What do you think?
Rate this book
The Sworn Saga #1
Red Rider: édition française (La série Red Rider)
Werewolves. A human resistance. And a girl caught between two worlds.
Red Riding Hood meets The Handmaid's Tale in this post-apocalyptic YA fairytale retelling!
In a land where a werewolf army called the Sworn rule over the humans and walking corpses called treecrawlers roam the wilderness between settlements, orphaned Red has a secret that she and her grandmother have been hiding for years. She's one of the Chosen, the despised young women selected to bear children in the stead of barren female werewolves.
Red keeps her identifying mark hidden, and she doesn't take advantage of the luxuries available to the future mothers of the Sworn. But her secret is discovered when she rescues her rebel boyfriend from execution for treason, and she can hide the truth no longer.
Red is intercepted by a dangerous young Sworn named Vixor Rae, a prince among the werewolves, and taken through the dangerous wilderness to serve her fate in the capital.
Vixor intrigues Red against her will, but he is her enemy, and she wants nothing more than to see him dead.
But when treecrawlers attack the Sworn caravan headed for the capital, and only Red and Vixor survive, the two must rely on each other to make it out of the perilous wilderness alive.
Red Riding Hood meets The Handmaid's Tale in this post-apocalyptic YA fairytale retelling!
In a land where a werewolf army called the Sworn rule over the humans and walking corpses called treecrawlers roam the wilderness between settlements, orphaned Red has a secret that she and her grandmother have been hiding for years. She's one of the Chosen, the despised young women selected to bear children in the stead of barren female werewolves.
Red keeps her identifying mark hidden, and she doesn't take advantage of the luxuries available to the future mothers of the Sworn. But her secret is discovered when she rescues her rebel boyfriend from execution for treason, and she can hide the truth no longer.
Red is intercepted by a dangerous young Sworn named Vixor Rae, a prince among the werewolves, and taken through the dangerous wilderness to serve her fate in the capital.
Vixor intrigues Red against her will, but he is her enemy, and she wants nothing more than to see him dead.
But when treecrawlers attack the Sworn caravan headed for the capital, and only Red and Vixor survive, the two must rely on each other to make it out of the perilous wilderness alive.
230 pages, Paperback
First published February 6, 2019
1048 people are currently reading
3636 people want to read
About the author
Kate Avery Ellison
82 books896 followersI've been making up stories since I was five years old, and now I'm thrilled to be able to do it as a full-time job. I have an obsession with dark fantasy, dystopian futures, and Pride and Prejudice-style love stories full of witty banter and sizzling, unspoken feelings. When I'm not writing, I'm creating digital art, reading funny blogs, or watching my favorite shows (which include TVD and BSG). I live with my geeky husband and our two bad cats in Atlanta, GA.
Click here to read the first chapter of THE CURSE GIRL!
Click here to read the first chapter of FROST!
Attention Book Bloggers ~ If you are interested in interviewing me or reviewing one of my books, send me a message. I'd love to hear from you! (Please note: I am currently not able to fulfill most requests for print copies at this time, but you can always ask. However, I am ALWAYS able and happy to provide e-copies or PDFs of my books in exchange for an honest review.)
If you're wondering why I categorize books as "breathless," "cake," or "amnesia," check out this blog post!
Click here to read the first chapter of THE CURSE GIRL!
Click here to read the first chapter of FROST!
Attention Book Bloggers ~ If you are interested in interviewing me or reviewing one of my books, send me a message. I'd love to hear from you! (Please note: I am currently not able to fulfill most requests for print copies at this time, but you can always ask. However, I am ALWAYS able and happy to provide e-copies or PDFs of my books in exchange for an honest review.)
If you're wondering why I categorize books as "breathless," "cake," or "amnesia," check out this blog post!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 228 reviews
September 11, 2021
3.5 stars, but not rounded up.
While this book wasn't a 3 star book it wasn't quite 4 stars either. It's very basic and the plot twist was expected. I would have been more surprised if it hadn't happened.
Meredith is a Chosen. This means she can birth werewolves (since female werewolves are barren). Something about the smell/taste of their blood lets other werewolves know about this. They run the place, by the way, werewolves are top of the food chain and control mostly everything.
When females come of age (which is 18) they are taken from their families and brought to the capital where they will choose a mate and fulfill their duties. For some obvious reasons Meredith fights this. That is, until she finds out her mother and childhood friend (who she thought was dead) is being held prisoner at said capital. This changes her tactics and instead of trying to get away she's even more determined to make it there.
This is where things go awry. On the way, their coach is attacked by these zombie trees (which are actually pretty cool) and now it's a game of survival. She saves one of the werewolves because she needs him and together they make their way through bandits and other creatures that would see them dead. All in all, pretty solid.
So why only three stars? I don't really have any negatives, I clearly enjoyed it. I even liked that Meredith wasn't completely moved by our werewolves good looks. She was using him for her own agenda. The world is interesting. Since it's set in post apocalyptic times. The earth has retaken buildings and roads, the world changed introducing supernatural creatures. I want to know more.
