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RED'S HOOD

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338 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 24, 2026

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Esmeralda F.

1 book6 followers

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5 stars
29 (50%)
4 stars
20 (35%)
3 stars
6 (10%)
2 stars
1 (1%)
1 star
1 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
Profile Image for Brooke (The_Brookeshelf_).
139 reviews14 followers
May 6, 2026
Rating 3.5/5

What an incredibly fun, bingeable read that you don’t want to put down once you start. This book was nothing like what I expected going in, but is everything I want out of a light, easy read that is so easy to find yourself lost in.

Roan is fierce and feisty, offering so much banter to every interaction, no matter who the character is. Her love and devotion to her grandma was honestly just the sweetest thing and I found myself loving her just based on this alone. When Obol comes into the picture, you just know things are going to get stirred up. He’s protective, stable (most of the time…), and loyal to a fault. He is the kind of man you want looking out for you in any situation, knowing he will have your best intention and heart at the forefront.

This is a completely sassy, fun read that you definitely need to pick up. I had my hesitations going into this as a fairytale retelling but, just take my word that it’s much more than that. Go into it with the expectation of a fully “vibes read” and you will have the best time!

Tropes:
Shifter romance
Little Red Riding Hood retelling
Small town
“Mine”
Touch her and die
Profile Image for Andersen.
170 reviews2 followers
May 21, 2026
DO NOT SLEEP ON THIS BOOK! I had so much fun reading this... it’s absolutely a vibes read, but in the best way. It’s insanely bingeable… I finished it in just over 24 hours because I could not put it down.

Roan is 100% the kind of FMC I’d want as a best friend. She’s determined, fiercely loyal, and her attitude had me cackling the entire time. She brings so much personality to the story and makes every scene better.

Obol? I’m in. He’s got secrets, ones I do wish we got a little earlier in the book, but I still loved him. He’s very much “burn the world for her” energy with unwavering devotion to Roan, and that dynamic just works. The tension and banter between them is THICK and so entertaining to read.

The ending leans a bit predictable, but there’s still a solid twist that hooked me right back in and made me want the next book immediately!

Such a fun, fast-paced read that’s perfect when you just want to get lost in something addictive.
Profile Image for Camis.little.library .
629 reviews16 followers
May 9, 2026
A Red Riding Hood retelling? Where have you been my whole life!

-Paranormal romance
-Werewolves & witches
-Small town
-Forced proximity
-Magic
-Fairytale retelling
-Spice

I loved this retelling, filled with banter, underground fights, spice, suspense - I ate this one up!

When our FMC takes a loan to take care of her and her grandma, she realizes how bad the group she borrowed from are. Who does she turn to? Her new neighbor, with a mission of his own!

This is book 1 in a duet, and after that ending I’m dying for book 2!

Highly recommend for any romantasy, paranormal romance, or wolf shifter romance lovers!

*Check TW’s*
Profile Image for Smut S Sisters.
71 reviews65 followers
Read
March 29, 2026
This was a fun (adult) spin on Red Riding Hood with several paranormal features. Spice was delivered pretty early on, around 15% and the banter was great! The MMC is protective and has a wicked mouth. To anyone looking for a werewolf/shifter romance, this one’s a great addition to your TBR.

Read this for:
-paranormal romance
-werewolves
-magic
-Red Riding Hood retelling
-forced proximity
-small town
-one bed
-“touch her/him and die”
-“who did this to you?”
-“eyes up here” & “good girl”
-“f*ck it” & “mine”
Profile Image for Molly | molls.bookshelf.
55 reviews12 followers
May 6, 2026
3.5 stars rounded up!

This fairy tale retelling was a fun palate cleanser and the perfect “vibes read” to break up my longer form fantasy TBR! It was completely out of my comfort zone as someone who reads absolutely no small town romance and very little urban fantasy and yet I ate it up!

This is the perfect book for a book club or group of book besties looking for a quick read to chat about and google over!

I highly recommend going in blind and letting the vibes take the lead!
Profile Image for Amy Leritz.
31 reviews2 followers
July 3, 2026
I DEVOURED this book, it’s fast paced and 100% binge-able!!

Roan is funny and sassy and just so likable, Obol is a hot, protective MMC, that you’ll definitely want to meet!

This book is not a slow burn, it’s not enemies to lovers, it is just a dang good time, OH but about that cliffhanger!!!!! 😵😵 You should read it, STAT!
Profile Image for Tori (EighthHouseBooks).
96 reviews9 followers
May 5, 2026
This was so fun! I loved the humor and I very much preferred this story to the original Little Red Riding Hood 🤣 I’m excited there is a second book!
Profile Image for Dragon Be Reading.
22 reviews4 followers
July 11, 2026
4.5 🌟

Red Riding Hood retelling? Check.

Werewolves? Check.

Sassy FMC and down-bad MMC? Check and check.

Red's Hood is a fantastically fun romp of a book that has you wishing to run with the wolves every step of the way!

For real, I was hooked from sentence one, and only grew more intrigued the more I read. Every moment of Roan's biting wit and humor had be laughing, knowing people exactly like her. Every smoldering glance between her and Obol had me wondering if they would go to the back alley (IYKYK). Every swerve thrown their way made me anxious to see the pair come out on top.

Let me tell you something. This felt so REAL. I have lived Roan's life (albeit a lot safer). It brought up childhood memories I had forgotten of how crappy life had been. And you know what? Her plucky spirit was definitely familiar to others in my life that helped keep me up.

Roan is a riot. I love her energy and spirit, and the way she loves her grandmother.

And Obol.. well, the most insane thing about him is how tidy he kept his house. Other than that? Sign me the eff up! Who doesn't want a werewolf shifter as a companion who wants to worship you every moment possible?!

I adored the chemistry and banter between these two, making it incredibly easy to root for them at every turn. I'm not normally one for insta-anything, but I gotta give it to Madam Esmeralda.. she knocked this one outta the park.

This fun ride isn't over yet, either! Red's Hood is a duology - which is great, because lemme tell you, that ending? So many questions!! To say I'm looking forward to Red's Wolf is an extreme understatement!
Profile Image for Jess23Read.
226 reviews8 followers
May 1, 2026
Red's Hood is a contemporary retelling of Little Red Riding Hood. As expected Red's Hood takes the story and flips it on its head. Red's Hood involves wolf shifters (werewolves) and moon witches and destructive packs.

Roan is our Little Red, living with her Gran in a trailer park living with her past mistakes. Gran is protective over Roan and works to keep her safe in any ways she can. There have been wolf attacks around the community and Gran wants to do nothing more then to protect her granddaughter. Meanwhile Roan is working to keep herself afloat with her wages at the bar while struggling to pay off her debts. Things take an unexpected turn when she meets Obol. It all escalates at first with the attraction of the pair that ends up in some spicy exchanges in the alley. Still this isn't a quick romance of fated mates from the start. Roan is witty and sharp tongued and refuses to let Obol be her knight in shining armor.

For me the story went a little slow but as it continued it really took off in impressive ways. This paranormal romance is right and perfect for any reader that wants their spice. their werewolves, their banter, their drama, their suspense, and "Mine" tropes all in one amazing retelling. If you want a spicy witty retelling of Little Red Riding Hood in a recent setting I highly recommend Red's Hood. Until next time, happy reading!
Profile Image for Elle✨.
59 reviews5 followers
March 27, 2026
If you love small-town paranormal romance with bite (literally), Red’s Hood is such a fun ride.

Roan Brown absolutely stole the show for me. She’s sassy, witty, and genuinely funny. Actually laugh-out-loud funny. Her inner dialogue and comebacks had me cackling more than once. Honestly, she felt so real that at times it felt like I was reading a version of myself on the page, which made her even easier to love.

