cade’s biggest flaw isn’t cruelty—it’s believing that loving Jill means keeping her away from his dangerous life. It’s frustrating, but it makes perfect sense given who he is.

⸻

What Didn’t Work for Me

There honestly wasn’t much.

If I have one complaint, it’s that this follows Claire Kent’s familiar formula pretty closely. If you’ve read several of her post-apocalyptic romances, you’ll recognize a lot of the emotional beats.

That’s not necessarily a bad thing—it just kept this from feeling truly unforgettable.

⸻

Favorite Moment

When Cade gets possessive about Jill continuing to see clients…

…and Jill shuts him down.

She points out that he doesn’t get to insist she stay safe while also expecting her to give up the very job that’s keeping her alive.

It’s one of those moments that feels incredibly grounded.

Neither of them is wrong.

They’re simply trying to survive in a world that doesn’t leave room for easy choices.

⸻

Final Thoughts

Claire Kent has a gift for writing romances that feel remarkably practical despite taking place after the end of civilization.

Every decision Jill makes feels believable.

Every sacrifice Cade makes feels believable.

Even the romance develops at a pace that feels earned instead of forced.

The apocalypse isn’t just a backdrop—it’s something that shapes every decision these characters make, and that realism is what keeps me coming back to Claire Kent’s books.

This may be marketed as a fairy tale retelling, but honestly I got far more Robin Hood than Little Red Riding Hood.

And I was perfectly happy with that.

⸻

If You Like…

* Post-Apocalyptic Romance
* Protective Heroes
* Survival Stories
* Sex Worker FMCs Written Without Shame
* Slow Burn Romance
* Practical, Grounded Characters
* Claire Kent’s Kind of Angst

⸻

Recommended For

Readers who want post-apocalyptic romance that prioritizes believable people over over-the-top drama. If you enjoy protective heroes, capable heroines, and relationships that grow out of mutual respect and survival rather than instant obsession, this is another solid Claire Kent entry. It doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but it rolls that wheel extremely well.

[MaddMoxxie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, full disclosure: I went in apprehensive. A heroine who's still sleeping with paying customers for most of the book isn't usually my thing, not even close.
But that's Claire Kent for you. 🤷🏼‍♀️
She doesn't really sell you on a trope so much as she just quietly makes you forget you ever had a problem with it.
Two chapters in, I wasn't worried anymore. I was just there, fully in it.

Hooded sits at the very start of the post-Impact timeline, and you can feel that. Everything's rawer, less settled, like the world hasn't even decided what its new rules are yet.
Jill works the floor at the Pub, drinks and food and sex, whatever pays. Cade's the quiet guy in the corner, gruff, tips well, watches her like she's the one worthy thing left in his world.

And here's what actually got me: Claire lets Jill keep working. Other customers, right up almost to the end. I expected that to drag the romance down a notch but it does the opposite. Every other transaction in that book is just that-a transaction, full stop.
What's going on with Cade isn't, even though technically, on paper, sure, it still counts as one. That gap between the two is basically the whole book's heartbeat.

I think I'm just addicted now, honestly, to this specific Claire Kent thing she does with transactional love stories that don't read as transactional at all. And weirdly, in this particular world, it all lands as more real, not less. Maybe because everyone's bartering for survival one way or another, so a sex-for-food/protection economy doesn't come off as a gimmick. It just feels like where everything was always going to end up once it all fell apart.
Jill's voice carries a lot of that too. Tired, sharp, funny when you don't expect it, never once dipping into self-pity.

And guys! Cole shows up and I genuinely said his name out loud at my phone. Small moment. But it's exactly the kind of detail that makes this whole world feel lived-in instead of built around just the one couple.

Anyway. I'm obsessed. If the next one came out tomorrow, it still wouldn't be fast enough.

I received an advance reader copy from the author and am sharing my honest review.

[jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

"You changed everything for me. You changed the world."

Review: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️

Determined to make a living after the Impact, Jill waitresses at the Pub, and takes clients after hours. One of these clients ends up being Cade - a rough and quiet type, who ends up coming back to see here every weekend. And as they toe the line between a transactional relationship and more, there ends up being more to Cade than meets the eye.

I am loving the Post-Apocalyptic Fairy Tales series, and I finished this one in a day! Hooded takes place a little over a year after Impact, and I enjoyed seeing that explored in their society - what was still available, how society has been effected. Jill has memories of her old life but is determined to be a survivor in this one, spending her time working at the Pub, and taking 3 clients to bed as part of her agreement with Nell. I liked how the Pub was portrayed, there were a lot of measures in place but the world is still post-apocalyptic so those horrors were still explored as well.

