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Red Chronicles #1
Reluctant
I refused my legacy, but my destiny doesn't want to take no for an answer.
The plan seemed simple. Run away from home. Go to college. Pretend I wasn't raised to control silver with magic, dance around a fire under a full moon, or guard the barriers between lupines and clueless humans.
And for a while, it was that simple. Then, Tobias Somfield had to walk into that alley and into my life, with his English swagger and his sorrowful tale of woe. Sure, the lone werewolf may have come to my rescue, but that doesn't mean I owe him anything, right? Even if his mate was kidnapped and I'm the only one in Chicago with the skills, connections, and know-how needed to help find and free her, I'm only one little red hood in a big, dangerous city ruled by vampires. What am I supposed to do, stake my way to a rescue? Take on older, stronger supes who could literally eat me for breakfast? Miss my finals to go play heroine and save the day?
The plan seemed simple. Run away from home. Go to college. Pretend I wasn't raised to control silver with magic, dance around a fire under a full moon, or guard the barriers between lupines and clueless humans.
And for a while, it was that simple. Then, Tobias Somfield had to walk into that alley and into my life, with his English swagger and his sorrowful tale of woe. Sure, the lone werewolf may have come to my rescue, but that doesn't mean I owe him anything, right? Even if his mate was kidnapped and I'm the only one in Chicago with the skills, connections, and know-how needed to help find and free her, I'm only one little red hood in a big, dangerous city ruled by vampires. What am I supposed to do, stake my way to a rescue? Take on older, stronger supes who could literally eat me for breakfast? Miss my finals to go play heroine and save the day?
7 pages, Audiobook
First published June 10, 2017
679 people are currently reading
1150 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
June 13, 2017
2.5 stars.
This book has lots of good bones, but the execution is problematic. I liked the world-building but it takes a very long time before the story takes off and it does not deliver enough to keep my interest for another book. The ending is quite abrupt and deters from the current storyline.
This book has lots of good bones, but the execution is problematic. I liked the world-building but it takes a very long time before the story takes off and it does not deliver enough to keep my interest for another book. The ending is quite abrupt and deters from the current storyline.
June 9, 2017
I thought for sure this was one of those new fairy-tail retellings, which I love, really, but, it is so much more! The story line was phenomenally done; something old, something new! And Gerwalta?! What an original name! As I was once a young 20something, I found Geri's character relatable: knew more than my parents, first heartbreak is hard, werewolves and vamps lurking on my college campus... uh... The mystery and action was amazing throughout and I loved the side characters. The ending left me panting for more. I'm one of Ms. Meek's newest fans and recommend my new favorite book, Reluctant Hood, to all fantasy-loving ages.
June 6, 2017
**I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
Fellow PNR and UF bibliophiles!! You NEED to read this book! After reading ACOTAR by Sarah J Maas and getting sucked in to the Beauty and the Beast retelling, I found myself looking for other fairy tale retellings. And when this one was recommended to me by a friend I jumped at the chance! Boy am I glad I did. This story was fan-fricken-tastic (is that a word? it is now!) I do love a good shifter romance, but this is WAY more than that. Reluctant Hood is a Red Riding Hood tale, the real one. If you are looking for that easy peasy beach read where a wolf sees a woman and *BAM* they are all over each other and mated for life in 3.2 seconds, then look somewhere else. I do sometimes like those, and however enjoyable they are, I always feel like they are missing something. And that something is what I found when reading this book.
Reluctant Hood is about a young woman named Geri who is running from her family legacy as a Hood, one who governs the wolves, keeping them in line and under thumb. But before her special abilities can be fully manifested and used in ways she can not support she takes off and tries to begin a life on her own in the normal human world. Geri has the weight of the world on her shoulders, and it seems that no amount of running can truly help her leave her old life behind. While at school she runs into a lone wolf, Tobias in trouble. Being that she isn't a normal Hunter, one that would rather see a dead wolf than to ever help one, she finds herself torn between trying to maintain her new life, and helping Tobias (possibly even having to face the fate of her lineage that she has world so hard to avoid). Even if that means exposing herself and putting her life on the line. It is sexy, without being explicit, and compelling, as well as action packed! I will be recommending this book obnoxiously, to every one I know. It does not end in a horrible cliff hanger, but rather in an intriguing 'what next?' way. Geri and Tobias' story is far from over, and where does Geri's ex and the new Alpha Cody fit into all of this? I have no idea where it will go but I will be highly anticipating the next book in the Red Hood Chronicles!
Fellow PNR and UF bibliophiles!! You NEED to read this book! After reading ACOTAR by Sarah J Maas and getting sucked in to the Beauty and the Beast retelling, I found myself looking for other fairy tale retellings. And when this one was recommended to me by a friend I jumped at the chance! Boy am I glad I did. This story was fan-fricken-tastic (is that a word? it is now!) I do love a good shifter romance, but this is WAY more than that. Reluctant Hood is a Red Riding Hood tale, the real one. If you are looking for that easy peasy beach read where a wolf sees a woman and *BAM* they are all over each other and mated for life in 3.2 seconds, then look somewhere else. I do sometimes like those, and however enjoyable they are, I always feel like they are missing something. And that something is what I found when reading this book.
Reluctant Hood is about a young woman named Geri who is running from her family legacy as a Hood, one who governs the wolves, keeping them in line and under thumb. But before her special abilities can be fully manifested and used in ways she can not support she takes off and tries to begin a life on her own in the normal human world. Geri has the weight of the world on her shoulders, and it seems that no amount of running can truly help her leave her old life behind. While at school she runs into a lone wolf, Tobias in trouble. Being that she isn't a normal Hunter, one that would rather see a dead wolf than to ever help one, she finds herself torn between trying to maintain her new life, and helping Tobias (possibly even having to face the fate of her lineage that she has world so hard to avoid). Even if that means exposing herself and putting her life on the line. It is sexy, without being explicit, and compelling, as well as action packed! I will be recommending this book obnoxiously, to every one I know. It does not end in a horrible cliff hanger, but rather in an intriguing 'what next?' way. Geri and Tobias' story is far from over, and where does Geri's ex and the new Alpha Cody fit into all of this? I have no idea where it will go but I will be highly anticipating the next book in the Red Hood Chronicles!
June 12, 2017
This was a nice twist on both the fairy tale and on what we typically know/assume about wolves and vamps. Wonderful urban setting with just enough intrigue to keep the reader interested. This is the first book of the series and although it appears to rap up the main events of the story, the bad guys are still coming. The good guys--Geri and the wolves--are still trying to come in to their own. And the romantic tension is bouncing all over the place. I'm not sure how that will all play out.
Good action, suspense, angst and world building. Looking forward to more of the story!
Good action, suspense, angst and world building. Looking forward to more of the story!
July 28, 2019
Well, I’m a bit torn over this one. Yes, it’s very well written. Yes, the world the author built is intriguing and a welcome fresh take on werewolf-vampire-hunter-dynamic. Yes, the characters are very intriguing, as well as the plot.
So why am I not gushing over how marvelous this read was?
Most of all, because I felt we were left hanging right at the beginning of the series. The book felt anything but finished. Okay, it’s a series, so I expected a cliffhanger, but still, usually there are at least some threads that get finished in one book. I missed those closures here.
Also, Geri often acted pretty naive. There was quite a lot predictable. Which isn’t automatically bad, but the things that proved to be right weren’t exactly curveballs.
I will read on, I hate unfinished stories, so I have no choice but reading on - but I do so grumbling, because at this point of the story I’m not so sure, i really want to invest into another book. But as so much is left open I just can’t stop already.
So why am I not gushing over how marvelous this read was?
Most of all, because I felt we were left hanging right at the beginning of the series. The book felt anything but finished. Okay, it’s a series, so I expected a cliffhanger, but still, usually there are at least some threads that get finished in one book. I missed those closures here.
Also, Geri often acted pretty naive. There was quite a lot predictable. Which isn’t automatically bad, but the things that proved to be right weren’t exactly curveballs.
I will read on, I hate unfinished stories, so I have no choice but reading on - but I do so grumbling, because at this point of the story I’m not so sure, i really want to invest into another book. But as so much is left open I just can’t stop already.
June 21, 2017
2.5ish Stars
I heard about this book through an author's blog. "The Reluctant Hood" sounded good and the price (99¢, at the time) was perfect for trying a new author. Unfortunately, what seemed a promising story had flaws that diminished the plot and characters.
This book reads like New Adult as the heroine is in college and she's naive and, at times, immature. She also suffers from a serious case of TSTL while also irrationally denies she needs help. The fantasy elements are somewhat new but not properly explained. Instead the reader is left with plot holes and a connect-the-dot plot that is fairly obvious to the reader. Despite my issues with the book I'm curious about the next book following this story and, hopefully; the execution will improve.
I heard about this book through an author's blog. "The Reluctant Hood" sounded good and the price (99¢, at the time) was perfect for trying a new author. Unfortunately, what seemed a promising story had flaws that diminished the plot and characters.
This book reads like New Adult as the heroine is in college and she's naive and, at times, immature. She also suffers from a serious case of TSTL while also irrationally denies she needs help. The fantasy elements are somewhat new but not properly explained. Instead the reader is left with plot holes and a connect-the-dot plot that is fairly obvious to the reader. Despite my issues with the book I'm curious about the next book following this story and, hopefully; the execution will improve.
July 19, 2023
2.75
I'm not sure what I was expecting or hoping from this read, but I didn't get it. Maybe i'd feel differently if I continued on with the series? (that's happened before), I'm just not sure I'm willing to invest the time.
This is a story about a girl running away from her pre-determined destiny, only to find she will have to embrace her birthright if she wants to have any power to change the things she doesn't like.
Everything about the story, characters, plot, etc. was just ok.
I'm not sure what I was expecting or hoping from this read, but I didn't get it. Maybe i'd feel differently if I continued on with the series? (that's happened before), I'm just not sure I'm willing to invest the time.
This is a story about a girl running away from her pre-determined destiny, only to find she will have to embrace her birthright if she wants to have any power to change the things she doesn't like.
Everything about the story, characters, plot, etc. was just ok.
November 13, 2018
Fresh Concept
A fresh new concept on an old fairytale. Like other reviewers have said, there are some plot holes and world building issues. Those weren’t enough to discourage me and I will definitely be checking into book 2.
A fresh new concept on an old fairytale. Like other reviewers have said, there are some plot holes and world building issues. Those weren’t enough to discourage me and I will definitely be checking into book 2.
February 8, 2019
I was recommended this series by a book group I am part of and I was not disappointed. It is a fantastic take on the Red Riding Hood Story with interesting Characters and interactions. I am looking forward to reading further in the series.
January 23, 2019
I really enjoyed this book and the storyline. It was different and entertaining and only deducted one star for some typos (I can't help it, they sorta drive me nuts). Some of the story was a little confusing but it's fast paced, entertaining and keeps you guessing which direction the heroine will take. I won't spoil it with more details.
June 13, 2017
I unreservedly loved this book. The writing style perfectly matched with Geri's character and the story unfolded beautifully and brilliantly. Urban fantasy is one of my favorite genres to read (probably my very favorite fiction genre) and is obviously my favorite to write.
The world-building in this book was unique without being unbelievable (or at least any more unbelievable than an urban fantasy novel featuring werewolves, vampires, and hoods could possibly be). The characters are well-developed without being predictable. There were surprises throughout the novel and uncertain alliances and motivations that seemed in-character, believable, and in one very memorable circumstance, extremely upsetting.
The arc was well-paced, action-packed, and fast enough to leave me breathless (and unable to put the book down) without feeling like I'd been hit by a runaway were-train. After finishing, I accused the author of disrupting my sleep patterns and making me paranoid about being locked in my doctor's office after hours on a Saturday. I'm sure she repented quietly and feels terrible.
Read it. Now. You won't be sorry! And then pester the author unrelentingly until she gives you book #2. (Seriously, this is a fantastic read and a great start to what I'm hoping is a very, very long series.)
The world-building in this book was unique without being unbelievable (or at least any more unbelievable than an urban fantasy novel featuring werewolves, vampires, and hoods could possibly be). The characters are well-developed without being predictable. There were surprises throughout the novel and uncertain alliances and motivations that seemed in-character, believable, and in one very memorable circumstance, extremely upsetting.
The arc was well-paced, action-packed, and fast enough to leave me breathless (and unable to put the book down) without feeling like I'd been hit by a runaway were-train. After finishing, I accused the author of disrupting my sleep patterns and making me paranoid about being locked in my doctor's office after hours on a Saturday. I'm sure she repented quietly and feels terrible.
Read it. Now. You won't be sorry! And then pester the author unrelentingly until she gives you book #2. (Seriously, this is a fantastic read and a great start to what I'm hoping is a very, very long series.)
December 26, 2018
Page Turner
Page Turner, who's she? This book, that's who.
I wasn't sure what to expect as I haven't read Kendrai's work before. But I had a LOT of recommendations from other readers and authors too. So that's always a good sign.
The story was well-written with characters and threads that actually made me say out loud "I wasn't expecting that to happen".
This is the first book in a series and it doesn't fully wrap up all of the loose ends although I wouldn't class it as a full-blown cliffhanger, which I liked because cliffhangers are my mortal enemy.
Page Turner, who's she? This book, that's who.
I wasn't sure what to expect as I haven't read Kendrai's work before. But I had a LOT of recommendations from other readers and authors too. So that's always a good sign.
The story was well-written with characters and threads that actually made me say out loud "I wasn't expecting that to happen".
This is the first book in a series and it doesn't fully wrap up all of the loose ends although I wouldn't class it as a full-blown cliffhanger, which I liked because cliffhangers are my mortal enemy.
May 7, 2019
Little red she is not
Geri is a Hood someone who police the wolves, and somehow she has been roped into helping the wolves from being experimented on by the vampires. She doesn't want to be a Hood because she doesn't want to execute them. Tobias needs help his mate has been taken and he save Geri by killing the vampire trying to kill her. They form a uneasy alliance in tracking down the vampires. I thought they were awkward and a little at odds. I can't wait to see what happens next.
Geri is a Hood someone who police the wolves, and somehow she has been roped into helping the wolves from being experimented on by the vampires. She doesn't want to be a Hood because she doesn't want to execute them. Tobias needs help his mate has been taken and he save Geri by killing the vampire trying to kill her. They form a uneasy alliance in tracking down the vampires. I thought they were awkward and a little at odds. I can't wait to see what happens next.
June 13, 2017
If 6 stars was an option I would give it.
This series takes the fairy tale of Little Red Riding Hood and updates it into a gritty, magical secret world. Geri is hilarious, smart and snarky, all while trying to stay out of a battle that has been going on for centuries that she wants no part of. The writing is superb, the emotions real. I can't wait for book 2. Total book hangover wondering what will happen next.
This series takes the fairy tale of Little Red Riding Hood and updates it into a gritty, magical secret world. Geri is hilarious, smart and snarky, all while trying to stay out of a battle that has been going on for centuries that she wants no part of. The writing is superb, the emotions real. I can't wait for book 2. Total book hangover wondering what will happen next.
August 27, 2017
This was so good!!!!! I was excited about this book, but I had no clue I'd like it this much. Fairy tale reimagining as an urban fantasy? Yes, please! (Also, Vampires who are scientists) I devoured this book in one day. Perfect for my plane trip homes! 4 stars because I think some of the world building and character development could be stronger (particularly for the supporting characters) but everything else was great!
June 29, 2017
Reluctant Hood is a unique story that I enjoyed. The story was fresh and interesting. The author's writing style is not quite what I prefer but that won't prevent me from reading the next book in the series. There is a cliffhanger and there are plot execution holes along with some stunted and at times forced character dialogue.
June 19, 2017
A great new Urban fantasy
I really enjoyed this new version of an ancient tale. This is very different take on Werewolves & vampires, and now we meet the Hoods, a sect dedicated to controlling the weres.
I really enjoyed this new version of an ancient tale. This is very different take on Werewolves & vampires, and now we meet the Hoods, a sect dedicated to controlling the weres.
June 19, 2017
Good read
Really liked the characters, they were well thought out. The plot was unique and i look forward to reading more from Kendrai Meeks
Really liked the characters, they were well thought out. The plot was unique and i look forward to reading more from Kendrai Meeks
August 2, 2017
Fabulous beginning to this series! Can't wait for book two.
October 5, 2018
Nice twist
I like where this is going a red hood that’s in love with a wolf. I also like the way that the wolf hood dichotomy has been flipped. I’ll be getting the next book.
I like where this is going a red hood that’s in love with a wolf. I also like the way that the wolf hood dichotomy has been flipped. I’ll be getting the next book.
December 26, 2018
Intriging
A plot you cant guess is something to be desired. This book has vampires wolves and hoods plenty of intrigue and action
A plot you cant guess is something to be desired. This book has vampires wolves and hoods plenty of intrigue and action
April 26, 2018
This has been on my TBR for awhile now. I'm so glad I was finally able to sit down and read it. This is the first book in the series (there is a prequel but I didn't know about it when I read this book). As the first book, there was some world building to get through but it worked out for me and made sense. The characters are fleshed out enough for now. Since the story is told from Geri (the Reluctant Hood) we are only getting her perspective of the characters. We find out as she finds out if they are nefarious or not. I enjoyed the bits of humor and snark. I also enjoyed that Geri is not perfect and makes mistakes. For a fantasy story, it makes her more real. Well recommended! I'm off to read the next one in the series.
June 16, 2017
I received a free ARC in return for an impartial review.
The Grimm Brothers got the story of Red Riding Hood all wrong.
If you got a chance to read the prequel novella Requited Hood, which gave the backstory of the Red Hood Chronicles, or even if you haven't, you'll definitely want to read Book One - Reluctant Hood. Slayers keep vampires in check (except that no one has seen a slayer for many years - they may be extinct), and Hoods keep werewolves in check. Geri is a nascent Hood of the prestigious House of Red, who has run away from home before her rite of fire that would make her a full Hood, to attend college in Chicago. Her mother, the Matron of Red, has extensive documents of where the vampires and werewolves are located, and since Chicago appears to be vamp and were free, Geri feels Chicago is the ideal location for her.
One of her professors, seeing how well she is doing scholastically, submits her name to another professor as a potential member of his research team for the summer, with a modest stipend. She accepts, relieved that she will have a place to stay over the summer and won't have to go home. It turns out that Chicago isn't quite vamp or were free, after all.
A fast-moving, exciting re-examining of an old favorite fairy tale.
The Grimm Brothers got the story of Red Riding Hood all wrong.
If you got a chance to read the prequel novella Requited Hood, which gave the backstory of the Red Hood Chronicles, or even if you haven't, you'll definitely want to read Book One - Reluctant Hood. Slayers keep vampires in check (except that no one has seen a slayer for many years - they may be extinct), and Hoods keep werewolves in check. Geri is a nascent Hood of the prestigious House of Red, who has run away from home before her rite of fire that would make her a full Hood, to attend college in Chicago. Her mother, the Matron of Red, has extensive documents of where the vampires and werewolves are located, and since Chicago appears to be vamp and were free, Geri feels Chicago is the ideal location for her.
One of her professors, seeing how well she is doing scholastically, submits her name to another professor as a potential member of his research team for the summer, with a modest stipend. She accepts, relieved that she will have a place to stay over the summer and won't have to go home. It turns out that Chicago isn't quite vamp or were free, after all.
A fast-moving, exciting re-examining of an old favorite fairy tale.
February 21, 2019
This is a Fantastic read. I love the sense of humor Geri has. This is a Supernatural read that will draw you in and take you for a great edge of your seat read. The Author really brings out the Characters and the surroundings. The whole book first to last was epic. I totally loved it. I highly recommend.
Shauna Joesten
Shauna Joesten
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July 29, 2018
Interesting take on old stories
Love the mythology as it's presented here. The story is strongly written and has an interesting cast of characters. I like that this mystery was solved while still leaving some threads for the series to continue with. Overall, a good read.
Love the mythology as it's presented here. The story is strongly written and has an interesting cast of characters. I like that this mystery was solved while still leaving some threads for the series to continue with. Overall, a good read.
June 13, 2017
Enjoyed the story- very different spin on red riding hood
This story builds a world where vampires and werewolves have their counterparts of slayers and hoods. Not to hunt each other but to work together. However the balance has been thrown off by an overzealous matron of the house of red.
That is where the story begins...Geri the hood doesn't want to be a weapon for her mother to use against the werewolves and what starts out as teenage rebellion becomes much more through character development and Geri wanting to change the world for the better.
Their is a lot more of her story to be told and I look forward to the next book in the series.
This story builds a world where vampires and werewolves have their counterparts of slayers and hoods. Not to hunt each other but to work together. However the balance has been thrown off by an overzealous matron of the house of red.
That is where the story begins...Geri the hood doesn't want to be a weapon for her mother to use against the werewolves and what starts out as teenage rebellion becomes much more through character development and Geri wanting to change the world for the better.
Their is a lot more of her story to be told and I look forward to the next book in the series.
June 15, 2017
Can't wait for the next book!
Loved the story line. Great read for a stormy day. Looking forward to the next books in this series, loved the twist and turns.
Loved the story line. Great read for a stormy day. Looking forward to the next books in this series, loved the twist and turns.
June 14, 2017
Fantastic debut.
I loved this take on the Little Red Riding Hood tale. A gripping story and lovable characters I was hooked from the beginning. A fantastic and wonderfully written debut by Kendrai Meeks. Bring on book two.
I loved this take on the Little Red Riding Hood tale. A gripping story and lovable characters I was hooked from the beginning. A fantastic and wonderfully written debut by Kendrai Meeks. Bring on book two.
June 5, 2017
I loved the storyline. The Hoods for Werewolves and Slayer for Vampires. Love for others that are not allowed outside of their own groups. Geri going against her mother for what she believes not what her mother wants. Can she stay committed to her beliefs for give in to her mothers? Will she find her true love or for always be alone? Will she find out the truth of what's really going on? I can't wait for the next book in the series. I received a arc copy for my honest review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews