A review by booksandlemonsquash
Sherwood by Meagan Spooner
4.0
I’m surprised to see mixed reviews for this - I really enjoyed it! I think it’s possibly because it’s historical fiction with a side of romance (though both of those are not normally my favourite thing lol!)
I love that it played closely to the story of Robin Hood that I know so well, but also allowed for the twist of Marian being Robin. I think it was very well thought out - it allowed for Marian to be taller and good at “boyish” activities while still making her a lady - her dresses, hair, her interactions were all with her accepting that was how life was even while rebelling against it.
The romance elements were also actually pretty good (I know - is it even me writing this?!). Marian’s relationship with Robin was lovely and I loved the depth that the flashbacks provided. But I also enjoyed her realising that she may not have known him as well as she thought. **MILD SPOILERS IN REST OF PARAGRAPH** And her interactions with Guy, and how their antagonism changes into a sort of grudging respect / love. I like a good enemies to lovers trope, but I also like why it happened in this case and the insight we get into Guy’s character.
I love that it played closely to the story of Robin Hood that I know so well, but also allowed for the twist of Marian being Robin. I think it was very well thought out - it allowed for Marian to be taller and good at “boyish” activities while still making her a lady - her dresses, hair, her interactions were all with her accepting that was how life was even while rebelling against it.
The romance elements were also actually pretty good (I know - is it even me writing this?!). Marian’s relationship with Robin was lovely and I loved the depth that the flashbacks provided. But I also enjoyed her realising that she may not have known him as well as she thought. **MILD SPOILERS IN REST OF PARAGRAPH** And her interactions with Guy, and how their antagonism changes into a sort of grudging respect / love. I like a good enemies to lovers trope, but I also like why it happened in this case and the insight we get into Guy’s character.