And when she starts to see Cade, you can tell he's already unlike her other clients, and I loved how their relationship tipped into more. Although he had no right to get jealous, the moments where he did had me kicking my feet (but I also loved how Jill called him out on it). And I also loved how they longed for more, even though in their current world it was hard for them to be together. And I especially loved how Jill fought for him - I adore Claire Kent's strong female leads and Jill was the coolest. The yearning in this too as they both thought about each other during the week,

Another absolute hit by Claire, this is definitely one I will be rereading! I am loving this series a lot 💖 And as always, loving the cameos in this!

Tropes & Tags:
🐺 dystopian romance
❤️ sex worker x client
🐺 transactional relationship
❤️ hidden identity
🐺 age gap

[I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review, thank you so much Claire Kent! 📖]

[Soft Nectarine ~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

From TRANSACTION to LOVE! I love this series so much!! Sex worker & her favorite client who is half in-love already!

✨ 🍎🐺🍎 ✨ 🍎🐺🍎 ✨

Earth just got rocked by a comet that dismantled nations. To survive, young Jill now works at a semi-decent brothel where she serves looted rations & pleasures select patrons 🌶️🖤 It’s not ideal but at least she is safe and her boss is solid! Her mundane life shifts once she gets a regular client in a form of a hairy woodsman with few words but endless capacity for orgasms!

Survival. Pleasure. Adoration.

The TRANSACTIONAL trope is quickly becoming my fav! There’s something about limited options & finding love in desolate places that satisfies my dark romance craving 🖤 I enjoyed the progression of this relationship from purely physical/transactional to safety & lovey-dovey feelings.

🍎 he doesn’t speak unless it’s DIRTY TALK

🍎 mmc likes her immediately but waits for fmc to initiate as to not be pushy

🍎 what the hell is a DRY ORGASM?!!

🍎 he brings her precious little gifts

DARKER than other books in the series! The fmc does continue to have sex with her clients (off page) so if that bothers you this isn’t for you. While I’m typically heavily against OM trope this one made sense because she had to survive & other couplings seemed more perfunctory.

4.5⭐️ I loved the post-apocalyptic world this author creates but I wished the ending was longer. I wanted to experience more of the ‘after militia’ life.

sex worker x client
post-apocalypitic
strong & resilient fmc
age gap
stoic & protective mmc
transactional
hidden identity
spicy 🌶️
(lose) red riding hood retelling
tw: rape (not main characters)
HEA

Thank you so much to the author for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[hungrybookworm.reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

“𝑴𝒂𝒚𝒃𝒆 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒑𝒆𝒐𝒑𝒍𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒄𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒎 𝒊𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒂𝒚 𝒕𝒐 𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒅 𝒐𝒏 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒔 𝒐𝒇 𝒖𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒊𝒎𝒑𝒐𝒓𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒕— 𝒏𝒐 𝒎𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒄𝒓𝒂𝒑𝒑𝒚 𝒔𝒊𝒕𝒖𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒘𝒆’𝒓𝒆 𝒔𝒕𝒖𝒄𝒌 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉.”

Hooded, the third book in Claire Kent's Post-Apocalyptic Fairy Tales series, is set in a world still struggling after civilization has fallen. It follows Jill, who works at a trading post where survival often means making impossible choices. One of her regular customers is Cade, a quiet and mysterious man who keeps to himself. As they grow closer, Jill realizes there's much more to him than she ever expected, and his biggest secret could change everything.

Something I've always appreciate about Claire Kent's post-apocalyptic series is that every book brings something different. None of the stories feel repetitive. I always enjoy seeing how each couple navigates survival in their own unique circumstances.

One quick note, this book includes the "other men" trope, which I know won't work for everyone. It's a trope I'm usually hesitant about, but I appreciated that the author's PA gave reviewers a heads-up before offering the ARC. That said, I thought it made sense within the realities of this post-apocalyptic world. These characters are simply trying to survive and that context made their choices feel believable to me.

Since this is a novella, don't expect an overly complex plot or extensive world-building. I flew through this in one sitting. It's a quick, straightforward read that balances romance and suspense.

Hooded releases on July 10th and paperback copies are already available on Amazon & through the author's shop. Thanks to the author, Claire Kent for the ARC and the opportunity to read this early.