But, the book was a familiar formula. Girl is taken against her will, they are forced to rely on each other to survive, feelings are caught, someone gets betrayed. Boom. The book. Because there wasn't really anything unique about this (except for maybe the trees) I just couldn't give it a higher rating. Even so, I will continue the series. The second book comes out in November and I'll probably grab it.
While this book wasn't a 3 star book it wasn't quite 4 stars either. It's very basic and the plot twist was expected. I would have been more surprised if it hadn't happened.
Meredith is a Chosen. This means she can birth werewolves (since female werewolves are barren). Something about the smell/taste of their blood lets other werewolves know about this. They run the place, by the way, werewolves are top of the food chain and control mostly everything.
When females come of age (which is 18) they are taken from their families and brought to the capital where they will choose a mate and fulfill their duties. For some obvious reasons Meredith fights this. That is, until she finds out her mother and childhood friend (who she thought was dead) is being held prisoner at said capital. This changes her tactics and instead of trying to get away she's even more determined to make it there.
This is where things go awry. On the way, their coach is attacked by these zombie trees (which are actually pretty cool) and now it's a game of survival. She saves one of the werewolves because she needs him and together they make their way through bandits and other creatures that would see them dead. All in all, pretty solid.
So why only three stars? I don't really have any negatives, I clearly enjoyed it. I even liked that Meredith wasn't completely moved by our werewolves good looks. She was using him for her own agenda. The world is interesting. Since it's set in post apocalyptic times. The earth has retaken buildings and roads, the world changed introducing supernatural creatures. I want to know more.
But, the book was a familiar formula. Girl is taken against her will, they are forced to rely on each other to survive, feelings are caught, someone gets betrayed. Boom. The book. Because there wasn't really anything unique about this (except for maybe the trees) I just couldn't give it a higher rating. Even so, I will continue the series. The second book comes out in November and I'll probably grab it.
January 5, 2022
Set against a post-apocalyptic landscape Meredith Rider is a chosen a girl marked because she has the ability to birth werewolves. She has hidden her mark to prevent being taken to the capital but events conspire leading her to reveal her status to save someone she loves from harm.
Upon learning her mother and childhood friend are not dead like she thought Red allows herself to be transported to the capital planning to rescue them. Her Jailor The Silver Wolf is one of the sworn an elite band of werewolf soldiers who police the land. Upon their journey, their carriage is attacked by tree crawlers leaving Red and Vixor stranded together. They must now work as a team if they have any hope of surviving the coming ordeal.
This felt quite simplistic and the characters felt somewhat one-dimensional. There wasn’t a great deal of backstory either. It did have an interesting premise and the writing itself seemed fine but I couldn’t quite connect to the characters themselves. It did feel quite slow and not much happened to further the story along. Vixor didn’t seem that bad in fact he felt rather bland and Red seemed quite self-righteous proven by her reaction when the twist occurred which by the way I definitely saw coming. I also didn’t really feel any chemistry between Red and Vixor though I did like that this wasn’t instalust either.
This is the first book in a series so there’s still a lot more to come. I won’t be continuing on as I’m just not that invested. This for me was just ok and I did find myself skimming as I was a bit bored and just wasn’t feeling it. This was told from Red’s Perspective and is first-person POV. I voluntary reviewed a copy of Red Rider.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
February 27, 2020
I did it again... I don’t know how I keep finding the most stuck up and close minded FMC’s but I do.
January 26, 2020
I really really struggled deciding what I wanted to rate this. Subjectively, it was a very textbook fantasy and there was nothing necessarily special about this book. However, I honestly really enjoyed it.
First of all, I’ve never read a Little Red Riding Hood retelling before, so I really liked that aspect of this book. While the plot wasn’t all that unique (in the sense that it was your typical girl being taken by people who are more powerful then everyone else) I still enjoyed reading it. This book also had your typical hate/love romance which everyone should know I am a sucker for, so as predictable as it was, I still enjoyed it. As for the “plot twist”, honestly I was so caught up in the rest of the book I forgot a plot twist would come and so when it happened I was honestly so unprepared for it. It was definitely such an obvious plot twist that I for some reason was still shocked by.
Overall, I am excited to continue reading this trilogy, and am definitely curious as to where it will end up!
First of all, I’ve never read a Little Red Riding Hood retelling before, so I really liked that aspect of this book. While the plot wasn’t all that unique (in the sense that it was your typical girl being taken by people who are more powerful then everyone else) I still enjoyed reading it. This book also had your typical hate/love romance which everyone should know I am a sucker for, so as predictable as it was, I still enjoyed it. As for the “plot twist”, honestly I was so caught up in the rest of the book I forgot a plot twist would come and so when it happened I was honestly so unprepared for it. It was definitely such an obvious plot twist that I for some reason was still shocked by.
Overall, I am excited to continue reading this trilogy, and am definitely curious as to where it will end up!
June 26, 2020
This was a light and fun YA read with fantasy, post-apocalyptic, and romance elements. It was also a short read and ended a bit abruptly. If I read the next one it will be because I'm curious about how this world came to be. There are werewolves and tree spores that create zombie tree creatures. If I don't read further, it will be because while this was a fun read, the MC lacks depth and I don't really care what happens next to her. But those zombie tree creatures though...
October 26, 2023
MIND. BLOWN.
This was amazing! I seriously LOVED IT. I’m shocked that this isn’t given more hype. It blew my expectations out of the water!
The setting was fantastic. Post-apocalyptic with lots of world building and creative fantasy elements. But it is all grounded in reality, which was a perfect approach imo.
The writing was phenomenal. I’m super sensitive to this aspect and I LOVE finding talented authors. The descriptions were so good that I felt fully immersed. The characters were fleshed out and their interactions had subtlety and nuance because of the excellent writing. I empathized with the characters, connected with their internal struggles, and identified with their thought processes and decision making (a must for my reading enjoyment).
I really enjoyed the plot. I love romantic survival stories set in bigger plot lines. The characters get a chance to interact constantly, develop their relationship, and have adventures without all the external pressures and dynamics of the bigger world. Forced proximity at its finest. :) And through it all, there’s something bigger looming outside their bubble. The difficulty for the author is how to make the next part of the story just as good as the first part.
The romance was superb. 5 star chemistry that had me totally addicted to turning pages. The whole time I was on the edge of my seat on whether he would tell her the big reveal or not. Now I can’t wait to see how their dynamics continue now that their survival journey is over.
I would consider this a very strong fantasy romance, which is my favorite genre. Kudos to Kate Avery Ellison. She is a very talented writer! I can’t wait to read more from her!!
Content-
Language- infrequent very low level swearing
Sex- no sex scene or explicit content. One well written kissing scene at about 80% in. Clean.
Horror- some elements of fantasy horror that I actually really liked, that added to the urgency and danger vibes. Nothing overly disturbing.
Cover- I like it
I read this on KU
How I rated this YA fantasy series:
Red Rider - 5 stars
Silver Wolf - 5 stars
Black Veil - 5 stars
White Mask - 4 stars
Crimson Heart - 4 stars
Scarlet Daughter - 5 stars
This was amazing! I seriously LOVED IT. I’m shocked that this isn’t given more hype. It blew my expectations out of the water!
The setting was fantastic. Post-apocalyptic with lots of world building and creative fantasy elements. But it is all grounded in reality, which was a perfect approach imo.
The writing was phenomenal. I’m super sensitive to this aspect and I LOVE finding talented authors. The descriptions were so good that I felt fully immersed. The characters were fleshed out and their interactions had subtlety and nuance because of the excellent writing. I empathized with the characters, connected with their internal struggles, and identified with their thought processes and decision making (a must for my reading enjoyment).
I really enjoyed the plot. I love romantic survival stories set in bigger plot lines. The characters get a chance to interact constantly, develop their relationship, and have adventures without all the external pressures and dynamics of the bigger world. Forced proximity at its finest. :) And through it all, there’s something bigger looming outside their bubble. The difficulty for the author is how to make the next part of the story just as good as the first part.
The romance was superb. 5 star chemistry that had me totally addicted to turning pages. The whole time I was on the edge of my seat on whether he would tell her the big reveal or not. Now I can’t wait to see how their dynamics continue now that their survival journey is over.
I would consider this a very strong fantasy romance, which is my favorite genre. Kudos to Kate Avery Ellison. She is a very talented writer! I can’t wait to read more from her!!
Content-
Language- infrequent very low level swearing
Sex- no sex scene or explicit content. One well written kissing scene at about 80% in. Clean.
Horror- some elements of fantasy horror that I actually really liked, that added to the urgency and danger vibes. Nothing overly disturbing.
Cover- I like it
I read this on KU
How I rated this YA fantasy series:
Red Rider - 5 stars
Silver Wolf - 5 stars
Black Veil - 5 stars
White Mask - 4 stars
Crimson Heart - 4 stars
Scarlet Daughter - 5 stars
February 28, 2021
So there was definitely a reason as to why this book wasn't on my radar until yesterday.. and that's because I had no desire to dive into Red Rider. Well, yesterday was the day that changed my mind because of a certain challenge (or five hundred of them). Since it worked for most of them, I figured I should dip my toes into this new series just to see if I would like it.
Long story short, I will probably not be diving into the rest of this series. Now even though this was a quick read to fly through, I honestly couldn't connect to anyone or anything that was happening. I was mostly bored for the entire thing and just wanted to skim right to the end. Of course I didn't do that.. so I broke out some wine instead.
Let's just say that the wine only helped me with finishing the book. That's about it.
In this, you will meet Red. She's an okay character living in a very confusing world/kingdom. I'm still confused on a bunch of things that happened in this book but since I'm not diving into book 2 any time soon.. I have no desire for getting answers about certain things.
In the end, it was an okay book but that's about it.
Long story short, I will probably not be diving into the rest of this series. Now even though this was a quick read to fly through, I honestly couldn't connect to anyone or anything that was happening. I was mostly bored for the entire thing and just wanted to skim right to the end. Of course I didn't do that.. so I broke out some wine instead.
Let's just say that the wine only helped me with finishing the book. That's about it.
In this, you will meet Red. She's an okay character living in a very confusing world/kingdom. I'm still confused on a bunch of things that happened in this book but since I'm not diving into book 2 any time soon.. I have no desire for getting answers about certain things.
In the end, it was an okay book but that's about it.
February 14, 2022
4.5
I'm still going back and forth on what to rate this one. I'm leaning more towards five because of the originality of the story. Not your typical Red Riding Hood retelling!!
Story Set in a post-apocalyptic America, where werewolves, called the Sworn, are in power and zombie like creatures called treecrawlers roam the earth. We also have bandits, the resistance and regular humans just trying to survive. Meredith Rider risks her life to save her boyfriend and ends up a captive of the Sworn. Then the real adventure begins.
Characters Meredith was a good heroine, easy to like. She is a fighter, but also knows when to hold back. She is loyal, kind and driven. The author did a good job portraying Vixor as a cold hearted leader, arrogant and used to everyone doing just what he says. But she also shows a kinder side and that there is more to him than what he presents.
Romance Definitely slow-burn, but based on everything going on in the story...I'm glad! It would be odd if the romance developed too quickly, so I am enjoying the pacing of it so far. Definitely an enemies-to-lovers trope that I have high hopes for, lol.
Overall, I thought this was well written and a captivating story. The treecrawlers are a bit odd, but super creepy and the werewolves are unique from any that I've read before. I'm curious to hear more about the background and how they came to power, etc. I didn't realize this was a series until after I read it, but I am looking forward to reading the next book and see what happens next!
Content Rated PG13
Romance: Kissing
Language: Mild (a few D, one B and one S)
Violence: Heavy - not overly graphic
I'm still going back and forth on what to rate this one. I'm leaning more towards five because of the originality of the story. Not your typical Red Riding Hood retelling!!
Story Set in a post-apocalyptic America, where werewolves, called the Sworn, are in power and zombie like creatures called treecrawlers roam the earth. We also have bandits, the resistance and regular humans just trying to survive. Meredith Rider risks her life to save her boyfriend and ends up a captive of the Sworn. Then the real adventure begins.
Characters Meredith was a good heroine, easy to like. She is a fighter, but also knows when to hold back. She is loyal, kind and driven. The author did a good job portraying Vixor as a cold hearted leader, arrogant and used to everyone doing just what he says. But she also shows a kinder side and that there is more to him than what he presents.
Romance Definitely slow-burn, but based on everything going on in the story...I'm glad! It would be odd if the romance developed too quickly, so I am enjoying the pacing of it so far. Definitely an enemies-to-lovers trope that I have high hopes for, lol.
Overall, I thought this was well written and a captivating story. The treecrawlers are a bit odd, but super creepy and the werewolves are unique from any that I've read before. I'm curious to hear more about the background and how they came to power, etc. I didn't realize this was a series until after I read it, but I am looking forward to reading the next book and see what happens next!
Content Rated PG13
Romance: Kissing
Language: Mild (a few D, one B and one S)
Violence: Heavy - not overly graphic
July 12, 2019
4.5 stars! Wow! What a ride. No pun intended. I loved Rex and Vixor. I am so into this story. I thought the world was very well built. I loved the chemistry. Its Hate to Love with a fabulous twist!
And I would call this New Adult without the smut. I was so invested. I need the next part! Addicting!
And I would call this New Adult without the smut. I was so invested. I need the next part! Addicting!
April 21, 2021
So, I did enjoy this but it was predictable and I knew halfway in exactly who the Silver Wolf actually was. It wasn’t shocking in the way I think the the big reveal was meant to be. Both of the MC’s are likable but I’d actually like Baz to make an appearance again. On to the next book. I hope it’s good!
October 9, 2019
Cortito, muy equilibrado en la parte de la acción y el romance; ma ha gustado el mundo fantástico que crea. Sin duda quiero leer el segundo y ver cómo evolucionan Red & Silver.
Short, very balanced in the part of the action and romance; I liked her conception of a fantastic world. I definitely want to read the second one and see how Red & Silver develop.
Short, very balanced in the part of the action and romance; I liked her conception of a fantastic world. I definitely want to read the second one and see how Red & Silver develop.
September 12, 2020
Wow, couldn't put this down!!!! Really really enjoyed it and cant wait to read the next one!!!!
February 22, 2019
That moment you finish an amazing book, realize it just came out a few days ago, and the second book is not even listed on Goodreads.
I picked up this book after seeing a friend had given it 5 stars. I was not disappointed. The characters were portrayed beautifully, the story kept my interest (to the point of finishing the book in less than 24 hours), the writing was great and no “insert scenario for plot purposes”. Everything flowed in this book and I never got bored. I’m going to start picking up more of this authors books because count me interested.
My reaction when the book ended and I have to wait for the second book:
I picked up this book after seeing a friend had given it 5 stars. I was not disappointed. The characters were portrayed beautifully, the story kept my interest (to the point of finishing the book in less than 24 hours), the writing was great and no “insert scenario for plot purposes”. Everything flowed in this book and I never got bored. I’m going to start picking up more of this authors books because count me interested.
My reaction when the book ended and I have to wait for the second book:
February 22, 2025
Oh my goodness! I was instantly engaged in this story. Kate Avery Ellison is an excellent world-builder and creature-creator. I really, really loved this book! I'm so glad to have discovered a wonderful new author. Thanks, Anne.
2/26/22 I have been waiting for over a year for the final book in this series to be released. So, I am rereading all five books leading up to the final installment. I loved Red Rider just as much this time. I hope I can say the same for the next four books.
2/21/25 I love it still.
2/26/22 I have been waiting for over a year for the final book in this series to be released. So, I am rereading all five books leading up to the final installment. I loved Red Rider just as much this time. I hope I can say the same for the next four books.
2/21/25 I love it still.
February 25, 2019
This is one of the most annoying main character I’ve encountered in a book. I wanted to shake her at times for being such a brat and I had more sympathy for the wolves then her. The only reason I was able to finish the book at all was because of the somewhat exciting zombie trees making it more interesting. Overall, the book is biggest disappointment of 2019 thus far.
February 16, 2022
Super original. Good solid book. Loved the moments in the forest between Red and the Silver wolf. Great stuff!
May 1, 2020
When something says Red Riding Hood meets The Handmaid's tale, you had better deliver. Also... with that premise, you have my attention. I'm a novice with Red Riding Hood retellings/re- imaginings (two short stories does not an expert make) at least in book form (Neil Jordan's The Company of Wolves is an underappreciated masterpiece). I've read the OG tale and am aware of its literary analysis. And given its length, I expected this to be a quick RRH cash grab, relying heavily on romance in place of plot. But this author knows how to cultivate characters and action/romance without sacrificing the elements of the fairy tale. And no, your eyes don't deceive, that's a pros and cons list for a four star (I'm feeling extremely generous):
Pros
-Peppering/subverting the OG fairy tale elements
*Meredith's double sided red cloak will shield her from the Sworn's (Werewolves who run their world) sight, while in the OG story, her red cloak puts her on full display, juxtaposing the vibrant color against the dreary forest made her easy prey
*The cloak is gifted to her by her father, protecting her from becoming a breeder for the Sworn, but later on we hear rumblings from Vixor (Silver Wolf) that the Chosen have some say in who they give themselves to. Could all be hearsay either way, but perhaps the cloak was a way to hinder Red's journey into her sexual awakening (over which she exerts most control), subjecting her to a sheltered life on both fronts.
-Bleak/violent language and situations that make you feel, rather than sicken the soul
*Much like its other inspiration, The Handmaid's Tale, violence to the poverty stricken and unfair treatment of women are at the forefront. This does not shy away from its dystopian roots: girls choose suicide over being The Chosen (we witness one girl's grizzly end, via diving headfirst off a canyon into the water), civilians are hanged for revolting towards authority, even Red herself is whipped in front of her village for defying the law (her punishment is read as "40 lashes", but come to find out, the governor wrote "40 lashes or until death". Jesus) Is it weird to list it under pros? Perhaps. But so few authors will delve into the darkness that comes from a dystopia, especially one that targets women (lookin' at you, Selection). And if they do, it's marred with so much blood, I may as well have watched a slasher. No thank you.
-Tension
*Not only are girls subjected to becoming walking wombs against their will, but the children they birth will join the ranks of those who rule/subject her people. She's contributing to human kind's demise. And even if they fight back, they're not welcomed by their village anyway. Bit of a Catch-22...
-Use of different sub genres
*Romance: In a RRH retelling, it's kind of give in that Red and the big bad wolf will fall for each other, but goodness, you could cut the sexual tension with a knife. But it's done gradually and Red deals with real guilt a legitimate reason. Vixor's loyal to a society that enslaves certain women, and no matter how they care for each other alone, he's still bent on getting her to the Capital for her to choose a mate, selling her to her enemy camp. As of now, he's a villain, no matter how attractive the package.
*Horror: the Treecrawlers are the stuff of nightmares. Creatures that come from the trees that reanimate corpses, implant spores in those unlucky enough to cross their path.
*Gothic Romance: Red racing from creatures and captors through the cold woods, branches clawing at her cloak felt very Dark Shadows-esque.
-Werewolves are usually portrayed as savage beasts at the mercy of the ruling humans, while also representing sexual freedom. But here they're regal, ruling, and far from free with sexual practices (as far was we know; I mean, The Chosen is a fancy title for the reality: breeders)
-Homages to the source material
*Line "belly full of stones"
*Red commenting on the the Sworn underestimating the strength of an elderly woman
Cons
-Lack of "What big eyes" and "What big hands"; I'm aware that's a personal problem
-Repetition of the soft as a kitten simile
-Kind of knew Vixor was really Kassian
Just two cons. Hardly worth the list. Needless to say, I'll be continuing on for sure.
Pros
-Peppering/subverting the OG fairy tale elements
*Meredith's double sided red cloak will shield her from the Sworn's (Werewolves who run their world) sight, while in the OG story, her red cloak puts her on full display, juxtaposing the vibrant color against the dreary forest made her easy prey
*The cloak is gifted to her by her father, protecting her from becoming a breeder for the Sworn, but later on we hear rumblings from Vixor (Silver Wolf) that the Chosen have some say in who they give themselves to. Could all be hearsay either way, but perhaps the cloak was a way to hinder Red's journey into her sexual awakening (over which she exerts most control), subjecting her to a sheltered life on both fronts.
-Bleak/violent language and situations that make you feel, rather than sicken the soul
*Much like its other inspiration, The Handmaid's Tale, violence to the poverty stricken and unfair treatment of women are at the forefront. This does not shy away from its dystopian roots: girls choose suicide over being The Chosen (we witness one girl's grizzly end, via diving headfirst off a canyon into the water), civilians are hanged for revolting towards authority, even Red herself is whipped in front of her village for defying the law (her punishment is read as "40 lashes", but come to find out, the governor wrote "40 lashes or until death". Jesus) Is it weird to list it under pros? Perhaps. But so few authors will delve into the darkness that comes from a dystopia, especially one that targets women (lookin' at you, Selection). And if they do, it's marred with so much blood, I may as well have watched a slasher. No thank you.
-Tension
*Not only are girls subjected to becoming walking wombs against their will, but the children they birth will join the ranks of those who rule/subject her people. She's contributing to human kind's demise. And even if they fight back, they're not welcomed by their village anyway. Bit of a Catch-22...
-Use of different sub genres
*Romance: In a RRH retelling, it's kind of give in that Red and the big bad wolf will fall for each other, but goodness, you could cut the sexual tension with a knife. But it's done gradually and Red deals with real guilt a legitimate reason. Vixor's loyal to a society that enslaves certain women, and no matter how they care for each other alone, he's still bent on getting her to the Capital for her to choose a mate, selling her to her enemy camp. As of now, he's a villain, no matter how attractive the package.
*Horror: the Treecrawlers are the stuff of nightmares. Creatures that come from the trees that reanimate corpses, implant spores in those unlucky enough to cross their path.
*Gothic Romance: Red racing from creatures and captors through the cold woods, branches clawing at her cloak felt very Dark Shadows-esque.
-Werewolves are usually portrayed as savage beasts at the mercy of the ruling humans, while also representing sexual freedom. But here they're regal, ruling, and far from free with sexual practices (as far was we know; I mean, The Chosen is a fancy title for the reality: breeders)
-Homages to the source material
*Line "belly full of stones"
*Red commenting on the the Sworn underestimating the strength of an elderly woman
Cons
-Lack of "What big eyes" and "What big hands"; I'm aware that's a personal problem
-Repetition of the soft as a kitten simile
-Kind of knew Vixor was really Kassian
Just two cons. Hardly worth the list. Needless to say, I'll be continuing on for sure.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 30, 2020
Hmmm. Maybe 2.5-3 star.. ish? I'm kind of on the fence a bit here. I just could not really get "into" this book. The lack of backstory as well as explanation other than just a vague sort of explanation just started me off on the wrong foot and then the next foot dropped.. I, for the life of me, was unable to really connect with the characters, and I can't quite explain it.. It was like all the characters were just really one sided. Also, for the life of me I honestly can't understand why the hostility in this kingdom. I mean I get what they are trying to paint a picture of here but I just never felt we got the "whole" story.
Red, our FMC, has been hiding herself for years with her grandmothers help. Apparently Red is a Chosen, which means that when she comes of age she has the ability to bear the shifter wolf offspring. Chosen girls are basically "sold" to the kingdom Alpha and allowed to choose a mate there. I see what the author was trying to portray.. but the "big bad wolf" just never seemed bad to me so that whole side of the story kind of lost its "spark" after that. Red exposes herself.. over a dumb boy.. of course and is immediately taken into custody to be delivered. Only her kidnapper.. isn't what he seems and maybe there is more to the story..
Not sure quite yet whether or not I feel like this is a story I want to pursue.. I'm on the fence right now. It could go either way.
Red, our FMC, has been hiding herself for years with her grandmothers help. Apparently Red is a Chosen, which means that when she comes of age she has the ability to bear the shifter wolf offspring. Chosen girls are basically "sold" to the kingdom Alpha and allowed to choose a mate there. I see what the author was trying to portray.. but the "big bad wolf" just never seemed bad to me so that whole side of the story kind of lost its "spark" after that. Red exposes herself.. over a dumb boy.. of course and is immediately taken into custody to be delivered. Only her kidnapper.. isn't what he seems and maybe there is more to the story..
Not sure quite yet whether or not I feel like this is a story I want to pursue.. I'm on the fence right now. It could go either way.
May 8, 2020
Fantastic new telling of Red Riding and The Wolf
A new to me author.
Red Rider is book one in Kate Avery Ellison’s The Sworn Saga. If you like fairytale retellings then this is a must read. You think you know the tale about Red Riding Hood and The Big Bad Wolf, well think again, this book is going to have you questioning everything.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, it had a very addictive, curious, interesting, and exciting vibe that had me glued from the beginning. It was fast paced with so much happening that I was anxiously anticipating what was going to happen next. I loved Red and Vixor’s characters they were strong, independent and fantastic. I can’t wait to see what happiness the next book.
Meredith Rider is a ‘Chosen’ a human female chosen to breed with The Sworn (Werewolves) to produce the next generation of Werewolf children. She has hidden the fact she is a ‘Chosen’ from everyone except her Grandmother. After loosing her family to ‘The Sworn’ she had spent the last nine years avoiding them, and training with her Grandmother to protect herself. She hates The Sworn and wants nothing to do with them, but when someone she loves is due to die she must sacrifice herself and let her secret known to save them. Now in the hands of the Silver Wolf the right hand to the Alpha, she must take the journey to the palace where she will be paired off to a Werewolf to breed, but first she needs to make the journey there, but the Treecrawlers ain’t going to make it easy.
A new to me author.
Red Rider is book one in Kate Avery Ellison’s The Sworn Saga. If you like fairytale retellings then this is a must read. You think you know the tale about Red Riding Hood and The Big Bad Wolf, well think again, this book is going to have you questioning everything.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, it had a very addictive, curious, interesting, and exciting vibe that had me glued from the beginning. It was fast paced with so much happening that I was anxiously anticipating what was going to happen next. I loved Red and Vixor’s characters they were strong, independent and fantastic. I can’t wait to see what happiness the next book.
Meredith Rider is a ‘Chosen’ a human female chosen to breed with The Sworn (Werewolves) to produce the next generation of Werewolf children. She has hidden the fact she is a ‘Chosen’ from everyone except her Grandmother. After loosing her family to ‘The Sworn’ she had spent the last nine years avoiding them, and training with her Grandmother to protect herself. She hates The Sworn and wants nothing to do with them, but when someone she loves is due to die she must sacrifice herself and let her secret known to save them. Now in the hands of the Silver Wolf the right hand to the Alpha, she must take the journey to the palace where she will be paired off to a Werewolf to breed, but first she needs to make the journey there, but the Treecrawlers ain’t going to make it easy.
February 10, 2019
I was so excited about this surprise release from Kate Avery Ellison. I’m a huge fan of her King Maker’s War series . This re-telling of Little Red Riding in a post- apocalyptic setting was fantastic. You not only get werewolves but a new creature called treecrawlers which are a whole new take on zombies.
I quickly fell in love of the idea of Red and The Silver Wolf falling for each other even though I had an idea of a truth they were going to have to face. There were a couple a inconsistencies about Reds cloak and collar/necklace. I also wanted to know more about the significance of a ring her grandmother had given her. It was a shorter book so I’m hoping some of my questions are answered in the next book that I can only hope comes out quickly. I plan to grab it the moment it’s released.
I quickly fell in love of the idea of Red and The Silver Wolf falling for each other even though I had an idea of a truth they were going to have to face. There were a couple a inconsistencies about Reds cloak and collar/necklace. I also wanted to know more about the significance of a ring her grandmother had given her. It was a shorter book so I’m hoping some of my questions are answered in the next book that I can only hope comes out quickly. I plan to grab it the moment it’s released.
June 23, 2021
Interesting
This was an interesting tale, but I’m not sure that anything really happened.
Red is a Chosen girl; a girl that will become the mate of a Sworn, or werewolf. She has no choice in the matter, but her village shuns her regardless.
On the journey to the capital and the Alpha, the carriage Red is in is suddenly attacked. Red is now tasked with keeping her captor, Vixor, alive so that they can reach the capital, and hopefully save her mother.
The novel had a lot of descriptions and vague conflicts that didn’t seem to go anywhere. The characters were very one dimensional to me, with secrets only being revealed when the most conflict and arguments are at their peak. Then the book ended.
This is the first novel of a series, although the lacklustre of it makes me hesitate in trying to continue the story.
This was an interesting tale, but I’m not sure that anything really happened.
Red is a Chosen girl; a girl that will become the mate of a Sworn, or werewolf. She has no choice in the matter, but her village shuns her regardless.
On the journey to the capital and the Alpha, the carriage Red is in is suddenly attacked. Red is now tasked with keeping her captor, Vixor, alive so that they can reach the capital, and hopefully save her mother.
The novel had a lot of descriptions and vague conflicts that didn’t seem to go anywhere. The characters were very one dimensional to me, with secrets only being revealed when the most conflict and arguments are at their peak. Then the book ended.
This is the first novel of a series, although the lacklustre of it makes me hesitate in trying to continue the story.
September 5, 2024
A solid start—I’m excited to get caught up in this saga of werewolves and humans in a futuristic world!
In book 1 of the saga we’re introduced to Red, an eventual Chosen, and her parents, best friend Kassian, and of course her grandmother. After a terribly encounter with werewolves, everyone in Red’s family, except for her grandmother, are killed.
Fast forward 9 years—Red is 19 years old and life is not easy. After a mishap, she ends up on the road with the infamous and dangerous Silver Wolf, Vixor.
In book 1 of the saga we’re introduced to Red, an eventual Chosen, and her parents, best friend Kassian, and of course her grandmother. After a terribly encounter with werewolves, everyone in Red’s family, except for her grandmother, are killed.
Fast forward 9 years—Red is 19 years old and life is not easy. After a mishap, she ends up on the road with the infamous and dangerous Silver Wolf, Vixor.
March 2, 2019
Really enjoying the emergence of the reimagined fairytale genre! The few problems i had with this story were totally overshadowed by the fact that it's such a fun, creative read! I saw the big reveal coming a mile away, but still couldn't put it down. Finished in less than 2 days and can't wait for the next book in this series. I have some ideas as to some secrets we might see in the next story, but I'm hoping I will be surprised. Even if I'm not, I hope it's as enjoyable as the first installnent.
January 17, 2020
Such a good book! I love finding these hidden treasures on the Kindle Unlimited list. Good characters and an excellent plot twist. “Red” is a strong female lead with an admirable inner strength and smarts.
December 20, 2020
So amazing!
This book was amazing in so many ways! Kate Avery Ellison is a master at fantasy world building and executing twists that you never see coming. The best Red Riding Hood retelling ever!
This book was amazing in so many ways! Kate Avery Ellison is a master at fantasy world building and executing twists that you never see coming. The best Red Riding Hood retelling ever!
January 17, 2021
Dystopian world with werewolves and plant zombies. Yes please.
July 16, 2021
The Sworn Saga by Kate Avery Ellison: Red Rider, Silver Wolf, Black Veil, White Mask and Crimson Heart.
This will be my review for all 5 of the books that have been published.
It has been a long time since I've read anything by Kate Avery Ellison. She was one of the first indie authors I ever read and for the most part, I liked her Frost series and her Secrets of Itlantis series. I had forgotten how easily I get sucked into her books, until I picked up Red Rider, and holy cow! I could hardly put it down. That isn't to say that I thought it was without flaws though. In fact, there was something really frustrating about the fact that I found this so compelling but also pretty flawed.
I'll start with the things I liked. I like the easy, compelling writing style the author has. When I saw that she had written a Red Riding Hood retelling I had to try it, because I love Red Riding Hood retellings. I enjoyed certain aspects of the story because of that, and I liked that this put a bit of a different spin on Red Riding Hood as well. I liked the main character a lot, and also absolutely loved Vixor Rae. Also, I liked that there was one twist later in the series that I didn't see coming at all, and I always appreciate when a book surprises me.
One of the things I didn't like so much was the constant back and forth between Red and Vixor. They go in circles with their relationship constantly throughout the series and it drove me crazy! I expected this to be resolved in the second book, certainly by the third, but no, it is still going on 5 books in! Overall, there is too much repetition in the series, and I don't think the series needed to be as many books as it is. I also thought that the Wolves didn't do enough as wolves in the series. They rarely change into werewolf form and they didn't feel as threatening or sinister as they should have. I felt like they were kind of upstaged by the tree crawlers, and I'm not really sure why the tree crawlers were included in the first place. There are also some things that I would like more of an explanation for. Why are there werewolves and tree crawlers? What happened to our world to make all this happen? Instead of focusing on answering these questions, the back and forth relationship was focused on too much.
So normally this stuff would be enough for me to abandon a series after a couple of books, but this one is so compelling that I am loving it despite myself and it's kind of infuriating! So, hats off the Kate Avery Ellison for writing such a compelling series. There is one final book to be released later this year and honestly, I can't wait to read it, flaws and all.
This will be my review for all 5 of the books that have been published.
It has been a long time since I've read anything by Kate Avery Ellison. She was one of the first indie authors I ever read and for the most part, I liked her Frost series and her Secrets of Itlantis series. I had forgotten how easily I get sucked into her books, until I picked up Red Rider, and holy cow! I could hardly put it down. That isn't to say that I thought it was without flaws though. In fact, there was something really frustrating about the fact that I found this so compelling but also pretty flawed.
I'll start with the things I liked. I like the easy, compelling writing style the author has. When I saw that she had written a Red Riding Hood retelling I had to try it, because I love Red Riding Hood retellings. I enjoyed certain aspects of the story because of that, and I liked that this put a bit of a different spin on Red Riding Hood as well. I liked the main character a lot, and also absolutely loved Vixor Rae. Also, I liked that there was one twist later in the series that I didn't see coming at all, and I always appreciate when a book surprises me.
One of the things I didn't like so much was the constant back and forth between Red and Vixor. They go in circles with their relationship constantly throughout the series and it drove me crazy! I expected this to be resolved in the second book, certainly by the third, but no, it is still going on 5 books in! Overall, there is too much repetition in the series, and I don't think the series needed to be as many books as it is. I also thought that the Wolves didn't do enough as wolves in the series. They rarely change into werewolf form and they didn't feel as threatening or sinister as they should have. I felt like they were kind of upstaged by the tree crawlers, and I'm not really sure why the tree crawlers were included in the first place. There are also some things that I would like more of an explanation for. Why are there werewolves and tree crawlers? What happened to our world to make all this happen? Instead of focusing on answering these questions, the back and forth relationship was focused on too much.
So normally this stuff would be enough for me to abandon a series after a couple of books, but this one is so compelling that I am loving it despite myself and it's kind of infuriating! So, hats off the Kate Avery Ellison for writing such a compelling series. There is one final book to be released later this year and honestly, I can't wait to read it, flaws and all.
May 8, 2022
I was craving a fast paced book that kept my attention and this fit that need. The bigger things are predictable but the story along the way was more unusual and kept my attention.
to-read-perhaps
January 4, 202201.03.2022 // Notes to self:
CheyAnn recommended KATE AVERY ELLISON to me personally one of her favorite authors of 2021. https://www.goodreads.com/user_challe...#
October 9, 2019
Did I read this book because amazon said it was the handmaids tale with werewolves? Yes, did I enjoy it? Also yes
Displaying 1 - 30 of 228 reviews