And Obol?? Ugh, I loved him. He’s that perfect mix of soft and protective, but still knows when to be firm. His dynamic with Roan was everything—the banter, the tension, the way they balance each other. Their relationship felt natural and engaging from the start.

The pacing in the first part of the book was really strong and kept me hooked. Around the last quarter, it does jump around a bit with time skips as Roan processes her grief. I understand why it was done. It moves the story forward without dragging things out—but it did feel a little choppy at times. I think it just could’ve been a bit smoother in execution.

That said, this is a fantastic debut, and I’m genuinely excited to see where the story goes next. The world has so much potential, and I’m already invested in what’s coming.
Profile Image for Doris| ItsYourBookBestieDee.
47 reviews1 follower
March 27, 2026
I had the absolute pleasure of Alpha reading this book last year and I was HOOKED. It is a Red Riding Hood retelling but an urban version with wolf shifters. The concept feels fresh and unique. I went into it blind and I truly feel that’s the best way to have the ultimate experience because I don’t want to give away a single detail. But the main character Roan (Red) is a bartender at the local restaurant and she’s working to pay off a loan that she took out from a crowd that’s less than savory. She lives in a trailer park with her granny who is her absolute whole world . Then enters Obol a newcomer to town and though Roan is attracted to him she’s cautious. As an MMC he’s everything you’d want- tall, dark, handsome, mysterious.
They don’t hit it off right away but when they do, it’s HOT. Then the secrets begin to unravel, with things of fairytales hiding in plain sight. Life as Roan knows it gets turned upside down. I didn’t expect this book to take me through the rollercoaster of emotions that it did. I look forward to every book that comes after because it definitely leaves you at the edge of your seat BEGGING for more!
Profile Image for Lilia Melisse.
75 reviews2 followers
April 21, 2026
I devoured this book. Red’s Hood is everything I want in a paranormal romance and more. It takes a Red Riding Hood retelling and turns it into something darker, addictive, and impossible to put down.

Roan absolutely made this story for me. She’s sarcastic, bold, and genuinely funny in a way that feels effortless. Her inner dialogue had me laughing out loud, but she also has so much depth that makes you really feel everything she’s going through. She felt real in a way that made it so easy to connect with her.

And Obol… I’m obsessed. He’s protective, intense, and soft in all the right moments. The chemistry between him and Roan was perfect. The banter, the tension, the emotional buildup, it all just worked. Their relationship pulled me in from the start and never let go.

The pacing kept me hooked the entire time. Even in the later part of the book where the story shifts and emotions hit harder, I was completely invested. If anything, it made me want more time in this world, not less.

This is such a strong debut, and I already know I’ll be reading whatever comes next. The world, the characters, the tension… I need more immediately.
Profile Image for Javier Chacon.
1 review
June 13, 2026
I went into Red’s Hood expecting a fun paranormal romance retelling, and it completely exceeded my expectations. I was hooked from the start and ended up flying through it much faster than I expected. Roan was an easy character to root for, and I loved watching her navigate everything thrown her way. Obol was exactly the kind of mysterious, protective love interest I enjoy reading about, and the chemistry between them was fantastic. Their relationship felt exciting without overshadowing the larger story. The blend of werewolves, witches, small-town secrets, and mystery kept things interesting throughout. I also appreciated that this wasn’t just a copy-and-paste Little Red Riding Hood retelling. It took familiar elements and turned them into something fresh and entertaining. What I enjoyed most was how easy this book was to get lost in. Every time I thought I knew where the story was heading, another twist pulled me in deeper. If you enjoy paranormal romance with strong chemistry, supernatural intrigue, and a touch of fairy-tale inspiration, I’d definitely recommend giving this one a try. I’m already looking forward to the next book!
Profile Image for Gail.
120 reviews8 followers
July 11, 2026
Are you a fan of werewolf shifters. .. or was Little Red Riding hood one of your favorites as a child????

If so, don't hesitate on reading RED'S HOOD!

I purchased Red's Hood months ago in both the ebook version. . .and also a signed copy straight from Esmeralda. A friend of mine recommended it so I knew it would be good. I set it to the side though because I working thru a schedule of ARCs. Then I saw she was offering a read-along so I joined in. OMG yall this book is beyond good!! I knew I would like it because it's kind of a re-telling of Little Red Riding Hood. . .but I was almost surprised at how much I REALLY liked the book!!! I'm throwing all the stars out for this one! I was seriously looking forward to being able to open it back up and get back to reading each night! Now I'm kicking myself for waiting so long to make time for it!!! You can be assured of one thing, I'll definitely be reading the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Valeria Tellez-Giron.
1 review
May 10, 2026
I absolutely loved reading Red’s Hood! From the very first chapters, I was completely hooked and honestly could not put it down. The story felt so fun and exciting to read, with the perfect mix of romance, mystery, tension, and humor that kept me turning pages nonstop.

Obol and Roan’s chemistry was incredible — their banter, connection, and tension made every scene between them so enjoyable. I found myself constantly wanting to know what would happen next. The fairytale retelling mixed with paranormal elements was done so well and felt fresh and addictive.

This book is a true page-turner that kept me entertained the entire time, and I already can’t wait to read more from this author! Highly recommend for anyone who loves paranormal romance with amazing chemistry and a gripping storyline.
Profile Image for Rachel Brennan.
76 reviews13 followers
July 22, 2026
Red’s Hood is now one of my top reads of 2026! If you like fairy tail retellings, you will love this Little Red Riding Hood retelling! I could not put it down. Red, is a sassy, fun, caring, strong and independent FMC. She is the type that gives up everything for the people she loves and fights for what she believes in. Obol, is a fierce, strong, protective, possessive shifter MMC with touch her and die vibes that can be a little grumpy at times! There’s magic, shifters, tension, yearning, banter and an ending you won’t see coming! Do you think you are ready to run with the wolves because this is a book that’ll keep you up all night saying just one more chapter! One that’ll make you swoon and leave you wanting more! You’ll thank me for this recommendation later. 😘
Profile Image for Megan Meyer.
205 reviews
May 29, 2026
My first experience reading a paranormal romance with wolves was Red Hoods and honestly, I was so surprised by how much I loved it. I buddy read this with several friends on Instagram, which made the experience even more fun. The first few chapters were a little slow for me, and I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about the paranormal elements going into it, but about a quarter of the way in this book completely switched gears and sucked me in. From that point on, I could not put it down. The world-building, tension, and storyline kept me hooked the entire time, and now I definitely understand the hype around wolf paranormal romances.
Profile Image for T.M. Kirk.
Author 6 books104 followers
July 31, 2026
This book is giving me old school PNR vibes. I’m talking the Patricia Briggs’ Mercy Thompson series or Ilona Andrews’ Kate Daniels (both in terms of series style and the confident, snarky FMC). Yes, this shifter book has undertones of a Little Red Riding Hood re-telling, but it’s also book 1 in what will likely be an ongoing series involving this couple. It’s fast-paced without too much complex world-building, and you do get a bit of spice, but you’re not here for that. You’re here for the plot. Oh, and it’s basically a standalone with no cliffhanger!
Profile Image for Elizabeth .
111 reviews7 followers
April 4, 2026
Interesting take on Red Riding Hood and there was call back to the story. Cute and funny at times. The story was engaging enough to keep reading and the plot was gasping for air. BUT .....The romance was very nice, but to me, didnt fit the characters in the author's description. So the chemistry didn't hit for me the way I know it could have .The banter was cute and I will be catching up with the 2nd book to see their new adventure.
Profile Image for Lo.
164 reviews11 followers
April 23, 2026
RED'S HOOD was such a fun read (I've read it twice now). It was spicy, mysterious, and well paced. The spice hits early but carries throughout and is laced in the MMC's protective nature - he even pulls out a "mine" card and you will melt.

Paranormal romance lovers with small town feels will devour this one!

