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Robyn Hoodlum #2
Rebellion of Thieves
Robyn Loxley can't rest now that she's the #1 Most Wanted Fugitive, Robyn Hoodlum. The harsh Nott City governor, Ignomus Crown, may have increased the reward for her capture, but this won't stop Robyn from masterminding her biggest mission yet: infiltrating the governor's mansion to rescue her parents.
The perfect opportunity arises when the Iron Teen contest comes to Sherwood. If Robyn scores high enough, she'll be invited to a dinner at the mansion. But performing well in the contest could put her directly in Crown's sights. Can she and her crew of misfit friends pull off such a grand scheme, or are they walking into bigger trouble than they can handle?
Continuing her high-adventure Robin Hood reboot, National Book Award finalist Kekla Magoon delivers more action and intrigue, as this unforgettable heroine and her motley crew fight for justice.
The perfect opportunity arises when the Iron Teen contest comes to Sherwood. If Robyn scores high enough, she'll be invited to a dinner at the mansion. But performing well in the contest could put her directly in Crown's sights. Can she and her crew of misfit friends pull off such a grand scheme, or are they walking into bigger trouble than they can handle?
Continuing her high-adventure Robin Hood reboot, National Book Award finalist Kekla Magoon delivers more action and intrigue, as this unforgettable heroine and her motley crew fight for justice.
259 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 18, 2016
18 people are currently reading
579 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
September 9, 2017
Magoon is remaking the Robin Hood story into an African American girl, either in the future or an alternative earth. This is the second of the series. In this one, Robyn tries desperately to free her mother and other prisoners. To do so, she enters the Iron Teen contest which will gain her admittance to the building where the prisoners are. Robyn is torn between what she wants to do: free her mother, and what is good for the rebellion: stay alive and continue the resistance. What will she decide to do? Who is the person sending her texts at the most needed times? Why does everyone have their own needs that Robyn can help with when all she wants is help for herself? I highly recommend this series.I'm looking forward to the next one!
September 24, 2016
2.5
This book's plot didn't really grab me. I liked then concept of the modern Robin Hood, and the way that it was developed was interesting. However I got lost a few times and had difficulty picturing the scenes.
UPDATE:
I like the concept of a modern Robyn Hood as well as the way the author translated it into the modern day.
The Iron Teen competition interested me; I enjoyed reading the scenes that occurred during its run. I thought that the twist that came up in relation to this contest created an interesting plot point, though it wasn't quite what I had expected when I read the book's blurb.
There were other elements of the plot, as well, that interested me, such as the moon lore and its prophecy, and, in particular, the anonymous warning messages that were being sent to Robyn.
Before I continue, I feel that I ought to mention that I have not read book 1.
Unfortunately, this sequel just didn't grab me. There were times when I was very interested in what was happening, usually in the beginning of the book. However, for the most part I just wasn't sucked in.
The reason for this may have been the characters; I found that I wasn't very invested in any of them; I didn't feel like they had enough development in this book. Of course, it is possible that this wouldn't be the case had I read book 1.
A few times I had difficulty picturing the scenes, I wasn't sure who was in a scene, and sometimes people would speak when I hadn't realized that they were present. This confused me a bit, though I always managed to figure out what was going on.
Because the characters didn't grab me, the relationships between them seemed a bit odd at times. For example, I wasn't really sure what the author was trying to do with Robyn and Maryanne.
Overall, I enjoyed the way that the legend was converted into a modern retelling, as well as the way that the Iron Teen contest developed. The element of the moon lore was also an intriguing touch. However, I usually wasn't grabbed by the characters and plot.
This book's plot didn't really grab me. I liked then concept of the modern Robin Hood, and the way that it was developed was interesting. However I got lost a few times and had difficulty picturing the scenes.
UPDATE:
I like the concept of a modern Robyn Hood as well as the way the author translated it into the modern day.
The Iron Teen competition interested me; I enjoyed reading the scenes that occurred during its run. I thought that the twist that came up in relation to this contest created an interesting plot point, though it wasn't quite what I had expected when I read the book's blurb.
There were other elements of the plot, as well, that interested me, such as the moon lore and its prophecy, and, in particular, the anonymous warning messages that were being sent to Robyn.
Before I continue, I feel that I ought to mention that I have not read book 1.
Unfortunately, this sequel just didn't grab me. There were times when I was very interested in what was happening, usually in the beginning of the book. However, for the most part I just wasn't sucked in.
The reason for this may have been the characters; I found that I wasn't very invested in any of them; I didn't feel like they had enough development in this book. Of course, it is possible that this wouldn't be the case had I read book 1.
A few times I had difficulty picturing the scenes, I wasn't sure who was in a scene, and sometimes people would speak when I hadn't realized that they were present. This confused me a bit, though I always managed to figure out what was going on.
Because the characters didn't grab me, the relationships between them seemed a bit odd at times. For example, I wasn't really sure what the author was trying to do with Robyn and Maryanne.
Overall, I enjoyed the way that the legend was converted into a modern retelling, as well as the way that the Iron Teen contest developed. The element of the moon lore was also an intriguing touch. However, I usually wasn't grabbed by the characters and plot.
September 7, 2018
Love the concept. Wish I liked the execution a little better. Just a writing style issue. It comes together well and prepares us for book 3.
October 15, 2016
This book has no ending-it just quits in the middle of the story. I get that it's a series, but come on.
December 10, 2016
This wasn't written as well as the first book. The plot seemed to jump around a lot. Still an enjoyable adventure- I'll be waiting for the next one.
December 8, 2017
KEKLA MAGOON CATEGORY
Robyn Hoodlum has been the bane of Governer Crown's existence ever since she started robbing the rich of Nott City to help the destitute in the neighborhood of Sherwood. Her games are getting old and so a bounty is put on her head for her return to the Governer's mansion. But she's not done with them, yet. She still has yet to realize her ultimate goal: save her parents from the evil Crown and end his reign of unjust domination. She and her friends decide to join the Iron Teen contest in hopes of getting in to the mansion, but of course, things don't always go according to plan. How can one girl really bring down an entire corrupt government?
This book was a lot of fun and brought a fresh new look to the classic Robin Hood adventures. Robyn is a likeable protagonist and while the book is aimed at middle grade readers, there are themes of injustice, racism, and bravery that would appeal to readers of all ages. I liked this book a lot, even as an adult, and I think it would be even more fun and exciting for middle schoolers.
Robyn Hoodlum has been the bane of Governer Crown's existence ever since she started robbing the rich of Nott City to help the destitute in the neighborhood of Sherwood. Her games are getting old and so a bounty is put on her head for her return to the Governer's mansion. But she's not done with them, yet. She still has yet to realize her ultimate goal: save her parents from the evil Crown and end his reign of unjust domination. She and her friends decide to join the Iron Teen contest in hopes of getting in to the mansion, but of course, things don't always go according to plan. How can one girl really bring down an entire corrupt government?
This book was a lot of fun and brought a fresh new look to the classic Robin Hood adventures. Robyn is a likeable protagonist and while the book is aimed at middle grade readers, there are themes of injustice, racism, and bravery that would appeal to readers of all ages. I liked this book a lot, even as an adult, and I think it would be even more fun and exciting for middle schoolers.
July 23, 2017
Like its predecessor, the second installment in the "Shadows of Sherwood" trilogy, a modern, dystopian tribute to the Robin Hood legend, is fast-paced with lots of action. The plot centers around the "Iron Teen" contest (paralleling the archery contest in the legend). Although this installment spends less time developing the characters in Robyn's band, relying on character development established in the previous book, more time is devoted to Robyn's relationship with Merryan and her conflict with the Sheriff. Intriguingly, Magoon's choice to cast both the Sheriff and Robyn as women allows her to set them up as almost mirror characters, sharing similar traits that allow each to succeed as leaders in a world of powerful men. This book would be a great one for introducing classroom discussions on power, leadership, team-building, and gender roles. It's dark, dangerous, and dystopian enough without being too much so for middle-grade readers. Looking forward to the third installment...
January 28, 2019
The book Rebellion Of Thieves is the second book in a series of books. The first one Shadows of Sherwood is her parents were taken and she was forced to live on her own in a forgotten town named Sherwood. She found her new friends and set out on a journey to rescue her parents. It starts in this book with Governor Crown setting a reward for whoever finds Robyn and brings her in. Even though she meets people on her way they never turn her in because she is the leader in the rebellion to push Governor Crown out of power. There is this competition called Iron Teen, where the most athletic of the 12-16 year olds in all of the districts in Nott City. She competes and gets to the Governor's mansion. Which was her plan all along because her parents are being held there. She saves most of the women being held. I think that the kind of people who would like this book would be people who like fantasy and action because it has a lot of action and drama.
