From its title and description, it would be easy to think "Reluctant Hood" is a modern retelling of the eponymous fairy tale. However, that impression hardly does this book justice. The fable of the Red Hood serves only as the foundation of a richly-imagined mythology that I found fascinating and unique.

I loved so many things about this book. The author's writing style was very engaging with some really creative turns of phrase. Each of the main characters had distinct personalities and quirks. The universe felt very plausible and had aspects that I've yet to encounter in other Urban Fantasy tales – the concept of lunacity, or moon madness, being one of my favorites. I also appreciate that, unlike many books in this genre, the story does not contain a spicy element. No shade at all to those who like their UF books on the spicier side, but that's just not my preference.

The main plot took a little while to get going, but once it did, I was left guessing at every turn. The author does a good job at planting red herrings and making you question characters' true motivations. I still find myself highly suspicious of one character's act of mercy during the climax.

This was an absolute pleasure to read, and I will be adding the rest of the Red Chronicles to my TBR. I hope that in future books we see Geri come fully into her powers – even knowing what that might mean for her.