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The Dericott Tales #5
Cloak of Scarlet
She was an orphan of no importance . . .
Violet Lambton never imagined herself as anything but average. Adopted as a young child, she’s content with her comfortable life in her small medieval town with her faith, her books, and her baking . . . and the vivid red cloak her grandmother gifted her. Her one dream: to find a love that is pure and true. Then, her beloved grandmother is robbed by the villainous Baron Dunham. Outraged, Violet finds herself in the midst of the action and determines to put an end to the evil baron’s mistreatment of the hardworking people.
He was an ordinary knight serving the baron . . .
Sir Merek, a knight in the service of Baron Dunham, has pledged his life to fighting injustice and defending the weak. But when he encounters the spirited and beautiful Violet and discovers the depths of the baron’s treachery, he realizes that serving his employer is not serving the kingdom—and so he sets out on a daring journey to go behind the baron’s back to expose his deceitfulness to the king.
Suddenly the kingdom depends on both of them.
But before Merek and Violet can act to bring the corruption to light, Violet is captured and brought directly to Dunham—where she shockingly discovers a secret that shakes her entire world . . . and the future she dreams of. Thrown together in the baron’s quarters in a race against time to save the lives of their loved ones and themselves, Violet and Merek must learn to trust each other to expose Dunham’s treachery to the king—all while succumbing to their growing feelings for each other. Can the two find their happily ever after against all odds, or will the wolves amongst them drive them apart?
From New York Times bestselling author Melanie Dickerson comes a thrilling retelling of "Little Red Riding Hood," where two hearts must learn to trust themselves and each other in order to save a kingdom.
A medieval retelling of “Little Red Riding Hood”
Part of the Dericott Tale series of stand-alone fairy tales
Includes discussion questions for book clubs
Violet Lambton never imagined herself as anything but average. Adopted as a young child, she’s content with her comfortable life in her small medieval town with her faith, her books, and her baking . . . and the vivid red cloak her grandmother gifted her. Her one dream: to find a love that is pure and true. Then, her beloved grandmother is robbed by the villainous Baron Dunham. Outraged, Violet finds herself in the midst of the action and determines to put an end to the evil baron’s mistreatment of the hardworking people.
He was an ordinary knight serving the baron . . .
Sir Merek, a knight in the service of Baron Dunham, has pledged his life to fighting injustice and defending the weak. But when he encounters the spirited and beautiful Violet and discovers the depths of the baron’s treachery, he realizes that serving his employer is not serving the kingdom—and so he sets out on a daring journey to go behind the baron’s back to expose his deceitfulness to the king.
Suddenly the kingdom depends on both of them.
But before Merek and Violet can act to bring the corruption to light, Violet is captured and brought directly to Dunham—where she shockingly discovers a secret that shakes her entire world . . . and the future she dreams of. Thrown together in the baron’s quarters in a race against time to save the lives of their loved ones and themselves, Violet and Merek must learn to trust each other to expose Dunham’s treachery to the king—all while succumbing to their growing feelings for each other. Can the two find their happily ever after against all odds, or will the wolves amongst them drive them apart?
From New York Times bestselling author Melanie Dickerson comes a thrilling retelling of "Little Red Riding Hood," where two hearts must learn to trust themselves and each other in order to save a kingdom.
A medieval retelling of “Little Red Riding Hood”
Part of the Dericott Tale series of stand-alone fairy tales
Includes discussion questions for book clubs
336 pages, Hardcover
First published August 15, 2023
51 people are currently reading
4487 people want to read
About the author
Melanie Dickerson
41 books6,524 followersMelanie Dickerson is the New York Times bestselling author of happily-ever-after romance. She believes in love, laughter, afternoon tea, and the power of story.
With a million books sold and numerous awards, including two Christy Awards, two Golden Quills, a National Readers Choice Award, Christian Retailing’s Best, and Book Buyers’ Best Awards, her books have hit #1 in her category on the New York Times bestseller list.
When she’s not writing, Melanie can be found watching Pride and Prejudice for the hundredth time, cozying up to her handsome hero husband, or shaking her head at her slightly unhinged Jack Russell terrier. She lives in the beautiful foothills of the Appalachians near Huntsville, Alabama.
With a million books sold and numerous awards, including two Christy Awards, two Golden Quills, a National Readers Choice Award, Christian Retailing’s Best, and Book Buyers’ Best Awards, her books have hit #1 in her category on the New York Times bestseller list.
When she’s not writing, Melanie can be found watching Pride and Prejudice for the hundredth time, cozying up to her handsome hero husband, or shaking her head at her slightly unhinged Jack Russell terrier. She lives in the beautiful foothills of the Appalachians near Huntsville, Alabama.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 245 reviews
December 2, 2023
2.5 stars, personally. Rounding up to 3 on Goodreads because younger readers may enjoy this one more. Personally, wasn't a big fan and I'm sad about it. :(
About this book:
“She was an orphan of no importance . . .
Violet Lambton never imagined herself as anything but average. Adopted as a young child, she’s content with her comfortable life in her small medieval town with her faith, her books, and her baking . . . and the vivid red cloak her grandmother gifted her. Her one dream: to find a love that is pure and true. Then, her beloved grandmother is robbed by the villainous Baron Dunham. Outraged, Violet finds herself in the midst of the action and determines to put an end to the evil baron’s mistreatment of the hardworking people.
He was an ordinary knight serving the baron . . .
Sir Merek, a knight in the service of Baron Dunham, has pledged his life to fighting injustice and defending the weak. But when he encounters the spirited and beautiful Violet and discovers the depths of the baron’s treachery, he realizes that serving his employer is not serving the kingdom—and so he sets out on a daring journey to go behind the baron’s back to expose his deceitfulness to the king.
Suddenly the kingdom depends on both of them.
But before Merek and Violet can act to bring the corruption to light, Violet is captured and brought directly to Dunham—where she shockingly discovers a secret that shakes her entire world . . . and the future she dreams of. Thrown together in the baron’s quarters in a race against time to save the lives of their loved ones and themselves, Violet and Merek must learn to trust each other to expose Dunham’s treachery to the king—all while succumbing to their growing feelings for each other. Can the two find their happily ever after against all odds, or will the wolves amongst them drive them apart?”
Series: Book #5 in “The Dericott Tales”. Review of the Book #1 Here!, Book #2 Here!, and Book #3 Here!, and Book #4 Here!
Spiritual Content- Scriptures are directly referenced, mentioned, quoted, & remembered; Many Prayers; Talks about God; 'H's are capital when referring to God; Violet goes to a church to pray and lights a candle and crosses herself when there; God talks to Violet (about holding her in the palm of His hand); Merek strives to have Christlike character in all he does; Many mentions of God, His plans, prayers, praying, thanking God, & faiths; Mentions of God speaking to others (Violet and her grandmother; Violet’s mother says that God only speaks to priests and prophets); Mentions of those & events in the Bible; Mentions of churches/cathedrals, priests, confessing sins to priests, & a crucifix; A few mentions of the Holy Writ/Holy Scriptures; A few mentions of psalms & Psalters; A few mentions of forgiving others so God is able to forgive you; A few mentions of sins; A couple mentions of Heaven; A mention of a blessing over food; A mention of a godly person; A mention of godspeed; A mention of Holy days; A mention of a pilgrimage; A mention of someone being a whitewashed tomb; A mention of the lake of burning fire;
*Note: Violet’s grandmother shares with her about marrying a man without asking God if she should and it being a rough marriage; Mentions of evil people & evil actions; A mention of some villages being fearful of anyone in authority, even the Church clergy.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: an ‘egads’; A mention of curses (said, not written); Eye rolling & Sarcasm; Fighting, Being grabbed/attacked, Being held at knife-point, Being tied-up, Being beaten, Pain, Injuries, Blood/Bleeding, & Passing out (up to semi-detailed); Seeing a fight & someone bleeding a lot after being stabbed (*Spoiler* , up to semi-detailed); Almost being attacked by a wild boar & Fighting it (up to semi-detailed); *Spoiler* ; Merek has a temper and has to reign it in multiple times to keep himself from going after revenge and physically fighting others (he imagines fighting and besting others, barely-above-not-detailed); Violet & Merek drink wine and ale at dinners/parties; Violet struggles with the injustice happening in her village (her grandmother tells her that “we will never be content, as God intended, if we rage against the things we can to nothing about. It is better to accept them”); A man relieves himself outside in front of Violet & Merek (he tries to shield her from that, border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); Many mentions of stealing, thefts, thieves, & being attacked and threatened; Many mentions of lies, lying, & liars; Mentions of murders, killing, & wanting to kill or harm another who are doing a crime; Mentions of deaths (including Violet’s birth mother starving to death); Mentions of threats of harm, death, and execution (including towards loved ones to get another to do as they say, up to semi-detailed); Mentions of a murder, crimes, treason, & being locked in a prison (Book #1); Mentions of torture; Mentions of attacks, fighting, beatings, injuries, pain, & blood/bleeding (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of alcohol (including stronger spirits), drinking, social drinking at dinners, drunks, & hangovers; Mentions of gossip & rumors; Mentions of hunting; A few mentions of Violet being “killed, or worse” after standing up to men in powerful positions; A few mentions of a priest being hung after speaking out against an authority figure (barely-above-not-detailed); A few mentions of wars/battles; A few mentions of criminals; A few mentions of drugging someone so they will sleep (main characters towards an evil character); A few mentions of jealousy; A few mentions of hatred; A few mentions of relieving oneself, human excrement, & urine; A couple mentions of someone being thrown from a horse & dying (barely-above-not-detailed); A mention of a man often leaving his family and then coming back and repeating it many times; A mention of killing a hog (semi-detailed);
*Note: Violet is adopted and it’s brought-up many times, particularly Violet feeling like she always has to do more for her family to show her appreciation at them taking in a “helpless, needy child who could give them nothing in return”, that she’s an orphan of no importance, remembering starving prior to being adopted helping her be humble and grateful to her adoptive parents, being a burden to her family, how she felt helpless to help her birth mother, that her adoptive family will ceases to love her if she’s not a blessing to them, and feeling as if she’s responsible for her birth mother’s death; Violet recalls the time her birth mother said they have no food and Violet remembers the feelings of extreme hunger (her birth mother would soon pass away from not being able to eat, up to semi-detailed on the feelings of hunger); Violet’s mother has anxiety & worries a lot; Violet asks if a man shoots orphans for fun because he’s already violating the Holy Scriptures by another action (she was being sassy); When Violet finds out about her birth mother, she feels as if her adoptive family has lied to her but tells herself that they “only omitted a lot of important information” instead; A few mentions of some men and women abusing their spouse; A mention of a man saying “what good is it for a woman to learn to read?”; A mention of someone asking if Violet is “soft in the head”.
Sexual Content- Two hand kisses (unwanted), two cheek kisses, a nose kiss, two forehead kisses, three not-detailed kisses, a barely-above-not-detailed kiss, two semi-detailed kisses (one in a dream), and two detailed kisses; Remembering kisses (up to semi-detailed); Wanting to kiss (up to semi-detailed); Touches, Embraces, Dancing, Nearness, & Smelling (including unwanted/forced as well, up to semi-detailed); Blushes; Noticing (barely-above-not-detailed); Violet has a dream of kissing Merek & wakes up startled, thinking that she’s being unseemly because she’s unmarried; After kissing Violet, Merek wonders if he’s “died and gone to heaven”; *Big Spoiler* ; *Ending Spoiler* ; A few mentions of Violet being “killed, or worse” after standing up to men in powerful positions; A few mentions of men leering at or looking at Violet or her figure; A few mentions of jealousy; A couple mentions of temptations & some men taking advantage of women (Merek says he does not want to be like those men); A mention of the Church not viewing a couple as married until the marriage is consummated; A mention of a man staring at Violet’s mouth; A mention of seducing someone; A mention of a mistress; A mention of a married person preferring illicit company rather than their spouse; A mention of flirting; A mention of some men speaking profanely about women; A mention of a man charming women; Love, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: Violet wonders if a man will try anything “unseemly” towards her, but knows “where to hit a man to incapacitate him”; A mention of a young women possibly being casted out from her family when it was revealed she was pregnant; A mention of a mother passing away in childbirth; A mention of a stillborn baby.
-Violet Lambton, age 18 (?)
-Sir Merek, age 21
P.O.V. switches between them
Set in 1386 (Medieval)
336 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Two Stars (and a half)
{Could be possibly trigger for adoptees or those in/were in foster care}
This series has been making me wondering if I’m too old for YA books anymore—and I know that’s not the case.
Here’s the thing, the writing and the very simple plot line make me think that this book is better for ages 14 or 15, but the romance was so physically attracted based and really the main part of the story, I hesitate to recommend it for younger teenagers. It could definitely push the thoughts of romance/boys too early (especially with two detailed kisses), though, for some girls—depending on the girl and her age.
There was a good amount of faith content and lots of prayers, along with Scriptures referenced in conversations and prayers, which was nice to see.
I never felt connected to Violet or Merek and they were from arguing and fussing at the other to wanting to kiss the other so fast and Violet dreaming of kissing him. It was zero to ninety very fast in that regard because they were very attracted to the other. Their personalities and character were noted by the other, but it almost felt like an afterthought because they were already physically attracted to the other. There is also a mention of consummating a marriage and a scene where a man relieves himself outside that I truly don’t understand why those parts/comments were necessary?
There’s one thing that I’d like to note for parents of the girls who may be interested in this book:
I can see why some readers may enjoy this one because it was overall clean, but, personally, I don’t think it was anywhere near as good as other books by this author.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
About this book:
“She was an orphan of no importance . . .
Violet Lambton never imagined herself as anything but average. Adopted as a young child, she’s content with her comfortable life in her small medieval town with her faith, her books, and her baking . . . and the vivid red cloak her grandmother gifted her. Her one dream: to find a love that is pure and true. Then, her beloved grandmother is robbed by the villainous Baron Dunham. Outraged, Violet finds herself in the midst of the action and determines to put an end to the evil baron’s mistreatment of the hardworking people.
He was an ordinary knight serving the baron . . .
Sir Merek, a knight in the service of Baron Dunham, has pledged his life to fighting injustice and defending the weak. But when he encounters the spirited and beautiful Violet and discovers the depths of the baron’s treachery, he realizes that serving his employer is not serving the kingdom—and so he sets out on a daring journey to go behind the baron’s back to expose his deceitfulness to the king.
Suddenly the kingdom depends on both of them.
But before Merek and Violet can act to bring the corruption to light, Violet is captured and brought directly to Dunham—where she shockingly discovers a secret that shakes her entire world . . . and the future she dreams of. Thrown together in the baron’s quarters in a race against time to save the lives of their loved ones and themselves, Violet and Merek must learn to trust each other to expose Dunham’s treachery to the king—all while succumbing to their growing feelings for each other. Can the two find their happily ever after against all odds, or will the wolves amongst them drive them apart?”
Series: Book #5 in “The Dericott Tales”. Review of the Book #1 Here!, Book #2 Here!, and Book #3 Here!, and Book #4 Here!
Spiritual Content- Scriptures are directly referenced, mentioned, quoted, & remembered; Many Prayers; Talks about God; 'H's are capital when referring to God; Violet goes to a church to pray and lights a candle and crosses herself when there; God talks to Violet (about holding her in the palm of His hand); Merek strives to have Christlike character in all he does; Many mentions of God, His plans, prayers, praying, thanking God, & faiths; Mentions of God speaking to others (Violet and her grandmother; Violet’s mother says that God only speaks to priests and prophets); Mentions of those & events in the Bible; Mentions of churches/cathedrals, priests, confessing sins to priests, & a crucifix; A few mentions of the Holy Writ/Holy Scriptures; A few mentions of psalms & Psalters; A few mentions of forgiving others so God is able to forgive you; A few mentions of sins; A couple mentions of Heaven; A mention of a blessing over food; A mention of a godly person; A mention of godspeed; A mention of Holy days; A mention of a pilgrimage; A mention of someone being a whitewashed tomb; A mention of the lake of burning fire;
*Note: Violet’s grandmother shares with her about marrying a man without asking God if she should and it being a rough marriage; Mentions of evil people & evil actions; A mention of some villages being fearful of anyone in authority, even the Church clergy.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: an ‘egads’; A mention of curses (said, not written); Eye rolling & Sarcasm; Fighting, Being grabbed/attacked, Being held at knife-point, Being tied-up, Being beaten, Pain, Injuries, Blood/Bleeding, & Passing out (up to semi-detailed); Seeing a fight & someone bleeding a lot after being stabbed (*Spoiler* , up to semi-detailed); Almost being attacked by a wild boar & Fighting it (up to semi-detailed); *Spoiler* ; Merek has a temper and has to reign it in multiple times to keep himself from going after revenge and physically fighting others (he imagines fighting and besting others, barely-above-not-detailed); Violet & Merek drink wine and ale at dinners/parties; Violet struggles with the injustice happening in her village (her grandmother tells her that “we will never be content, as God intended, if we rage against the things we can to nothing about. It is better to accept them”); A man relieves himself outside in front of Violet & Merek (he tries to shield her from that, border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); Many mentions of stealing, thefts, thieves, & being attacked and threatened; Many mentions of lies, lying, & liars; Mentions of murders, killing, & wanting to kill or harm another who are doing a crime; Mentions of deaths (including Violet’s birth mother starving to death); Mentions of threats of harm, death, and execution (including towards loved ones to get another to do as they say, up to semi-detailed); Mentions of a murder, crimes, treason, & being locked in a prison (Book #1); Mentions of torture; Mentions of attacks, fighting, beatings, injuries, pain, & blood/bleeding (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of alcohol (including stronger spirits), drinking, social drinking at dinners, drunks, & hangovers; Mentions of gossip & rumors; Mentions of hunting; A few mentions of Violet being “killed, or worse” after standing up to men in powerful positions; A few mentions of a priest being hung after speaking out against an authority figure (barely-above-not-detailed); A few mentions of wars/battles; A few mentions of criminals; A few mentions of drugging someone so they will sleep (main characters towards an evil character); A few mentions of jealousy; A few mentions of hatred; A few mentions of relieving oneself, human excrement, & urine; A couple mentions of someone being thrown from a horse & dying (barely-above-not-detailed); A mention of a man often leaving his family and then coming back and repeating it many times; A mention of killing a hog (semi-detailed);
*Note: Violet is adopted and it’s brought-up many times, particularly Violet feeling like she always has to do more for her family to show her appreciation at them taking in a “helpless, needy child who could give them nothing in return”, that she’s an orphan of no importance, remembering starving prior to being adopted helping her be humble and grateful to her adoptive parents, being a burden to her family, how she felt helpless to help her birth mother, that her adoptive family will ceases to love her if she’s not a blessing to them, and feeling as if she’s responsible for her birth mother’s death; Violet recalls the time her birth mother said they have no food and Violet remembers the feelings of extreme hunger (her birth mother would soon pass away from not being able to eat, up to semi-detailed on the feelings of hunger); Violet’s mother has anxiety & worries a lot; Violet asks if a man shoots orphans for fun because he’s already violating the Holy Scriptures by another action (she was being sassy); When Violet finds out about her birth mother, she feels as if her adoptive family has lied to her but tells herself that they “only omitted a lot of important information” instead; A few mentions of some men and women abusing their spouse; A mention of a man saying “what good is it for a woman to learn to read?”; A mention of someone asking if Violet is “soft in the head”.
Sexual Content- Two hand kisses (unwanted), two cheek kisses, a nose kiss, two forehead kisses, three not-detailed kisses, a barely-above-not-detailed kiss, two semi-detailed kisses (one in a dream), and two detailed kisses; Remembering kisses (up to semi-detailed); Wanting to kiss (up to semi-detailed); Touches, Embraces, Dancing, Nearness, & Smelling (including unwanted/forced as well, up to semi-detailed); Blushes; Noticing (barely-above-not-detailed); Violet has a dream of kissing Merek & wakes up startled, thinking that she’s being unseemly because she’s unmarried; After kissing Violet, Merek wonders if he’s “died and gone to heaven”; *Big Spoiler* ; *Ending Spoiler* ; A few mentions of Violet being “killed, or worse” after standing up to men in powerful positions; A few mentions of men leering at or looking at Violet or her figure; A few mentions of jealousy; A couple mentions of temptations & some men taking advantage of women (Merek says he does not want to be like those men); A mention of the Church not viewing a couple as married until the marriage is consummated; A mention of a man staring at Violet’s mouth; A mention of seducing someone; A mention of a mistress; A mention of a married person preferring illicit company rather than their spouse; A mention of flirting; A mention of some men speaking profanely about women; A mention of a man charming women; Love, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: Violet wonders if a man will try anything “unseemly” towards her, but knows “where to hit a man to incapacitate him”; A mention of a young women possibly being casted out from her family when it was revealed she was pregnant; A mention of a mother passing away in childbirth; A mention of a stillborn baby.
-Violet Lambton, age 18 (?)
-Sir Merek, age 21
P.O.V. switches between them
Set in 1386 (Medieval)
336 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Two Stars (and a half)
{Could be possibly trigger for adoptees or those in/were in foster care}
This series has been making me wondering if I’m too old for YA books anymore—and I know that’s not the case.
Here’s the thing, the writing and the very simple plot line make me think that this book is better for ages 14 or 15, but the romance was so physically attracted based and really the main part of the story, I hesitate to recommend it for younger teenagers. It could definitely push the thoughts of romance/boys too early (especially with two detailed kisses), though, for some girls—depending on the girl and her age.
There was a good amount of faith content and lots of prayers, along with Scriptures referenced in conversations and prayers, which was nice to see.
I never felt connected to Violet or Merek and they were from arguing and fussing at the other to wanting to kiss the other so fast and Violet dreaming of kissing him. It was zero to ninety very fast in that regard because they were very attracted to the other. Their personalities and character were noted by the other, but it almost felt like an afterthought because they were already physically attracted to the other. There is also a mention of consummating a marriage and a scene where a man relieves himself outside that I truly don’t understand why those parts/comments were necessary?
There’s one thing that I’d like to note for parents of the girls who may be interested in this book:
I can see why some readers may enjoy this one because it was overall clean, but, personally, I don’t think it was anywhere near as good as other books by this author.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
February 19, 2024
Story Enjoyment Rating: 7/10 Christian Faith Rating: 3/3
Cloak of Scarlet by Melanie Dickerson is a Christian YA medieval romance. It is book 5 in the Dericott Tales and is a retelling/reimagining of Little Red Riding Hood.
The story follows Violet, who finds out that the local baron has taken money from her grandmother. She tries to write to the king and complain, but this lands her in trouble. In the process, she meets a knight who is working for the Baron.
I had mixed feelings whilst reading this book. There were parts of the story that I really enjoyed and there were parts of the dialogue that I found a little cheesy.
It was a fast and easy read.
Content: some violence and kissing scenes. No swearing or sex on the page.
Christian content: The characters were Christian, and they thought about God, prayed, and they referred to things that the priest had taught them from the Bible.
Cloak of Scarlet by Melanie Dickerson is a Christian YA medieval romance. It is book 5 in the Dericott Tales and is a retelling/reimagining of Little Red Riding Hood.
The story follows Violet, who finds out that the local baron has taken money from her grandmother. She tries to write to the king and complain, but this lands her in trouble. In the process, she meets a knight who is working for the Baron.
I had mixed feelings whilst reading this book. There were parts of the story that I really enjoyed and there were parts of the dialogue that I found a little cheesy.
It was a fast and easy read.
Content: some violence and kissing scenes. No swearing or sex on the page.
Christian content: The characters were Christian, and they thought about God, prayed, and they referred to things that the priest had taught them from the Bible.
August 18, 2023
(Book #5 in The Dericott Tales but can be read as a Standalone.) 3.5 to 4 Stars
I always enjoy my time reading these YA medieval fairytale retellings in this series. This one was a retelling of Little Red Riding Hood. They have enough of the basics of the retelling to be a retelling but also enough of a twist to be their own stories - I always like that. They are always lighthearted and just what I need for the time.
Set in the late 1300s in England, we follow Violet, who was adopted and loves to visit her grandmother in her red cloak. Violet's grandmother is robbed by the villain, Baron Dunham. Violet finds herself in the middle of an action packed story and will do anything to stop the Baron from mistreating her people and stealing from them. We see Sir Merek come in, who is a knight of the Baron, but when he meets Violet, he discovers what the Baron has been doing and just how evil he really is. Sir Merek and Violet work together to stop him, while getting to know one another along the way.
This was a lot of fun and I really liked our characters and the faith content sprinkled throughout was really nice to see. I don't think I truly connected with Violet and Sir Merek like I have some of the other characters throughout this series, but I thought they were good in this story. The family drama in this one was a nice twist.
Excited to see what comes next in this series! Thank you to the publisher for sending a complimentary copy to honestly read and review. All opinions are my own.
I always enjoy my time reading these YA medieval fairytale retellings in this series. This one was a retelling of Little Red Riding Hood. They have enough of the basics of the retelling to be a retelling but also enough of a twist to be their own stories - I always like that. They are always lighthearted and just what I need for the time.
Set in the late 1300s in England, we follow Violet, who was adopted and loves to visit her grandmother in her red cloak. Violet's grandmother is robbed by the villain, Baron Dunham. Violet finds herself in the middle of an action packed story and will do anything to stop the Baron from mistreating her people and stealing from them. We see Sir Merek come in, who is a knight of the Baron, but when he meets Violet, he discovers what the Baron has been doing and just how evil he really is. Sir Merek and Violet work together to stop him, while getting to know one another along the way.
This was a lot of fun and I really liked our characters and the faith content sprinkled throughout was really nice to see. I don't think I truly connected with Violet and Sir Merek like I have some of the other characters throughout this series, but I thought they were good in this story. The family drama in this one was a nice twist.
Excited to see what comes next in this series! Thank you to the publisher for sending a complimentary copy to honestly read and review. All opinions are my own.
June 20, 2023
This is a captivating and distinctive rendition of the classic fairytale of Little Red Riding Hood, featuring well-developed characters and plenty of exciting action. The blossoming romance adds a delightful touch, and the plot is filled with unexpected twists and turns. The overarching theme of trusting in God through all circumstances is deeply meaningful. Clean YA Romance, suspense, adventure, faith.
She was adopted as a child and lives a content life in a small medieval town. She cherishes her faith, books, and baking, as well as the vivid red cloak gifted to her by her grandmother. Her ultimate wish is to find a love that is genuine and sincere. However, when her beloved grandmother is robbed by the villainous Baron Dunham, she becomes outraged. Violet decides to take action and put an end to the baron's mistreatment of the hardworking people.
Overall, the story was excellent. I was particularly captivated by the characters of Violet and Sir Merek. Despite their emotional wounds, they found comfort in each other and were able to overcome their insecurities and grow as individuals.
I received a complimentary copy from the Publisher. All opinions are mine.
She was adopted as a child and lives a content life in a small medieval town. She cherishes her faith, books, and baking, as well as the vivid red cloak gifted to her by her grandmother. Her ultimate wish is to find a love that is genuine and sincere. However, when her beloved grandmother is robbed by the villainous Baron Dunham, she becomes outraged. Violet decides to take action and put an end to the baron's mistreatment of the hardworking people.
Overall, the story was excellent. I was particularly captivated by the characters of Violet and Sir Merek. Despite their emotional wounds, they found comfort in each other and were able to overcome their insecurities and grow as individuals.
I received a complimentary copy from the Publisher. All opinions are mine.
September 2, 2024
This was my favorite in the series. I really enjoyed the story and characters. And I loved the nod to Little Red Riding Hood and Robin Hood. 4.5⭐
*Thank you to the author for sending me a copy. All thoughts are my own.
*Thank you to the author for sending me a copy. All thoughts are my own.
February 7, 2024
3.75⭐️
I usually LOVEMelanie Dickerson’s retellings, and 3.75⭐️ is in no way a poor rating from me….its just….
In this one, though I really liked the story and the storytelling, it’s the main character that annoyed me. First off, she seems very hypocritical, judging people for their misdeeds when she is either doing the exact thing, or something comparable….
SPOILER…..?
Another thing (which is the second time I’ve felt this in a MD retelling) is that the main character learns her biological father is a nasty man, and she is forced to live with him in his massive estate, she shows zero conflicted feelings when her love interest kills him in self defence…what?!? There would be sooooo many conflicting emotions in that situation
I usually LOVEMelanie Dickerson’s retellings, and 3.75⭐️ is in no way a poor rating from me….its just….
In this one, though I really liked the story and the storytelling, it’s the main character that annoyed me. First off, she seems very hypocritical, judging people for their misdeeds when she is either doing the exact thing, or something comparable….
SPOILER…..?
Another thing (which is the second time I’ve felt this in a MD retelling) is that the main character learns her biological father is a nasty man, and she is forced to live with him in his massive estate, she shows zero conflicted feelings when her love interest kills him in self defence…what?!? There would be sooooo many conflicting emotions in that situation
May 10, 2023
Cloak of Scarlet by Melanie Dickerson is the fifth book of the Derricott series. It does not disappoint. It was hard to put down because something was always happening and I just wanted to keep reading and I didn’t want it to end. It was a Little Red Riding Hood fairy tale. The baron, who was Violets father, was the big bad wolf. Violet was an orphan, whose mother had to flee the castle when she found out she was pregnant and had been taken advantage of by the baron. Sir Merek, is a knight who helps Violet get justice for her people. Violet’s grandmother has a big part in the story, which is so heartwarming. The grandmother was so likable. The romance between Violet and Sir Merck was so much fun to watch develop. This is another amazing story by an amazing author.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are mine.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are mine.
August 16, 2023
Another enjoyable story in Melanie Dickerson’s Derricott Tales! I love fairytale retellings and Cloak of Scarlet is a clever retelling of Little Red Riding Hood; although there were also parts that reminded me a little of Disney’s version of Robin Hood. Set in the late 1300’s in medieval England, this delightful tale has a clean yet passionate romance, chivalrous knights, a dastardly villain, and plenty of action as one brave young woman risks everything to protect her family and village.
Adopted into a loving family, Violet’s content to read her precious books, bake, and visit her grandmother in her beautiful red cloak. She’s a faithful daughter who longs for true love. When her grandmother and others are threatened by the ruthless Baron Dunham, Violet determines to expose his deceitfulness & mistreatment of his people to the king.
Sir Merek is a knight working for the evil baron. When he meets Violet and realizes the man he’s working for is dishonorable, he and Violet play a dangerous game trying to discover evidence of the baron’s corruption. But when Violet learns a shocking secret and is taken to the baron’s castle, Merek tries to do all in his power to find the proof and get it to the king before it’s too late.
Loved the way the author created a unique, romantic retelling with enough nods to the original that the characters were easily identifiable with their fairytale counterparts. I enjoyed Violet & Merek. Violet’s not afraid to stand up for what she believes in and is willing to risk everything to protect those she loves. I loved her spunk and courage. I also thought she was a great role model for young women who think they have to settle when it comes to romance. I loved the wise advice Violet’s grandmother gave her and the way she bolstered her faith.
Merek has a bit of a temper and was in need of humbling. When he meets Violet, he finds a kindred spirit in fighting for justice. He isn’t sure at first if Violet returns his feelings, and I liked watching their relationship progress throughout the story. I loved the disguises he used to be near her.
Baron Durham is one nasty villain easily comparable to the big bad wolf. There’s another morally gray character who is more pompous than villainous. It’ll be interesting to see if he shows up in future stories.
Highly recommend this action-packed, enjoyable YA fairytale retelling! It’s a romantic, faith-filled story perfect for younger teens and up. Though it’s helpful if you’ve read the previous books in the series, it can definitely be read as a standalone. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily given. 4-4 1/2 stars
CW: brief mention of a sexual assault, mild violence, clean romance only kissing.
Adopted into a loving family, Violet’s content to read her precious books, bake, and visit her grandmother in her beautiful red cloak. She’s a faithful daughter who longs for true love. When her grandmother and others are threatened by the ruthless Baron Dunham, Violet determines to expose his deceitfulness & mistreatment of his people to the king.
Sir Merek is a knight working for the evil baron. When he meets Violet and realizes the man he’s working for is dishonorable, he and Violet play a dangerous game trying to discover evidence of the baron’s corruption. But when Violet learns a shocking secret and is taken to the baron’s castle, Merek tries to do all in his power to find the proof and get it to the king before it’s too late.
Loved the way the author created a unique, romantic retelling with enough nods to the original that the characters were easily identifiable with their fairytale counterparts. I enjoyed Violet & Merek. Violet’s not afraid to stand up for what she believes in and is willing to risk everything to protect those she loves. I loved her spunk and courage. I also thought she was a great role model for young women who think they have to settle when it comes to romance. I loved the wise advice Violet’s grandmother gave her and the way she bolstered her faith.
Merek has a bit of a temper and was in need of humbling. When he meets Violet, he finds a kindred spirit in fighting for justice. He isn’t sure at first if Violet returns his feelings, and I liked watching their relationship progress throughout the story. I loved the disguises he used to be near her.
Baron Durham is one nasty villain easily comparable to the big bad wolf. There’s another morally gray character who is more pompous than villainous. It’ll be interesting to see if he shows up in future stories.
Highly recommend this action-packed, enjoyable YA fairytale retelling! It’s a romantic, faith-filled story perfect for younger teens and up. Though it’s helpful if you’ve read the previous books in the series, it can definitely be read as a standalone. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily given. 4-4 1/2 stars
CW: brief mention of a sexual assault, mild violence, clean romance only kissing.
dnf
June 19, 2023Dnf at 50%
I'm sorry but this is just not for me. Literally nothing is going on and the characters are so incredibly boring.
Not one of Dickerson's best, unfortunately.
I'm sorry but this is just not for me. Literally nothing is going on and the characters are so incredibly boring.
Not one of Dickerson's best, unfortunately.
August 25, 2023
“I was just the same as you until I learned three things: that most problems work themselves out, that most of what we worry about never comes to pass, and that God is trustworthy. He is working all things for our good even when we don’t see it or understand it."
What a great story! Melanie has really outdone herself with this book, delivering a beautiful tale of faith, love and bravery that readers of all ages will enjoy. A definite must read!
Thank you to the publisher for the complimentary e-book I received to review through Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review, but was more than glad to. The thoughts above are my own.
What a great story! Melanie has really outdone herself with this book, delivering a beautiful tale of faith, love and bravery that readers of all ages will enjoy. A definite must read!
Thank you to the publisher for the complimentary e-book I received to review through Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review, but was more than glad to. The thoughts above are my own.
June 19, 2025
4.5
Oh, that was good!
Oh, that was good!
November 19, 2025
This book was so good!! At the start it was giving complete little red riding hood vibes but just for that little bit of it. It was so captivating and funny and heartfelt i would definitely recommend. I also loved Violet's grandmother, I thought she was so funny.
July 27, 2024
I've always LOVED Melanie Dickerson's books.
This book continues to draw me into the Dericott Series once more.
I LOVE Violet's courage and boldness.
I also admire Sir Merek's personality. Good on him for continuously trying to control his temper!
Sir Willem is also a guard that deserves all my love and respect.
Melanie Dickerson captured my attention and drew me into the world of Dericott and Little Red Riding Hood at the same time!
I also love it when they mention previous character from the series in a book :)
Loved this! Can't wait for the remainders of the series!
This book continues to draw me into the Dericott Series once more.
I LOVE Violet's courage and boldness.
I also admire Sir Merek's personality. Good on him for continuously trying to control his temper!
Sir Willem is also a guard that deserves all my love and respect.
Melanie Dickerson captured my attention and drew me into the world of Dericott and Little Red Riding Hood at the same time!
I also love it when they mention previous character from the series in a book :)
Loved this! Can't wait for the remainders of the series!
September 10, 2023
Violet has a difficult life and it’s about to get worse. Sir Merrick gets drawn into her problems and when things go south she has to learn to trust and hope. This is an addition to a series but I think it stands alone.
A nice little jaunt into a medieval period where good and evil are constantly battling. There are well done Christian elements that bring purpose to the characters.
A nice little jaunt into a medieval period where good and evil are constantly battling. There are well done Christian elements that bring purpose to the characters.
August 16, 2023
Cloak of Scarlet by Melanie Dickerson captures the world of Little Red Riding Hood and a story of injustice seeking justice. Dickerson, again, crafts delightful characters that see something being wrong and want to make things right, even so far, as to put their own lives at risk. Again readers are returned to Dericott, a familiar setting if readers have read the previous novels in this series. The setting is realistic and hauntingly familiar. Even readers have not been thrown into a dungeon, they have seen enough movies to understand the dirt and shame of having to spend days in this type of setting. As for the plot, it was predictable, but it was still enjoyable to read and lose oneself in for a couple of hours. The romance takes center stage, but of course, this is a young adult novel, so kissing is at far as the novel takes the readers. I enjoy how her novels show young readers that it is okay to fall in love, but covers the bases of the Godly man with the correct virtue and honesty to wait for. Overall, Cloak of Scarlet by Melanie Dickerson will delight readers of any of her works, and I can't wait to add it to my bookshelf.
I received a complimentary copy of Cloak of Scarlet by Melanie Dickerson from Thomas Nelson Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.
I received a complimentary copy of Cloak of Scarlet by Melanie Dickerson from Thomas Nelson Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.
December 27, 2023
“Violet looked so brave and strong. If she loved him, he’d think himself the most fortunate man in the world.”
A lovely, clean novel full of action and romance! Great addition to the series!
I gave it four stars because I would have liked to see more elements of the Little Red Riding Hood story, since it is loosely based on it. And, though Merek seemed to have a character arc, Violet didn’t.
December 19, 2023
Fifth in the series....romance and adventure
August 11, 2023
I have not read the first book in the series, so I feel i cannot give this book a far review. Thank you to netgalley for letting me read this e arc in exchange for an honest opinion
July 19, 2024
4 and a half stars⭐
I really enjoyed the plot and characters in this story! This book makes me excited to read more of this author!
I really enjoyed the plot and characters in this story! This book makes me excited to read more of this author!
August 15, 2023
Melanie Dickerson has been a favourite author of mine for years now. It all started with The Captive Maiden, which was soon followed by the rest of the Hagenheim books. The minute I hear about a new book from her, I pre-order it on my kindle, so it's no surprise that when I got accepted for this eARC, I was overjoyed.
Cloak of Scarlet is the latest instalment in the Dericott Tales and definitely lives up to the previous ones. If anything, it may be one of my favourite in the series so far. In this Red Riding Hood retelling, we are introduced to Violet who was orphaned at a young age upon her mother's passing and who was then adopted by a lovely family. Her grandmother may be one of my favourite characters. And of course, in comes Sir Merek, a knight in the king's service who has come to serve under a baron near Violet's village. Now, here's what I love about Dickerson's retellings: they are rarely so close to the original tale that you can't differentiate them. It's like the tale is a starting point and then the story goes wherever it needs to go, no matter how different it is from the original tale, still with some little references to the tale.
Reading through this series has reminded me how much I love Dickerson's books. They are such lobely and easy reads that will keep you on the edge of your seat and yet also manage to make you sigh because adorable! I loved this book and am very much looking forward to the next book in the series.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC.
Cloak of Scarlet is the latest instalment in the Dericott Tales and definitely lives up to the previous ones. If anything, it may be one of my favourite in the series so far. In this Red Riding Hood retelling, we are introduced to Violet who was orphaned at a young age upon her mother's passing and who was then adopted by a lovely family. Her grandmother may be one of my favourite characters. And of course, in comes Sir Merek, a knight in the king's service who has come to serve under a baron near Violet's village. Now, here's what I love about Dickerson's retellings: they are rarely so close to the original tale that you can't differentiate them. It's like the tale is a starting point and then the story goes wherever it needs to go, no matter how different it is from the original tale, still with some little references to the tale.
Reading through this series has reminded me how much I love Dickerson's books. They are such lobely and easy reads that will keep you on the edge of your seat and yet also manage to make you sigh because adorable! I loved this book and am very much looking forward to the next book in the series.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC.
May 7, 2023
3.5 stars ⭐️ This was a fun, sweet YA romance and fairytale retelling of Little Red Riding Hood. While the fairytale element of the story is subtle, we still get the girl wearing a red cloak, the grandmother, and a terrible villain.
The Cloak of Scarlet had the classic Melanie Dickerson historical fairytale vibes with the medieval setting and sweet romance. It was really cozy to read this in the evenings when I just wanted something fun and light to read.
I enjoyed how fast-paced this story felt and that the action begins right away. There were definitely some edge-of-your-seat moments as secrets are uncovered, and Violet and Merek had to overcome the baron’s plans. I liked both Violet and Merek. While I didn’t really connect with either of them very much, I did like them. I especially liked how Merek tried to be a better man and overcome his quick temper.
I also enjoyed the faith content throughout this book and how the characters sought to live with integrity.
Overall, this was a fun story. If you enjoy sweet, clean YA romances and historical fairytale retellings, I think you’ll like this one!
*Thank you to the publisher for sending me a complimentary copy in exchange for a review! All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
The Cloak of Scarlet had the classic Melanie Dickerson historical fairytale vibes with the medieval setting and sweet romance. It was really cozy to read this in the evenings when I just wanted something fun and light to read.
I enjoyed how fast-paced this story felt and that the action begins right away. There were definitely some edge-of-your-seat moments as secrets are uncovered, and Violet and Merek had to overcome the baron’s plans. I liked both Violet and Merek. While I didn’t really connect with either of them very much, I did like them. I especially liked how Merek tried to be a better man and overcome his quick temper.
I also enjoyed the faith content throughout this book and how the characters sought to live with integrity.
Overall, this was a fun story. If you enjoy sweet, clean YA romances and historical fairytale retellings, I think you’ll like this one!
*Thank you to the publisher for sending me a complimentary copy in exchange for a review! All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
November 19, 2023
Read and reviewed by my daughter: she loved it and has loved the whole series!
August 24, 2023
Cloak of Scarlet was my first Melanie Dickerson novel, and it…wasn’t my favorite. Since I was little playing my “make believe” games on the playground equipment, swords, archery, and medieval fantasy have been favorites. I can remember shooting a bow at Girl Scout camp, pretending I’m shooting at an evil villain tied to the target. Being my own hero, fighting a dragon myself instead of waiting for some prince. Who needs a prince if I have his horse? I grew up reading stories like Little Red Riding Hood, and ABC’s Once Upon a Time was a favorite TV show. Cloak of Scarlet by Melanie Dickerson takes the classic story of the girl in the red garment and makes it something new.
Based off this particular novel, I will not be reading any more Melanie Dickerson books. Her imagination is obviously large and powerful, but I did not like Cloak of Scarlet. Dickerson’s writing style did nothing for me. Everything about the novel felt flat. The characters never resonated with me. Dickerson described their personality traits rather than having the characters portray them. She wrote sentences like, “Trouble overlapped with his fiery temper”…but I never saw the character lose his self-control. I did not need constant reminding of how this character was stubborn or kind, or how this character was trustworthy. Show me, don’t tell me.
Reading Cloak of Scarlet was like sludging through mud that tried to suck me down. I had to force myself through it. The drama and dangers had no intensity. Declarations of “I’LL THROW YOU IN THE DUNGEONS” and “I’LL KILL YOU AND YOUR FAMILY” made me roll my eyes and say “Sure, okay.” I didn’t care or believe it. Dickerson never really explained the characters’ motivations well enough for my liking. There was no complexity to any of the characters. Merek, Violet, Violet’s mother, the baron—each one seemed to show one personality trait the entire book. And Violet’s brother does not care about her…like at all? Her family doesn’t try to stop her when she surrenders?
The story was too simple, and the writing style felt forced and stunted. Instead of flowing, the paragraphs were choppy like a body of water during a storm. Everyone has different tastes in foods, drinks, and books. I don’t like pickles. I will pull them off my food, trying my best to wipe away whatever pickle residue may still be on my sandwich. Cloak of Scarlet by Melanie Dickerson was for me, like a pickle.
But some people like pickles, and I’ve read plenty of positive reviews for this book. My mother likes pickles, and I’ll give her mine if we’re eating together. Some people like pickles—and some people will like Cloak of Scarlet. But that’s not me. And that’s okay.
*Note: I received a free copy of this novel from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. All views expressed are my own.
Based off this particular novel, I will not be reading any more Melanie Dickerson books. Her imagination is obviously large and powerful, but I did not like Cloak of Scarlet. Dickerson’s writing style did nothing for me. Everything about the novel felt flat. The characters never resonated with me. Dickerson described their personality traits rather than having the characters portray them. She wrote sentences like, “Trouble overlapped with his fiery temper”…but I never saw the character lose his self-control. I did not need constant reminding of how this character was stubborn or kind, or how this character was trustworthy. Show me, don’t tell me.
Reading Cloak of Scarlet was like sludging through mud that tried to suck me down. I had to force myself through it. The drama and dangers had no intensity. Declarations of “I’LL THROW YOU IN THE DUNGEONS” and “I’LL KILL YOU AND YOUR FAMILY” made me roll my eyes and say “Sure, okay.” I didn’t care or believe it. Dickerson never really explained the characters’ motivations well enough for my liking. There was no complexity to any of the characters. Merek, Violet, Violet’s mother, the baron—each one seemed to show one personality trait the entire book. And Violet’s brother does not care about her…like at all? Her family doesn’t try to stop her when she surrenders?
The story was too simple, and the writing style felt forced and stunted. Instead of flowing, the paragraphs were choppy like a body of water during a storm. Everyone has different tastes in foods, drinks, and books. I don’t like pickles. I will pull them off my food, trying my best to wipe away whatever pickle residue may still be on my sandwich. Cloak of Scarlet by Melanie Dickerson was for me, like a pickle.
But some people like pickles, and I’ve read plenty of positive reviews for this book. My mother likes pickles, and I’ll give her mine if we’re eating together. Some people like pickles—and some people will like Cloak of Scarlet. But that’s not me. And that’s okay.
*Note: I received a free copy of this novel from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. All views expressed are my own.
June 12, 2023
I hated this book. By the time I got 40% in, I was bored to tears. Part of the problem is, despite being labeled as a re-telling of Little Red Riding Hood, and marked as a fantasy… there was zero indication of being anything but a historical story. The links to the original fairytale consist of a grandmother who lives in the woods and a red cloak. That's it. It felt like I'd been lied to about what this story was.
The story was written like a child telling a fairytale. The writing style was incredibly bland. There was no poetry to it, very little description, and the characters came across as both simple-minded and naïve. They spent more time talking about their devotion to God (who, by the way, speaks personally to at least two of the characters) than actually doing anything. I was not expecting this to be Christian Fiction.
At almost halfway into the book, the only hint at romance was a mention that the knight was handsome - which, considering he'd never actually be described in any abundance of detail, felt like an offhand comment. There was no romantic tension, or really any tension at all in the writing.
So I gave up. I am absolutely baffled how this book got the ratings it did because this is one of the worst books I've read this year out of the 43 I've completed thus far.
The story was written like a child telling a fairytale. The writing style was incredibly bland. There was no poetry to it, very little description, and the characters came across as both simple-minded and naïve. They spent more time talking about their devotion to God (who, by the way, speaks personally to at least two of the characters) than actually doing anything. I was not expecting this to be Christian Fiction.
At almost halfway into the book, the only hint at romance was a mention that the knight was handsome - which, considering he'd never actually be described in any abundance of detail, felt like an offhand comment. There was no romantic tension, or really any tension at all in the writing.
So I gave up. I am absolutely baffled how this book got the ratings it did because this is one of the worst books I've read this year out of the 43 I've completed thus far.
June 27, 2024
3 1/2 stars
A very exciting read that is easy to follow along with. Definitely a favorite.
Negative Content.
- mention of a woman being taken advantage of, resulting in getting pregnant.
-a scene where a male "relieves himself" outside the castle, ( not very detailed but still not at all necessary).
With the exception of the last thing mentioned, this book was pretty clean with no language and I would definitely read this again.
A very exciting read that is easy to follow along with. Definitely a favorite.
Negative Content.
- mention of a woman being taken advantage of, resulting in getting pregnant.
-a scene where a male "relieves himself" outside the castle, ( not very detailed but still not at all necessary).
With the exception of the last thing mentioned, this book was pretty clean with no language and I would definitely read this again.
Read
September 27, 2023This retelling of the Little Red Riding Hood story is intriguing. The story’s main components are present, along with a few unexpected twists that produce an original situation. This tale takes place in the late 1300s England. Readers first meet Violet, who was on her way to her adopted grandmother’s house, wearing a red cloak with a basket of baked goods, books and a heart filled with hope and love.
Baron Dunham, a figure who resembles the big bad wolf, robs Violet's grandmother. Violet is determined to learn if this has happened to anyone else. She quickly discovers that in addition to being pillaged, people had also been treated horribly and in some cases even killed. She was courageous enough to face up to Sir Merek, a baron's knight. Who finds it difficult to believe the Baron would do such awful things.
Sir Merek and Violet embark on a mission to find evidence of these wrongdoings to present to the king. They needed to stop this wicked man. Sir Merek and Violet encounter a few unexpected things that drastically change their quest for justice.
This is an exciting tale with well-rounded characters, lots of action, twists and turns, and a sweet wholesome romance given that this courageous young woman will stop at nothing to protect her loved ones and her community.
If you like fairytales and retelling of them with likeable characters to root for you’ll like this novel.
Disclosure Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/
Baron Dunham, a figure who resembles the big bad wolf, robs Violet's grandmother. Violet is determined to learn if this has happened to anyone else. She quickly discovers that in addition to being pillaged, people had also been treated horribly and in some cases even killed. She was courageous enough to face up to Sir Merek, a baron's knight. Who finds it difficult to believe the Baron would do such awful things.
Sir Merek and Violet embark on a mission to find evidence of these wrongdoings to present to the king. They needed to stop this wicked man. Sir Merek and Violet encounter a few unexpected things that drastically change their quest for justice.
This is an exciting tale with well-rounded characters, lots of action, twists and turns, and a sweet wholesome romance given that this courageous young woman will stop at nothing to protect her loved ones and her community.
If you like fairytales and retelling of them with likeable characters to root for you’ll like this novel.
Disclosure Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/
August 15, 2023
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 out of 5 stars.
Received for review: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley.
My Overall Thoughts/Impressions: I have loved Melanie Dickerson's books for a long time, so I went in with high expectations. She always creates characters I can't help but fall in love with against wonderful historical backdrops. She also always weaves in her faith elements so naturally. I particularly love her fairy tale retelling books, so I was super excited to read this one.
This one contained many elements I have come to associate with Dickerson, and this was a creative and unforced spin on Red Riding Hood. I thought Merek and Violet had great potential, but I didn't get swept into their stories or relationship like I normally do. This wasn't Dickerson's best. I'm still glad I read it, and it was enjoyable. Just didn't live up to my expectations for a Dickerson novel. But if you've enjoyed her other books, give this one a go.
Love,
Danica Page
Received for review: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley.
My Overall Thoughts/Impressions: I have loved Melanie Dickerson's books for a long time, so I went in with high expectations. She always creates characters I can't help but fall in love with against wonderful historical backdrops. She also always weaves in her faith elements so naturally. I particularly love her fairy tale retelling books, so I was super excited to read this one.
This one contained many elements I have come to associate with Dickerson, and this was a creative and unforced spin on Red Riding Hood. I thought Merek and Violet had great potential, but I didn't get swept into their stories or relationship like I normally do. This wasn't Dickerson's best. I'm still glad I read it, and it was enjoyable. Just didn't live up to my expectations for a Dickerson novel. But if you've enjoyed her other books, give this one a go.
Love,
Danica Page
September 24, 2023
Set in 1386 and filled with the feeling of Camelot, Cloak of Scarlet contained knights, barons, thievery, romance, and good guys and bad guys from the English time period. Dickerson is great at portraying this time period and bring it to life. Violet was a wonderful heroine full of beauty, charm and grit. Sir Merek was the perfect hero with his skills, kindness, and bravery. Baron Dunham played the role of the villain with evil and gusto. Grandma was the perfect secondary character with her love of Violet and her strength of faith. They all fit together to make a perfect combination of middle ages characters that made a perfect story of that era.
Favorite quote: "I learned three things, that most problems work themselves out, that most of what we worry about never comes to pass, and that God is trustworthy. He is working all things for our good even when we don't see it or understand it."
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
Favorite quote: "I learned three things, that most problems work themselves out, that most of what we worry about never comes to pass, and that God is trustworthy. He is working all things for our good even when we don't see it or understand it."
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
July 31, 2023
Violet is stubborn, a trait which causes her to do things that are both courageous and risky. Her biggest undertaking comes when she resolves to speak out against the evil baron and his men. Along the way, Violet meets a knight known as Sir Merek, who shares her longing for justice. Throughout the story, there is a moving sense of mystery, as the reader is always questioning whether each individual is trustworthy. A mix of Robin Hood, Little Red Riding Hood, and the Disney movie "Cruella."
The book was overly romantic at the end which deducted a star from my rating.
However, there were several morals to be learned throughout the story such as the importance of family, speaking up for what is right even in the midst of danger, and seeking God's will and listening to his voice.
The book was overly romantic at the end which deducted a star from my rating.
However, there were several morals to be learned throughout the story such as the importance of family, speaking up for what is right even in the midst of danger, and seeking God's will and listening to his voice.
August 18, 2023
A sweet and fresh twist on Red Riding Hood, A Cloak of Scarlet reimagines a classic.
I enjoyed the depth of the characters and plot. A few twists kept the story's momentum going and even surprised me. I found the romance in the story to be cute, and my favorite aspect of the book.
However, while I enjoyed this read, I found it difficult to be invested in the story and could not immersive myself in the reading. I had to put it down too many times, which disappointed me. I do believe that while this particular book did not work for me, it had more to do with my personal preference rather than the quality of writing.
I do believe that the right reader will love this story.
I enjoyed the depth of the characters and plot. A few twists kept the story's momentum going and even surprised me. I found the romance in the story to be cute, and my favorite aspect of the book.
However, while I enjoyed this read, I found it difficult to be invested in the story and could not immersive myself in the reading. I had to put it down too many times, which disappointed me. I do believe that while this particular book did not work for me, it had more to do with my personal preference rather than the quality of writing.
I do believe that the right reader will love this story.
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