[Mary Lynne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hooded checked every box for what I seek in a good dystopian romance. Part of what makes this one hit hard is that it’s set in the first year after Impact, the global catastrophe that created Kent’s dystopian setting. So we see systems just starting to evolve that will turn into full-blown groups and camps in books set in later years. It’s a world in upheaval, and Jill, our heroine, has found her way to exist by working in the world’s oldest profession (even in the midst of world-changing events, there’s always a need for a working gal, I guess). Does she love it? No. Is she surviving it? Yes. So what gives her life meaning? Some great support from her coworkers—and one particular client.

I loved that Kent built the relationship between Jill and Cade so, so gradually. These are two people who are deeply scarred by what the world has made them do recently, and trust is a rare commodity due to that. Seeing them come together as secrets about each are revealed is the heart and soul of Hooded, accompanied by some amazing sensual scenes from Kent. The transactional nature of their relationship is something that leads Kent to explore meaning in new ways, and those scenes are fabulous.

This is part of Kent’s Fractured Fairy Tales series—in this case, Little Red Riding Hood. The salutes to that tale are clear and such fun to read. Add to it a host of secondary characters, good and bad, and you’ve got a grand read.

I’m beginning to think that Kent can do no wrong when it comes to her dystopian books. This book can easily be read by a newcomer to Kent as well. So whether you’re a new or an old reader of Kent, you’ll find yourself entranced by Hooded.

[Bookphenomena (Micky) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Headlines:
Choices
Connections
Changes

Hooded met the Kindled world at one year post-meteor, so life was at its most grim in some ways but Jill had found a way to feel safe and secure. I really liked the empowering stance on Jill's circumstances; she chose a safe haven in sex work, she had a choice in who and when but an agreement to fulfill. Working in Nell's pub provided a roof, meals and steady employment. When you're without family and friends, you find them.

The Kindled world has often shown women having to exchange sex for safety, usually the side characters, so it was refreshing to see this issue in the spotlight and see how Jill navigated the days and her situation. There was a small found family working at the pub and a customer that intrigued Jill above others...Cade.

Cade was gruff and mysterious, we got to know him through Jill's eyes and interactions. There was a precious, gradual connection through intimacy. The battle of real feelings was so interesting to observe. The more we got to know about Cade, I needed more information to find out what he was really doing out in the world.

I loved the later reveal that connected this story back up to Citadel; what a brilliant connection that I truly enjoyed. I wonder if I went back and read Citadel if I'd see easter eggs! Claire Kent is so clever how these worlds expand and relate, I live for these moments.

Hooded brought a fresh perspective on the transactional exchange of sex for income and safety. I highly recommend.

Thank you to the author for the early copy.

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Claire Kent and her team for the ARC!

Jill works at a pub, serving food and drink to customers and occasionally taking men as clients. Cade is one of the regulars at the pub, always sitting quietly in the corner, until Jill offers her private services to him. As Jill and Cade's relationship develops into something physical, their hearts start to catch up with them as well.

Like all books by Claire Kent, I couldn't put Hooded down and read it in one sitting. I loved the notes of Red Riding Hood for inspiration and the unique way the wolf was retold.

Jill and Cade completely captivated me. I really appreciated how Jill's work was handled, there wasn't any negativity towards her or the situation. She's a resilient, level-headed FMC which is always my favourite. Cade also has some of my favourite aspects in an MMC—protective yet attentive. They have such a great dynamic together.

Claire Kent always has a way of making her MCs come together so naturally, and Jill and Cade are no exception. This is such a sweet romance despite the dystopian backdrop, and it was great to see some nods to other characters from this universe.

Hooded is the third book in the Post-Apocalyptic Fairy Tales series but can be read as a standalone.

Tropes and Themes:
Inspired by Red Riding Hood
Post-apocalyptic
Transactional relationship
Sex worker x client dynamic
Hidden identity

TWs:
Rape (off page, not involving MCs)

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

A darker and grittier addition to the Kindled universe that explores the time closer to impact and how a woman with no connections or community might find a safe place in an uncertain world. Jill works at the local pub and is provided safety and a comfortable room in exchange for serving drinks and occasionally making herself available to patrons that pay extra. Cade becomes one of her regulars and Jill begins to feel an overwhelming attraction and desire to be more than just a transaction with him.

I commend the author for tackling such a challenging relationship. I loved that we got to explore a different type of transactional relationship in this world and that a lot of care clearly went into Jill’s character. Jill tried to be pragmatic and not dwell on her situation in life but seeing her acknowledge her desires and reach for more was really rewarding.

“There are no fairy tales here. No dreams come true. There’s only life. Mostly cold and heartless but with a few small gifts granted along the way.”

