El’s Honest Take: Tasting Red by Holly Roberds – A Spooky Season Romance Read!
- Reading Reaper (El)
- Sep 2, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Sep 18, 2024
The Big Bad Wolf just got a whole lot hungrier, and he's waiting for you and this is the perfect spooky season romance read.
“Tasting Red” by Holly Roberds is a fun and spicy twist on the classic Little Red Riding Hood story. It’s the first book in the Lost Girls series and mixes fantasy, romance, and adventure in a really cool way.
"The control I cultivated for almost twenty years snaps like a brittle twig, and I grab her by that gorgeous fucking fire hair and release the beast inside." - Holly Roberds (Tasting Red, The Big Bad Wolf)
Right from the start, “Tasting Red” grabs your attention with its great pacing and enjoyable prose. Holly Roberds has a unique writing style that makes this book a real page-turner. The story flows nicely at a medium pace, and the vivid descriptions make you feel like you’re right there in the middle of the action
Little Red is a fantastic main character. She’s got a lot going on in a big world and relies on her fairytale gang of best friends to help her out. Each friend has their own distinct personality, adding a lot of fun to the story. Then there’s Brexley, the lone wolf, who brings a lot of tension and intrigue. His chemistry with Red is undeniable and keeps you hooked.
Brexley is a really interesting character—a morally grey werewolf and assassin with a tough past. His bond with Red’s pets is one of my favorite parts and adds a sweet touch to his character. Seeing him open up and connect with Red is really the icing on top.
I could fuck this girl until we both died, and then we would continue humping in hell. - Holly Roberds (Tasting Red, The Big Bad Wolf)
With each chapter, adventure, passion, growth, sass, and secrets sweep you away into another world. I can't wait to check out the other Lost Girls series books.
Red's best friends each have their own distinct personalities and they add such a great element to Tasting Red.
Brexley allows very few things to get close to him but I have to say his connection with Red's pets has to be one of my favourite parts and it adds a layer to him that you just can't ignore. His past is one of pain and sadness and it is nice to see him in his element knowing what he's been through now.
The plot is packed with adventure, passion, growth, sass, and secrets. Each chapter brings something even more exciting and intense than the last. Their story dives into themes like trust, misunderstandings coming to light, and dealing with your past. The chemistry between Red and Brexley is electric, and their interactions are full of primal desire, adding a spicy element to the book.
With open-door scenes and a very primal desire, you'll find that Brex & Red are simply magnetic.
“You think I can’t handle you? Pet, I’m the only one who can.” - Holly Roberds (Tasting Red, The Big Bad Wolf)
The story builds up nicely, but the ending feels a bit rushed to me. Still, it wraps things up well enough and leaves you wanting more from the story. The open-door scenes and the intense attraction between the characters are handled well, making the book even more engaging.
If that makes me a dead wolf, then so be it.- Holly Roberds (Tasting Red, The Big Bad Wolf)
I am so glad all is well in the world and that Red & TBBW met, he's not the golden retriever - he's a wolf.
This book is a great read for anyone who loves fantasy romance and fairytale retellings. Holly Roberds has created a unique and captivating story that stands out. The characters are well-developed, the plot is intriguing, and the writing is top-notch. If you’re looking for a quick, spicy read with a touch of magic and adventure, this book is definitely worth checking out on Amazon if you want a quick and spicy read.
Brexley is strong but not without his flaws, fears, and demons. If you like men who won’t give in to others easily but they fall hard for the FMC, he’s perfect for you. He’s not perfect and is actually there to unalive Red’s Grandma, but the secrets and his dark side just make the story that much sweeter.
Don’t forget to check out the other books in the Lost Girls series for more magical stories and unforgettable characters.
Author's Notes & Information
Pairing(s): MF, he's a shifter however there are no monster-fudging or knot scenes just to be clear!
Genre: fantasy romance, retellings, paranormal (shifter)
Page Count: 354 The author's safety note is found on her website:
TRIGGER WARNINGS - Strong sexual content, Physical abuse/ bullying off page.
El's Rating & Safety Notes
Safety Notes:
I would also add that there are some scenes with notes of betrayal however, it is worked into the storyline in a way that makes sense for this story. Hansel and Gretel did have powers and caused a lot of pain which does have to do with hunger & thirst and beyond so do be mindful going in!
Rating:
Plot | 4/5 ⭐ Spice | 3/5 🌶️ Overall | 3.5 ⭐(A positive 3.5 as this was a good read)
Note: This post and review are unpaid and completely honest. The Amazon link above is an affiliate link, which means at no additional cost to you, a small commission will be earned to support the blog.
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