Red

Modern-Day Fairy Tale #2

by M.K. Harkins

The big, bad wolf is the least of her worries…

Breaking free from her homeschooled cocoon, Lily is ecstatic to head off to college. She’s waving goodbye to her mom’s doom-and-gloom speeches about the big, scary world, ready to embrace freedom without a care.

George is every girl’s dream—funny, smart, and handsome. But he’s still wrecked by the mysterious disappearance of his high school sweetheart. He yearns for closure but wallows in self-pity, pining for his lost love.

Sparks fly when Lily and George meet, and their mutual attraction is instantaneous. But George resists their electric connection and retreats. Frustrated by his repeated rejections, Lily is ready to walk away for good.'

Behind the scenes, an inexperienced fairy godmother teams up with an annoyingly handsome and arrogant guardian angel to stop Lily from ditching her true soulmate, George—a potentially catastrophic decision. While they debate their strategy, an enemy from George’s past devises a greedy and revengeful plot that could destroy everything. Can George save Lily, or will he suffer a lonely future—this time, forever?

When fairies, guardian angels, and mortals collide, anything can happen.

While this novel is a complete tale in itself, delving into the first book, Ashes, will enrich your understanding of the characters and their journey.

Genres: Romance, Young Adult

ebook

Published May 7, 2024

About the author

MK has always been a voracious reader. After hitting a dry spell of reading material, she decided to write the kind of book she'd like to read.

This resulted in the creation of her debut novel, Intentional. (Award for Best Sweet Romance - eFestival of Words- August 2014)

Unintentional, her second book, is based on the life of one of the characters in Intentional. Unintentional was written as a stand-alone book.

Breaking Braydon, Taking Tiffany, The Reader, The Jack, and Famous by Default have all been released on Amazon.

Ashes, the first book in a new series of modern-day fairy tale retellings, releases in May 2022. (Five more books in the series to follow)

When she's not writing novels, she likes to spend her free time traveling the world, splashing in mud puddles (She lives in Seattle, what can she say?), watching movies and reading (!)

She LOVES to hear from her readers!

mkharkins@hotmail.com
https://www.goodreads.com
https://twitter.com/mk_harkins
https://www.facebook.com/marilyn.well...

Reviews

[Lucinda · Rating 4 out of 5]

An engaging modern take on the 'Little Red Riding Hood' story.
Lily is happy to head off to college, leaving the confines of her over-protective mum's house. George is a handsome college student, nursing a broken heart and unable to move on from Laura. Sparks fly when these two meet, but will George ever be able to stop pining for his lost love in time to see Lily as his soulmate?
Add in a couple of fairy godmothers-in-training and an arrogant, annoying Guardian angel, trying to fix the mess that they made in the first book, whilst keeping everyone safe from a vengeful person from George's past.
This book continues straight on from the first book in the series, Ashes, and whilst it is a stand-alone book, the background of the characters' situations from Ashes would help to understand where they are today.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

George has had his heart broken, but little did he know it was by a matchmaking fairy godmother Merilee. Now George is in a rut and can't seem to heal from the girl he loved. Merilee is ordered to head back to earth and fix the mess she created.

Lily is anxious about college in a sense, she can handle the education but she finds herself in limbo with where to stay. Fate has a way of giving her an opportunity she can't refuse and little does she know it will bring George into her life. The chemistry between them feels right but can she trust it?

This was a delightful read. I thought the emotions for each of the characters translated really well in the story. I like how the characters from the first book and this one are a big part of the story. Can't wait for Hunter's story.

[Raineee Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC for Red and I couldn’t have been more happy about it. This is the sequel to Ashes a Cinderella retelling, so please read ashes first and maybe be cautious of my review so there’s no spoilers for yourself. I loved this book and how it finishes the story for Ashley and Harry, but also the story of George, Laura and Lily. It all comes together and the thrill is still amazing in this book as it was in Ashes. It was cute, funny and serious. I it keeps you wanting to know what happens to every one. I also love the back and forth between the humans and the fairies, which was a fun twist with Red. I highly recommend you add this to your tbr along with the Ashes!