Similarly to Devotion a lot of the story and relationship building is centered around the physical intimacy between the two characters. Also, Jill continues to have clients for most of the book (mostly off page), so be sure to take care if that is something that will bother you.

The easter eggs are a treat for long time fans and I appreciated the added lore to the timeline.

Thank you to the author for the ARC.

[KaleighJRain · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5⭐️, 3🌶️

Tropes/Microtropes:
🐺 Forced proximity
🐺 Forbidden romance (Professional x client)
🐺 Dystopian / post-apocalyptic
🐺 Novella
🐺 Transactional
🐺 Fairytale inspired (Little Red Riding Hood)

This was my 5th Claire Kent book and there’s something so comforting going back to this world. Ironic, because this is a very rough dystopian world to live in.

I absolutely loved Jill! She’s doing what she has to do to survive, but she hasn’t become jaded. She is strong, smart, and knows her worth. This is 18 months after the world fell apart and Jill works at the Pub serving and taking 3 customers a week after shift. This is how she meets Cade.

Claire does an excellent job writing relational development in a very short amount of time. This couple starts off as “work”, but quickly develops feelings for each other. One thing I really liked is that Jill makes her feelings known several times. Cade of the other hand struggles. This is the only reason I didn’t give this book full stars. Cade really made me annoyed in the second half. Due to his line of work, he doesn’t want to express his feelings or put her in danger. Yet, the whole world is dangerous!

I’ve really enjoyed this series so far and am really excited for the next!

*Thank you to Claire Kent for this title in exchange for a honest review.*

[Shannon · Rating 2 out of 5]

Claire Kent's one of those authors where you kind of know what you're getting. I'm always a fan of the way she writes transactional relationships, but this was one of the first times that the tropes felt a little repetitive and recycled. Jill was fine. I had no issues with her. It was Cade that fell flat. On the surface, this man was the typical gruff, quiet dude that the author always writes. However, something about him was super half-baked and cardboard. Instead of feeling like a fully fleshed out person, he felt like one or two traits slapped together and nothing more. Also, given his general personality, the path his character takes in the epilogue didn't fit for me.

As far as the plot goes, I was super into this for a good chunk of the story. I liked the build-up of the main characters' interactions and getting to watch things go from just a job to potentially something more. What I hated though was how the drama got really interesting and then the book was basically over. Like, let me sit in the angst a bit! Everything after Cade got taken by the militia and afterwards was a huge letdown. It seemed like a huge chunk of time was cut out that could have been used to further develop their relationship in order to rush through the main conflict and wrap everything up.

[Nikisha · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5⭐️
Read if you like: sex worker fmc, hidden identity, age gap (8 years), caretaking

I love it when Claire Kent writes her caretaking scenes!! Especially when it’s the MMC looking after the FMC. I love the way you can see Cade’s love for her and you weren’t just told. He may not talk much but you can definitely see how protective and gentle he is with her.

I’m so happy she had a good reaction to finding out Cade’s secret. It feels so refreshing to read a book with mature characters.

Typically I hate it when the MCs hook up with other people (I almost always DNF when this happens) however you never read the scenes with others - so it’s easy to forget that she’s a sex worker. They had a transactional relationship and he was fully aware it was her job. Plus the jealousy scenes were fun to read 🤭

Unfortunately the ending let me down and felt rushed to me. I was expecting Cade to apologise or do something sweet for her. Instead, they brush past their last conversation. There was an assumption that they’d be together but no conversation or makeup?
Other than that, I loved seeing the cameos and the way you easily get sucked into her dystopian world


Thank you so much Claire Kent for this ARC 💗

[Syd · Rating 4 out of 5]

To start off, I was introduced to Claire Kent’s books with “Last Light” and have been hooked ever since. She often hits this niche that scratches an itch just right for me. Most of her books are set in a region that is near and dear to my heart, we often get a nice little age gap, the stakes are high but not excessive, the sex is steamy, and the plot is plotting. I absolutely eat them up. Hooded hit all those marks for me!

I was specifically excited for Hooded because I love books that involve sex workers and not in a way that condemns them or treats them as lesser. Enter Jill, she’s a SW for survival and I love the way she doesn’t feel shame for doing what she has to do to survive. I also loved the nuanced takes and felt they were quite believable given her circumstances.

And our MMC. I love a quiet man who gets chatty in the moment. I really liked the FMC and MMC and their dynamics.

I appreciate Claire so much for the ARC. This was a solid four stars for me that I will absolutely recommend to friends! I genuinely believe that if the book was longer it would have absolutely been a five star read for me! I was so sucked into the story that I never wanted it to end!