Big, Bad Mister Wolfe

Chronicles of Curses #1

by H.L. Macfarlane

"A spellbinding story; I didn’t want it to end!” – Reviewer

"Charming, sexy without being coarse... a really fun twist on a familiar fairy tale." – Reviewer

A young girl with an uncertain future. A deceitful conman with something to hide…

When Scarlett Duke discovers the truth about her birthright, she’s whisked away to live with her grandmother in the dark depths of the woods. Desperately trying to reconnect with her estranged family, Scarlett soon finds herself increasingly drawn to the mysterious wandering merchant who saved her life two years prior.

Adrian Wolfe is a merchant and conman with a dark secret. Cursed by Scarlett’s grandmother for one of his tricks, he’s determined to do whatever it takes to rid himself of the spell. And when he lays eyes on Scarlett, he knows he’s found his chance. But as he tries to seduce her and force her grandmother’s hand, they stumble upon something much bigger – a murderous plot involving the entire Duke family.

As they begin unravelling the truth, Adrian can’t help but start falling prey to the shy, innocent charms of the young woman he sought to betray…

The Chronicles of Curses is a gripping modern-day retelling of classic fairy tales from ages past. If you like fantasy romance with secrecy, backstabbing and danger, then you won’t want to miss Big, Bad Mister Wolfe. Grab your copy today!

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Retellings, Historical Romance

270 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 1, 2021

About the author

Follow me on Bookbub! https://bit.ly/HLBookb

NOTE: H. L. Macfarlane is currently on a publishing hiatus to focus on her mental health. She hopes to return with new titles in early 2026 and appreciates your understanding in the meantime.

Hayley Louise Macfarlane hails from the very tiny hamlet of Balmaha on the shores of Loch Lomond in Scotland. After graduating with a PhD in molecular genetics she did a complete 180 and moved into writing fiction. Though she loves writing multiple genres (fantasy, romance, sci-fi, psychological fiction and horror so far!) she is most widely known for her enemies-to-lovers STEM rom-com, The Unbalanced Equation, and her Gothic, Scottish fairy tale, Prince of Foxes – book one of the Bright Spear trilogy.

Reviews

[Missy · Rating 1 out of 5]

Well, that was a waste of time.

[Coco.V]

🎁 FREE on Amazon today (4/26/2019)! 🎁

[FantasyLiving · Rating 1 out of 5]

A pretty standard retelling of Little Red Riding Hood.
Scarlett is of course the most beautiful woman in the town and everyone wants to marry her.
We get in-depth details of her putting on her red dress over her petticoat and how beautiful she is in the eyes of all the men who ask for her hand.
Adrian is trying to get out of a warewolf curse and plans to seduce Scarlett so he can blackmail her grandmother into lifting a curse she put on him.

Too much time spent on how beautiful Scarlett is and not enough spent on building her actual character, and Adrian is your typical “alpha male” who gets in Scarlett’s space way too much “because secretly she likes it”.

Bland and dry but fairly typical for this trope, I wouldn’t recommend it.

[Letsreadagoodbook · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book was pretty good!!
A little red riding hood retelling maybe? Kinda yeah?! It was pretty great read! I didnt like how focused it was on the beauty of "Red" Scarlett! Lol we got it! We understand! Every boy/man in town wanted to Marry her!!

Her granny is the Evil one this go around tho!! Which is pretty awesome! And it being a love story was amazing! Great book!

[Lara · Rating 4 out of 5]

A re-telling of the fairy tale of Red Riding Hood.

Big, Bad Mister Wolfe is a mystery, suspenseful, and romance enticing tale of a young woman named Scarlett and a merchant and conman named Adrian Wolfe. Cursed by Scarlett's grandmother, Adrian decides to do something about his situation and take back his life and soul. But what is happening between him and Scarlet, he had not intended his heart to become an important part of this plan.

Fairy tale retellings can be so much fun. It could be a futuristic or modern re-telling, or it could be a swap between good and evil, where the villain is now the good guy. When there is a hint of the tale, the main storyline flows through the pages, and romance blooms in places we once dared not to think of. But as adults, we love to re-imagine our once-told-by-our-grandmothers-at-bedtime-stories, now into something we can relate to, or want to dream of. A new what if, a different romance that makes our own heart flutter into anticipation.

The first book of a new series, Chronicles of Curses, started off great. I enjoyed the fantasy, fairy tale, romance novel. It told me a fairy tale, and it gave me originality, romance, and suspense. The combination of a well-known story of Red Riding Hood and a newer, adult version of a romance novel, works well. I will definitely read the other stories in the series.

I recommend this book to people who love fairy tale retellings and magical romance novels.

[Jennia · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story begins much like the fairytales we have all grown up with. A young woman, living in some undefined yet clearly distant past, encounters adverse circumstances and is thrust into a life that is filled with lurking danger, magic surreptitiously twinkling at the edges.
Scarlett, loosely based upon Little Red Riding Hood, is saved by the dashing yet arrogant Adrian Wolfe at the tender age of sixteen during a walk through a wolf-infested forest. Their paths cross yet again two years later amid Scarlett fending off a bombardment of marriage proposals. For his own allegedly nefarious purposes, Wolfe decides to pursue Scarlett, boasting to the spurned menfolk that he will have won her over in no more than three days’ time.
Despite, or maybe due to, Wolfe’s overconfidence and dauntless arrogance, a romance between the two ensues, rapidly growing into something more than a passing fancy. However, their present and future happiness becomes compromised due to Wolfe’s secret curse. The truth behind his unfortunate circumstances gradually unravels in a series of revelations that twist the original fairy tale on its head.
Macfarlane writes in a way that feels comfortable and familiar, her words evocative of the original Grimm’s tales. In a blend of fantasy, romance, and suspense she has created something new and fresh.

[Annette Jordan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Big Bad Mister Wolfe is a retelling of the familiar Little Red Riding Hood tale that is very definitely not for children, instead it is a sizzling romance filled with curses, dark magic, an "evil "stepmother and a witch in the woods. Scarlett Duke is forced to flee her home when she learns that the woman she believed was her mother was not related at all and instead resents Scarlett as a potential thread to her own beloved twin boys. Running through the wolf infested woods en route to her grandmother's cottage she runs into charming conman Adrian Wolfe who has his own reasons to be staking out the remote cottage in the woods. He has been cursed by Scarlett's grandmother and now spends the full moon in wolf form. Desperate to break the curse he decides to charm Scarlett but soon finds himself falling for her for real, and Scarlett in turn is swept off her feet, but will their relationship be strong enough to withstand everything that is stacked against them?
I really enjoyed this short but steamy tale, it was easy to read with charming and loveable characters and a deliciously evil villain. Its a perfect blend of the familiar with something new and I look forward to continuing the series.

[Vanessa Borges · Rating 4 out of 5]

Who doesn’t love a good Wolfe?

I couldn’t put this down and listened to this audiobook in one day. This is an interesting new take on little red riding hood. One that involves potions, witches, curses, and a young woman coming of age, discovering love, and herself. For such a short listen, the characters and plot were well developed. The FMC is poised, compassionate, and forthright. She is not the naive whiny maiden, which I greatly appreciated. The MMC is arrogant, morally grey, and delightfully complex. Essentially the type of character I love to read. The witty banter and teasing between the two was a very delightful addition. In terms of spice, it’s there, but it is mild. In my reading, it was appropriate and fit with the fairytale feel of the story. Overall, a solid and very enjoyable read.

Note: a copy of this audiobook was provided in exchange for an honest review.

[Βίκυ Χ. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Passion and Whimsy to Howl For

Who's afraid of the big bad wolf? Certainly not Scarlett Duke—and neither am I! I fell head over heels for Adrian Wolfe, whose brooding allure captivates with every word. Paired with Alexander Bevan's mesmerizing narration—an almost lyrical delivery that breathes life into every scene—this tale becomes an immersive auditory escape.

H. L. Macfarlane’s extraordinary pen transforms a familiar Romantic Red Riding Hood retelling into a vibrant, heart-tugging fairytale. Her masterful storytelling interlaces vulnerability with strength, passion with conflict, and fantasy lore with raw realism, crafting a narrative that surprises and enchants at every twist.

Deeply enamored with Big, Bad Mister Wolfe, I urge all fantasy lovers to experience this whimsical journey. If you're ready to be swept away into an enchanted realm where classic tales are reborn, then this must-listen odyssey is calling your name. What are you waiting for?

[Jacob Klop · Rating 4 out of 5]

Big, Bad Mister Wolfe tells a reimagined story of Little Red Riding Hood. Scarlett (Red Riding Hood) has been cast from her home to live with Granny. The wolf, in this story, is a human by the name of Adrian Wolfe. He’s something of a trickster, and has a bad history with Granny.

The novel has a mixture of romance and fantasy and I really enjoyed Scarlett’s personality and the amusing scenes she has with her suitors. A number of chapters were from Adrian’s perspective. He’s not a particularly likeable man, and it was difficult to cheer for him to succeed.

I would have liked to see a bit more of Granny, as she was a good character and seemed like someone who would have an interesting background.

The writing and editing is excellent and I was impressed with the care taken by the author.

An entertaining read that I definitely recommend.

[Rose Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I listened to the audio version of this book and I was pleasantly surprised when I found out Alexander Bevan was the narrator. I have listened to other audio books narrative by Bevan and he is fantastic. I love his voice. He draws me into the story and makes me feel like I am part of the storyline. Another retelling of Red Riding hood and H. L. Macfarlane did such a good job. I loved all the characters especially Red (Scarlett) and Adrian Wolfe. The characters had so much depth. The twist was great. I sort of expected it but it was still good. You'll fall in love with each of the characters including those with smaller parts that contributed to the whole of the story. Loved it so much. I can't wait for book two. I hope they bring back Adrian and Scarlett. I highly recommend this book. If you like fairytales, you're going to love this take on Little Red Riding Hood. It was cleverly written and most enjoyable.

[Evie Childs · Rating 3 out of 5]

Though there were aspects of the book I thought could’ve been done better in terms of depth, and despite the age difference between the main characters which I wasn’t particularly fond of but which makes sense in regards to the themes of innocence versus knowledge and predator versus prey, I do have to admit that the characters are endearing, the plot enjoyable, and overall I did really like the story. It was a fun ride full of pleasant escapism and magic. Especially the ending chapters, which definitely drew my interest in where the two could end up. I would love a sequel about their adventures together, exploring the world, uncovering magic.

Definitely a fun, entertaining way to pass the time.

[KatJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

In my books this got a 7 out of 10.

This retelling has a good twist when it comes to a couple of the characters, but still had to rely on the old werewolf curse as many of these retellings do. The PoV changed between Scarlett and Mr Wolfe to give a greater depth and the thought processes between the two main characters. Overal the pace was steady throughout and the author was able to build up the chemistry between the two characters.

The ending was a little different from the usual HEA, which left me a little puzzles as fairytale usually come wit a set HEA. Perhaps this is a modern twist on the HEA. Overal a decent storyline and narrative but there weren't any real wow factors for me.

[Jake_reads_books · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, I read this book in a single sitting. I couldn't put it down. The story is told from the perspective of both Scarlett and Mr Wolfe, which allows the reader to know what they're both thinking.
Although romance isn't my favourite genre, it brilliantly intertwines the original fairy tale and some magical aspects.

I particularly enjoyed the action of the final chapters as the events leading up to it finally come to a head. I look forward to seeing more from this author, especially more fairy tale retellings.