February 7, 2021
Robyn Hoodlum is "exceptional." In the first book, the reader discovers that she is the answer to the moon lore. Nott City and the entire country has been taken over by "The Crown," a man who has declared himself dictator and in one nightly raid has imprisoned all the leading leaders, including Robyn's parents. Once on her own, she is now joined with a motley band of friends with different talents and abilities. They do raids and steal food to give to the starving in Nott City. They break the power-driven lines and Crown knows now of Robyn's identity. She participates in the Iron Teen Competition with the hopes of entering the Governor's mansion. Her first desire is to free her mother.
And yet throughout this second book, she is forced to realize that the fight is greater than freeing her parents. She must lead a rebellion that will free everyone's parents who are being held, political prisoners. And that leads one to the third and final installment- Reign of the Outlaws.
And yet throughout this second book, she is forced to realize that the fight is greater than freeing her parents. She must lead a rebellion that will free everyone's parents who are being held, political prisoners. And that leads one to the third and final installment- Reign of the Outlaws.
September 18, 2017
My only complaint about series like these is that it is all just one big long story divided into different books. Which is fine if you happen to be reading them after the series has been completed and published but is like waiting for the cliffhanger at the end of each season of your favorite television show - only a longer wait! This was published in 2016 - the third installment isn't expected until October of 2017.
It's a cute retelling of Robin Hood and a fun YA novel. But it's hard to keep track of the mystery and the thread of a detailed story line when the story is so broken up.
My recommendation? Wait until the entire series is published, THEN read it. Because it's a good tale worth reading. Just not exactly great for waiting around for.
It's a cute retelling of Robin Hood and a fun YA novel. But it's hard to keep track of the mystery and the thread of a detailed story line when the story is so broken up.
My recommendation? Wait until the entire series is published, THEN read it. Because it's a good tale worth reading. Just not exactly great for waiting around for.
August 6, 2023
The story progression was great. The plot surrounding a contest was a bit unexpected, but it's an interesting arc to go off of from the first book. The ending was really rushed, unfortunately. I wish the character development of Robyn where she learns more about teamwork was presented more throughout the story than her having that realization at the end.
I also wished the change in her hair had more significance rather than be something a bit more casual. Since her hair had a lot of importance for her, I expected that the part of her hair change was more dramatic and could signify a new side of Robyn. However, the hair part felt glossed over. I think it had potential, but oh well.
Very excited to read the third book!
I also wished the change in her hair had more significance rather than be something a bit more casual. Since her hair had a lot of importance for her, I expected that the part of her hair change was more dramatic and could signify a new side of Robyn. However, the hair part felt glossed over. I think it had potential, but oh well.
Very excited to read the third book!
September 9, 2023
I am still currently reading this book, but I did notice something that rubbed me the wrong way. Robyn is clearly a young black girl, (and yet another black person in fiction who has to break the law to survive...) and I just find it a little too coincidental that her "nickname" is hoodlum?..
Of all things, really? I think the book is written in a way that tries to make it lighthearted or empowering (on the front it literally says a Robyn Hoodlum adventure??? Really pushing the vision huh?)
I can't speak for the author, so I don't know if this was an attempt to be subtle or completely unintentional, but we as a community really gotta do better.
That's all for today.
Of all things, really? I think the book is written in a way that tries to make it lighthearted or empowering (on the front it literally says a Robyn Hoodlum adventure??? Really pushing the vision huh?)
I can't speak for the author, so I don't know if this was an attempt to be subtle or completely unintentional, but we as a community really gotta do better.
That's all for today.
June 8, 2020
3.5 stars
Book 2 in series
Robyn is getting bolder in her attempts to subvert the new government's control plus she really wants to rescue her mom from the governor's mansion. However, her audacity may be compromising her friends and the rest of their mission.
As with most sequels, it suffers a bit because it is the bridge. However, it is still a strong book and I wholeheartedly recommend the series. Looking forward to reading the third book to see how everything ties together.
Book 2 in series
Robyn is getting bolder in her attempts to subvert the new government's control plus she really wants to rescue her mom from the governor's mansion. However, her audacity may be compromising her friends and the rest of their mission.
As with most sequels, it suffers a bit because it is the bridge. However, it is still a strong book and I wholeheartedly recommend the series. Looking forward to reading the third book to see how everything ties together.
October 10, 2020
I'm still very much enjoying this YA retelling of the Robin Hood story. In a twist on the archery contest of olde, Robyn is entering the Iron Teen contest under an assumed name, in hopes of winning a spot at the victors' banquet in the mansion where here mother is in prison (oubliette, anyone?). Once again, Robyn must figure out who her real friends are, whom to trust, and whether her personal agenda is right for the whole rebellion.
January 24, 2022
I love a well done series and this one is well done. There are lots of layers to read for. This would be appealing for some of our younger readers who read at high levels. There are just enough nods to be a Robin Hood story without being just a retelling. It is a story of its own worth.
Teacher Talk: no sex, drugs, cussing. If you have a student struggling with separation or loss of a parent this may be a struggle for them as well.
Teacher Talk: no sex, drugs, cussing. If you have a student struggling with separation or loss of a parent this may be a struggle for them as well.
August 2, 2017
Continues her adventure with the mission to free the rebellion prisoners in Governor Castle's mansion, which include her mom. Robyn continues to help the poor and evade the sheriff, who's close to identifying her. She is unsure if she is really the leader the moon lore points to. Yet, three adults show up in unexpected places to give support as she moves along. Danger for her. I want #3 now.
May 22, 2018
I was initially intrigued by the retelling of the Robin Hood tales with a reboot of Robin hood as a young African American Female in a somewhat futuristic dystopia, but became increasingly bored a the tale went on. I think ultimately, the characters failed to capture my imagination and the action was over the top.
October 18, 2020
Sadly, book 2 in this series was a miss for me. After inhaling book 1 in 24 hours it took me nearly 2 weeks to make it through this. The plot felt disjointed, characters that I liked before didn’t feel the same, and the story just dragged without feeling remotely believable or very exciting. From reviews it looks like the third is better, but it may be a while before I pick it up.
May 16, 2017
This had too much plot and too little character development. Sure, Robyn wasn't paying enough attention to the needs of her co-conspirators, but I don't see why it took a whole book to demonstrate that. I'll still be reading, since I loved the first book, but I'm not as hooked as I was.
October 31, 2017
I'm really enjoying this series. I think it's a super cool take on Robin Hood!
January 18, 2018
Definitely should have reread the first one to keep the characters straight
April 28, 2018
did not enjoy as much as 1st book. Robyn was really selfish throughout most of this book! I had to keep telling myself she was only a child really....
July 10, 2019
Da book
This book is a very exciting read for teens and teens. Filled with action, daring adventures, heartfelt chapters, and inspiration.
This book is a very exciting read for teens and teens. Filled with action, daring adventures, heartfelt chapters, and inspiration.
July 8, 2020
I'm really enjoying this series. I can't wait to see what Robyn does next!
Want to read
April 18, 2021Note: I received a digital review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
August 26, 2021
There is a contest that the book is all about it and a lot of exciting things happen!
July 26, 2022
Not as good as the first one, but this whole series is fire!
December 12, 2017
KEKLA MAGOON
Fairly predictable, this book is in the middle of a series that pretty much just takes the Robin Hood myths, makes the main character a girl and sets it in the future. It's fun, but not very deep or meaningful.
I did not read all of this book. I read about 5/8 of it.
Fairly predictable, this book is in the middle of a series that pretty much just takes the Robin Hood myths, makes the main character a girl and sets it in the future. It's fun, but not very deep or meaningful.
I did not read all of this book. I read about 5/8 of it.
October 6, 2016
Robyn is still determined to free her parents from the oppressive Crown. She just has to convince her friends and co-rebels it is a good idea. She enters the Iron Teen competition in order to get to Castle District. The Sheriff is still hot on Robyn's trail. Even though Robyn is in disguise for Iron Teen as Roberta Calzone, the Sheriff still figures things out. Things of course do not go completely to plan.
I really enjoyed the first book in this series and still find the concept intriguing. I can't remember if Robyn was quite as annoying in the first book as she is in this one, but she definitely got on my nerves a bit. I think I am just over the whole "chosen one" of prophecy plot device. It seems overdone and really it has been done better. I still don't really understand all the moon lore or the gathering of the elements and feel like the mythology of this story has really suffered. I would really like a bit more cohesion and explanation. I still want to know what is going to happen, but I really hope the next book is a bit better.
I received this book from Netgalley.
I really enjoyed the first book in this series and still find the concept intriguing. I can't remember if Robyn was quite as annoying in the first book as she is in this one, but she definitely got on my nerves a bit. I think I am just over the whole "chosen one" of prophecy plot device. It seems overdone and really it has been done better. I still don't really understand all the moon lore or the gathering of the elements and feel like the mythology of this story has really suffered. I would really like a bit more cohesion and explanation. I still want to know what is going to happen, but I really hope the next book is a bit better.
I received this book from Netgalley.
February 28, 2017
This series continues to be a fun, futuristic look at Robin Hood. Robyn was a little annoying at the beginning of the book, but by the end she changed to become more thoughtful and less selfish. I can't wait to read more.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews