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The Robin Hood Stories #1
The Ghosts of Sherwood
Carrie Vaughn's The Ghosts of Sherwood revisits the Robin Hood legend with a story of the famed archer's children.
Everything about Father is stories.
Robin of Locksley and his one true love, Marian, are married. It has been close on two decades since they beat the Sheriff of Nottingham with the help of a diverse band of talented friends. King John is now on the throne, and Robin has sworn fealty in order to further protect not just his family, but those of the lords and barons who look up to him – and, by extension, the villagers they protect.
There is a truce. An uneasy one, to be sure, but a truce, nonetheless.
But when the Locksley children are stolen away by persons unknown, Robin and Marian are going to need the help of everyone they’ve ever known, perhaps even the ghosts that are said to reside deep within Sherwood.
And the Locksley children, despite appearances to the contrary, are not without tricks of their own…
Everything about Father is stories.
Robin of Locksley and his one true love, Marian, are married. It has been close on two decades since they beat the Sheriff of Nottingham with the help of a diverse band of talented friends. King John is now on the throne, and Robin has sworn fealty in order to further protect not just his family, but those of the lords and barons who look up to him – and, by extension, the villagers they protect.
There is a truce. An uneasy one, to be sure, but a truce, nonetheless.
But when the Locksley children are stolen away by persons unknown, Robin and Marian are going to need the help of everyone they’ve ever known, perhaps even the ghosts that are said to reside deep within Sherwood.
And the Locksley children, despite appearances to the contrary, are not without tricks of their own…
102 pages, Paperback
First published June 9, 2020
79 people are currently reading
1850 people want to read
About the author
Carrie Vaughn
280 books4,540 followersCarrie Vaughn is the author more than twenty novels and over a hundred short stories. She's best known for her New York Times bestselling series of novels about a werewolf named Kitty who hosts a talk radio advice show for the supernaturally disadvantaged. In 2018, she won the Philip K. Dick Award for Bannerless, a post-apocalyptic murder mystery. She's published over 20 novels and 100 short stories, two of which have been finalists for the Hugo Award. She's a contributor to the Wild Cards series of shared world superhero books edited by George R. R. Martin and a graduate of the Odyssey Fantasy Writing Workshop.
An Air Force brat, she survived her nomadic childhood and managed to put down roots in Boulder, Colorado, where she collects hobbies.
Visit her at www.carrievaughn.com
For writing advice and essays, check out her Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/carrievaughn
An Air Force brat, she survived her nomadic childhood and managed to put down roots in Boulder, Colorado, where she collects hobbies.
Visit her at www.carrievaughn.com
For writing advice and essays, check out her Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/carrievaughn
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 242 reviews
August 17, 2020
Robin Hood and Marian, 16 years later! Plus three kids. (They got busy!) Add kidnappers (who are maybe in a little over their heads). Review first posted on Fantasy Literature:
In The Ghosts of Sherwood, the first of Carrie Vaughn’s two recent Robin Hood novellas, Vaughn revisits the lives of Robin of Locksley and Marian, some eighteen or twenty years after King Richard the Lionheart typically brings about the end of Robin Hood’s merrie (and highly illegal) adventures in Sherwood Forest. King John, for better or worse, has held the throne of England for many years now, and Robin and other barons have successfully pressed for the legal reforms that led to the signing of the Magna Carta. There are divisions between the nobles, however, and Robin of Locksley still has many enemies.
After an absence of many months, Robin and Marian are returning home to their three children: Mary, about age sixteen and a gifted archer; John, a few years younger, and Eleanor, about age nine, who is mute. The family is delighted to be reunited, though Mary and John have a habit of spatting and Marian is annoyed with Robin for arranging a marriage for Mary without consulting either her or Mary first, though Robin protests that he won’t force Mary’s hand. But the dust hasn’t even had time to settle before the three Locksley children are kidnapped.
The Ghosts of Sherwood is a light, quick read that captures the adventurous spirit of the classic Robin Hood tales, while adding some depth to the characters. Vaughn writes primarily from Marian’s and her daughter Mary’s points of view, splitting her time fairly equally between the two generations. She delves into the hearts of her characters, bringing them to life as they interact with each other and deal with the concerns of life in early thirteenth century England, and with the changes and new priorities that age and experience and family life bring.
The Ghosts of Sherwood is over too soon: it feels more like the first several chapters of a longer work, than a stand-alone novella. And in fact, Vaughn has just published a second book in this ROBIN HOOD STORIES series, The Heirs of Locksley, which I dove into immediately upon finishing this one. Hopefully there will be more Locksley family stories to come!
3.5 stars. Thanks to Tor for the ARC!
In The Ghosts of Sherwood, the first of Carrie Vaughn’s two recent Robin Hood novellas, Vaughn revisits the lives of Robin of Locksley and Marian, some eighteen or twenty years after King Richard the Lionheart typically brings about the end of Robin Hood’s merrie (and highly illegal) adventures in Sherwood Forest. King John, for better or worse, has held the throne of England for many years now, and Robin and other barons have successfully pressed for the legal reforms that led to the signing of the Magna Carta. There are divisions between the nobles, however, and Robin of Locksley still has many enemies.
After an absence of many months, Robin and Marian are returning home to their three children: Mary, about age sixteen and a gifted archer; John, a few years younger, and Eleanor, about age nine, who is mute. The family is delighted to be reunited, though Mary and John have a habit of spatting and Marian is annoyed with Robin for arranging a marriage for Mary without consulting either her or Mary first, though Robin protests that he won’t force Mary’s hand. But the dust hasn’t even had time to settle before the three Locksley children are kidnapped.
The Ghosts of Sherwood is a light, quick read that captures the adventurous spirit of the classic Robin Hood tales, while adding some depth to the characters. Vaughn writes primarily from Marian’s and her daughter Mary’s points of view, splitting her time fairly equally between the two generations. She delves into the hearts of her characters, bringing them to life as they interact with each other and deal with the concerns of life in early thirteenth century England, and with the changes and new priorities that age and experience and family life bring.
Twenty years ago Robin would have taken up the bow and shot the man’s cap off. Marian felt him tense beside her. Gathering up his civility like scattered coins. For a moment, she had no idea what he was going to do.The Ghosts of Sherwood is similar in style to Robin McKinley’s 1988 novel The Outlaws of Sherwood, if rather less harrowing in the climactic scene. In her blog, Vaughn comments: “it’s fun. It’s light. Robin and Marian get to keep their happy ending, they love and support their children. It’s about friends and family and standing together against the world … No matter how dark things get, Robin still has hope and still fights.” That sense of hopefulness and togetherness permeate the pages of this novella. It’s escapist, but it also suggests that loyalty, courage and love go a long way toward combatting the evils of this world.
The Ghosts of Sherwood is over too soon: it feels more like the first several chapters of a longer work, than a stand-alone novella. And in fact, Vaughn has just published a second book in this ROBIN HOOD STORIES series, The Heirs of Locksley, which I dove into immediately upon finishing this one. Hopefully there will be more Locksley family stories to come!
3.5 stars. Thanks to Tor for the ARC!
May 19, 2023
I enjoyed this story very much. Robin Hood and his Wife and three children face and conquer kid knappers along with the ghost of Little John.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 26, 2020
The only real problem with this novella is that it is too short! I loved that this story was dedicated to Errol and Olivia; as corny as that film is, it was a formative event of my childhood.
The Ghosts of Sherwood is a dense little story giving us a glimpse into what the midlife lives of Robin and Marian have become, and introducing their three children, Mary, John, and Eleanor. Watching events play out, it's clear these children have inherited some smarts and skills from their parents.
A ton of potential is hinted at by this short, introductory-feeling novella, which leaves me excited for the next installment due in August (The Heirs of Locksley). I hope this becomes a longer series.
Bottom line: you should definitely read this if you are a fan of Robin Hood stories.
The Ghosts of Sherwood is a dense little story giving us a glimpse into what the midlife lives of Robin and Marian have become, and introducing their three children, Mary, John, and Eleanor. Watching events play out, it's clear these children have inherited some smarts and skills from their parents.
A ton of potential is hinted at by this short, introductory-feeling novella, which leaves me excited for the next installment due in August (The Heirs of Locksley). I hope this becomes a longer series.
Bottom line: you should definitely read this if you are a fan of Robin Hood stories.
May 28, 2020
THE CHILDREN OF ROBIN HOOD HAVE HIS GUMPTION
This short novella takes us back to Sherwood, only this time Robin Hood and the Merry Men aren't our heroes - his children are. Mary, John and Eleanor. I am happy ro report that even though they grew up as noble children, they still have their father's mischievous spark. That was probably my favourite part of this book.
👍 WHAT I LIKED 👍
The children: I really liked how Robin's three children are the center of this book. I liked seeing how they worked together to get out of a sticky situation. And I liked how they seemed to have gotten all the best parts of their father.
Robin: Seeing Robin as a protective father was exactly what I didn't know I needed.
👎 WHAT I DISLIKED 👎
Length: This had the potential to be so much more than just a novella. I could have been an epic novel. As it was, it just felt rushed and shallow. Which is really, really sad, because all the right ingredients were there.
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
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This short novella takes us back to Sherwood, only this time Robin Hood and the Merry Men aren't our heroes - his children are. Mary, John and Eleanor. I am happy ro report that even though they grew up as noble children, they still have their father's mischievous spark. That was probably my favourite part of this book.
👍 WHAT I LIKED 👍
The children: I really liked how Robin's three children are the center of this book. I liked seeing how they worked together to get out of a sticky situation. And I liked how they seemed to have gotten all the best parts of their father.
Robin: Seeing Robin as a protective father was exactly what I didn't know I needed.
👎 WHAT I DISLIKED 👎
Length: This had the potential to be so much more than just a novella. I could have been an epic novel. As it was, it just felt rushed and shallow. Which is really, really sad, because all the right ingredients were there.
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Follow me for more book loving content!
Blog ✨ Facebook ✨ Instagram ✨ Twitter
Blog Post: 9 'You Are not Alone' Books with Isolated Characters
May 28, 2020
I received an advance copy of this book via NetGalley.
The Ghosts of Sherwood is a fast, thoroughly enjoyable read that picks up on the adventures of an older Robin and Marian and their three children. I expected it to be novel-length and was surprised (but not unpleasantly so) to find it was a novella. This is only fantasy in that it re-imagines their lives. It's not a deep, heavily-researched historical fiction piece, either, but one very accessible to anyone familiar with the Robin Hood Legend.
For me, the stars of the story were the children. The eldest, Mary, is a smart teenage girl. When she and her siblings are captured by enemies of her father, they must use their wits to stay alive and well as their parents come to the rescue. The youngest child, Eleanor, is depicted as autistic. As the parent of an autistic child, I loved seeing a realistic portrayal, especially within a loving, supportive family.
I'm glad this is listed on book sites as Robin Hood Stories #1, because I would love to read more of Vaughn's take on the famous family.
The Ghosts of Sherwood is a fast, thoroughly enjoyable read that picks up on the adventures of an older Robin and Marian and their three children. I expected it to be novel-length and was surprised (but not unpleasantly so) to find it was a novella. This is only fantasy in that it re-imagines their lives. It's not a deep, heavily-researched historical fiction piece, either, but one very accessible to anyone familiar with the Robin Hood Legend.
For me, the stars of the story were the children. The eldest, Mary, is a smart teenage girl. When she and her siblings are captured by enemies of her father, they must use their wits to stay alive and well as their parents come to the rescue. The youngest child, Eleanor, is depicted as autistic. As the parent of an autistic child, I loved seeing a realistic portrayal, especially within a loving, supportive family.
I'm glad this is listed on book sites as Robin Hood Stories #1, because I would love to read more of Vaughn's take on the famous family.
May 11, 2021
It is a really quick read (112 pages I think) but is thrilling and action packed nonetheless. I found this book really interesting. I just don't know what genre to categorise it in because of everything (and that's why I love it). In short, it is a must-read book and I totally recommend it to everybody.
I thank NetGalley and the publisher for providing me this amazing read
I thank NetGalley and the publisher for providing me this amazing read
June 18, 2022
“No more outlaws haunted Sherwood. So everyone said.”
It has been almost twenty years since Robin of Locksley and his band of merry men defeated the Sheriff of Nottingham. This is the story of the life they live now, the throne Robin has sworn fealty to and the family he has to protect.
I feel like this book would’ve created a lot more emotions within me if I had even one memory featuring Robin Hood. I thought Robin Hood and Puss in Boots were the same person until not that long ago. I thought Disney invented him. My grandfather is from Nottingham, nobody show him this review.
Because this book is so short and follows the children of Robin of Locksley, it does to an extent rely on prior knowledge in a way that full-length retellings don’t necessarily. This isn’t a criticism, because if I really wanted to be less confused, I could have consulted Google. I do however have one criticism that can be directed both at the original and this novella - there were three (3) characters named John and three (3) characters named William. There’s also a Mary and a Marian. HOW was I meant to follow that.
The writing was very poetic and there are certainly lines in this book that gave me goosebumps for no reason other than they’re pretty. I am also absolutely a sucker for the portrait of an old and retired hero, which is the role Robin of Locksley very much plays in this one. There’s a whole “you have very nearly become what you once fought so fiercely against” moment and they HIT EVERY TIME.
In all, if you could pick Robin Hood out of a lineup, I would say give this one a go. If you would struggle with such a task, you might end up spending more time reading the backstory online that you would reading the book.
The Playlist of Sherwood:
- Blood Moon // Saint Sister
- Terms and Conditions // Seb Lowe
- Ballad of the Noble Rogue // Logan Epic Canto
“He had always been there. Sherwood had always been haunted.”
It has been almost twenty years since Robin of Locksley and his band of merry men defeated the Sheriff of Nottingham. This is the story of the life they live now, the throne Robin has sworn fealty to and the family he has to protect.
I feel like this book would’ve created a lot more emotions within me if I had even one memory featuring Robin Hood. I thought Robin Hood and Puss in Boots were the same person until not that long ago. I thought Disney invented him. My grandfather is from Nottingham, nobody show him this review.
Because this book is so short and follows the children of Robin of Locksley, it does to an extent rely on prior knowledge in a way that full-length retellings don’t necessarily. This isn’t a criticism, because if I really wanted to be less confused, I could have consulted Google. I do however have one criticism that can be directed both at the original and this novella - there were three (3) characters named John and three (3) characters named William. There’s also a Mary and a Marian. HOW was I meant to follow that.
The writing was very poetic and there are certainly lines in this book that gave me goosebumps for no reason other than they’re pretty. I am also absolutely a sucker for the portrait of an old and retired hero, which is the role Robin of Locksley very much plays in this one. There’s a whole “you have very nearly become what you once fought so fiercely against” moment and they HIT EVERY TIME.
In all, if you could pick Robin Hood out of a lineup, I would say give this one a go. If you would struggle with such a task, you might end up spending more time reading the backstory online that you would reading the book.
The Playlist of Sherwood:
- Blood Moon // Saint Sister
- Terms and Conditions // Seb Lowe
- Ballad of the Noble Rogue // Logan Epic Canto
“He had always been there. Sherwood had always been haunted.”
August 16, 2021
3 stars
I don't have too much to say about this one.
In short (pun intended), I thought this was fine. It was interesting to see a different take on Robin Hood in a literary format—what happens to Robin Hood, Maid Marian, and the crew decades later? What happens to their hypothetical children?
Following on those thoughts, the author crafted this slice-of-life adventure surrounding Robin Hood's daughter and siblings.
It had some minor humor, I enjoyed the action. I wanted more mystery but maybe that was a personal preference. I don't know. This was just kind of...there, for me. I didn't fall head over heels for any one piece and I'm not sure this will stick with me for long.
I think I will check out the next one if it falls into my lap, but we'll see. If you're a Robin Hood fan, I'd still recommend this one.
Blog | Instagram
I don't have too much to say about this one.
In short (pun intended), I thought this was fine. It was interesting to see a different take on Robin Hood in a literary format—what happens to Robin Hood, Maid Marian, and the crew decades later? What happens to their hypothetical children?
Following on those thoughts, the author crafted this slice-of-life adventure surrounding Robin Hood's daughter and siblings.
It had some minor humor, I enjoyed the action. I wanted more mystery but maybe that was a personal preference. I don't know. This was just kind of...there, for me. I didn't fall head over heels for any one piece and I'm not sure this will stick with me for long.
I think I will check out the next one if it falls into my lap, but we'll see. If you're a Robin Hood fan, I'd still recommend this one.
Blog | Instagram
June 22, 2020
Review
My only complaint about The Ghosts of Sherwood is that it was far too short. I didn’t realize when I began reading it that it was essentially a novella- otherwise I probably would have slowed down my reading so I could have enjoyed it for longer. As it was, I ended up reading it in just one sitting because it’s only a little over 100 pages.
Despite its short length, though, it still managed to fully set the scene and develop the characters, aided by the fact that many of the characters were ones most readers will already know well. I felt fully transported to Sherwood Forest, almost as if I were there following along with the familiar and new characters alike.
Reading about Robin’s children carrying on his legacy within Sherwood Forest was a fascinating spin on the legends of one of the most famous literary outlaws. No longer fighting injustices, Robin Hood & Co. are simply trying to enjoy a life of relative solitude on their land with their loved ones. However, that tranquility soon becomes jeopardized because, well, this is a story about Robin Hood after all.
Final Thoughts
Robin Hood, Maid Marian, and the Merry Men are well known and loved fictional icons so it was a delight to be able to read a story that posed, “Okay, but what happened afterward?” Set several years after the events most of us are familiar with, the story focused on Robin and Marian’s precocious children. This was a charming read that all fans of Robin Hood should pick up for a bit of a getaway to Sherwood Forest.
Read my full review on my blog!
Thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan-Tor/Forge for a copy of this in exchange for a review.
My only complaint about The Ghosts of Sherwood is that it was far too short. I didn’t realize when I began reading it that it was essentially a novella- otherwise I probably would have slowed down my reading so I could have enjoyed it for longer. As it was, I ended up reading it in just one sitting because it’s only a little over 100 pages.
Despite its short length, though, it still managed to fully set the scene and develop the characters, aided by the fact that many of the characters were ones most readers will already know well. I felt fully transported to Sherwood Forest, almost as if I were there following along with the familiar and new characters alike.
Reading about Robin’s children carrying on his legacy within Sherwood Forest was a fascinating spin on the legends of one of the most famous literary outlaws. No longer fighting injustices, Robin Hood & Co. are simply trying to enjoy a life of relative solitude on their land with their loved ones. However, that tranquility soon becomes jeopardized because, well, this is a story about Robin Hood after all.
Final Thoughts
Robin Hood, Maid Marian, and the Merry Men are well known and loved fictional icons so it was a delight to be able to read a story that posed, “Okay, but what happened afterward?” Set several years after the events most of us are familiar with, the story focused on Robin and Marian’s precocious children. This was a charming read that all fans of Robin Hood should pick up for a bit of a getaway to Sherwood Forest.
Read my full review on my blog!
Thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan-Tor/Forge for a copy of this in exchange for a review.
June 3, 2020
A huge thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a free ecopy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
4,5/5
The Ghosts of Sherwood is a lovely little book set after the legend of Robin Hood. He and Marian have settled down, had three kids, and do their best to still make things fairer for everyone. This book follows the POVs of Marian and Mary, their eldest daughter. Its focus on the women is a wonderful breath of fresh air to this legend I adore. Also, reading about Sherwood Forest makes me want to go back asap; it's just so gorgeous there!
The book starts a bit slow, and it's not until the halfway point the kidnapping the synopsis promises occurs. Given the book's size, however, halfway is not very far off. The pacing is nice and comfortable, and lets you get to know these (new) characters before expecting you to care for them.
Mary is not ready to be a grown up, to be married, and she much prefers being alone in Sherwood Forest. Her younger brother John was probably the least fleshed out character. Their younger sister Eleanor is an instant favorite, however! I absolutely adore this 8 year old's spirit and bravery! I cannot wait to see more of her.
Marian, while clearly a mother, is still the same woman at heart that we've come to know and love. Her spirit has not diminished, and she is still as fierce as ever.
Besides the main story, it was so wonderful to see so many of my beloved characters again, and honestly, when Much was mentioned I was over the moon! He gets ignored so often, and he is one of my favorites. Seeing Robin all responsible, though, took some getting used to, but a fox never loses its cunning. The book starts with him and Marian away to meet the King, after Robin rebelled with several barons to ensure safety of people's lands. He may be older now, a father, and more responsible, but he's Robin Hood still as well as Robin of Locksley!
Four and a half stars because of the book's length. I'm sure there's a reason for it, but I feel that with just a bit more pages the characters and stories could have been fleshed out just a little better, so I would have gotten involved on their own merits, and not on their parents'.
Cannot wait for the next one of this new series!
4,5/5
The Ghosts of Sherwood is a lovely little book set after the legend of Robin Hood. He and Marian have settled down, had three kids, and do their best to still make things fairer for everyone. This book follows the POVs of Marian and Mary, their eldest daughter. Its focus on the women is a wonderful breath of fresh air to this legend I adore. Also, reading about Sherwood Forest makes me want to go back asap; it's just so gorgeous there!
The book starts a bit slow, and it's not until the halfway point the kidnapping the synopsis promises occurs. Given the book's size, however, halfway is not very far off. The pacing is nice and comfortable, and lets you get to know these (new) characters before expecting you to care for them.
Mary is not ready to be a grown up, to be married, and she much prefers being alone in Sherwood Forest. Her younger brother John was probably the least fleshed out character. Their younger sister Eleanor is an instant favorite, however! I absolutely adore this 8 year old's spirit and bravery! I cannot wait to see more of her.
Marian, while clearly a mother, is still the same woman at heart that we've come to know and love. Her spirit has not diminished, and she is still as fierce as ever.
Besides the main story, it was so wonderful to see so many of my beloved characters again, and honestly, when Much was mentioned I was over the moon! He gets ignored so often, and he is one of my favorites. Seeing Robin all responsible, though, took some getting used to, but a fox never loses its cunning. The book starts with him and Marian away to meet the King, after Robin rebelled with several barons to ensure safety of people's lands. He may be older now, a father, and more responsible, but he's Robin Hood still as well as Robin of Locksley!
Four and a half stars because of the book's length. I'm sure there's a reason for it, but I feel that with just a bit more pages the characters and stories could have been fleshed out just a little better, so I would have gotten involved on their own merits, and not on their parents'.
Cannot wait for the next one of this new series!
May 29, 2020
Received to review via Netgalley; publication date 9th June 2020
I was eager to snap this up when I saw it on Netgalley, because Robin Hood stories are kind of a Thing for me. I did a module on Robin Hood stories during my BA, wrote a handful of my essays about it, and have always rather enjoyed Robin Hood stories. (Starting in childhood with Enid Blyton’s Tales of Daring Adventure, which is the only book handed down from both my parents. I believe I still have both their copies, with Dad’s in a better state and retaining its dustcover. I have also frequently heard the stories of my mother as a child deeply concerning her parents by sobbing inconsolably over the death of Robin Hood.)
So, this fairly gentle story fits right into that warm and cosy spot in my heart. Robin and Marian are married and respectable, with three children; it’s sort of inserted into real history, with King John signing the Magna Carta in part because of Robin’s insistence and William Marshall showing up to say hi. The story also tries for realism in discussing their relationship, Marian’s pregnancies, the way they fit into the world.
At the start of the novella, they’re returning from London, with Robin having decided that their eldest daughter will marry — and Marian isn’t happy. It carries on in this rather domestic way, until the children are kidnapped by a band of men… and a much-missed friend, long absent from Robin’s circle after his first decision to respect King John’s succession to the throne, witnesses the kidnapping and rushes to Robin for help.
Things move a lot faster at that point, and from the blurb it feels like that’s meant to be the centre of the story. It doesn’t feel like it, though, and I was surprised to learn there’s meant to be another linked book. I was happier with it as a sort of coda to the Robin Hood story; as the introduction to something more, it actually feels lacking for me, because I didn’t connect to the original characters in that way. I thought it was about Robin’s group, his relationship with Marian, and how an outlaw steps out of legend and becomes part of the world. I’m less interested in reading for the kids — I just liked seeing the old gang come back together.
I was eager to snap this up when I saw it on Netgalley, because Robin Hood stories are kind of a Thing for me. I did a module on Robin Hood stories during my BA, wrote a handful of my essays about it, and have always rather enjoyed Robin Hood stories. (Starting in childhood with Enid Blyton’s Tales of Daring Adventure, which is the only book handed down from both my parents. I believe I still have both their copies, with Dad’s in a better state and retaining its dustcover. I have also frequently heard the stories of my mother as a child deeply concerning her parents by sobbing inconsolably over the death of Robin Hood.)
So, this fairly gentle story fits right into that warm and cosy spot in my heart. Robin and Marian are married and respectable, with three children; it’s sort of inserted into real history, with King John signing the Magna Carta in part because of Robin’s insistence and William Marshall showing up to say hi. The story also tries for realism in discussing their relationship, Marian’s pregnancies, the way they fit into the world.
At the start of the novella, they’re returning from London, with Robin having decided that their eldest daughter will marry — and Marian isn’t happy. It carries on in this rather domestic way, until the children are kidnapped by a band of men… and a much-missed friend, long absent from Robin’s circle after his first decision to respect King John’s succession to the throne, witnesses the kidnapping and rushes to Robin for help.
Things move a lot faster at that point, and from the blurb it feels like that’s meant to be the centre of the story. It doesn’t feel like it, though, and I was surprised to learn there’s meant to be another linked book. I was happier with it as a sort of coda to the Robin Hood story; as the introduction to something more, it actually feels lacking for me, because I didn’t connect to the original characters in that way. I thought it was about Robin’s group, his relationship with Marian, and how an outlaw steps out of legend and becomes part of the world. I’m less interested in reading for the kids — I just liked seeing the old gang come back together.
July 23, 2020
A short and sweet novella about life after the legend.
"Robin of Locksley and his one true love, Marian, are married. It has been close on two decades since they beat the Sheriff of Nottingham with the help of a diverse band of talented friends. King John is now on the throne, and Robin has sworn fealty in order to further protect not just his family, but those of the lords and barons who look up to him – and, by extension, the villagers they protect.
There is a truce. An uneasy one, to be sure, but a truce, nonetheless.
But when the Locksley children are stolen away by persons unknown, Robin and Marian are going to need the help of everyone they’ve ever known, perhaps even the ghosts that are said to reside deep within Sherwood.
And the Locksley children, despite appearances to the contrary, are not without tricks of their own..."
This was super fun! It read like a fairytale, and not only did I love seeing the interactions between the Locksley children, but of course, the interactions between Robin, Marian, and the classic Merry Men gang.
The descriptions of the nature surrounding the Locksley manor (especially Sherwood forest) completely drew me in, as well. I loved the dynamics between Mary, John, and Eleanor. The writing definitely reminded me of reading a classic legend or folk tale. Though it was short, it was a nice little adventure filled with heart!
Big thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for sending me this ARC!
"Robin of Locksley and his one true love, Marian, are married. It has been close on two decades since they beat the Sheriff of Nottingham with the help of a diverse band of talented friends. King John is now on the throne, and Robin has sworn fealty in order to further protect not just his family, but those of the lords and barons who look up to him – and, by extension, the villagers they protect.
There is a truce. An uneasy one, to be sure, but a truce, nonetheless.
But when the Locksley children are stolen away by persons unknown, Robin and Marian are going to need the help of everyone they’ve ever known, perhaps even the ghosts that are said to reside deep within Sherwood.
And the Locksley children, despite appearances to the contrary, are not without tricks of their own..."
This was super fun! It read like a fairytale, and not only did I love seeing the interactions between the Locksley children, but of course, the interactions between Robin, Marian, and the classic Merry Men gang.
"'Do you know where the children are?' Marian asked softly. 'The children you took?'
His attention caught, he gazed on her, and his look of wonder turned to anguish. 'Oh Holy Mary in Heaven forgive me, please forgive me, I didn't know!' He clasped his hands in prayer, his whole body shaking.
'Well, that's something,' Robin said, baffled."
The descriptions of the nature surrounding the Locksley manor (especially Sherwood forest) completely drew me in, as well. I loved the dynamics between Mary, John, and Eleanor. The writing definitely reminded me of reading a classic legend or folk tale. Though it was short, it was a nice little adventure filled with heart!
Big thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for sending me this ARC!
September 13, 2021
This short novella is about Robin and Marion later in life, I expected something like the Sean Connery and Audrey Hepburn's film "Robin and Marian" but was given something quite different a look at their lifes after Richard's death.
August 24, 2020
This is a very fast-reading novella featuring the next generation of Locksleys (or Hoods?), and their adventures in the familiar Sherwood Forest. John has assumed the throne and while there's peace in England, it's an uneasy one and the alliances and treaties are tenuous. The three children of Robin and Marian become pawns and prove their worth for the legacy. It's a very enjoyable story, much more Errol Flynn than Kevin Costner. Many characters from the original legends make an appearance, and Vaughn does a terrific job of defining characters with brevity. I had the opportunity to spend a couple of days in the area of the story a couple of years ago on vacation (it was -cold- there... in -July-!), and very much enjoyed this story allowing me to remember the sights. I'm anxious to get ahold of the second novella in the set now.
June 12, 2020
Not bad, though I did doze off while listening. Nice to see the next generation.
February 10, 2025
For a short novella this was very entertaining. I'm not usually fond of retellings or spin-offs, either, but this continuation of the Robin Hood story was well done - I just wish my library had the second book in the series. It doesn't destroy your idea of Robin Hood, nor does it freeze him in time. It tells the story of Robin and Marion's three children. Mostly it's about Mary, who is the oldest, and is a bit of a coming-of-age story for her. But it isn't resolved here, so I expect I'll have to get my library to borrow the next one for me.
June 12, 2020
A short, fun adventure starring Robin Hood and Marian's children. I'm looking forward to part 2, coming later this summer!
September 19, 2020
This was so sweet. <3
November 28, 2021
how legends are made!
October 27, 2021
We meet the three children of Marion and Robin Hood, and quickly realize that all the sense comes from Marion, and the woods knowledge from Robin, after the three are kidnapped. How the story resolves is terrific, part of which involves Mary showing off her archery skills, and the siblings working together to outwit their kidnappers. I’m so glad there’s another story to read after this.
March 10, 2020
ARC received from Tor.com via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This was a super quick read - only about 112 pages - but I loved every moment of it. Like most UK kids, I grew up with the Robin Hood legends, and I've always had a soft spot for the stories and various permutations thereof. Even knowing most of what lay behind the legends and gaining an understanding of that uneasy period in Saxon-Norman history has not dulled my appreciation. Which means I can go either way on a retelling, reimagining or sequel.
Happily, Vaughn nails the 'what happens next' of Robin Hood with this fun addition to the canon. Told in third person from Marian and her daughter, Mary's POVs, this is a fast paced and engaging treat. Robin Hood is a slippery character to pin down - as you would expect from someone who started out as a personification of the Green Man, Robin Goodfellow and possibly a real Saxon who was declare 'Nīðing' (an unperson who could be killed without consequences by anyone who wanted to do so), adding snatches of several historical figures and a vast body of lore both ancient and modern. I like Vaughn's depiction of a Robin Hood in his forties with a castle, lands, family and earldom to protect and care for. There are still flashes of the wicked, mirthful mischief maker who defied a Norman prince in favour of supporting the true king, but he's been tempered with age and responsibility, and by his quick witted and carefully schooled wife.
This is not strictly speaking a historical novella. For a start, we have no evidence that Robin Hood or Robin of Lockesley ever existed as a single entity and we can be pretty sure that Marian did not, but was instead an allegorical presence to symbolise duty and honour, added to the tale by a French poet. However, tiny, deft touches establish this piece of fable/ fantasy firmly in 12th C England and there are pleasing historical details.
I really liked the characters. Marian is more than just the paragon of beauty and goodness; Robin is occasionally rash and ill-tempered as well as brave and generous; Mary was very resourceful. There are cameos from Much, Scarlett, Tuck and others. But the star of the book for me was the silent, ten year old Eleanor who manages to trump everyone with a combination of intelligence and rare insight into human nature.
I know another reviewer was a little disappointed that not much seems to happen and that's true if what you're referring to is physical action. However, this is as much a character study, depicting interaction between a well rounded set of characters and is therefore about internal journey as much as outward action. However, I completely agree that this is very short. I would have liked to have gone on to The Heirs of Locksley straight away. Thoroughly enjoyable. Can't wait for book 2.
This was a super quick read - only about 112 pages - but I loved every moment of it. Like most UK kids, I grew up with the Robin Hood legends, and I've always had a soft spot for the stories and various permutations thereof. Even knowing most of what lay behind the legends and gaining an understanding of that uneasy period in Saxon-Norman history has not dulled my appreciation. Which means I can go either way on a retelling, reimagining or sequel.
Happily, Vaughn nails the 'what happens next' of Robin Hood with this fun addition to the canon. Told in third person from Marian and her daughter, Mary's POVs, this is a fast paced and engaging treat. Robin Hood is a slippery character to pin down - as you would expect from someone who started out as a personification of the Green Man, Robin Goodfellow and possibly a real Saxon who was declare 'Nīðing' (an unperson who could be killed without consequences by anyone who wanted to do so), adding snatches of several historical figures and a vast body of lore both ancient and modern. I like Vaughn's depiction of a Robin Hood in his forties with a castle, lands, family and earldom to protect and care for. There are still flashes of the wicked, mirthful mischief maker who defied a Norman prince in favour of supporting the true king, but he's been tempered with age and responsibility, and by his quick witted and carefully schooled wife.
This is not strictly speaking a historical novella. For a start, we have no evidence that Robin Hood or Robin of Lockesley ever existed as a single entity and we can be pretty sure that Marian did not, but was instead an allegorical presence to symbolise duty and honour, added to the tale by a French poet. However, tiny, deft touches establish this piece of fable/ fantasy firmly in 12th C England and there are pleasing historical details.
I really liked the characters. Marian is more than just the paragon of beauty and goodness; Robin is occasionally rash and ill-tempered as well as brave and generous; Mary was very resourceful. There are cameos from Much, Scarlett, Tuck and others. But the star of the book for me was the silent, ten year old Eleanor who manages to trump everyone with a combination of intelligence and rare insight into human nature.
I know another reviewer was a little disappointed that not much seems to happen and that's true if what you're referring to is physical action. However, this is as much a character study, depicting interaction between a well rounded set of characters and is therefore about internal journey as much as outward action. However, I completely agree that this is very short. I would have liked to have gone on to The Heirs of Locksley straight away. Thoroughly enjoyable. Can't wait for book 2.
June 12, 2020
Times change... Legends age... and the world that you fought so hard to restore and to protect doesn't always want to play by your rules.
So it is with Robin of Locksley and his Maid Marian - now his beloved wife of many years - and the three children that they have borne and raised together.
But, the peace that has been settled upon England since the return of Richard the Lionheart is showing signs of falling back into the turmoil of conflict and bloody battle and Robin and Marian only want to protect their lives and their children from its inevitable horror. Unfortunately, there are those who see the coming troubles as an opportunity and that opportunity might only be secured by controlling the uncontrollable. To do that, they must take the one thing that means more to Locksley than life itself.
So begins the first of a projected two part story crafted by the author of so many other wonderful stories, Carrie Vaughn. Carrie has written a story and an adventure that follows what seems to be the natural progression of the life of those heroes and legends and builds a world that captures the feel and atmosphere of those stories. Robin is older and has accepted the world that he lives in more than his more combative youth. Marian is still as strong willed and caring as she always has been. And the author has brought in many of the old companions from the old adventures.
While this is a fairly short story - 92 pages in total - Carrie develops the tale well and lets the adventure unfold as it will.
As stated earlier, this is the first of a proposed two part story with the second coming soon.
So it is with Robin of Locksley and his Maid Marian - now his beloved wife of many years - and the three children that they have borne and raised together.
But, the peace that has been settled upon England since the return of Richard the Lionheart is showing signs of falling back into the turmoil of conflict and bloody battle and Robin and Marian only want to protect their lives and their children from its inevitable horror. Unfortunately, there are those who see the coming troubles as an opportunity and that opportunity might only be secured by controlling the uncontrollable. To do that, they must take the one thing that means more to Locksley than life itself.
So begins the first of a projected two part story crafted by the author of so many other wonderful stories, Carrie Vaughn. Carrie has written a story and an adventure that follows what seems to be the natural progression of the life of those heroes and legends and builds a world that captures the feel and atmosphere of those stories. Robin is older and has accepted the world that he lives in more than his more combative youth. Marian is still as strong willed and caring as she always has been. And the author has brought in many of the old companions from the old adventures.
While this is a fairly short story - 92 pages in total - Carrie develops the tale well and lets the adventure unfold as it will.
As stated earlier, this is the first of a proposed two part story with the second coming soon.
July 1, 2020
Many thanks to NetGalley, Carrie Vaughn, and Macmillan-Tor/Forge for an ARC in exchange for an honest book review of The Ghosts of Sherwood. My thoughts and opinions are 100% my own and independent of receiving an advance copy.
Robin is all grown up and married to Marion. They have three children and life is busy. The king is dead and in his place is King John. Although they were enemies, Robin has sworn fealty to him in order to keep his men, the villagers and anyone else who was loyal to him safe. Peace is precarious at best. Mary, his eldest child, is growing and at an age to be married. She is more like Robin every day, headstrong, brave, and an excellent shot with a bow and arrow. She loves to wander the woods. She is aware of a strange ghost that appears when she wanders the woods but she never feels danger from him, but rather a protective spirit. On one of her journeys into the woods, her younger brother and sister follow her. They are captured by bandits who want to use the children as leverage to get Robin’s allegiance and obedience.
The children are in grave danger to be sure. Robin and Marion have no idea where they could be. Does the band of merry men get back together to help find them? Or will Robin be forced to trade his allegiance for his children’s lives?
This is a short novella that hopefully will set up a series of adventures for Robin’s children. Robin and Marion are still deeply in love so that was very satisfying. They are now bound by grown up things and can’t wander the way they used to. The children have forced them to settle down in ways that having children do. Mary was an excellent character and would be able to take the lead in a new story. The youngest child doesn’t speak, but proves to have wit, character and bravery so I would love to know more about her. The least interesting child was John, although I’m not sure if he is just young, didn’t have a chance to develop in this story, or is just uninteresting, although that would be a shame.
We get to catch up with a few of the men from the original group. It was just enough of a tease of what they are doing to keep me interested in finding out more. Just because they are older, doesn’t mean they can’t be interesting. I would love for them to be included in future books. Of course the villains are still around and they have even more power now.
Hopefully there will be more. If not, this is a wonderful glimpse into the life that Robin and Marion have made for themselves. It is a bit of nostalgia and makes me want to go back and read the original “Merry Adventures of Robin Hood” by Howard Pyle.
Robin is all grown up and married to Marion. They have three children and life is busy. The king is dead and in his place is King John. Although they were enemies, Robin has sworn fealty to him in order to keep his men, the villagers and anyone else who was loyal to him safe. Peace is precarious at best. Mary, his eldest child, is growing and at an age to be married. She is more like Robin every day, headstrong, brave, and an excellent shot with a bow and arrow. She loves to wander the woods. She is aware of a strange ghost that appears when she wanders the woods but she never feels danger from him, but rather a protective spirit. On one of her journeys into the woods, her younger brother and sister follow her. They are captured by bandits who want to use the children as leverage to get Robin’s allegiance and obedience.
The children are in grave danger to be sure. Robin and Marion have no idea where they could be. Does the band of merry men get back together to help find them? Or will Robin be forced to trade his allegiance for his children’s lives?
This is a short novella that hopefully will set up a series of adventures for Robin’s children. Robin and Marion are still deeply in love so that was very satisfying. They are now bound by grown up things and can’t wander the way they used to. The children have forced them to settle down in ways that having children do. Mary was an excellent character and would be able to take the lead in a new story. The youngest child doesn’t speak, but proves to have wit, character and bravery so I would love to know more about her. The least interesting child was John, although I’m not sure if he is just young, didn’t have a chance to develop in this story, or is just uninteresting, although that would be a shame.
We get to catch up with a few of the men from the original group. It was just enough of a tease of what they are doing to keep me interested in finding out more. Just because they are older, doesn’t mean they can’t be interesting. I would love for them to be included in future books. Of course the villains are still around and they have even more power now.
Hopefully there will be more. If not, this is a wonderful glimpse into the life that Robin and Marion have made for themselves. It is a bit of nostalgia and makes me want to go back and read the original “Merry Adventures of Robin Hood” by Howard Pyle.
June 11, 2020
Like putting on an old coat or stepping into a familiar room and breathing in the scent of home, Ghosts of Sherwood is the continuation of the Robin Hood legend that I have been craving for years: comfortable, engaging, full of memory and love. The kids are brave and smart, the legends are older and maybe a little wiser, but no less wickedly charming. The story is all new and oh-so-familiar, and my heart is so full of joy--I was grinning the whole time I was reading. I have but one request: more please. More, more, more.
March 25, 2023
Perfection ! Just the thing for this lifelong Robin Hood fan needed to break her reading slump
December 13, 2025
Nice tale about Robin and Marian's children involving a 'ghost' of Sherwood. I enjoyed how resourceful the children were and the parent conversations between Robin and Marian. The only negative about this story is that I wish it were longer! Enjoyed the small glimpse into the family.
October 18, 2025
Sweet and to the point
September 2, 2020
This is just so perfect that I consumed it in one sitting -- my only complaint is I want more of it. But apparently, there is a second one out already, so off I'm off to go procure a copy.
December 1, 2023
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader.
---
That right there? That's the line that sold me, I love that take on Robin Hood—between screen and print, all you can find lately is earnest, serious, Robin Hood as populist rebel with almost all the fun sucked out of it. Vaughn's Locksley contains those elements, sure—but he's also the outlaw in search of adventure, who enjoyed what he was doing. Always smiling--it's just a matter of what kind of smile he wore.
We rejoin the Earl after the signing of the Magna Carta (which he was instrumental in getting that rascal King John to sign). He's had to do the unthinkable—bowing the knee to John after Richard's death—in order to protect his lands, his friends, and his wife. With Marian's help to contain his impulses*, he's become a responsible member of the nobility, doting father, and law abiding citizen.
* To be fair, Marian misses the adventures, too. But she's not at that stage in her life anymore.
All that other stuff? Well, he's content to leave that to the bards and storytellers. So much so that his own children aren't sure how much to believe, "Everything about Father is stories."
At least, that's what his eldest daughter, Mary, says. But after she and her siblings are kidnapped, they'll all get a better idea just what their father is capable of.
That's all I'm going to say about that. This is very much a "pilot episode" of a novella. We meet the kids—Mary, John, and Eleanor—catch up with a couple of the Merry Men, see where Robin and Marian are in their lives and so on. Vaughn balances that with the kidnapping story.
The kidnapping is a quick and almost-too-neat story solely because of the space she has to tell it. If Vaughn hadn't had to establish so much in these 112 pages, you get the feeling that the kidnapping wouldn't have been resolved quite as neatly.
My sole complaint—and it's a big one—is that this is a novella, and not a collection of novellas/short stories. I just needed more of everything—the kids, Robin, Marian, the other members of Robin's band. This is a great introduction to this world and these characters, with a little bit of drama. But having been introduced, I want to read the next one. Or, the next five or so.
But no. Tor is making me wait until August for the second one. Which is simply unfair.
While my tongue is firmly in my cheek above, there is a kernel of truth to my gripe—I'm 97% sure that this thing has legs and that I'm in for several more (even if it's currently slated to be a duology, but I'm hoping that changes), but I'm going to have to wait to really commit until August when The Heirs of Locksley is scheduled to be released. But in the meantime? This was a quick and fun read, full of promise, and one I heartily recommend.
---
“Can you tell how the mood is from here? How the journey went?”
“I won’t know how it went until I see Father’s face,” she said. “And see if he smiles or frowns?”
“No. And see if his smile is glad or wicked.” Her father would be smiling in any case.
That right there? That's the line that sold me, I love that take on Robin Hood—between screen and print, all you can find lately is earnest, serious, Robin Hood as populist rebel with almost all the fun sucked out of it. Vaughn's Locksley contains those elements, sure—but he's also the outlaw in search of adventure, who enjoyed what he was doing. Always smiling--it's just a matter of what kind of smile he wore.
We rejoin the Earl after the signing of the Magna Carta (which he was instrumental in getting that rascal King John to sign). He's had to do the unthinkable—bowing the knee to John after Richard's death—in order to protect his lands, his friends, and his wife. With Marian's help to contain his impulses*, he's become a responsible member of the nobility, doting father, and law abiding citizen.
* To be fair, Marian misses the adventures, too. But she's not at that stage in her life anymore.
All that other stuff? Well, he's content to leave that to the bards and storytellers. So much so that his own children aren't sure how much to believe, "Everything about Father is stories."
At least, that's what his eldest daughter, Mary, says. But after she and her siblings are kidnapped, they'll all get a better idea just what their father is capable of.
That's all I'm going to say about that. This is very much a "pilot episode" of a novella. We meet the kids—Mary, John, and Eleanor—catch up with a couple of the Merry Men, see where Robin and Marian are in their lives and so on. Vaughn balances that with the kidnapping story.
The kidnapping is a quick and almost-too-neat story solely because of the space she has to tell it. If Vaughn hadn't had to establish so much in these 112 pages, you get the feeling that the kidnapping wouldn't have been resolved quite as neatly.
My sole complaint—and it's a big one—is that this is a novella, and not a collection of novellas/short stories. I just needed more of everything—the kids, Robin, Marian, the other members of Robin's band. This is a great introduction to this world and these characters, with a little bit of drama. But having been introduced, I want to read the next one. Or, the next five or so.
But no. Tor is making me wait until August for the second one. Which is simply unfair.
While my tongue is firmly in my cheek above, there is a kernel of truth to my gripe—I'm 97% sure that this thing has legs and that I'm in for several more (even if it's currently slated to be a duology, but I'm hoping that changes), but I'm going to have to wait to really commit until August when The Heirs of Locksley is scheduled to be released. But in the meantime? This was a quick and fun read, full of promise, and one I heartily recommend.
July 4, 2020
This is a short novella, first in a new series by popular genre fiction author Carrie Vaughn. Vaughn envisions Robin Hood's world almost two decades after Robin and Marian marry. They have three children, Mary, John, and Eleanor. At the start, Robin and Marian are fighting because Robin has tried to make a match for Mary's hand in marriage without consulting either Marian or Mary. Marian is worried for Mary, and also worried for their youngest, Eleanor, who is very attached to Mary and who appears to be mute. Robin is rather care-weary after years of dealing with safeguarding his position after King Richard's death. John is now King and is apparently still resentful of Robin of Locksley's role in the past. So when the three children are kidnapped, Robin and Marian fear the worst. Joining forces with old allies like Will and Little John, they piece together what has happened and go in pursuit of their children. But it might just be that the children are more capable than they realize.
This was an enjoyable, though brief, story. I look forward to seeing where Vaughn goes from here in the series. If Mary, now archer of legend, is her principle protagonist, I'd be thrilled to keep reading. The second book in the series, The Heirs of Locksley , releases on August 4, 2020.
This was an enjoyable, though brief, story. I look forward to seeing where Vaughn goes from here in the series. If Mary, now archer of legend, is her principle protagonist, I'd be thrilled to keep reading. The second book in the series, The Heirs of Locksley , releases on August 4, 2020.
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