[Jason Cakes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recently read this and snowstorm king. I loved this one because Scarlett and Adrian were a great pair. Their chemistry built at a great pace until the action reached peak and carried through till the end. The world was great. All the factual accuracies down to the clothes Scarlett wears being historically accurate were really appreciated.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

She has learnt the truth about her family and she was sent to her grandmother in the woods. In the woods is a stranger who wants revenge on her family. Will she find out his secret? What will she do it she does? Is there more danger for them to face? See how they all get on

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Marie Campbell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my Mister Wolfe! 😉 Well hello mischievous Adrian Wolfe! Scarlett Duke doesn’t know what she’s about to get into. Such an awesome retelling of Little Red Riding Hood. The narration kept me interested and wanting more. Some funny/snarky moments that had me laughing. Mischievousness, secrets, spiciness, flattery and so much more. I’ll definitely be reading more from this author.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

A book that is well written and kept me turning pages an adult fairy tale that keeps you guessing what is going to happen next. I would recommend this book. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Fionnuala Black · Rating 5 out of 5]

An original & refreshing take on a classic fairytale

Excellent writing with a strong female lead and loveable rogue. The author is a prolific storyteller and I look forward to reading more of her books. Highly recommended.

[Janet Smith McHardy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this reworking of red riding hood, Where the villain is who you leased expect. The characters are well written and engaging, the plot has enough twists and turns to keep it interesting. I am off to read the next in this series.

[Susan May · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nothing was as it seemed in Scarlets life. She was deceived by her grandmother that is for sure. Adrian was the best thing that could have happened to her. It was with his help that she found truth. The author did a great job. I also really enjoyed the narration.

[Summer Stanley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this version of "Little Red Riding Hood". Not only is it detailed to pull the listener in the narrator did a good job with the narration. It was fluid and not monotone. His slight accent was nice to listen to as well.

[Ken Biltz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this tale!

I really enjoy this tale of lil red riding hood. It was told in a way you could not have imagined. Very, very good read.

[Jake Casson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was great. I enjoyed the characters and the world. It was a quick read, which was perfectly paced and enabled me to read on about 3 hours. Bring on the sequel!

[Richard MacFarlane · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sexy exciting rendering of Red Riding Hood. I enjoyed it very much.

[Kai · Rating 5 out of 5]

Big, Bad Mister Wolfe is a wonderful fairy tale of Little Red Riding Hood retold. I just love how the author has modernized it of where the role of the characters have changed while the story of Little Red Riding Hood remained in tact. For the audience to connect with this modern version of Little Red Riding Hood, the author gave the characters' names of where Little Red Riding Hood is Scarlett Duke and the Big, Bad Wolf is Adrian Wolfe.

I am looking forward to this author retelling more of our favorite fairy tales.

The narrator, Alexander Bevan did a wonderful job of all of the characters in Little Red Riding Hood with more characters added to this updated version. It would be great to listen to this narrator again.

[Daisy Buchanan · Rating 4 out of 5]

In her novel Big, Bad Mister Wolfe, MacFarlane provides her own spin on the legendary tale of Red Riding Hood. The story begins in the small village of Rowan. Scarlett Duke stars as the beautiful heroine in a crimson cloak - irresistible to the town's men and a bit of a rebel herself. Due to her stepmother's jealousy, Scarlett is disinherited from her family's fortune and sent to live with her grandmother. She encounters the mysterious Adrian Wolfe, a travelling merchant with a big secret.

Conflicted between her sexual attraction and Wolfe's reputation as a con man, Scarlett must decide whether or not she can trust Mr. Wolfe. She discovers the truth about her family, her destiny, and a terrible curse. Scarlett and her friends must overcome an evil magic in order to save her loved ones before it's too late.

The novel kept my attention from beginning to finish. The pacing was good. Scarlett and Adrian had great chemistry together. The target audience include young adults. The love scenes are for adult readers only. Overall, I highly recommend this book.