[Edith · Rating 4 out of 5]

What does Edith love more than romance and fairytales? Not much, she’s Mother Goose! Anyway, Red is the second book in the series to Ashes that Edith hasn’t had a chance to read yet but from what she gathers it’s both an independent read but also offers an opportunity for continued stories and characters from Ashes- she’s looking forward to reading it! Edith enjoyed the fast paced story with love and drama and the loss, too. Having not read a modern fairytale in a while this was a great foray back into the genre. It was a fun read and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys romance, modern fairytales, and magical creatures!

[The Page Ladies Book Club · Rating 4 out of 5]

Red was a delightful read! I really enjoyed the characters and getting to know them and following them on their journey! I also liked that the characters from the first book were still a part of this one! The story flows well and there were plenty of moments I had trouble putting the book down and of course there were a few interesting twists and turns!

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Red is a continuation of Ashes (a modern day Cinderella retelling), but with the focus on other characters. Most of the characters are likable and realistic and have you cheering for them. They have experiences and feelings that are relatable. The story flows smoothly and is hard to put down, and of course, it wouldn't be a good story without a few twists and turns.

I received an ARC copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.

[Mylissa Demeyere · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it. Great retelling of a classic tale

[Jenny Stevenson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is amazing. It picks up straight from book 1 (Ashes) and introduces new characters that had been eluded to in Ashes.
The characters are beautifully developed, with a story taken from a fairy tale, and showing the high and lows of human emotion.
The main protagonists Lilly and George are brilliantly matched with their families and friends included in the story that show how they’ve become who they are.
The antagonists are fairytales in themselves, you want to hate them, watching them scrabble around trying to take down the heroes, but in the same breath you understand that without them, the heroes wouldn’t grow.
And then you have Zuriel and Merliee… wow, a love story in a love story. The angel/ fairy love arc is inspired.
M K Harkins has written a beautiful story of love, loss and magic.
It’s difficult to write a review without spoilers so you may just need to trust me when I say: read this book, it’ll leave you smiling with a warm feeling in your heart.
I received an ARC copy of the book for an impartial review.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fun and fantasy based book. The characters were very well developed as I got a got a solid sense of their personality and background. George and Lily may be the primary main characters, yet the inclusion and important roles of Ashley and Harry (from previous book), as well as the fairies (Marilee and Fannetta) and Guardian Angel Zuriel, meant there were numerous characters to keep tabs of. The way this book was written and presented, this was an easy task.

The conflict that ran throughout the book was not overdone and fed into the climactic tension. The way Harkins brought it all to a satisfying conclusion, while giving a peak at what was to come, was very commendable. I did not read the 1st book in this series, but I have it now and will be going back to read it ASAP. I was fortunate to receive an advanced copy of this book and volunteered my review. Happy Reading Y'all 📚

[Jenni · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars
I have read just about all of MK’s books most I have absolutely loved others I have liked but felt they needed more.
Ashes is the first book in this Modern-Day Fairy tale series & this book Red is the second. So be sure to start at the first book as they share characters. With old & new characters Red continues on from it.
There is a lot going on in this short story which is a tale of loss, love, drama, angst & magical creatures as well as magic.
Want to know what the classic Little Red Riding Hood looks like with a modern-day twist well look no further here it is because I am not giving away anything.

[Christie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED RED. This story continues from where Ashes left off. I loved that this one follows George and tries to help get him over Laura and find a new love. I love the additions of Lily (easy to love her character), Porsche (not so easy to love) and Zuriel (so much to Love about him).
I can't wait to read the next book.

[Stephanie Runyon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Merilee had messed up on her mission. She had been sent to Earth to help Ashley Adams find her soulmate, Harry James, who was a famous singer. Posing as Laura Vanetta, Merilee had become best friends with Ashley, keeping her safe from her stepmother, who had attempted to kill her. She had spent time with Harry’s best friend, George Sparks. George had fallen in love with Merilee. Ashley’s Guardian Angel, Zuriel, was furious because he now had to work with Merilee and Fannetta to keep Ashley safe from her stepmother and help George be open to love again. Merilee and Zuriel are not happy about working together.

George’s new roommate, Hunter, was desperate to get George out of his depression. Now at the University of California, George still wasn’t over, not knowing why Laura was just gone. After convincing him to attend a party, George spiraled further into depression by drinking every day and missing his classes for two weeks. Hunter warned him that he was on academic probation and was risking his dream of being a veterinarian. Hunter convinced him to talk to a counselor. Meadow was going to help him move forward with life.

Lily was staying at an Airbnb and worried she was going to fail with her plans. Her mother had wanted her to stay nearby and go to medical school. However, Lily didn’t want to be a doctor for people. She wanted to work with animals and decided to leave Washington to take the veterinary program at UCLA. While at Target, Ashley overhears Lily talking to the cashier. She offers Lily a room in her house.

During Ashley and Harry’s first anniversary, George meets Lily. They had so many things in common and agreed to meet at a coffee house for a date. The date goes well and extends all day. At the end of the date, they kiss passionately. Suddenly, George stops the kiss and tells her he has to leave and can’t see her again. Lily is hurt.

Red is full of suspense that is filled with tension on every page. Merilee and Zuriel seem to have a love-hate relationship that grows the longer they try to intervene in George’s downward spiral and refusal to admit his feelings for Lily. The emotional turmoil is easy to understand. There are some darker themes; however, the romance is appropriate for high school-age readers. This is a five star novel capable of being a standalone, despite being the second in the series.

[Roxsanne Lesieur · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lily is a young woman with some very overbearing parents, especially her mother and because of this, she was homeschooled and only entered the world of public education in her senior years, and nothing prepared her for the bullying and harassment that she experienced; however she absolutely loves animals and decides that she wants to escape the nest and go to college. George is a young man who has dreamed of attending vet school from a young age, however, when he gets there, all he feels is pain, pain from the disappearance of the love of his life with no word of where she went or why and this has led him into a deep depression that he is struggling to get out of.

This has led to him spiralling out of control and his roommate dragging him kicking and screaming out of it with the treat that he will lose out on his chance to fulfil his dream, so he slowly gets his act together and catch up with life outside of his ex. Meanwhile, Lily is in a desperate situation and does not want to admit she was wrong to her parents, however, when a solution presents itself to her, she throws caution to the wind and takes a chance on a stranger.

When fate intervenes and Lily and George meet for the first time, there is an instant attraction and feeling of comfort with each other that neither can deny, however, George runs away and rejects Lily, much to her embarrassment and annoyance, this all changes when the past rears its ugly head and Lily is caught in the middle. While all of this is going on, in the background there are a Fairy Godmother without much experience and a grumpy Guardian Angel hovering and trying to aid fate, however, nothing moves smoothly on that end either, so while they decide whether to interfere, or stand by and just watch, will George be able to save Lily and their future, or will the past extinguish the fires of fate? This is a twist on a well-loved fairytale in a modern setting that will hook you in and keep you guessing throughout.

[Shea · Rating 4 out of 5]

We all grow up with fairy tales. I've always enjoyed works where they update the stories to more modern events and is reimagined a bit, and this book absolutely fits the bill. There is a lot happening with multiple POVs, lost loves, great fated loves, adventures and more - but it's so well written that it's easy to follow as you read through. Not as easy to explain when you're trying to review without it getting jumbled. This was my first read by this author and the second book in this series, but I had no problems following and am working on the Cinderella book next!

Lily has gotten away from her mother and the tales of doom and gloom she carries when she goes away to college. The world is huge and exciting, and it's really her first chance to experience things now that she is away on her own. In her journey, she meets George and they immediately have sparks flying - but George is stuck on a lost love and Lily is too ready to move forward after being held back by her mother for all of her life. He recognizes how drawn to Lily he is, but is scared and has to take a leap. Will he? Will Lily convince him how made for one another they are, or will she be forced to walk away from her soulmate?

Speaking of soulmates - any fated love needs a support team, right? This is where Merilee (an inexperience fairy godmother) and Zuriel (a guardian angel to another important character) come in. Merilee and Zuriel have explosive chemistry between them no matter the situation and are a lot of fun to follow with all the missteps they stumble through.

There are a lot of layers to this story and I did feel some of the scenarios could have been tied up differently for a better result, but overall I loved the rework and POVs. It wasn't hard to follow although it was book 2 and there were several characters with a lot happening throughout the story. Cinderella's book 1 is proving to be off to a fantastic start and I hope to find that this series grows!

[Santana · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘Red’ is the second book in the ‘Modern Fairy Tale Romance Series’ and technically can be read as a stand alone but you get introduced to the characters in the first book ‘Ashes’. I would suggest reading the first book before this one to better understand the characters.

George is still wallowing in his depression after the disappearance of his girlfriend Laura. She left without even a goodbye so he never got the proper closure to move on. George decided to never get serious with a girl again to protect himself from heartbreak.

Lily is a sweet and sheltered girl who grew up being bullied. This causes her to fear rejection and to have low self esteem. When she meets George, sparks fly instantly and she finds herself attracted to him. Their mutual friend, Ashley, warns Lily that George may not be emotionally available yet. When he asks her out, she is quick to say yes. The date went great and Lily thought everything was perfect until George ghosts her.

Merilee, a fairy godmother in training, has to try to get Lily and George together within a certain time line or she will be demoted. She made this mess so now she has to fix it. Paired with an arrogant but sexy guardian Angel, she has her work cut out for her.

I really enjoyed the first book in the series so I was excited to read this one. I love Lily’s character. She is so sweet, awkward yet oddly charming. George comes across as a selfish play boy but he actually has a lot of depth. I cheered them on from the page they were introduced to each other.

[Kerry carr · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Modern Day Fairy Tale Series. These are a great mixture of a retelling of a classic fairy tale with a modern twist. This story is full of paranormal elements, magic, danger, and a sense of fate.
This story could be read as a standalone as the main characters are different to the first book, however some of the characters from the first book do reappear.
Me personally I would recommend reading them in order as it really enhances this magical series.

This is George and Lilly's story.
George is still trying to get over his heartbreak and he struggles to come to terms with losing Laura (read the first book) he is positive there is no one else and that she was his soul mate. However Laura wasn't all she appeared.
Lilly is finally on her own making her way in life and when she meets George sparks definately fly.
But will George be able to recognise that Lily could be his soul mate before it's too late? With 2 fairy-godmothers in training trying to help and a grumpy guardian angel trying to clear up the mess from the first story there is a lot going on.
And when someone from George's past returns with evil intentions will anyone be safe?
These stories are amazing reads and a beautiful retelling of a classic tale with a twist that makes them relevant today.

[Country Mama · Rating 4 out of 5]

I did not read the first book in the series y'all, I can admit this honestly. I jumped into the second book not expecting to understand the story at all. However, I can say I should have read the first book. But I did not need to:)
This is the story of George and Lily. The story starts with Laura disappearing after prom and George wondering where Laura is, after a VERY vague note. George falls into a depression shortly thereafter and his roommate Hunter needs to step in to help. I liked how the characters were written in this book. George is relatable in his journey to boys or girls reading this book.
George and Lily meet shortly afterwards, and they hit it off. The writing in this book is great for a YA. There is a lot with Celestial beings in this book who are trying to help fate by making things a certain way that they are. I LOVED that ending and that line "I've got you. And I've got you". What a great end to the book and I can not wait for the next one!
I really liked the story between Harry and Ashley and that is making me want to now go back and read the first book!

[Bobbi Wagner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this fantasy fairytale romance story. This is an author that I never hesitate to pick up. I enjoy this author’s writing style and her ability to make her characters come to life on every page. This book is no different. It is the second book in this series which I highly suggest reading the previous book as well. This is a well written story that is full of romance, fairies, angels and mortals. This is a story that has a lot going on but the author did a great job of keeping you engaged throughout. I enjoyed how the characters pulled you into their world with ease and kept you there with them to the end. They are connectable and truly add so much to the story. They have great growth throughout which make the story easy and entertaining to read. This is a fast paced, hard to put down story and one you don’t want to miss. It is a must read! What will happen when all these characters collide? I highly recommend this book and this author.

[Angela · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 - 3.5 Stars

“The Big Bad Wolf is the Least of Her Worries.”
Red is the second book in the Modern-Day Fairy Tale series by M.K Harkins. It is a modern take on a classic fairytale- a YA fantasy, with paranormal elements, a touch of fate, drama, angst, fairy godmothers, magic, adventure, romance, mystery, secrets, a plot for revenge, danger, agendas, and interesting quirky characters.
This story might pick up from the previous book, Ashes- but we ‘follow’ different MC’s, so it could be read as a standalone if you wanted. But having said that, knowing what happened in the first book will definitely enhance your appreciation of the characters, story, and series.
So, join Lily and George on their ‘adventure’ – especially if you love a great YA fantasy, fairytale retellings, several intriguing threads, multiple Pov’s, and an overall cute story. If this sounds like your jam, then you will definitely want to add this to your reading list.
Happy reading…

Thank you, M.K. Harkins!

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having not read the first book, there were a few points I felt like I might be missing out on some character development, so I will definitely be checking out book 1 so I can get the full spectrum of the characters. I am always a fan of original fairy tales and fairy tale spin offs, this story was beautifully written and the author did an incredible job of creating well developed characters that are so relatable, even with the fairy tale twist. George was such a well written character that you just wanted everything to be OK for him and my heart broke every time it seemed like he was getting so close and then would retreat. I absolutely loved Lilly, she was so excited and eager to see the real world and experience as much as she could, and she was a fun and engaging character that you couldn’t help but root for her. I loved the additional twist of not only a fairy god mother, but a guardian angel as well. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!

[Darian - Books With A Chance · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this book without reading book one and I feel that it’s okay because the characters from book one are in this a lot but they’re you’re typical side characters so the story doesn’t feel confusing.
I like the modern take on little red riding hood, Lilly is very trusting and sometimes is helpful like when she met Ashley and other times it’s dangerous. I wish there was more involvement with the fairy godmothers, I like that they’re able to watch what’s going on and get these vibrations when something bad is going to happen, and I know its against their rules, but I wish they could have been able to interact with the characters more. I enjoyed the parts with Harry and Ashley, they have me wanting to go back and to read book one. Honestly, I felt George was full of himself but I am glad that he and Lilly get there happily ever after. I thought the friendship with Ashley and Lilly was very sweet and I hope we get to see more of them in the next book.

[Shannen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the first book I had read by this author, so I wasn’t sure what to expect. I skipped the first book inadvertently but didn’t feel lost whatsoever by starting on this one. I will say that since finishing this story, I have already picked up the first book because I needed more! The cover of this book stole my attention immediately. It’s simple but sophisticated and intriguing which fits the storyline perfectly. I loved that it is told by multiple points of view as it helps me get a feel for each of the characters and get inside their heads a little more. I read this in one day because I couldn’t put it down, and it felt like it went by incredibly quick. Although I don’t feel like anything is missing from this story, I would love to have had even more to read since the writing style of this author is absolutely amazing! What is going to be next in this series? I can’t wait to find out. I highly recommend picking this up before the newest one hits and you have to catch up!

[Kerry Baker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having read the first book in this series I was excited to pick up the second and discover another reimagined fairytale. This book is a different take on Little Red Riding Hood and I have to say that I absolutely loved it. I thought I knew what to expect from the first book but this one was so much better! I quickly became invested in the story and I loved the addition of the guardian angel.
The characters were interesting and fit the story well. There was more going on with them than I expected which made them even more enjoyable to read about. You do not have to read the previous book first (although you should because it is also amazing!) as this book in a standalone. It is a fantastic retelling and, if this is a sign of what is to come, I cannot wait for the next one this author has to offer!

[Tausha Treadway · Rating 5 out of 5]

Red (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 2) by MK Harkins. In the second book of the Modern Day Fairy Tale series we get a rendition of Little Red Riding Hood. The main character is Lilly whose Mom has sheltered her so much that she is soo excited to go to college. Her mom even home schooled her to keep her away from all the bad things. When Lilly gets to college she meets George and falls in love instantly the only problem is, George is still in love with his high school sweetheart. George is so wrapped up in her memory he can't seem to move forward. What will Lilly have to do to get him over this girl? This is such a fun, young adult, fantasy retelling of Little Red Riding Hood and you will catch a ton of metaphors in the story. I do recommend reading the first book before this one to learn the characters better. I can't wait to read the next one!

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Red" is an enchanting and engaging read that weaves together elements of fairy tales, romance, and self-discovery. The story is full of lovable characters, witty dialogue, and exciting plot twists. The blending of fairy tales and modern-day settings is innovative and captivating. The idea of a fairy godmother and guardian angel working together adds a fresh spin to traditional mythological elements.

Lily and George are relatable and likable protagonists. Their chemistry is undeniable, and their personalities shine through in their interactions. The banter between characters is witty and amusing, adding a lighthearted touch to the story. (For example: "Some people think I go overboard. Especially the time when I drove sixty miles to rescue a squirrel," or "George is like a dysfunctional hypothalamus. A hypo what?"

The playlist at the beginning of the novel is a nice added touch.

[Crystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn't read the first book, so I didn't quite follow, but as the book went on I felt like I wasn't missing out on much. The story between Lily and George was an interesting take on the Red Hiding Hood story. The story was very well paced and the dynamic between the female and male lead's was well done. You have two very dynamic characters who have a lot going on in their lives. One who is ready to move on and one who is somewhere stuck in the past and afraid. Then you have background characters Merilee and Zuriel, a fairy godmother and a guardian angel. Those two clash like fire and water, but the chemistry between the two is interesting. The back and forth between each set of characters was quite the ride of emotions. I enjoyed reading the book, and I think I'm going to go back and read Ashes!

[Callie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Red is a fun and short read. It is the second in the story so it is after Ashes (Cinderella retelling) and does continue on with parts of that story was well. It can be read as a stand alone still. George is Harry's best friend and going thru a rough patch in his life due to his love disappearing at the prom (who was really a fairy godmother playing the part of Georges true love). Merilee now must fix her muddling with the help of an annoying guardian angel who is full of himself and get George and Lily together as they are supposed to be. Lilly is a broke college student that needed a place to stay and ended up finding her best friend and running into her true love. I found this retelling of Little Red Riding Hood to be fun and engaging with a nice modern twist. I can't wait to read more modern-day fairy tales by M.K. Harkins!

[Melissa Saxton · Rating 5 out of 5]

In book 2 of this series lily finally is free of homeschooling and the incessant foreboding her mother is always selling her about the world and for the first time she can truly enjoy the world around her in college.
Sure enough she meets an electrifying man named George, but George has his own hangups after his big love passed away and he's torn up about it even pushing away lily's advances repeated when he can feel the intense spark between them.
Bring in a funny and completely inexperienced bumbling fairy godmother and a full of himself guardian angel to help these two soul mates (lily and george) finally get together and you're in for a great of romance, and comedy of the behind the scene influences.
This book is just as good as the first one and I loved it.

[Jayme Raffauf · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a cute book that I really enjoyed. It’s a fantasy romance with some mystery elements, too. Take a modern day cinderella and little red riding hood and add fairies and guardian angels. Such an interesting twist that made for a fun read. I enjoyed the story of Lily and George, along with the many other key characters - Ashley, Harry, Hunter, Merilee, Fannetta and Zuriel. This is book two in the Modern-Day Fairy Tale series. I think reading book one would’ve added some background info, but I did not read book 1 and had no problem understanding the story. I did enjoy this book a lot and would read other books in this series based on reading this one.

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first time reading a story by M.K parking. This author's Storytelling is truly one of a kind. With their unique new takes on some old classics. This is the second book of the modern day fairy tale series, Which loosely follows Red Riding Hood and her journey. But not only Red's but Also another side character gets their love match. I really enjoyed the modern day setting, which made me want to read it all the more. I definitely have to go back and read the Cinderella version. I can't wait to see what more this author has in-store for us. Or who to see what Fairy Tale character The author does next. fingers crossed its Belle and the beast!! I'd run to buy it lol 🥰