🐺 Shifter romance
🌙 Fast burn
🐺 Small Town
🌙 Mystery
🐺 Moon magic
Profile Image for Desiree Reynolds.
92 reviews15 followers
April 26, 2026
Captivating book. Literally finished this is 2 evenings. A real book full of action from the start and a wonderful twist to Red Riding hood with a modern look. I lived Reds’ character Roan and how she became a strong woman that knows what she wants and realizes she has a lot t deal with./ including secrets she isn’t even aware of. If you love one bed, werewolves, found family, and mated lovers. This is definitely your book
1 review
June 23, 2026
Such a fun read! Written in a delightfully playful spirit, this book has it all as far as fantasy goes. The two main characters exude animalistic energy to keep the reader's senses heightened, blissfully joining werewolf lore with the age-old tale of Little Red Riding Hood. I would recommend this book to lovers of romance, fantasy, wolves, the great outdoors, and/or comedies... and anyone else looking to be intrigued. 10/10!!
Profile Image for Wendy.
144 reviews
July 3, 2026
I loved this book!! It was such a great version of the little red riding hood tale. The characters were great. I loved Roan. She was just real and trying to survive the life she was dealt. And she did it her way with a style all her own. Then Obol comes in and stirs everything up. They have such a great relationship. From the start they are drawn together whether they know it or not. And that ending! I will be camping out in line to get the next book.
Profile Image for Mybookish.odyssey.
201 reviews7 followers
July 8, 2026
RED'S HOOD is a modern-day paranormal romance with sizzling chemistry, playful banter, and gut-wrenching plot for those who love a good fairytale retelling.

This book is 10000% binge worthy!!!
There are so many elements in the book that I enjoy it is hard for me not to spill some spoilers. I love the sassy, quick witted and feisty FMC !
I must say the banter had me hysterically laughing.
The MMC is a bit mysterious, possessive and nurturing.
Overall the this book has all the elements of awesome read!
Highly recommend adding it to your TBR!
Profile Image for Haley Fincher.
261 reviews16 followers
May 5, 2026
Small town paranormal shifter romance that’s super bingeable and all about the vibes. A little cringe at times and definitely predictable, but still a fun, easy read that I enjoyed.

✨Paranormal Romance
✨Shifter Romance
✨Little Red Riding Hood Vibes
✨Small Town
✨Secrets & Mystery

🌶️🌶️
✨Fast Burn
✨”Mine”
Profile Image for Katie Berry.
1 review
May 14, 2026
Reds Hood completely hooked me from the start! Addicting, immersive, and had me fully invested in the characters and their journey. The banter was the perfect mix of funny and sweet, and the chemistry delivered just the right amount of spice. I’m so glad I started this series… and now the hard part begins — waiting patiently for book #2!!!
Profile Image for Ashley Merwin.
40 reviews
May 15, 2026
I read this book as a buddy read and it was so fun!

Reds Hood is a red riding hood re-telling small town romance. I’m a big mood reader and this one was a quick “vibes read” and a good palette cleanser for in between series.

Small town, one bed, good banter, and moments that had me kicking my kick and cackling!

Cant wait to see what happens in book two!
Profile Image for Traycee Gumber.
15 reviews
July 3, 2026
This book was so good it quickly became one of my favorite reads. I couldn’t put it down and I loved Roan character so much she the way she talked made me laugh. The book had a great pace to it and kept me entertained. Also that ending can I please have the second book like right now. I loved it !!!!
1 review
March 31, 2026
Started this thinking I’d read one chapter but ended up sacrificing my sleep, my responsibilities, my sanity, and my wife’s time…This book is way too addicting. If it doesn’t blow up, I’m rioting. Highly recommend.
Profile Image for Crystal Moyer.
172 reviews1 follower
April 3, 2026
Sexy, unique, intriguing. This was lots of fun. The plot wasn’t super in depth and a bit repetitive, but if you’re looking for a fun, easy fantasy that involves wolves - this is for you. It almost reminded me of a fanfic.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews