Red Hood: The Hunt

Urban Fairytales #1

by Erik Schubach

In a world where a third of the world's population are cursed to become werewolves on the full moon, and walled cities like Seattle protect the Clean Bloods. People like Detective Daria McQueen stand at the gates of the city to stand against the packs of wolves, three nights a month.

When Daria discovers a breach in the wall while on her patrol, and saves a family from infection by three hungry wolves. Daria herself is saved by a Wolf Hunter she had believed to be nothing but an urban legend, the Red Hood, Maireni Damaschin. The mysterious woman in a red cloak seems to possess inhuman abilities.

Daria and Maireni find themselves caught in a tangled web of deception that goes back centuries, which could spell the end to Clean Bloods and throw the world into servitude.

Genres: Fantasy, Urban Fantasy, Lesbian, LGBT, Romance, Paranormal, Werewolves

Audible Audio

First published March 12, 2015

About the author

International bestselling author of #lesfic f/f romance, scifi, urban fantasy, paranormal & more. Consummate geek & sarcasm connoisseur. Any pronouns are fine.

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Reviews

[P. Industry · Rating 3 out of 5]

Look; here's the thing. As soon as I saw Schubach had written another fantasy novel I had to buy it. Not because Mr Schubach is particularly good at writing fantasy, but because previous experience has taught me he is terrible at writing fantasy in only the most pleasing ways possible.

Hey - keep reading. He's actually gotten alright at this.

Daria McQueen is a detective in Seattle, except when she is pulling overtime as a gate-guard. Then her job is to prevent the hordes of werewolves outsides bursting in and eating everyone. Legit. Especially when you learn her own family was wolfchow in front of her when she was nine. The plot kicks off when she prevents another family from sharing the same fate - or she tries at least. Daria actually lacks quite enough concentrated badass to pull it off, and needs saving by urban legend "Red Hood." Thus starts the adventure.

I must be fair to the author; his technique in this book shows radical improvement over earlier efforts. This technical improvement (pacing, character development, spelling, etc) is both over his excellently bad Valkyrie fantasy series, and over his plain appalling romance series Music of the Soul. ((The latter is so bad I refuse to link to it; if you must, you may find it yourself.)) Schubach has either had a good editor go over this work or he has finally cracked roughly how to pace his novels.

There are some things that are still definitely work-in-progess; the aforementioned roughness, of course, but that is forgivable. The most "arrgh why did you do this?!?!" part of the novel comes about 70% of the way in. We'd been all in Daria's POV only to switch to Red Hood's randomly at a pivotal scene. This would be fine (if jarring) if it was done to advance the plot. Actually it's just the same scene we saw through Daria's eyes again from a different angle. Like - "oh, that scene was so cool and emotional! Instant replayyyy!!" It added nothing and in fact slowed the plot down substantially. Schubach appears to have loved the effect though and he does it twice more, which is frustrating. You could take out the duplicated scenes all three times and the novel would improve.

Another gripe is that the lesbians fall in love pretty nearly straight away. Not as fast as his other books - compared to them these lesbians actually appear to know something about the other before declaring their undying devotion, which is nice. More distressingly, things which are problematic are glossed over with painful speed - Daria's sister tells everyone that she was raped over the entire period of her captivity, and it's treated like a nothing. A distasteful thing done to make the baddies more evil and the girl more pitiable. It comes off as insulting; if the author wasn't going to be able to treat the topic with respect, then it shouldn't have been included.

Anyway; this book plays to Schubach's core strength, which is his imagination. Say what you want about the execution sometimes, but the man has awesome ideas. These kinds of "urban-fantasy lite" fairy tales are actually fairly common (Elora Bishop, Winter Pennington, etc) but Schubach's ideas still feel new and fresh. Daria's fate and final situation are amazing, and her plight certainly alters her going forward. The villain actually has a really good evil plan (if you ignore the way no government oversight exists of the most important industry on earth, literally linked to the survival of 2/3 of the world's population). The minor characters still suffer from a lack of attention (and sure do die a lot) but that's more because the main characters are off busy being l33t.

This is a very promising beginning - if Schubach continues to improve with practice and his editor remains vigilant then actually he's going to leave "bad it's good" territory soon and just be plain old good. Not yet, but soon. Congratulations, Mr Schubach.

[Emma · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting world and take on Red Riding Hood. I really liked the first half more.

[Malum · Rating 1 out of 5]

I think this will be my last Schubach book, for several reasons.

First of all, Schubach's books are never quite what I think they will be. I thought that this one, for example, would be a gothic horror/action novel taking place in the 19th century (I mean, the lady on the cover does have a crossbow and a cloak...). It turned out to be a superhero police procedural. This is more my fault than the authors. I should have done my research on it more before picking it up. But since this is the second Schubach book that let my expectations down, maybe he just doesn't write the kind of stories that I'm looking for.

Next, I just don't like the "feel" of Schubach's books. They all read like they are young/new adult novels, which I hate.

Also, with this book in particular, the romance felt really tacked on. The two characters meet, find each other attractive, and are suddenly in a relationship. It happens really fast and has very little to do with the overall plot. It really feels like it was shoved in there just so that they could say "Hey, there are hot lesbians in here!".

Finally, the main character in this book punches a werewolf a couple of times. We remember this because we are told CONSTANTLY. "Oh my god, you punched a werewolf!"..."You're the girl that punched a werewolf!"..."I better watch out for you, you punched a werewolf once!"..."Whoa, you kicked a werewolf in the balls!" OHMYGODSTOP.

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting take on Red Riding Hood and the wolf. I thoroughly enjoyed this. The narrator does a great job.

[Ch · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was bestial, wonderful and beautiful.

Wow, Red Hood is a vveeeeerrrrrrrrryyyyy different adaptation of the traditional Little Red Riding Hood. Schubach gave the stories of the three powers, a totally new and amazing twist including strong women and what the fucking Grimm Brothers didn't, justice. The plot wasn't overpowered "mostly" by the romance and you'd be engulfed with the story telling that you'll just don't care anymore. The twists were cleverly done and the epilogue will make you want pick the next book in the series immdiately.

[Inked Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

FourStars
A very different adaptation of the traditional fairy tale. This short novel was delightfully entertaining and detailed enough to make the whole thing almost believable.

The strength of the two main character's and the smart and at times very amusing dialogue between them was one this books strengths. I found the plot did become a little confusing half way through when Daria and Red were alone in fending off the wolves and I am still not sure how Daria became able to transform. However the author quickly brought things back on track and the novel continued to entertain and delight.

I was surprised at some of the rather edgy dark sections in the novel and was not sure they complimented an otherwise enchanting tale of the supernatural.

You will enjoy reading this book if you like strong beautiful and resourceful women who have a growing passion for each other which is cleverly left to the readers imagination. You will wolf it down.

I was also impressed with the imaginative conclusion, the dynamic duo descending on London, including British readers into the tale. Cleverly done.

I was given this in return for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.

~Chris

[Nolly Frances Sepulveda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Winner

Ah, it's so exciting to sit and read another wonderful story that takes you away from the mundane. I really enjoyed this twist on the Little Red Riding Hood fairytale, the cast of characters and the events that took place had the same mix as Erik's past books, great main characters, laughs and terrific story telling, not to mention a bit of romance. Looking forward to the next installment.

[Sam · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great series begins!!!

Like always I was drawn to finishing the book in one sitting. The characters were well developed and had me wanting to skip to end to make sure good would prevail before finishing. Great job Erik!

[K.S. Trenten · Rating 4 out of 5]

Vivid and visceral, I felt almost like I was watching a movie. Watching and waiting with Daria, the protagonist, hunting and being hunted in a world overrun by werewolves, forcing humanity to cage themselves for their own safety, to try to protect themselves from fang and claw lurking in the darkness, a darkness which feels overwhelming until she appears. A mysterious woman in a red hood with the strength and skill to strike down the monsters, giving Daria hope. This hope becomes fulfilment in the form of this woman whom goes from being champion to companion, partner, and lover. Nor is the story solely told from Daria’s perspective. Readers get to see the tale from the Red Hood’s point of view, her long years of loneliness and how Daria is her hope to escape from that. If you love action, f/f, dystopian worlds similar in mood to the Gothic-Punk World of Darkness, yet with its own unique flavor, don’t miss this story.

[FalkenHawke · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is set in the modern world with a bit of the metaphysical thrown in. Things move quickly in the beginning starting with an attack on the city gates followed by a breach in the wall that is discovered by Daria. This leads to the introduction of the title character, “Red Hood”.

The characters each have their motivations, quirks, and of course, strengths. I enjoyed their interactions together as well as how they have adapted to their world. Given all that however, their failure at an obvious plot point in the story seems unlikely. Of course, like all heroes, they still rise to the occasion and they do so without disappointing.

Finally, given that the story has a loose basis in an existing one, it can be difficult to differentiate it from others like it. Despite the obvious things that can’t change lest the story be something unrelated, I believe the author has done a remarkable job making this story different from other stories like it.

P.S. I’ve seen many grammar nazi’s opinions on other books by this author. While this book is different in that respect, it still won’t meet their desired level. To them all I can suggest is they read the story multiple times, first to edit it to their tastes, then again to actually enjoy it. Personally I think it’s worth the effort if their obsessiveness won’t let them otherwise.

[Melissa Hensley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who's afraid of the big bad wolf?

Not me especially after reading this. This is a great twist on Little Red Riding Hood just the adult version. Erik has done it again with, hopefully, a new collection of stories. It is quite entertaining and a little steamy. You will not be disappointed with this purchase.

[K.B. Draper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed it!

Erik delivered another great story. I enjoyed the unique and modern play off the old "big bad wolf" story. I will be picking up the next in the series.

[te_lanus · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very nice Paranormal LGBT Romance, where the romance ain't the main focus. There are a few of the scenes that could have had more flesh on them, but they don't distract too much from the book

[Littleirish]

The 1st book in a highly addictive series. Great story line and strong sometimes humorous characters. I would highly recommend it.

[Rtz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it. The writing and story is so immersive, that I can barely remember the original. This book is full of wolves and curses and a lovely love story.

[Charlotte McNeil · Rating 5 out of 5]

Truly had fun reading this book. I do audible books, and my reader added to the enjoyment. I am post- stroke and usually have to go with simpler story lines, but I am a sucker for twists on fairy tales. Thoroughly enjoyed this story, this author. On to the next Erik S, Snow, The White Crow. I do not know if these share characters, etc, so you would read in sequence. My thought is no, but I'll go the 1,2,3 route.

[Sophie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bene, siamo sinceri: se dovessi essere obiettiva, questo libro non si aggiudicherebbe probabilmente neanche tre stelline piene su cinque…
La storia è bellina, una cosa molto semplice a metà strada fra la trama di un film della serie “Underworld”, le atmosfere di un videogioco d’azione e un urban fantasy “rosa”, sebbene dello stampo forse meno classico che possiate immaginare; si lascia leggere in fretta e assolve egregiamente al suo compito principale, vale a dire intrattenere e divertire il lettore senza rischiare di annoiarlo mai.
La maggior parte dei personaggi secondari non ha un grandissimo spessore, ma ho apprezzato tantissimo l’umorismo di Daria, la co-protagonista del romanzo, combinato alla sua grinta e al suo formidabile istinto combattivo; nei confronti di Mari-Cappuccetto-Rosso, poi, credo di aver sviluppato una bella cotta in grande stile: la nostra indomita e imbattibile cacciatrice di lupi mannari riesce a uscire divinamente da qualsiasi confronto o scontro letale; è spiritosa, sexy, intelligente, fiera, tenera e leale come un cucciolo, tutto nello stesso tempo…
Non sarà un mostro di credibilità, insomma, ma seguirla è stato un vero spasso, e di certo non si può affermare che Mari non sia un’eroina originale e piena di brio; durante la lettura, gli ormoni hanno inoltre compensato e sorvolato felicemente su qualsiasi possibile difetto, quindi… cosa posso dire? L’adoro, e mi auguro che torni a giocare un ruolo importante anche nel sequel della saga, dedicato a Biancaneve.
Più avanti cercherò di scrivere una recensione un po’ più dettagliata, da pubblicare magari sul blog, per spendere qualche parola anche sul ritmo incalzante del romanzo, sulla natura un po' particolare di questo retelling e sull’ambientazione distopica, che non è così malaccio e merita senz'altro un po’ di analisi in più…
Peccato solo che la prosa di Erik Schubach sia terribile, e il suo stile una confusa e disordinata accozzaglia di parole e frasi che fanno male alla testa e al cuore più spesso che no. Non esistono descrizioni, la punteggiatura è straziante, la trama è disseminata buchi narrativi grossi come camion…
Ci sono passata sopra e lo rifarei, perché “The Hunt” mi ha tenuto compagnia per giorni e mi ha rallegrato le serate, oltre a farmi tornare adolescente per qualche ora, grazie ai suoi dialoghi spumeggianti e alle sue sequenze d’azione mozzafiato… Non vedo l'ora di immergermi nel prossimo volume della saga, insomma!
Ciò non toglie che io abbia attribuito valutazioni inferiori a libri scritti dieci volte meglio, o almeno due volte più complessi.
Non ritratto e non mi rimangio nulla, ma mi sembrava giusto avvisarvi! ;D

[Siller94 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read it four times already because that's how good it is

[Jennifer Reaves · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read the book via Audible. It is a great start to an interesting take on a fairy tails. Once again Mr. Schubach has written a compelling story with strong female characters. I have not started the next book yest but I know it is a continuation of the story line. I hope there are more parts with these two characters as I love the interaction between the two. I know the first three parts are on Audible and I hope the next six get there soon. I have really enjoyed listening to Hollie Jackson reading Mr. Schubach's stories. I hope she can keep cranking out the stories as fast as he writes them.

[Ed Ray · Rating 4 out of 5]

Liked the imaginative hook to a popular fable. I am a true Erik fan and have been for a couple years.

[Joyce Moore · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have these books on audible,so I can read as my dogs are walking with me. Thanks for making me enjoy Fairytales (adults version) again. Glad to see you wrote,red&hellhound, in the next book. Read the reviews for the on, book 2, but it really makes me excited to read/listen to the next book.
Wish to thank you for the mixed themes your characters play, THANK YOU. I plan to introduce your books to a dear friend, so we will have more titles to talk about when we’re together. Thanks again.

[Bennett · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good paranormal slant on the fairytale recommended.

[Margaret Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was an exciting, romantic read that was filled with surprises around every corner. Mari and Daria are so incredibly perfect for each other, its unbelievable. The overall result is a short, heart- warming tale about the hardships of love with excellent twists and turns where a fairytale and modern world collide. This is a great first installation in the Urban Fairytales series and an wonderful read.

[Todd Oliver · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not the typical Little Red Riding Hood story you heard as a child. The big bad wolf is actually a werewolf! Red Hood has been tracking the wolf all over the planet trying to stop him and the werewolf curse. Red Hood and Detective McQueen partner up, in more ways than one, to stop the curse.

As always, Erik creates suck likable characters, and Hollie makes us fall in love with them! Beautifully written fairy tale of werewolf hunting and love!

[Vicki Coleman-Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Much better than I expected!

I did not realize when I signed up for this book that it was about werewolves, which I am not normally interested in at all. But since I had started it I thought I would see how it went. Turned out, the story was very interesting and the main characters were terrific! I would recommend it if you can stand some violence.

[Stephanie Hiddleston · Rating 3 out of 5]

Die Story ist wirklich gut, ich meine lesbian red hood und alles, aber hu...

Was soll denn dieser Schreibstil? Der war einfach nicht gut. Es war jetzt nicht so schlecht geschrieben wie manche...Werke *hust hust after Dreck*, dennoch...
einfach traurig, weil das Buch sonst 1a sein könnte.

[charles clayson · Rating 5 out of 5]

ENGROSSING ! In so many ways this opening series is so sensational ! From the very first skirmish with the werewolves that breach the outer walls of the city of Seattle ☔in chapter 1 . If you are into stimulating sapphic thrillers this will provide ! I was thoroughly satisfied 😌 .

[charles clayson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding debut of a sensational series . Just as captivating as the Sentinel or if you haven't read that one yet perhaps you have read the Valkyrie series . either one of those or any of his other gripping books or series !

[Ariel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eric Schubach Does it Again

This is one of my favorites written by Schubach. I love his story telling and this take on a classic fairytale had me enchanted from start to finish. Loved the characters, the plot, and the twists. Can't wait to dive into the next one!